Waddell Ready To Test The Water In The UFA Talent Pool
Looks like there's more than just good player talent swimming in the pool today!
The buzz surrounding last weekend’s entry draft has barely subsided, but Don Waddell and the rest of the NHL general managers are preparing to dive head-first into unrestricted free agent pool of talent today. Soon, after weeks of speculation and rumors, we’ll be able to see just how the Thrashers roster…and others… will take form for the upcoming 2009-10 NHL season.
As we did this time last summer, we gather poolside to watch and observe the events as each team attempts to procure that big-name player needed to help shape their lineups for this fall’s campaign. Our friend Five_Hole has agreed to DJ the pool party…playing an assortment of tunes from the Beach Boys, Jimmy Buffet, Bob Marley and others. And please feel free to stop by the open bar to partake of a wide assortment of adult beverages complete with little umbrellas as we take in the day’s festivities. Tending the bar is the lovely and talented Joyel from TJ’s Bar and Grill!
Hey…and it’s all on the AJC’s tab!
But before we begin…looking around scoldingly….I want to be very clear in the fact that I do NOT want another incident like the one that happened during last year’s UFA pool party happening again today. So I’ll thank everyone for keeping any and all Baby Ruth bars away from the pool…got it!
Oh…and Trixie has informed me that she has been adequitely covered in tanning lotion…so there will be no need for the long line of willing assistants this time.
Now then… as we begin our day, last night it seemed as though a deal as been worked out between the Senators and Oilers that would send former Thrasher…and soon-to-be former Senator…Dany Heatley from Ottawa to Edmonton. Heading back east would be Andrew Cogliano, Dustin Penner and Ladislov Smid. All Heater had to do is agree to waive his no-trade clause and he’d be able to once again force the team he’s under contract with to deal him elsewhere. But this morning…we find out he didn’t do it.
Also, one big name player who has been yanked from the pool recently is Jay Bouwmeester. Just yesterday Cal-GARY was successful in inking him to a 5-year contract worth $6.6 million per season. So he’ll be sunning himself from the deck today.
However, one player who’s been officially tossed into the pool is Nik Antropov… given the Rangers have conceded that they cannot afford the 5-years at $5.25 mil per season price tag he had placed upon himself. So…where does he eventually wind up?
And, who will come away with Marion Hossa? Will Detroit re-sign the winger? If not, where then might he end up?
Speaking of Detroit…don’t expect the Red Wings to make a big splash in the UFA pool this summer, per Ken Holland.
What about the Sedin twins? Are they going to stay in Vancouver or is there a team out there…say Toronto…that will be willing to invest in both of their services? Canucks GM Mike Gillis recently visited with them and left with an offer on the table.
Do the recent rumors surrounding Atlanta’s interest in Mike Cammalleri have any basis in reality and we will see the 27-year old playing on the top line with Ilya Kovalchuk?
What of the future destination Thrasher…or is that, former Thrasher…Eric Perrin?
Looks like Don is ready to test the water in the UFA pool
Will Don Waddell actually be able to emerge from the waters with a big-name, top-four blueliner that will help anchor this defensive corps or highly coveted top-six forward to play alongside of Kovy…or will his swim trunks remain dry until the most coveted among them are already snatched up?
And, though I guess he’s not technically a UFA, The Monster will be making a decision on where he’ll be playing this fall sometime as well. teams like Dallas, Colorado, Toronto and San Jose are currently in the market for his services.
Many of these questions and issues will be answered over the course of the next several hours. So stick around…grab a drink and some sun tan lotion…it’s sure to be quite a day here at the UFA Pool Party!
UPDATE - 7/1 11:28 am: Sedins twins will stay in Vancouver…signing 5-year $6.1 million deals.
UPDATE – 7/1 12:52 pm: Kovalev re-signs with Habs $8.8 mil over 2 years per 990 AM in Montreal.
UPDATE – 7/1 2:12 pm: Hossa signs with Chicago. 12 years, $62.4 million. Holy crap…that will take him to the age of 42!
UPDATE – 7/1 2:32 pm: There is a buzz going around about the Thrashers trading for Kubina of the Maple Leafs. We would send Armstrong and a 2nd round pick to Toronto.
UPDATE – 7/1 2:59 pm: Per Craig Custance…”Colby Armstrong is not part of the Kubina deal. Thrashers not interested in trading Colby”.
UPDATE – 7/1 4:10 pm: The Oilers have signed goalie Nikulia Khabibulin to a 4-year, $15 mil. deal.
UPDATE – 7/1 6:55 pm: ATLANTA TRADES GARNET EXELBY AND COLIN STUART TO TORONTO IN EXCHANGE FOR PAVEL KUBINA AND THE RIGHTS TO TIM STAPLETON!!!
Tell us what you think about the site
Customer Care »
Vacation stops, manage subscriptions and more
AJC Services
Sections
Other Editions
Guides
Visitor Agreement | Privacy Statement
© 2010 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
506 comments Add your comment
LAC
July 1st, 2009
6:42 am
Rawhide, Sir, a few Playoby Bunnies in the pool would be COOL !!!
I would like to see two scorers and a SOLID defensive defenseman and maybe one third liner, but they need to help the team, not like holik just signing because he was available.
ID a need and fill it I say !
DWTOO
July 1st, 2009
7:30 am
Nice picture of you and the taxemptions girlfriends. Do they call you the “Hockey Daddy”? And what do they think of your long hockey stick?
Seriously, this is a big day for this franchise. The Thrash need to show the fans, and Kovalchuk, they’re serious about building a winner and adding the pieces we all know are missing.
Sara
July 1st, 2009
7:42 am
Oh Heater….what’s that phrase about beggars can’t be choosers? Either he wants out or he doesn’t. What a prima donna he’s turned out to be.
The Falconer had said in a recent posting that Waddell had indicated he might show up on someone’s doorstep today in person but wouldn’t name names saying it would be improper. That sounds like he’s trying to avoid a tampering implication, however if there is one doorstep I’d expect Don to wind up on today, frankly, it’s Kovalchuk’s.
Will we see a signing today? Or perhaps a trade as Don has been hinting? Should be interesting.
five_hole
July 1st, 2009
7:44 am
In keeping with 94.7, which plays the same songs every hour, the recurring theme song of the party will be by the Marvelettes “Heartbreak Danger Dead Ahead”.
Since everyone wants Waddell to go after Mike Cammalleri but in reality we’ll get stuck with second tier talent (again), my first song will be Stephen Stills “(If you can’t be with the one you love) Love the one your’re with”.
ALAN You can request Jimmy Buffet, but I’m not gonna play “Why don’t we get drunk and . . . ” (at least not till much later).
Sara
July 1st, 2009
7:51 am
Kukla’s tweeted this AM that the Ducks have re-signed Crusher. Good for him.
five_hole
July 1st, 2009
7:53 am
What was I thinking?!? before the draft, it’s Carol King doing “Anticipation”.
World Be Free
July 1st, 2009
7:54 am
We won’t be getting tier 1 talent until we can shed consecutive 76 point seasons. Players are only going to come here for the money.
We have talked about Natropov alot here, I have been pushing for him. Another guy to consider is Mike Comrie. Now before you guys toss me into the meat grinder, consider that Comrie has been a contribuotr wherever he’s gone. His problem is that he has never ascednded to the level everyone had hoped. He’s a tier 2 free agent who is a setup man. Comrie would benefit from the open ice Kovy creates. His lline would not totally depend on him.
Face it folks, if we land a UFA today it will be one similar in skill to Antropov or Comrie. Both these guys are chaisng the money which is really the only thing we have to offer today.
R. Stroz
July 1st, 2009
7:56 am
I think Rawhide should change the title of this blog to:
Go Get Some Donny
World Be Free
July 1st, 2009
8:00 am
Glen Sather saved his NY Ranger career yesterday. Now he has an opportunity to overpay someone again!
I am not sure the Rangers have the assets to land Heatley. Not sure Dany boy will be able to take the heat of NYC He’s such a frail, sensitive young man.
Now Montreal is stuck with an overpaid, under producing, non-leader who likes to pout like Heatley. He’s paid like a No. 1 center, but does not play like one. On top of taking on salary, the Hbas give up one of their best defensive prospects.
Let’s hope Don and the boys don’t get desperate during this period and make a deal as dumb at Gainey did with the Rangers.
Toby
July 1st, 2009
8:10 am
I hope Dondo doesn’t chase Antropov and that $5 mil price tag…
GaVaHokie
July 1st, 2009
8:22 am
WBF… I think Comrie still has a “cow lick” in his hair from his fight with Kovalchuk a few years back.
Sara
July 1st, 2009
8:22 am
WBF – if Don is going to make a trade for a good player of the calibre he’s talking about wanting, then he’s going to have to give something to make that happen. We’ve got some depth with defensive prospects, we potentially have a spare goalie. We may need to cough up a draft pick (preferably not a 1st rounder). But it will cost us something and we have to be prepared for that.
Toby – we’re a non-traditional market with a bad track record. It’s either sign someone no one else is really all that interested in (which would *not* be a top 6 forward or top 4 D) or outbid the competition for someone more talented. Heck, even good teams can end up in bidding wars for the best players. It’s the ugly reality of free agency.
Out of curiosity…what would you guys rather have…the top 6 forward or the top 4 D? And while my knee-jerk reaction is to say the D-man since our D has always been weakest, we lack organizational depth at forward and I suspect Kovy would rather see the forward as well. And I don’t see us being able to get both with the salary limitations that we’re allegedly facing. We’d need to spend between $8-$10M at least to get both and I don’t think we have that much available.
GaVaHokie
July 1st, 2009
8:24 am
Kovalchuk v. Comrie… Enjoy!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d-0p9qqeMYo
GaVaHokie
July 1st, 2009
8:28 am
Sara… I think if you can get a Top 4 Dman, possibly trade Exelby, than we’ll have our whole defensive core locked up for 3-4 years. I like the idea of locking up the backend.
Toby
July 1st, 2009
8:34 am
IMO, we get whatever makes Kovy happy. I know that’s the weak way of looking at it, but I’d like to finish the week knowing Kovy is locked up for a number of years.
That said, I agree with Hokie. I’m sick of being out shot by 15-20 shots a game.
TableHockey
July 1st, 2009
8:34 am
The Heatley decision is interesting – did he just refuse to waive his NTC to get the 4 million he’s due as of today? He’ll have to do a lot of charity work at his next team to reverse the image he’s created for himself.
I’m hoping for something big today but my gut says nothing big will happen and that we’ll all be griping this time tomorrow. Hope I’m wrong and maybe Dudley will have an impact here for the UFA pool party.
Sara – I agree with you about needing a strong D-man but that a forward or center is probably what we need to have a chance of resigning Kovy.
One thing for sure – we have to reduce our SOG if we are going to compete for a spot in the playoffs next season.
World Be Free
July 1st, 2009
8:45 am
I don’t think we are going to get fillet mignon today folks. I believe we are going to get a tier 2 cheeseburger. Let’s hope it’s a Five Guys burger!
By that, I mean let’s hope we don’t overpay too much, but we get a guy that will improve our club. Five mill for Antropov is the kinda overspending that will occur today
Smitty
July 1st, 2009
8:51 am
Happy Canada Day!! 142 years old today. About the average age of some of our FA signings in the past. I know DW is under wraps due to the ownership issue. I know he has overpaid tier 2 FAs in the past but he has not gone ballistic with FA signings as some GM’s have done. Sather lucked out yesterday dumping Gomez. PHL and Calgary have serious cap issues. Most UFA,s signed today will be overpaid by panicky GM’s Just look at Jay Bow in Calgary. Yeah he is good but IMO not 6.6 million good.
I know the high end of the cap is not an issue in ATL. Is Camelleri worth 5 years at 20-25 million? Is Andropov or Koivu? Do you think signing any of these 3 would instill in Kovy the belief that ATL is headed in the right direction?
five_hole
July 1st, 2009
8:57 am
” I like the idea of locking up the backend.” – GaVaHokie Even though I understood what you meant and even agree with you, that just sounds wrong.
I’d only trade X if we got a really good deal. He’s not a top-4 guy, but I’m happy with him as the 5 or 6th d-man. You need someone willing to protect your other players and on defense, it’s either him or Valabik. Which would you rather have out there? I watch Valabik & cringe.
ranallo10 (in AT)
July 1st, 2009
9:09 am
“Let’s hope it’s a Five Guys burger!”
You mean an overhyped and overpriced player who leaves you feeling sick to the stomach afterward and makes your heart cringe in retrospect.
I’ll pass, I’d rather cook my own dinner (i.e., develop prospects).
R. Stroz
July 1st, 2009
9:10 am
Do the RFA offer sheets start today as well?
Sara
July 1st, 2009
9:11 am
WBF Kevin Allen @ USA Today feels the same way you do…
RT @kausatoday Nashville and Atlanta will be the bargain hunters in the marketplace, looking at the second tier FAs who don’t break the bank.
Hip Czech
July 1st, 2009
9:11 am
Consider it’s Eklund…but hopefully he is mostly right on this one:
“The Thrashers will make a few really solid signings, that no one will expect.”
It will be interesting once the Heatley thing plays out. What a dirt bag, any respect I had for the man is gone now. I’ll be joining the boobirds whenever the spoiled brat comes to town with Ottawa/Edmonton/NYR.
Frosty the snowman
July 1st, 2009
9:11 am
we are not going to get a top 4 d man for x. dont forget x is the player who backed into his own goalpost, falling to the ice. As far as x protecting his teammates, I can’t remember the last time he did that. I can remember Kovy doing it, but your star should not be doing that.
If we are gonna trade for a top 4 d man, we are gonna have to give up ALOT! Teams know the position we are in. the Pronger deal set the price
Big Boris
July 1st, 2009
9:18 am
Please, don’t trade me to Pittsburgh. I don’t want Crotchby sizing me up in the locker room.
World Be Free
July 1st, 2009
9:25 am
Thanks Sara-nice to nodoy someone who gets paid to do this actually feels as I do!
Ranallo-sorry, but that’s the way of the world on July 1.
Maybe we will get lucky, who knows.
Clint Eastwood
July 1st, 2009
9:40 am
So tell me, do you feel lucky? Well, do you?
GaVaHokie
July 1st, 2009
9:41 am
Any signings today, I believe, will be depth moves… I think any play for a Top Line guy will come via trade later this month.
… just a feeling I get.
Dany Heatley
July 1st, 2009
9:48 am
I’m too emotionally distraught to play in Ottawa.
ranallo10 (in AT)
July 1st, 2009
9:55 am
The compounding hatred for Heatley is strange…he’s not slighting Atlanta now, but rather saying he doesn’t want to play in Edmonton (fully within his rights due to the No Trade Clause he signed with Ottawa). Most people can agree that he went about requesting a trade the wrong way, but his absolutely no different than any other player in the NHL who decides NOT to waive their NTC just because a deal has been worked out for them.
And yes, in this instance beggars can actually be choosers, because the Senators empowered him with a strict NTC. He can request a trade, he can sit out, he can play the duration of his contract in Ottawa, or he can control what teams they trade him to. Kudo’s to his agent for getting him the NTC, but shame on him for going public with his trade request…however, I don’t see why that garners MORE boos from Atlanta fans who are completely unaffected by any of these developments. Sounds to me like sour grapes finding a new reason to hate the kid…kinda like those who complain about Crosby being “overrated”, it seems like a justification for your hatred.
But hell, I don’t like booing in 90% of the situations sporting fans do it, so I guess it’s just me who see it this way.
Alan
July 1st, 2009
10:02 am
I think any play for a Top Line guy will come via trade later this month.
But there won’t be any left after t– ohhh, I see what you did there!
You can request Jimmy Buffet, but I’m not gonna play “Why don’t we get drunk and . . . ”
Anything Buffet would have to be Margaritaville, first and foremost. The news that we’ve signed another third-liner is far easier to handle when inebriated.
Sara
July 1st, 2009
10:23 am
Q&A w/ Dudley to pass the time:
http://thrashers.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=432361
five_hole
July 1st, 2009
10:25 am
Switching now to the Rolling Stones playing the classic (I can’t get no) Satisfaction.
Stroz I know it’s the 40th anniversary of Woodstock, but I am not going to play the “fish” cheer (all of you younger kids, play the album.
Alan I’m saving Margaritaville for this evening, along with BB King’s “The Thrill is Gone”.
Sara
July 1st, 2009
10:33 am
ranallo I disagree that Heater can be a chooser. No player has the right to screw over a hockey club like that and Murray is about there. If he forces Dany to stay, there’s no guarantee how he will perform and even more question marks about what friction might exist in the lockerroom. But to trade him, he has every right to want and expect a solid return. Certainly something of equal value so the Senators remain in a push position talent-wise. And if it’s not one of Dany’s “preferred teams” that is willing to make a reasonable offer then that’s just too darn bad for him.
And I don’t think there are people here jumping all over this as another excuse to hate on Dany. Every message board I’ve come across this morning has fans from all teams trashing him for all this. It’s a jerk thing to do.
Alan
July 1st, 2009
10:34 am
Interesting story regarding Heatley. Well, it at least contains a few comments from the Snyder family, as well as a Thrashers team spokesperson.
DWTOO
July 1st, 2009
10:51 am
Hey Five_Hole – Like your Country Joe reference.
“Well come on all of you big strong men
Uncle Don (Sam) needs you help again
Got Himself in a terrible jam…….”
Sara
July 1st, 2009
11:14 am
Alan…ouch.
five_hole
July 1st, 2009
11:23 am
Time to step up the pressure on DW with Glenn Frye’s “The Heat is on”.
DWTOO “And it’s 1 . . 2 . . 3 . . what’re we fighting for? I don’t give a damn, the next stop is Vietnam”. Nice to have some other old guys here.
On a personal note, I’m going to San Francisco Friday, and I can’t wait to go to Haight-Ashbury and tour the houses of Janis Joplin, Graham Nash and the Dead. I am stuck in the ’60s (& ’70s), but that’s who I am. If you’re looking for Kylie Perry or Christina Aguilera, you need a different DJ.
Spud Webb
July 1st, 2009
11:26 am
WOW the Heater has hit a new low. Wants a trade, then nixes it?????????
ahhahahahaha, what a baby. I’m sure Ottowa is soooooooooooooooo happy to have him right now. Maybe to the rangers who just cleared some cash by shipping gomez out? The frogs can’t be happy about getting Gomez, since he’s not french canadian?? lol. Heater, I will boooooooooooo you more than ever when you come to town, regardless of what team you’re on. Self centered bi&tch…be thankful you still play hockey and draw a GREAT salary. I’ve never seen anything like you at this point. Making the NBA & NFL babies look good at this point.
JBow taking a discount (well over 5million is a lot of money), good for him, he wanted to be there. Great trade by Calgary. I hope Antropov sees this and realizes he’s not a d man and he should get nothing near 5 mill a season.
Not sure who posted it, there were a few, are you kidding me about us not needing D men? Have you seen this franchise for the last 10 years????
WE HAVE NEVER HAD A GOOD DEFENSE. The more the better in my mind. Get Kaberle AND a top 4 forward. Something has to be brewing, HOPING, PRAYING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Glovesave29
July 1st, 2009
11:26 am
Ranallo, I think you are off on this one…Heatley cannot pick and choose what parts of his contract he chooses to enforce. If he wants out, the entire contract should be invalidated. He screwed the team by announcing this to the media instead of a closed door meeting with the GM as it should have been. Now he’s waiting until today to get the $4M bonus,and he gets to choose the team he goes to. So where does Ottawa benefit here? A contact should benefit both sides. Dany is getting everything here. If he chooses to want to leave the Sens, the GM should have every right to override his NTC and send him to whatever team offers the most in return. If Dany is not going to fufil his end of the agreement, then why should the Senators?
Russian
July 1st, 2009
11:28 am
Damn!
Twins are gone. They got 5 years contract fro $6.1 mln.
I just got this news on TSN.
Glovesave29
July 1st, 2009
11:29 am
five_hole – DO NOT MISS the Anchor Steam brewery tour. We used to go there at least 10x a year when I was in college for the unlimited free samples afterwards. It’s one of the best beers in the world, and it goes great with a hot boule of sourdough bread from Boudin.
Dany Heatley
July 1st, 2009
11:29 am
I want to go to the Rangers and play with Sean Avery. We are two of a kind.
Tony C.
July 1st, 2009
11:31 am
Sedins sign with Vancouver $6.1M/per, per./
five_hole
July 1st, 2009
11:32 am
Russian just beat me to it. Also of note, I saw the Ducks resigned Erica Christensen. Why?
DWTOO I’ve been trying to think of a Santana song (or really anyone else from Woodstock) that I could link to today. If you think of something, let me know.
five_hole
July 1st, 2009
11:35 am
Glovesave29 You & I are both from St. Louis. I used to do the same thing with the tours of Grant’s Farm. First came the train ride, where Auggie Bush would show off his tinkering with nature by producing “Zonkies” and then and the end the train would stop at the stables, where people could sample Auggie’s beer.
thrashyou
July 1st, 2009
11:37 am
Sedin twins staying in Vancouver 5years 6.1 mil a year.
Christy
July 1st, 2009
11:40 am
Alan – that article is spewing some serious vitriol. It puts the finest of NY Post and NY Daily News Mets or Yankee bashing articles to shame.
Sara is right, big Ouch.
But, what I found particularly enlightening, if you will, is the Snyder’s take and the Thrasher’s spokesman. Looks like the last drop of sympathy is long gone.
Tony C.
July 1st, 2009
11:41 am
5hole
DUDE. “Soul Sacrifice” pretty much the best song on the whole soundtrack…. I’ll listen to arguments for Hendrix’ rendition of the National Anthem, and the “Tommy Overture”…but Santana’s “Soul Sacrifice” is the joint.
Sara
July 1st, 2009
11:45 am
Alright – aside from any more potential re-signings…which FA goes first?
I’m guessing Komisarek
five_hole
July 1st, 2009
11:46 am
Tony C. I suppose “Soul Sacrifice” is applicable to today. I know I feel like I’m sacrificing my soul. And AMEN to Jimi doing the anthem. The neighbors are gonna complain, ’cause I’m cranking that sucker up.
“but Santana’s “Soul Sacrifice” is the joint.” – Given my ’60s reference, that takes on a whole other meaning to me. To that, I’d add Traffic doing “Either light up or leave me alone”.
Sara
July 1st, 2009
11:48 am
Wow you guys are really reaching back with the music…I’d enjoy it except I’ve been on an almost exclusive MJ bender since last Thursday (except my Pandora station, which is some MJ and some similar – like Marvin Gaye’s “Got to Give It Up” playing right now).
NASA Control
July 1st, 2009
11:50 am
Ten minutes to lift off.
Alan
July 1st, 2009
11:51 am
Christy, I noted that too. I was actually amused by the vitriol spewed in that article. I really enjoyed hearing Snyder’s family talk about it, and really reinforce that Atlanta went above and beyond for Heatley after the Ferrari-related tragedy.
Toby
July 1st, 2009
11:53 am
Sara…My guess is Koivu to Minni.
ranallo10 (in AT)
July 1st, 2009
11:55 am
Sara — I completely understand where people are coming from regarding Heatley’s way of requesting the trade, but that ill advised/immature statement has no bearing on his rights as outlined in his NTC. He complained once, and the stage was set for him to be traded…if he was declining trade after trade and continuing his complaint about playing in Ottawa, THEN I’d say people have a good reason to bash him.
Besides, we both know that hockey fans aren’t exactly logical, so of course you’re going to read the rantings of fans everywhere. These are the same types of people who log into a TSN story or AJC story and simply type “slow news day?” or “first”.
“And if it’s not one of Dany’s “preferred teams” that is willing to make a reasonable offer then that’s just too darn bad for him.”
Again (this can be directed towards Glovesave as well), his NTC as given to him by Ottawa says the exact opposite. If he was in dire need of leaving Ottawa then he would waive his NTC no matter who traded for him…but in this instance he chose Ottawa over Edmonton (who can blame him?).
I’m sure Heatley fully understands what could come about if he is not traded, and I bet you things will be patched up with coach if such a situation comes about, but right now he’s made his intentions known and is utilizing his NTC to allow himself to dictate the situation. He’s 100% within his rights by declining to waive the NTC for Edmonton. I’m surprised a person who is willing to read the CBA takes exception to Heatley exercising his rights. It doesn’t matter if he’s complained previously, he still has the NTC and that clause dictates all trade scenarios.
Remember though, GMs do the exact same thing to players…Fletcher FORCED McCabe out of town and the Toronto fans bashed McCabe unmercifully for NOT waiving his NTC. Nobody boos Fletcher though. We could also talk about Peter Zezel and the unceremonious end to his career, expedited by Burke.
The contract is 100% in tact at this point..he is allowed to voice displeasure, and if he sits out a certain amount of games he is subject to being fined by his team (I don’t know if his pay is withheld, but I’m sure there could be an argument made for it). His contract isn’t voided by his displeasure, and thus the NTC is still valid.
Remember though, I agree he went about requesting a trade completely the wrong way, but I don’t agree that he deserves to be subject to character assaults simply because he said “I want to be traded but not to Edmonton” (which as I said is within his rights under the CBA).
Alan — That story is just a frustrated writer venting, nothing more. Read the letter he’s talking about and I think you’ll see someone who is also frustrated that is attempting to defend Heatley. The masses now hate the kid, so of course such a letter of defense is going to look like “sniveling” or “braty”.
MB
July 1st, 2009
11:56 am
Five-Hole, enjoy the trip and the Haight…try Cha-Cha-Cha’s down the street toward GG Park (amazing park). But be forewarned, several years ago I was there and almost gagged when I saw a Gap at the corner of Haight and Ashbury.
B. Thenet
July 1st, 2009
11:58 am
Wow, that Ottawa hit piece on Dany was pretty tough. That is the harshest I have ever seen Mr. Snyder and the Thrashers org. towards him.
NASA Control
July 1st, 2009
11:59 am
T minus one and counting.
NASA Control
July 1st, 2009
12:00 pm
We have lift off.
Sara
July 1st, 2009
12:01 pm
ranallo I’m not questioning whether he has the *right* to decline the trade…I’m questioning his ethics and it’s a valid point. Now maybe if no other team makes as good an offer and Murray comes back and says it’s either stay here or go to Edmonton, then Heater changes his mind.
I’d expect that in the future that may become a change to the typical NTC – you ask to be traded, you automatically void your NTC.
Toby
July 1st, 2009
12:02 pm
In the words of a famous bad guy…
and..here..we…GO
Alan
July 1st, 2009
12:03 pm
That story is just a frustrated writer venting, nothing more.
It indeed is just a frustrated writer. That’s why I particularly enjoy the Snyder portion of the piece, leaving the op-ed bloviating aside. It just amuses me to see the Ottawa media throwing him under the bus. Not because it’s Dany Heatley, but because they now know how the majority of Atlanta fans feel.
Spud Webb
July 1st, 2009
12:06 pm
Alan & Christy, I love that article. It’s SPOT on in my opinion. They should feel cheated up there and MAD. Hey a spade is a spade.
Interesting to hear Snyds dad, poor guy.
Is it one way, probably not, I’m sure other things went on up there. But for Dany to reject that trade is ridiculous. Trade him to the Rangers, wait till those fans get a hold of him after a disaster of a game or year. He will wish he was back bad-mouthing Atlanta. LOSER.
I’m officially moving on from Dany Heatly, he’s taken enough of my time and energy.
Smoothie
July 1st, 2009
12:11 pm
My prediction is that we will sign Zanon for roughly $1.75 M per season and afford ourselves enough money to either trade for a Top tier RW or perhaps even sign Mike Knuble for 1 or 2 years at $2.5 – 3 M per season. We might even sign Knuble as a FA and still make a trade as Todd White has great value after his career year and of course our depth at goalie may allow us to get player from a salary cap strapped team. For now I’m going on record that we will sign Zanon and Knuble.
GaVaHokie
July 1st, 2009
12:15 pm
I’ll say Zanon and Sjostrom.
Haven’t heard much about Koistenen lately.
GaVaHokie
July 1st, 2009
12:16 pm
So, do we see a one-hour “grace period” where teams pretend like they haven’t been talking to players and agents over the last month?
World Be Free
July 1st, 2009
12:17 pm
Smoothie, I have no issue with the 2 guys you have suggested.
Both would help the Thrashers from game 1.
RNN - Rawhide News Network
July 1st, 2009
12:17 pm
Ohlund to Tampa
Tony C.
July 1st, 2009
12:19 pm
Ohlund to Tampa? Unconfirmed.
Alan
July 1st, 2009
12:19 pm
TB just signed Ohlund.
Darkhorse
July 1st, 2009
12:22 pm
Ohlund to Tampa…………Damn damn
Per NHL Live and Kevin Allen
Wonder if he was even on our list?
GaVaHokie
July 1st, 2009
12:27 pm
Geez… 7-years… $3.75 million
I don’t know about that… he’s 32 years old. I’m glad we didn’t make that deal.
World Be Free
July 1st, 2009
12:28 pm
Defenseman to look for-tier 2 types:
Derek Morris, Steve Montador or Adrian Aucoin
Morris and Aucoin can play the power play and kill penalties.
Smoothie
July 1st, 2009
12:31 pm
Did Tampa overpay for Ohlund is the bigger question? I reckon they did.
Chris
July 1st, 2009
12:32 pm
Agree with Hokie and Smoothie…7 years? If that’s what he wanted, I’m glad we didn’t get him.
Darkhorse
July 1st, 2009
12:32 pm
I just want to see some guys here that can, and want to keep our crease clear, and our goalie protected.
No thanks on 7 years…
Smoothie
July 1st, 2009
12:34 pm
7 years!!! Wow, I hope we get to see Kovy score on Ohlund frequently over that stretch of time. These LT contracts are getting ridiculous…have these GMs not learned anything from DiPietro, Briere and Heatley?? At least Donnie is a lot smarter than the tools down in Tampa and on Long Island!!
Spud Webb
July 1st, 2009
12:40 pm
Tampa always overpays, it’s beautiful for sure.
GaVaHokie
July 1st, 2009
12:41 pm
Tampa REALLY needed a dependable defenseman though… should have kept Dan Boyle.
ranallo10 (in AT)
July 1st, 2009
12:42 pm
“I’d expect that in the future that may become a change to the typical NTC – you ask to be traded, you automatically void your NTC.”
Nah, I can’t see the players association ever agreeing to such a thing. They’re already screwed (relatively) due to the waiver system, in that a player like Miroslav Satan can be sent to the minors simply because their GM didn’t properly manage his cap space. He still gets his money (which is why I say relatively) but he’s playing IN THE AHL though he signed a one-way NHL contract.
So I’d say, from a players perspective, if it was agreed to void an NTC due to requesting/demanding a trade that a contract should be void when the GM places the player on waivers. In the end the GMs hold all the power regarding contracts, and NTCs are one of the only bits of ammunition a player has to control their NHL rights…I don’t see the player’s association ever bending on that topic.
Besides, it’s the GMs who are giving away the NTCs like they’re no big deal, they should learn from their own mistakes and not give away NTCs willy nilly. If a player who holds an NTC no longer wants to play for your organization, you’re basically screwed because you have an upset player which means a potentially explosive locker room, but the player has the advantage of choosing where they will play. So you either get pennies on the dollar or you get an unhappy locker room…all because you signed a player with an overly strict NTC.
Alan — I could definitely see how he’s trying to spin Mr. Snyder’s words to being bad for Heatley, but I would say I can agree with the way Mr. Snyder apparently does regarding this latest trade request…confused by Heatley’s actions. In Atlanta he had an obvious conundrum that facilitated the trade. There’s no comparison between that situation and him requesting a trade now, because though it’s the same person it’s a utterly different situation. It’s interesting to hear his opinion, but why does Dan Snyder’s dad have any bearing on the fact that Heatley apparently no longer enjoys playing in Ottawa? Had Heatley made a reference to his emotional state and that he “couldn’t bear playing in Ottawa due to the memories of Dan Snyder”, then Mr. Snyder’s comments are relevant…otherwise it’s just grasping for yet another voice to support your argument (I’m talking about the blogger), and honestly it makes little sense.
Tony C.
July 1st, 2009
12:43 pm
I dunno if I’d take Aucoin… maybe a 2-year deal?
ranallo10 (in AT)
July 1st, 2009
12:44 pm
Ohlund to Tampa Bay…damn.
Toby
July 1st, 2009
12:44 pm
It’s being reported on TSN (on TV) that Hossa is close to signing with Chicago
http://hfboards.com/showthread.php?t=657610
Alan
July 1st, 2009
12:46 pm
Dvorak re-signs in Florida. TSN says Booth may have also re-signed.
GaVaHokie
July 1st, 2009
12:46 pm
Hossa to Chicago?!… what a whore.
Chris
July 1st, 2009
12:48 pm
How can they afford to pay Hossa and Campbell big-time contracts when they have to negotiate new big-money deals with Kane and Toews (who have to be higher priorities) next year?
ranallo10 (in AT)
July 1st, 2009
12:49 pm
If Schneider helped mentor Bogosian to the player he’s becoming, and if Havelid helped mentor Enstrom to the player he’s becoming, Ohlund mentoring Hedman is going to be a helluva tandem. Both are Swedish so they have the language on their side, Ohlund is a well rounded All-Star defender still experiencing his good years, and Hedman will be learning from him every step of that contract.
It might be too much, but I think it’s a great pickup by Tampa. Schneider made more than Ohlund at that age, so relatively the contract dollars aren’t too exorbitant.
Jarndyce
July 1st, 2009
12:49 pm
Think about it like this: Player production for all but HofFame-type players approaches zero after age 34-35. So, consider Ohlund’s production to be valuable for say 3 years. That means year 4,5,6 and 7 of that contract will be approaching worthless to the Bolts. Discount that, even at a hefty 15%, and Tampa just literally gave away $7,000,000!!!
goose
July 1st, 2009
12:50 pm
Sedin’s re-sighed with Vancouver 6.1mill 5 years each
Toby
July 1st, 2009
12:50 pm
Kovalev resigns $8.8 mil / 2 years
http://hfboards.com/showthread.php?t=657632
World Be Free
July 1st, 2009
12:51 pm
I say Aucoin if Ohlund was in play. I think we could get “Yo, Adrian” for 2-3 years at $4M / year. That’s what it will take to sign someone in the next 24 hours if you want to make a splash. He has a great shot from the point.
Ohlund for 7 years? He’s slow now, he’ll be a pylon in 2 years and a financial burden for 5. Did Glen Sather take over the Lightning?
What is Chicago going to give up get Mary Ann? I used to like the Hawks, now I will have to dislike them!
GaVaHokie
July 1st, 2009
12:52 pm
Perhaps Hossa is taking the 1-year offer that Havlat turned down.
Russian
July 1st, 2009
12:54 pm
Lot of news around NHL. Where are NEWS from ATlanta. Damn! What is he waiting for????
GaVaHokie
July 1st, 2009
12:55 pm
Roloson hit the free agent market… Edmonton needs a goalie.
World Be Free
July 1st, 2009
12:57 pm
Not sure I want to jump in this shark tank if today’s UFA contracts at as stupid as Ohlund’s.
That contract is a buyout in the making.
Chris
July 1st, 2009
12:58 pm
Kevin Allen just said on NHL Live he wasn’t expecting that many big deals to go down, but he wouldn’t be surprised to see Antropov end up here.
Hockey Biltong
July 1st, 2009
1:02 pm
Thrashers have just signed Brett Favre… 3 years for 2.3 mil per.
GaVaHokie
July 1st, 2009
1:06 pm
NHL Live if you have a short attention span…
http://www.nhl.tv/team/console.jsp?catid=616#&intcmpid=nhl-hp-vidchn-livewire
Sara
July 1st, 2009
1:07 pm
Custance tweeted the same Chris…ATL interested in Antropov