Who’s Next To Be Voted Off Thrashers Island?
Nine players were voted off Thrashers Island on Saturday…four forwards, four defenders and one goalkeeper. Left in the wake of their departure are fifteen forwards, eight blueliners and three goalies, (four if you count Kari who is injured). Given that NHL teams must get their rosters down to 23 players by 3 pm Wednesday, this means that there are four players left remaining that will need to depart sometime by then.
Josh Gratton still remains on Thrashers Island (AP/Gregory Smith)
Among the “safe” players are forwards Ilya Kovalchuk, Bryan Little, Nik Antropov, Todd White, Slava Kozlov, Rich Peverley, Marty Reasoner, Colby Armstrong, Jim Slater and probably Eric Boulton. I’ll add Maxim Afinogenov to that assuming he’s signed.
On the blueline, the top four are “safe” are Tobias Enstrom, Zach Bogosian, Pavel Kubina and Ron Hainsey. In goal only Johan Hedberg is to be given the “safe” classification in my book.
Kari Lehtonen is on the roster, but he’s not considered healthy enough to be in the lineup on October 3. The team has a decision to make with him considering simply waiting for him to heal or placing him on the injured list. Given that, I would then reduce the number of players who will need to be trimmed off the roster to three.
That leaves forwards Chris Thorburn, Josh Gratton, Dan Fritsche and Evander Kane…defenders Nathan Oystrick, Mark Popovic, Boris Valabik and Anssi Salmela…as well as goalies Ondrej Pavelec and Manny Legace left to battle it out for the handful of slots that are left to be filled.
Coach Anderson has said he wants the lineup for today’s preseason finale to be a lot like what opening night’s will be…to that measure, here are the expected lines for this afternoon’s game against Tampa Bay.
And with that…I’ll ask for your projections for whom you believe will be the 23 left remaining to suit up Saturday for the season opener and who will also be included to watch the festivities from the press box. Obviously, a lot of this will be settled on the ice later today in the final preseason game, but I’d like to get your predictions beforehand.
Of course, I wouldn’t ask to see yours if I wasn’t willing to show you mine, so here are my projected lineups for opening night…
Maxim Afinogenov motors his way around Carolina's goal (AP/Gerry Broome)
Forwards
Kovalchuk – Antropov – Little
Kozlov – White – Afinogenov
Peverley – Reasoner – Armstrong
Boulton – Slater – Thorburn
In the press box: Gratton
Defensemen
Hainsey – Kubina
Bogosian – Enstrom
Arturs Kulda will do his fighting in a Wolves jersey (AP/Frederick Breedon)
Oystrick – Popovic
In the press box: Valabik
Goalies
Pavelec
Hedberg
In the press box: Legace
Now, you’ll notice that I’ve put Opie at the top of the depth chart as I think he will indeed start against the Lightning and I feel the team will keep Legace, going with three keepers. One of the reasons I think Don Waddell and the organization will choose this route is because they do not want to see a repeat of 2005. As you’ll recall, that fall they were unable to properly address the problem of their goalies dropping faster and more frequently than stocks last fall.
Another reason I think they might keep Manny around is because if they sign him to a two-way deal and ship him off to Chicago, D-Mac will be deprived of some much-needed playing time. If the start him in Atlanta with Moose backing up…or the other way around… then Opie is once again thrown to the Wolves. Of course another option is for the Thrashers to simply say, “Thanks for your time, Manny…but we’re just gonna have to go our separate ways”. But I just don’t think the brain trust of Waddell, Dudley and Anderson care to see a keeper of Legace’s ability slip away given Kari’s questionable status.
So, I think they carry the three goalies… then sort things out once Kari is deemed fit to play.
Which of these players will be voted off Thrashers Island? (Pick Three)
- Anssi Salmela (26%, 38 Votes)
- Boris Valabik (49%, 72 Votes)
- Mark Popovic (11%, 17 Votes)
- Nathan Oystrick (20%, 29 Votes)
- Josh Gratton (23%, 34 Votes)
- Chris Thorburn (19%, 28 Votes)
- Dan Fritsche (47%, 69 Votes)
- Evander Kane (64%, 94 Votes)
- Eric Boulton (7%, 10 Votes)
- Manny Legace (11%, 17 Votes)
- Ondrej Pavelec (15%, 22 Votes)
Total Voters: 148
Loading ...Evander Kane? Well, I think the Thrashers will determine that it is in his and their best interest to ship him off to Vancouver. Given that Max will be getting more ice time in the regular season…again assuming he is signed…there’s no real need to rush the kid or expose him to injury when there just is no real need to do so.
I also am projecting that Anssi Salmela comes in fourth in the battle for the bottom-three spots on the blueline, if for no other reason than the other three have significantly more NHL experience. Popovic has really shown me a lot since he was invited to camp. Valabik…not so much. If this is a true contest to see the best player win out, then Pops wins out over Boris.
I almost went with Peverly on the second line with White and Afinogenov. As I listened to the streaming online feed via the Hurricanes’ radio broadcast, there seemed to be some chemistry with that line. But that Peever- Party-Army line looks pretty good.
Since Joey Crabb was sent down with eight others on Saturday, the battle to unseat Chris Thorburn is now down to Josh Gratton and Dan Fritsche. I’ll go with Gratton here because I like the way Josh drops the gloves and his tough play on the ice. However, I wouldn’t be at all surprised if Fritsche gets the nod, escpecially if Anderson is of the impression that he can provide help on the PK.
I also wouldn’t be stunned if Thorney finds himself snacking from the press box buffet Saturday night while Gratton or Fritsche play instead. However, starting the season off with a measure of consistency from last spring will probably be deemed what is prudent at this juncture. Besides it’s not like a change couldn’t be made later on if Anderson feels the need to do so.
So…all that means that I believe Salmela, Fritsche and Kane will be voted off Thrashers Island this week. Three pretty darn good players who any other season would probably find themselves on this roster. That’s a testament to the type of depth we have this season…which is a very, very good thing.
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120 comments Add your comment
Dwayne
September 27th, 2009
8:22 pm
Here is my comment from earlier today.
Bye Bye Doris, Need Gratton, need more than just Kubina and Bolts to protect Kovy, Max, Little, Pevs, Kozzy, and our Goalie, whoever that might be.
And I’ll add this. I did not even have to listen to know Doris stunk. Which one of yall dislike Slater so much??? Well, thats how I feel about Doris.
Darkhorse
September 27th, 2009
8:32 pm
Boris is only a smaller issue to a much bigger problem with this team. He won’t be the reason we get off to a slow start. That will be because of more obvious reasons.
Dwayne
September 27th, 2009
8:36 pm
Doris is a large issue. With little peas for gonads. Defense, seems like, is always a Thrasher problem. Getting rid of him sends a message. Play Hard, play SMART or get out of dodge.
LAC
September 27th, 2009
8:52 pm
Long season coming up, this team is NOT really very good and another example of what you get from a CAREER Loser in don waddell.
Rawhide
September 27th, 2009
9:15 pm
Nikita – Please make sure you come by section 120…right on the isle…to allow me to say “goodbye” before you take off. And with Center Ice, you’ll be able to keep up with the team, so make sure you continue to contribute here
CarrieLee – You’re just as qualified as anyone else here to express you’re thoughts and opinions…and you’re correct about the coach’s decision being between good and better. Nice to meet you and the little one today…and you weren’t kidding about the “bright” pink cast!!
Also, nice to see so many new faces in here lately…really been adding to the overall discussion and dialogue!
As for the game today…feh, it was preseason. But I have to say the Bolts really looked good. If there was one Thrasher that looked like they were trying to make a case to stay here it was Salmela. Gonna be interesting to see what happens in the next couple of days.
The scuttle-butt around the arena today had to do with DW’s comments that he was going to be in contact with Legace’s agent in the next day or so…so, stay tuned kids.
World Be Free
September 27th, 2009
9:52 pm
What a game-here’s my thoughts.
Please do not sign Max. There’s a reason why no other team signed the guy. Max missed an open net tonight; even Slater could have scored on the play. Later, Max did one of patented skate like heck around the edge, put himself out of position and passed to absolutely nobody moves. He’s not injured (last year’s excuse), he’s just Max. I’ll even drive him to the airport.
Ansi and Pops can stay but Boris has to go. Malone flattened Boris like a possom tonight. Nobody that big should ever get steamrolled. If Boris wants inspiration, he needs to look across the locker room at Pavel Kubina. Kubina is a tank. Boris needs to hit the weights and build 20# of bulk. It can’t make him any slower than he already is, but it will make him tougher around the net.
Just as I said “Thorburn has got to go” to my wife, he scores my kind of goal-in front of the net, outworking an opposing player.
Tampa Bay will be better this year for sure. You can pen in Victor Hedman as rookie of the year right now, especially if TB moves up the standings. Hedman is a future superstar, a kid in a man’s body.
The Real Deal-still to small to hold his own at the NHL level. Let him go back to Vancouver, get up to 210#. Then he can go to the corners and in front of the net with confidence. I liked it when he mixed it up with Vinny.
Bill-your grammar is fine. Anyone who is so anal that they have to correct grammar on a hockey blog is in the wrong place.
World Be Free
September 27th, 2009
9:56 pm
Also, now that I have voted to not sign Max, sign Frische-he’s a two-way hockey play.
Goaltending-Manny get’s my vote, though it is tough to blame Pavs for tonight.
Is this a democracy?
CarrieLee
September 27th, 2009
10:04 pm
Rawhide-Sorry I couldn’t actually speak coherently! The usher was kind enough to grab my drinks and try to hold my seat down for me. You caught me following behind him. I’m always surprised when folks say anything negative about the Philips staff. They have been nothing but helpful every game I’ve attended.
And now I feel more qualified to chime in: Pavelec wasn’t awful in goal. It seemed like he was surrounded by Lightning every few seconds. I can’t believe Valabik was only a -1! Salmela had the most TOI and was the only Thrasher with a + rating (1). I like him a lot. Afinogenov (who is not on the scorecard but was most definitely on the ice) is FAST. Kovy appeared to be passing more than shooting–not a bad thing, especially since it seemed like the team is still getting used to playing together. A couple of times it looked like someone was slightly out of position, but that comes with time. In all, I don’t think this game was as bad as the score appeared. It may have featured our top lines, but this was still a try-out. I know if I was coach who I’d keep, let’s see if Anderson agrees!
CarrieLee
September 27th, 2009
10:14 pm
Forgot to mention the game’s best moment! It’s a given the kiss cam will end up showing the opposing bench and it’s always fun when the guys take it with good humor. Ryan Malone putting his arm hesitantly around Steven Stamkos was fabulous! I love a player that doesn’t take himself too seriously. I recall Ovie did something like that last year. I really think this is what makes Ovechkin special. You can debate forever about who’s a better player, but if given the chance to hang out with Crosby or Ovie, I know who’d be more fun!
Sara
September 27th, 2009
10:19 pm
“Stinker” – heh, Coach has a gift for understatement. All of my adjectives for the game involved four-letter words I had to mumble under my breath so the tax exemptions wouldn’t scold me. Speaking of, both made it on the Jumbo Tron tonight so at least one thing went right.
The PP still sucks, the PK still sucks, they can’t stay out of the damn box (although there were a few calls tonight of the “2 minutes for being a Thrasher” variety). Still can’t clear the dang zone either. Mostly all systemic stuff. I feel bad for Thorbs – he played his rear off tonight with his job on the line but he was awful on the PK. I’m rapidly losing patience with Boris. And why in the @#$^@$%^%$ was Peverley in front of the net on the PP instead of Antropov?!? Wasn’t that half the point of signing him???
I’m also beginning to think Kane should stick – that kid doesn’t even begin to know the meaning of the word “quit” (unlike other parts of the roster this evening).
That game better have darn been an aberration otherwise this team is going to get throttled. And I highly recommend the coaching staff spend the next week working on special teams play. Might need to watch a bit more tape of other teams while they are at it cause apparently nothing took this summer.
/rant (which is exactly what you get when you play a crappy game 4 days after I quit smoking)
Alan R.
September 27th, 2009
10:28 pm
It’s amazing. We played better hockey when half of the roster was rookies.
HookyBob
September 27th, 2009
10:36 pm
Brenden: Thanks for reminding me why Thrasher mgmt continues to evaluate Boris. Hard to admit that some of those 1st round picks aren’t working out. He had a mediocre, at best, game today. As WBF noted Malone knocked him on his can. One would have thought Boris would have done a bit more to move Malone out from the front crease. If he doesn’t use his size there,…well we could go with a smaller D-man in my mind.
Our goalie situation gives me angst,..not unlike previous Sept/Octs.
CarrieLee, I thought Salmela had a good game too. I like his willingness to carry the puck out as well as shoot. I didn’t see any hits tonight,..but do recall him popping a couple of players in his limited time last year.
Gratton, Fritsch, and Oystrick did not play tonight. Makes me wonder if some decisions have already been made. When do they have to be at 23? Sept 30th? We’ll know opening day payroll then.
Affinaginov was all over the ice tonight,…but he doesn’t seem to finish any better than Jimmy.
Yes, the Bolts looked good tonight. Hedman, looks to all of what a #2 pick should be. I think they’ll be tough. And they still have Nittimaki to throw at us.
Eileen
September 27th, 2009
10:38 pm
I am very concerned after today’s game. Boris was a disaster. He seemed to be in the wrong place on every play. The PP was the same old pass, but don’t shoot. Why doesn’t Toby shoot more??? Samela stood out as a guy who wants a job. Pavalec is not the guy. He has improved, but he is still not ready for a number one goalie position. Kane works his tail off, but it doesn’t add up to anything yet. I hope this was just “one of those games”. Tampa came to play. Stamkos has an amazing shot. Tampa really showed up and showed us that they are a much improved team. As far as the Thrashers, let’s just hope it was a good lesson as John Anderson said during the post game conference.
Paul Postma
September 27th, 2009
10:38 pm
Sorry about the game guys. Maybe next year we can get Dorris outta here so i can join the line up and we can win.
It looks like the flood washed all the talent out of atlanta.
12345
September 27th, 2009
10:40 pm
Just finished watching Pittsburgh win the cup on NHL channel.
The Atlanta Thrashers are Light Years away from the playoffs,
much better chance of leaving Atlanta than making playoffs.
This game today is an example of what we can expect to see again, much like last season. Low shots on goal, high shots against, a very poor defense, and very, very, very questionable goaltending.
How many plans is this season ? 4 ? 7 ? 10 ? Why can this franchise field a winning team that wins on a regular basis.
We can forget #17 resigning, who would want too ? Not Me !
We resign many of the same players from the past several seasons,
Slater rings a bell and just do little or nothing to win.
We get one UFA and a trade and it is not one damn bit better than the last two seasons, something drastic needs to be done before 10/3.
Would replacing Don Waddell be a bad idea, no, it would be best for this losing franchise to shed the rope that has been around it’s neck since the start, and we all know who that is, fresh ideas and new players who want to win would be very very refreshing for once.
Without that… this season will be no different than last.
Then what do we do ???????
Brendan
September 27th, 2009
10:45 pm
Remember 2005-06? Remember how stoked everyone was, when Bondra was added? Savard was centering Kovalchuk? Kozlov was younger. With Holik and Mellanby as veteran leadership, and Havelid and Modry on Defense, and a HEALTHY Kari Lehtonen in net? We were at the LEAGUE MAX. Expectations were soaring.
Why mention it? Do you longtime bloggers remember what happened next? No, I don’t mean the 1st period groin injury to Kari Lehtonen. What happened next was … the team came out FLAT, in a 2-0 SHUTOUT … at the hands of the Florida Panthers, of ALL teams. Hey, it was a ROAD debut, for a team that didn’t have any identity, and hadn’t had much time to gel. And Kovalchuk had missed all of training camp. But plenty of people came here to declare, “THIIIIIS is what we waited for? This this that offensive juggernaut that Waddell built? This team sucks. It’s gonna be another lonnnng year.”
Guess what happened next? Anyone remember? It’s okay. That was four years ago. The Thrashers EXPLODED for 15 goals in the next two games, both versus the Capitals. People started to feel a little bit better. But it was an up and down year. The next game was another shutout, against Montreal. Then Toronto beat us 9-1, followed by a 5-1 Thrashing by the Rangers at the Garden. Followed up by yet another shutout, this time, 6-0, by the Lightning. That was a total goal score of 22-2, in a four game span. Un-GOOD.
The point? It’s an 82-game schedule, folks. Despite all the trials and tribulations, Atlanta only missed the playoffs that year by 2-points in the 2006 season. Even if this year is going to be a 90-point campaign, we’re going to suffer our lumps. Probably early on. There are plenty of new faces, potentially. If Max is here, along with Gratton, and Legace, and Kubina and Antropov, with Salmela and Popovic, it’s going to take TIME to gel. Kane may or may not stay. That affects team chemistry, too.
I make this vow right now. I won’t scream about this team until Halloween. It’s got to be given time to learn the Anderson systems, PLURAL. There are several of them, apparently. I still say this is Year Three of a four year building project. I know you don’t want to hear that. You want to hear what they’re selling, that this is a playoff year. I’d love to see the playoffs, too!! But this team is $8 million under the cap. They flirted with Zherdev and Manny Malhotra. They didn’t go after Grier, Goc, Koivu, Komisarek, Montador, etc. Fine. They’re in the midst of a building project, not a spending project. I just hope Kovalchuk got sold on it, with the understanding that more free agents will be signed next year, and the draft will bring another piece, too. Maybe even the waiver wire?
Check out where the major hockey publication project the Atlanta Thrashers. I haven’t found one that thinks we’re in sniffing distance of a playoff berth. Perhaps, rightly so. I’m not going to beat up this team for doing what the experts project, which is being outside the playoffs. To me, success is the continued development of Bryan Little, and hopefully re-signing him on a PROACTIVE deal. Success would be finally getting Boris Valabik up to “NHL-Speed.” Success would be the improved development of Nathan Oystrick. Success would be Ondrej Pavelec, by season’s end, showing us why he was a high second round draft pick. Success would be Kovalchuk scoring 50 goals, and being re-signed. Success would be Zach Bogosian being named to the All-Star squad. Success would be Toby Enstrom having a year more closely resembling his rookie campaign.
Rawhide
September 27th, 2009
10:58 pm
Eileen – Yes…Tampa came to play tonight. I was very, very impressed with their PP and the way they swarmed the goal. Mike Smith was lights-out tonight for them as well. My first impressions now that I’ve been able to see Victor Hedmen is that he is indeed everything he’s been billed to be. Great to see you and SA again tonight.
CarrieLee – No worries, eh. And I’m glad you mentioned the staff at Philips. I know a few of ‘em and they are top notch people. The Kiss Cam…priceless. Fans love to see that humorous side to players…just having fun with it.
BTW, will you be in those seats again on Saturday? If so, I’ll be a section over…please feel free to drop by and say “hello”.
WBF – Nice analysis of tonight’s loss. I’l disagree with you in regards to Max. Yes…he missed that open goal, but I think he’s a fit on this team. Now let’s see what Waddell, Dudley and Anderson have to say in the next few days.
Brendan – Bringing up 2005 in comparison to now is spot-on…if for no other reason than to remember that it is indeed an 82 game season and a slow start can be overcome. 2005-06 was Bob Hartley’s best coaching job here IMHO because of how he got this team back into the playoff race.
However, I cannot downplay the situation in goal. Waddell was ill-prepared to deal with the situation. First Pasi goes down in the summer…then Kari in game #1…then we are bringing in kids from Gwinnett. Have Manny here puts us in a much, much better position to handle Kari being on the shelf…again.
This team cannot get off to a slow start like they did in 2005…or 2007…or 2008. And I am still very shakey about Opie in the goal for that reason.
R. Stroz
September 27th, 2009
11:33 pm
In order to have some degree of confidence in the locker room, the Thrashers starting tandem of goalies should be Legace and Moose. The players have to be able to leave the locker room at the beginning of the game having some inclination as to what level of competency that should be expected. Pavelec has shown that he is at best inconsistent, and sometimes, just plain inept. Nine goals in the last six periods of play is not the way to improve team morale. With Pavelec in goal, the team’s morale is damaged goods before the game starts.
With Legace and Moose, the players know what to expect. With Pavelec, they’re putting their fingers in the air checking for the direction of the wind.
Brendan
September 27th, 2009
11:34 pm
Truthfully, I’m fine with Kane and Pavelec spending the year in Chicago. They are still “prospects.” I don’t like the rush prospects. Kane is a tough call, though. He might actually be ready. But what if he isn’t? Remember Falconer’s blog, talking about when the Thrashers rush prospects, that they all got hurt being “rushed.” Even Kovalchuk. From a financial perspective, keeping him in the WHL means that Kane will be 21 and still playing under his capped, 3-year rookie contract. From a “bang for the buck” perspective, that’s the better option, than adding him at 18, and ending that capped rookie contract at age 20.
Now, I certainly agree that if the Thrashers are going to be a playoff team, that they need to get off to a good start. They have a rough schedule to begin the year. But it can be overcome. It’s not like Atlanta doesn’t get a couple of nice home stretches throughout the year. Let’s also hope that, if Atlanta is in the playoff hunt, that its Olympians come home safely from Vancouver. Kovy will go. Will Kari play net for Finland? Will Zach Bogosian represent Team USA? Will Antropov be an Olympian? Kubina?
If there are problems in goal. I do remember that Michael Garnett, eventually, started playing very well for Atlanta. Pressing goaltenders into service, ahead of schedule, is not what anyone really wanted to do. But Garnett did improve. Noticeably. He owned two victories over Martin Brodeur.
Brendan
September 27th, 2009
11:55 pm
As a general rule, goaltenders and defensemen take longer to develop. In my notebook, it says here that blueliners take 3-4 years to fully develop. So, Valabik’s a little behind schedule. In my notebook, it says goalies take 5 years, unless you get real lucky. With respect to Pavelec, a 2005 draft pick, this would mean he should be “ready” in the Fall of 2010 (the 2011 season). In regards to Lehtonen, it’s 2009!! He was a 2002 draft pick. There shouldn’t be ANY QUESTION about whether he’s the “franchise goalie” or not. If there is, it means (1) the organization didn’t develop him properly or (2) he’s a bust. Or perhaps a combination of the two. I still think, despite certain ‘rants’ to the contrary, that Kari Lehtonen can be a team’s #1 goalie. Kari needs a better defense in front of him. This year, he’d get that better defense. Atlanta’s blueline is arguably the best in the franchise history.
But it does force us to ask the question, “Was drafting Kari really the best option we had, back in 2002, knowing that goalies take FIVE YEARS to develop?” I questioned that move then. Not just now. In 2002, I felt the franchise still needed to land a more immediate impact type of player. Since the team was still so new to Atlanta. Had the Panthers taken Rick Nash, I would have settled on Bouwmeester, since the d-men usually develop a bit faster than the goalies. The top prospects for the 2002 draft year were Bouwmeester, Nash, and Lehtonen. For teams wanting to draft a goalie, Kari was the tops of his draft class. Cam Ward went 22nd or 23rd? Something like this. Cam Ward was probably not projected to be a future Conn Smythe Trophy winner. Cam Ward FINALLY lost a playoff series, when the Penguins swept the ‘Canes in the Conference Finals this year. But even at 6-1 in the playoffs, Cam’s record is impressive. It remains to be seen if Kari can deliver this kind of performance with Atlanta. Like I said, this year’s defensive corps is arguably the best in franchise history. So, he should get his chance to strut his stuff, once he gets healthy. And assuming that Waddell doesn’t have trading Kari on his mind.
Viking
September 28th, 2009
1:00 am
I am not suggesting anything, but interestingly Forsberg seems to be back in good shape. After Sunday’s game in the Swedish Elite League superlatives like “World Class”, “The King is back”, “Completely Insane” was used to describe his performance.
A whole bunch of NHL scouts were present, among them Kenta Nilsson (Atlanta Flames), nowadays scouting for the Oilers, said “we would welcome him with open arms”. Those of you who remember him and want to know what Kent Nilsson looks like today, here is a link to a page with a photo of him and “Foppa” (Forsbergs Swedish nickname”):
http://www.aftonbladet.se/sportbladet/hockeybladet/sverige/elitserien/article5863322.ab
Forsberg is currently under a try-out contract with Enström’s old club MoDo for one more game, and is himself humble, but commenting a possible NHL comeback with a “no doors are closed” from his side.
Alan R.
September 28th, 2009
1:41 am
Truthfully, I’m fine with Kane and Pavelec spending the year in Chicago.
Dude. Brendan. You know better than that. He can’t go to Chicago.
From a financial perspective, keeping him in the WHL means that Kane will be 21 and still playing under his capped, 3-year rookie contract.
Kane would be in the fourth year of his junior eligibility, should he get sent back this year. Therefore, I have no idea what you’re talking about.
Alan R.
September 28th, 2009
1:48 am
Nevermind the last comment. I had to read it a few more times to get it. The first one still stands, though.
Frustrated Editor
September 28th, 2009
1:48 am
As a person (albeit a fan) blogging for a major newspaper, spell check should be important. Rawhide represents the AJC. Besides, it is easy to run a spell check. I am not asking the same of the people posting comments — just the person whose work is appearing as a representative of the newspaper.
I like his posts and enjoy his column (which is how I look at it, as he is a featured part of the AJC’s Thrashers’ page), I just find the little errors irksome.
Hockey Biltong
September 28th, 2009
2:24 am
Ok, you have spoken, Mr. Editor; duly noted.Now back to our regularly scheduled programme….
Hockey Biltong
September 28th, 2009
2:28 am
BTW, send Boris down. He needs help.
It occurs to me that Pavelec, in goal tonight, might have been showcased for a trade. Too bad he couldn’t improve his stock with a good outing.
World Be Free
September 28th, 2009
5:32 am
Viking -Couldn’t agree more. Forsberg is a winner with the heart of a lion. Would anyone else have endured what he has physically and have the guts to keep coming back for more?
Max is like having a flashy sportscar. You love tooling around in your ride, until you realize the flashy car takes too much gas, it has a horrible ride and it costs a fortune to insure. Hockey translation-you’ll have to pay alot for the games (not shifts) Max takes off and he is a defensive liability.
Take Frische instead, he’s more like a Honda. Economical and dependable.
Libby
September 28th, 2009
6:06 am
What a terrible game. It appear that we revert back to same ole bad habits on penalties and penalty killing. After the fan club meeting, I now believe for the first time ever and I have been a supporter since game one day one that Kovy will not sign here. Waddell said he talked to him twice this week and nothing but talk. He stated that Kovy still wants to see the direction of the team. If today is any indication of the direction, Kovy is gone.
Christy
September 28th, 2009
7:35 am
yikes. I was upset that I’m missing the opener on Saturday, but if it’s just half as bad as yesterday’s I’ll be just as happy to be across the country and far away from the stink of it.
CarrieLee – It must have looked different from where I sat. Opie had some great saves but I thought he left too many rebounds out there. Worse than Kari i his rookie year and that’s a wee bit too much, especially if Boris is one of your defensemen on the ice.
Also – what is with all of the penalties – there were what 8 or 9? Afinogenov couldn’t get on the ice until the end when I think coach was desperate enough to put him out on the PK and hope for a break away. No way he could get into any kind of rhythm with White and Kozlov that he’s only been skating with for a couple of weeks if that.
Boulton Vs. Gratton – I thought that when Boulton was out there, vs. last home game when it was Gratton, that line did a better job of keeping the opposing team in their own zone. Also, I don’t think it’s all about skill with Boulton – I think it’s locker room presence and energy. And if I recall correctly from a comment on Ben’s blog the other day, Boulton was wearing the “A” at the Carolina game. I don’t think Coach would slap that on someone there were about to cut/waive.
Putting On The Foil
September 28th, 2009
7:46 am
My, how the confidence wanes. Not mine, however, as I’m as pumped as ever to start a season. This should be a fun ride. So let’s drop the freaking puck already!
Eileen
September 28th, 2009
8:44 am
As far as Kovalchuk resigning, I have to note that he played a lousy game along with the rest of the Thrashers. He reverted back to his one man show game along with the “rule” that he can be the only one who shoots from the point on the PP. He was also on the ice for a couple of goals, if I recall correctly. In his defense, the line that has been so successful in the preseason, Kovy, Antro and Little was broken up for this game. Every time the Thrashers have a bad game, I don’t think it is a good idea to make the statment that “Kovy won’t sign here.” He has other reasons for wanting to stay in Atlanta that are not wiped out by one bad game. I am still cautiously optimistic about the Thrashers season. I just hope that Pavalec’s many starts in goal were to see if he is ready for the big leagues. My conclusion is NO. I hope we see Legace and Moose until Kari returns. Boris needs to work on his “head game” according to Anderson. He needs to let go of a mistake or a cheap hit. Yesterday one of the goals was because he was so out of position trying to get Malone back for a previous hit, that he allowed Malone to provide a huge screen for Pavs. Boulton played his heart out. He set up a couple of great chances. Mike Smith played a great game in goal for Tampa. To me, one of the most unfortunate facts about the game was that there was a decent size preseason crowd that were very loud and enthusiastic. Yesterday’s game did not sell any tickets for next Saturday’s matchup. That is unless, one wants to see more magic from the Lecavalier/Stamkos/St.Louis line!
J.B.
September 28th, 2009
8:48 am
you know, I was pretty p.o’d when the game ended last night. But, now that I’ve slept on it, I think it’s really a good thing that we stunk up the joint with out last preseason game since so many roster spots are still up for grabs. I think a crappy game like that really will really give the thrashers brass some perspective on who deserves to be here and who needs to be here when the games count starting saturday.
If you ask me, and no one did of course, it seems there’s been a big difference when Gratton was on the ice, so I want him in ATL.
Im tired of Boris. get rid of him. We have too many good D men to worry about him getting better. He’s becoming an inconsistent liability a la Kari.
While Afinogenov has been ‘quiet’ on the scoresheet, the talent and skill are there, no question. I think he should be signed and certainly he’ll score. keep in mind he’s only had two games to show his stuff; one he was ill and the other there just wasn’t much to work with.
Note: Where’s Kovalchuk? Doesn’t seem to be making much noise on the ice based on what I hear on the radio. Looks great in practice though!
I guess I could go on, but I won’t… my ideas for the team certainly will have no bearing on the cuts to be made this week.
Looking forward to saturday. Not worried too much about last night as long as the boys upstairs make some good roster decisions this week.
Hopefully the mess last night will be good motivation to the team for saturday.
Baldheaded Thrasher
September 28th, 2009
8:51 am
Enter your comments here
I was not at the game, but I noticed Pav’s left a lot of rebounds in last Wedensday game against Nashville. Now this? Is he NHL ready? Sounds to me the whole team stunk!
JA and DW have to make the roster decisions and let’s see what happens. I think this team will have a better record than last years…but playoffs??? Probably not.
Libby
September 28th, 2009
9:00 am
Eileen, I was not saying that Kovy would not sign here just because of a bad game. It was just the attitude of Waddell in the meeting that makes me think that Kovy will not sign here. Waddell talked about how Kovy has played for Russia for the last two years and has been a winner. He keeps stating that Kovy wants to play where he can win especially when he now knows the feeling of being a champion.
Todd Brennand
September 28th, 2009
9:32 am
Let’s not give up on Maxim just yet….he is still trying to shake of the Lindy Ruff influence where he tries to impress every shift (for fear of riding the pine) and in doing so can skate himself right out of the play. He also will at times try to do it all when the team is behind or needs a lift. However, with a new coach, a more offensive-minded system and quality line-mates that he has time to adapt to, you will see he can be a valuable second line scoring threat.
So when is JA et al making their final decisions?? Lot’s of talented kids (eg Jordan Eberle)are being sent back to junior squads…..will Kane follow?
Eileen
September 28th, 2009
9:41 am
Libby, I was not pointing a finger at you by any means. I have the same concern. The comment about Kovy is made on a regular basis by many. I went to the town hall and Don gave us a very different impression. Don said that among his many reasons for wanting to stay here is his wife is happy here and his custom made home on 30 acres in Buckhead. I think he is excited about the season and the players he had a hand in getting to sign here. He stunk with the rest of them yesterday. I think it will help provide addtional motiviation next week.
J.B.
September 28th, 2009
9:55 am
i don’t think one bad game, especially one in the preseason where his successful line was broken up, will cause kovy not to re-sign. I wasn’t there but if he was playing as poorly as everyone else, then I REALLY don’t think last night will have any bearing on the situation. Kovy knows when he has a bad game. He’s one of the best in the world at this sport but he’s human and the Ovechkins, Crosbys, & Malkins of the world all have bad games every now and then too. That said, I think winning the game Saturday night, and winning by a large point margin is VERY important. I think the icing on the cake would be scoring across all four lines.
J-man
September 28th, 2009
10:03 am
Salmela, Fritsche and Kane will stay. Valabik, Gratton and Thorburn will go. For the 2nd consecutive pre-season Valabik was handed a job and played his way out of it. Gratton goes because he has no real offensive upside (the 2 goal pre-season game won’t fool the coaches) and he didn’t really do anything Boulton can’t do. Thorburn goes because improving the PK has become critical and somebody has to go to make room for Fritsche.
Adam
September 28th, 2009
10:05 am
Ok, it’s preseason. But does anyone else here get the feeling JA’s approach to camp/preseason is more based on his AHL years? I know we have a lot of questions to answer with this roster it just seems like the vast majority of the league seemed to have a better handle on the direction they wanted to head and started skating their 1st 2 lines by game 2.
This team is definitely more talented than last seasons it is just going to take a little more time to develop chemistry and cohesive play due to not having the TOI together. I’d be surprised if they’re .500 after game 6 but I believe they’ll get 4 or 5 points in the last 3 of the road trip. I’m with Brendan as far as giving the till Halloween I just hope that of the games we lose are more of the 4-3 or 3-2 variety and not the 5-1 we saw yesterday.
We’re also running down to the waiver wire.
sisu
September 28th, 2009
10:07 am
http://www.thehockeynews.com/articles/28047-Top-Shelf-Sorting-out-some-preseason-thoughts.html
Given how the game went I find this very interesting…
Another young goalie worth watching is Ondrej Pavelec in Atlanta. He’s one in a cluster of puckstoppers vying to back up – or butt out – the, get ready for it, injured Kari Lehtonen. Pavelec, 22, has a Calder Cup championship under his belt and you have to think the Thrashers are nearing the end of their rope with Lehtonen. The Finn and former second overall pick, still only 25 himself, has tons of talent, but hasn’t been able to exhibit enough consistent play or health to inspire confidence in Atlanta.
Eileen
September 28th, 2009
10:31 am
FYI, I keep forgetting to mention the play of Popovic. He saved 2 goals himself by swatting them out of the crease. We sat right behind the goal. Very impressive. He should be given a chance. I used to think he looked a little like a deer in head lights. Not anymore.
pond scum
September 28th, 2009
10:33 am
Well, we didn’t tear up the preseason like the Leafs did or a couple other teams……. i guess we might as well throw up,fold up the tents and pack it in before it even gets started,no need in even trying.
WAKE UP YALL!! Are you honestly goin to GIVE UP that easily? Rome wasn’t built in a day,IT HAS to START SOMEWHERE!
We will be fine. We will actually WIN a postseason game in Atlanta next spring and build on that!
Oh, I vote Boris and Thorburn off the island too.
Christy
September 28th, 2009
10:36 am
not abandoning ship at all…
Just trying to find the tar bucket to seal the leaks…
Brendan
September 28th, 2009
10:44 am
Guess how has updated its Cap numbers to include Colby Armstrong’s $2.4 million contract against Atlanta’s Cap? That’s right.
http://www.nhlnumbers.com/overview.php?team=ATL&season=0910
Whatever that cap number reads on Opening Night, at puck drop, determines the winner of our contest.
Brendan
September 28th, 2009
10:46 am
Uhh, “who” even. Sorry. I just got new typing fingers this morning. I replace them every few weeks. Give me some time to break them in.
GaVaHokie
September 28th, 2009
11:35 am
Latest rumor from RDS.ca… translation… (love how it translates to “herself”)
Bad news for Mathieu Dandenault. The San Jose Sharks have decided to release him.
The former Canadiens defenseman finds herself without a contract within one week of start of the season.
Last year as a defender and as a player with the Canadiens before he scored four goals and eight assists in 41 games.
The Atlanta Thrashers, who were also interested in Dandenault, a solution could be envisaged.
Pam on Weck
September 28th, 2009
11:36 am
Brendan – It’s ok. Most of the time, your typing would even satisfy Frustrated Editor.
Frustrated Editor – I understand. I used to feel the same. I went to college for journalism. Then I met a friend who uses incorrect spelling and grammar ON PURPOSE. He got me over it.
I would choose to vote Pavs, Boris and Kane off the island. Sign Manny and Pops (both 2-way). I can’t choose which other forward has to go. I’m so waffly on it, I’m practically Belgian.
Jerret
September 28th, 2009
11:52 am
So when is the Thrashers going to give up on Boris. I want to see him in the line up and succeed because of how high he was drafted. 1rst round bust are nails on a chalkboard….
Brendan
September 28th, 2009
12:10 pm
Thanks Pam on Weck. I enjoyed your post. Jerret, I think Boris went 10th in his draft year. While that is fertile ground for landing a player, it’s sadly by no means guaranteed. Bryan Little was a 12th overall pick, I think, and he’s been everything they projected, and more. Braydon Coburn went 8th overall, and has had a fine career in Philadelphia. Jim Slater was a 30th overall pick, from 2002, and has managed to put together some longevity in the NHL, with the Thrashers. For a while, Patrick Stefan held the Thrashers record for most games played. And he was a 1st overall selection.
When I look at San Jose, I see lots of high end draft picks. They’ve got Devin Setoguchi, 8th overall, from 2005. (Let’s not talk about it.) They’ve got Patrick Marleau, 2nd overall, from 1997 or 1998. I can’t remember. They’ve got Joe Thornton, who I think went 1st overall in 1998? They’ve got Dany Heatley, who went 2nd overall, in 2000.
Folks, sometimes I struggle with the Draft Year. So, if it’s incorrect, then don’t shoot me. We’re going for overall concepts, here, not literal perfection of data. Like Kane either being here or remaining in a LESSER LEAGUE than the NHL. (Not Chicago.) I think everyone grasps that concept.
R. Stroz
September 28th, 2009
12:11 pm
100th