Pavelec shutout helps Thrashers win one just in the Nik of time
Things haven’t exactly been hunky-dory in Thrasherville during the month of January.
A 3-4-3 record and winners of just one regular season game since New Years had the team clinging desperately to their eighth place position in the Eastern Conference. Key players have been bitten by the injury bug to the point that a M.A.S.H. unit could have been stationed outside of the practice facility at the Duluth Ice Forum.
Not Slater, No Kane, No Mason and most recently, No Toby. All tending to various ailments.
Players like Dustin Byfuglien and Alex Burmistrov have been mired in scoring slumps…Big Buff being held goalless since his overtime game winner in Montreal on the second of January while the rookie hasn’t dented the score sheet since assisting on Byfuglien’s goal during a 3-1 loss in New Jersey on New Years Eve.
And then there’s Ondrej Pavelec…who at times could have sued his teammates for non-support…finally fell to “human” status in the past few weeks, going 3-4-3 with a .898 SV% going into Wednesday’s game against the Washington Capitals.
There were multiple third period leads lost as well a couple blowout defeats that had many fans faces displaying that all-too familiar “Gloom, despair and agony on me…deep dark depression, excessive misery” look.
Rich Peverley congratulates Ondrej Pavelec after the 1-0 win over the Washington Capitals Wednesday night. The victory was only the second in regulation time for the Thrashers since New Years and came just when they really needed one (AP Photo/John Bazemore)
Adding to the dark clouds hovering around Philips Arena was this whole mess surrounding the owner’s admission of having lied to us for six years about looking to sell the team. This last little revelation coming via “A.S., LLC Lawsuit 2011”…the latest in a string of seemingly endless legal battles The Great Octocluster has sought to venture into.
Nope…it was not a good month at all.
So, with all this swirling about, the All Star break staring us in the face and the Carolina Hurricanes ridding up our butts, if there was ever a time that the Thrashers really, really…I mean REALLY needed a regulation win, this was it my friends.
Thankfully, they got just that.
Atlanta limps into All Star weekend still sitting in a playoff position thanks to 36 save shutout by Pavelec and one, single, solitary goal by Nik Antropov. For Opie, it was the third goose egg he’s laid upon the scoreboard and the fifth of his NHL career. Antropov’s goal, which came just in the …ahem…”Nik” of time, was scored halfway through the second period and was set up by Fredrik Modin. The secondary assist went to defenseman Ron Hainsey.
That’s right, Antropov, Modin and Hainsey…three of the fastest skaters on the roster teaming up for the only score of the game.
The win gives Atlanta a record of 24-19-9 heading into the break and the 57 points keeps them one point ahead of the Canes, who were in the process of knocking off the New York Islanders 4-2. Seventh place Montreal is two ahead of the Thrashers with 59 points.
Both the Hurricanes and the Habs have played two fewer games, however.
Atlanta also concluded their six game series with division foes Washington with the 1-0 win. They’ll finish with a 4-1-1 record against the three-time Southeast Division champs, including a 3-0-0 record at Philips Arena. The last two home games were shutouts victories by the Thrashers.
One last bit of good news coming from this win…Atlanta’s penalty kill unit continued to shows some signs of improvement. In killing off three Caps’ power plays, Atlanta has successfully worked their way though 12 of the last 14 PK situation over the course of the last five games since allowing 4 power play goals to the Dallas Stars.
There is a lot of work this team has facing it after they return to action next week…and there’s a lot of work the front office needs to do to help them as they continue to battle for a playoffs birth this spring. But these two points earned tonight not only go long way towards that goal, it also ends a very rough month of January on a winning note.
The team needed that…and so did we.
By: Bill Tiller – AJC.com Thrashers Fan Blog
Tell us what you think about the site
Customer Care »
Vacation stops, manage subscriptions and more
AJC Services
Sections
Other Editions
Visitor Agreement | Privacy Statement
© 2013 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
185 comments Add your comment
Brendan
January 26th, 2011
11:04 pm
Pavelec to the rescue. All he had to do … was stop ALLLL the shots he faced. Atlanta’s problem really hasn’t been scoring. But it would have been nice to give O.P. some breathing room, with the likes of Green, Backstrom, and Ovechkin lurking.
Great 4-point swing vs. the Capitals. Finally, a regulation-time win.
Brendan
January 26th, 2011
11:06 pm
Oh wait, was I supposed to write, “first” in the most exceptional use of bandwith ever?
Brendan
January 26th, 2011
11:11 pm
Rawhide, props to the PK unit, that did an excellent job tonight.
Buff-n-stuff
January 26th, 2011
11:15 pm
Dud’s better have a trade for us by the time we start back up after the allstar break
Iron League 13
January 26th, 2011
11:19 pm
That was impressive…dare I say beautiful? Yes, yes, I do dare. That was TEAM play. Watching the guys rush back and protect the net together and form inpenetrable 4 men bluelines to take on rushes coming out of the neutral zone, just rad. How many times did I see guys drop on the ice be it on a knee or two or splaying out to block shots? I lost count. Seriously it was pretty, very pretty.
Brendan
January 26th, 2011
11:20 pm
By the way, Pizza Hut (TM) was unavailable for comment, after coming under suit by Bruce Levenson this week. Per the excerpt from the complaint, the affiant writes, “You call that EXTRA Cheese? I can see the sauce. I repeat, I can see the sauce.” When asked if Bruce realized that his legal fees would far exceed any damages collected from the Pizza chain, Bruce responded thusly, “It’s the principle of the thing.” When asked if Bruce supports Tort Reform, he said, “Heck no! I plan to clog the docket for YEARS. YEARS and YEARS and YEARS. Just try to stop me.” Earlier in the week, Mr. Levenson tried, unsuccessfully, to extricate a toy prize from the bubblegum machines located inside the lobby of a Supermarket chain. Even though the loss of money was just four (4) quarters, Mr. Levenson put the manufacturer under suit. He seeks “mental anguish and suffering,” along with his $1.00, citing the promise, “Every capsule is GUARANTEED to contain a PRIZE within.” He was denied that prize. He seeks justice. Godspeed, counselor.
Brendan
January 26th, 2011
11:23 pm
Buff-n-Stuff, the ownership’s ‘commitment level’ will be on full display, after the All-Star break. You can be sure of that.
Iron League 13
January 26th, 2011
11:26 pm
Who would have guessed that we’d have pretty much had the Caps number all season.
Iron League 13
January 26th, 2011
11:26 pm
? woops
Iron League 13
January 26th, 2011
11:32 pm
Brendan are you a lawyer? Law school? A Few Good Men? 12 Angry Men? Either way I’m kinda impressed, then again I’m a lamen.
CatThrashFever
January 26th, 2011
11:35 pm
WHEW! I’m soooo glad we got these 2 points IN REGULATION! Happy Happy Joy Joy!
Brendan
January 26th, 2011
11:38 pm
Iron League13, “What do you call 15 lawyers chained to the bottom of the sea?” Oh hush, to those who yelled, “A good start!” The correct answer is, “The AS, LLC’s henchmen, guarding their secret underground lair.”
SomaAtl95
January 26th, 2011
11:40 pm
Brendan, I absolutely love your sarcasm! I just hope there isn’t a lawsuit against “Rawhides Rowdies, LLC” for any assorted reasons….
Great game and glad that we came out with the W. Hoping this home victory against the Caps starts a streak like the last home victory against the caps.
I can hope, right?
Can I be sued for Hope, professor?
Brendan
January 26th, 2011
11:43 pm
Iron League 13, people sometimes inquire, “But your ad says, “Works on contingency. No money down.” I’m always frustrated with advertising. So, I correct them. Here’s what it’s supposed to say. “Works on contingency?? No!!, money down!!” And that Bar Association logo really shouldn’t be there, either.
Brendan
January 26th, 2011
11:49 pm
SomaAtl95, I refer you to the case of “Finders vs. Keepers.” If you find hope, it’s yours. No attorney can take that from you.
But in the case of Bruce Levenson, “it’s worth trying to take it from you.”
If you find “Edith,” tell her I want my cake, too. If you find “Joy,” tell her I’m sorry for jumping for her. If you find, “Faith,” tell her she left her contact lenses in the bathroom. If you find “Hope,” tell her, she springs internal. Yes, I said “internal,” not eternal. It’s an inside joke about IUD’s. I’m trying to distance myself from it.
Rawhide
January 26th, 2011
11:53 pm
Brendan, I absolutely love your sarcasm! I just hope there isn’t a lawsuit against “Rawhides Rowdies, LLC” for any assorted reasons….
SomaAtl95 - Let not your heart be troubled. Rawhide’s Rowdies, LLC is sufficiently “lawyered up” and prepared for that possibility.
michael
January 26th, 2011
11:56 pm
Thought the whole team was solid tonight. maybe a few more shots on goal than id like but solid. Btw I thought bogy looked good tonight think this may be a good foundation to build him up on.
Brendan
January 26th, 2011
11:56 pm
See, SomaAtla95. “Asked and answered.”
SomaAtl95
January 26th, 2011
11:57 pm
Ahhh yes, Finders V Keepers – Where the legal defense of “Neener, neener, neener” and “Because I said so” were used by keepers. Classic case.
I believe Hope also sued the sponge company and the sponge company used the “Barrier” defense.
Anyone wonder if the ASG gets counter-sued from King & Spalding that the ASG’s lawyers would try busting out the fabled “Wookie Defense”?
And on topic – Poor Ovechkin. High sticked from his own player. My wife asked “Why does he look like he is crying like a baby?”
Brendan
January 26th, 2011
11:59 pm
Wait, Rawhide. “Did you give Bonnie Raitt a royalty for the use of ‘Nick of Time,?’”
SomaAtl95
January 27th, 2011
12:03 am
Rawhide – Phew
Good to know! Would hate to have to deal with Slibel or Lander suits. (yes I know I spelled them wrong, whatcha gonna do, sue me??? ***nervously looks to see if any ASG members are around…no… thank god!***) I’m under the legal protection umbrella of RR LLC and their excellent law firm of Dewey, Screwem & Howe.
Brendan
January 27th, 2011
12:04 am
Wait, I caught. Nik, not Nick. You’re golden, Rawhide. No copyright infringement.
Rawhide
January 27th, 2011
12:05 am
Wait, Rawhide. “Did you give Bonnie Raitt a royalty for the use of ‘Nick of Time,?’”
Brendan – Come to think of it, no…no I didn’t. But it’s late and her lawyer’s office is close. First thing in the morning I’ll have my people call her people. She and I are cool with these things…should not be a problem.
Now, the producers of the movie Top Secret….that’s another story. I was expressly forbidden by them to use the joke about the name “Nik” being given to our goal scorer tonight because his father thought of it while shaving.
I’m under the legal protection umbrella of RR LLC and their excellent law firm of Dewey, Screwem & Howe.
SomaAtl95 –
Brendan
January 27th, 2011
12:07 am
We’re a part of their sister company, SomaAtl95. “Dewey, Cheetum & Howe.”
Brendan
January 27th, 2011
12:09 am
Not to be confused with, “Maikum, Paye & Howe.”
Rawhide
January 27th, 2011
12:19 am
Actually fellas, I used to be lawyered up with “Bill, Padding & Schiester”, but they really didn’t do too well by me. So now I’m with “Skinam, Alive & Runn”.
Okayyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy….and that’s a wrap for me tonight. You’ve been great…really, I mean that. The veal is great and be good to the waitress.
LAC
January 27th, 2011
12:21 am
Super WIN, I even thought Zach played one of his Best games in a LONG time tonight, as he started hitting people. Great collaspe on goal to stop them.
Great way to head into the break, lets hope for a BIG wins against NYI and The Flames next week.
Of note… The LAST time the Flames won in Atlanta… They were The Atlanta Flames !!!!
4/4/80, Atlanta 3 NYR 1.
Furious George
January 27th, 2011
12:27 am
Great win, Pavs was simply awesome!! Looks like Antropov is finally starting to feel more back to normal, great to see him producing. Also from what I saw Bogo played a solid game tonight, good for him – he needs it confidence wise. Hopefully we can ride this momentum into the break and beyond and hold off the Canes. The February schedule looks pretty favorable so our boys must capitalize, no excuses. Go Thrashers!
Furious George
January 27th, 2011
12:34 am
Also the break could not come at a better time. Hopefully The likes of Kane and Slater will be good to go by Tuesday. I never thought I’d see the day when I realize how important Slater is to this team. I think it’s no coincedence that the team’s slide started not long after he went down. The PK and 4th line’s overall effectiveness and production went south too. Getting him back will be a much welcome sight. I’m looking forward to seeing an exciting playoff push with a hopefully full deck roster wise. Like Bart Scott said, ‘Can’t Wait!’
R. Stroz
January 27th, 2011
3:25 am
I’ve developed a strategy to assist Mr. Dudley in persuading the remaining ASG owners to act in the best interest of the Thrashers franchise.
Mr Dudley needs to call a meeting between himself and the owners. At this meeting, he needs to introduce the remaining owners to a gentleman named Mr. Plett. With the assistance of numerous physical exercises implemented by Mr. Dudley and Mr. Plett from the educational manuals provided by the law firms of “Letum, Feele, Payne” as well as “Dewey, Poundum & Howe”, hopefully the owners will be reinvigorated to improve the franchise prior to their forthcoming visit to the dentist and orthopaedic surgeon.
R. Stroz
January 27th, 2011
3:42 am
On a different note, Washington had significantly more than 36 shots on goal. I watched seven shots reach Pavelec in the third period alone after the shot count had reached 35.
Alan R.
January 27th, 2011
6:12 am
I was extremely happy to see this win. We really and truly needed this before the break. I mean, hell, I had almost forgotten what a regulation win felt like.
Kane said on the radio last night that he’ll be back for Tuesday vs. NYI. I’m not a doctor, but I wouldn’t expect Slater back anytime soon. If he is back for Tuesday, that’s exceptional, but I’m not holding my breath. Enstrom will be at least another two weeks, unless miracles really do happen.
Dwayne
January 27th, 2011
6:13 am
Thanks for the lawyer laffs this morning….A Thrasher win followed by this….
Alan R.
January 27th, 2011
6:14 am
Oh, and lastly, it looked like only one person understood the source of my archaic post yesterday, but no one responded in kind. I’m be disappointed, if I weren’t too busy laughing
hockeyguru
January 27th, 2011
6:41 am
Was watching games and saw Byfuglien get a leg injury, and then a wrist injury. I don’t know that you’d call it a slump in the traditional sense–I think he’s playing injured.
Alan R.
January 27th, 2011
7:27 am
I think Byfuglien is a little banged up, too. But, he is a warrior out there. I think he felt he needed to be in there, injury or not.
Hopefully, the break will see him return to form.
Rawhide
January 27th, 2011
7:32 am
Hockeyguru – I think your observation about Buff is spot on. He has been playing a bit banged up and hopefully this time off will do him some good.
Zoomo
January 27th, 2011
7:49 am
It was nice to see Antro chase a loose puck or two in the neutral zone. He looks to be slowly regaining form.
Love Rawhide’s little sarcasm about the speedy skaters. There was an offensive posession or two where Burmy was skating around like a bug with the puck and looking for his linemates…..Modin and Antro slowly crossing the blueline. The Turtle line? Modin and Antro did do a great job on the goal, tho’. A veteran goal.
Red Light
January 27th, 2011
8:05 am
After 50-plus games, what player isn’t a little banged up?
Apparently, Brendan watched a lot of the Three Stooges growing up…
My Three Stars: Pavelec, Ladd and Bogosian
moriler
January 27th, 2011
8:24 am
Handy, that. 2 more points banked out of the “stronger opponent” category: 24 games left in the “equal or lesser opponent” category, and a bunch of those coming up right after the break.
On a more serious note, two of the six games before Valentine’s Day are against Carolina. These are the ones that will go a long way towards deciding who gets into the playoffs between the two teams. I hope Rammer and the crew emphasize the importance of those as necessary.
Stan Drulia
January 27th, 2011
8:28 am
That was a serious nail-biter at the end. I thought Bogo looked pretty good also. Good effort overall by the entire team. Just got tix to Tuesday game against the Isles… can’t wait!
moriler
January 27th, 2011
8:29 am
Oh, almost forgot: at 57 points now, we’re 36 away from my “magic number” of 93 — only 18 wins necessary out of those 24 games (and still six free games we “should lose” we can possibly overachieve and get points from). Winning 75% of the games we ’should win’ isn’t really that much, and of course there’s the possibility that it won’t take a full 93 to make it in. I still like our chances as long as we play to our level.
Cliff Fletcher
January 27th, 2011
8:50 am
More good news-a win means we won’t be hearing from Sage the turtle this morning, since he never comes out after a victory. Never…..
Zoomo
January 27th, 2011
8:58 am
I know Burmy wasn’t on the line with Antro and Modin….just a possession or two…. was Boulton the third guy on the actual line?
Bruce Levenson
January 27th, 2011
9:03 am
Brendan,
Cease and desist with the slander or I shall file suit.
Yours truly,
Bruce
moriler
January 27th, 2011
9:08 am
Bruce,
Your momma.
With all due respect,
moriler
Hockey Biltong
January 27th, 2011
9:24 am
And the vuvuzela shall herald the announcement of…………………to the team!
Fan from Carolina
January 27th, 2011
9:24 am
Pavelec has single handedly kept the Thrashers in the playoff chase and I mistakenly did not vote for him as MVP in the column a few weeks ago. I voted for Buff (which wasn’t a bad choice) but I had my blinders on to reality. No Pavelec, no playoffs.
Hockey Biltong
January 27th, 2011
9:30 am
Per Darren Dreager; Antropov,Modin and Hainsey on the trading menu…
Tom
January 27th, 2011
9:33 am
Hockey Biltong, I would not mind seeing any of those guys go, but if we did not bring in equal or higher salaries that would put us under the salary cap. We will need to bring in some salaries to negate those losses. That could mean an Iginla.
Hoof Arted
January 27th, 2011
9:41 am
Speaking of the AJC article regarding the octocluster’s new lawsuit and that they lied to us for 6 years about wanting to sell the team – Last weekend Puckhead commented that the fan club had sent out an email telling the members not to believe everything they read in the story and indicated new information would be forthcoming.
So, was there any new news brought forward by those who run the fan club? I’m just curious.
Old Time Hockey
January 27th, 2011
9:42 am
Game was not much different from a few the past couple of weeks. Biggest difference was Pavelec standing on his head. Pavelec plays great equals win…Pavelec plays good…probably lose. Buff has got to be banged up. Bogosian played a great game…welcome back, Zack.
The biggest change I see in the team from winning early to lately is shots on goal. Early on, everyone was putting everything on net. Now they seem to be just missing. They do great work and set up a good shot, then miss the goal. Definitely the biggest change in Buff is missing the net with the big blasts from the point. If the point of Ramsay’s offense is to generate shots and rebounds, they have GOT to HIT THE NET. Most goals are off scrambles, but if you shoot it wide, no rebound, no goal.
Ondrej…get some rest, the whole team will be on your back for the last 30 games!
JB
January 27th, 2011
9:49 am
Hockey Biltong – Can you provide a link to that or was it said on tv?
Zoomo
January 27th, 2011
9:51 am
I think Hainsey is clearly playing his best hockey as a Thashers. Better partners, better play. Would hate to see him go. Antro and Modin not so much.
JB
January 27th, 2011
9:53 am
i know he isnt the best, but i really like antropov on this team and wouldn’t like to see him go. he seemed a little quicker last night than in the recent past. hopefully finally recovering fully from the surgery.
Hockey Biltong
January 27th, 2011
10:14 am
JB- go to TSN Hockey webpage. Dreager is one of their sportswriters.
Tom- Dudley said when he traded he would not be the guy trying to get something for nothing, so I imagine he will be trading some quality peeps out of Atl. Both Hainsey and Antro have some of the larger contracts of the Thrash. Antro has another year? Hainsey as well? Someone correct me on that.
So you move those guys for some youth and some skill.
Maybe Iginla, but he really is older than our team profile would seem to predicate.
Moulson is in everyones sights. Arnot? maybe..
How you like to see Shea Weber on D?
Or Bieksa?
Or Seabrook?
SomaAtl95
January 27th, 2011
10:16 am
Speaking of Trades I would like a package deal – on the trading block are the ASG and The “Negative Nancy” posters in this blog. Will take a bag of pucks for both. Maybe Lou and the Devils can work out another deal – I’m sure they have virgin pucks that have never seen net this season up in Jersey…
Smoothie
January 27th, 2011
10:19 am
Nice to see Bogosian respond so well as that was easily the best defensive game I’ve seen him play in quite some time. Positionally he seemed much better and he was more decisive with the puck. Perhaps the time observing really helped him see where he needs to go with the puck for the high percentage play even with very little time when under duress. Let’s hope he turns the corner as his play will be key down the stretch if this team is going to tighten up enough to stay in the playoff thick of things. And yes, Pavelec was simply brilliant again.
As for the trade rumors, perhaps we are floating our two $4M men because we are looking to swap $4M men for another team’s $4M men (e.g. Ales Hemsky or Dustin Penner). Although I’m not sure why anyone other than Toronto might want Antropov as he must be seen as a huge risk after the hip surgery. Hainsey & our #1 to EDM for Penner and Antro & Kulda to TOR for Versteeg? A man can dream can he not?
Hockey Biltong
January 27th, 2011
10:22 am
11 hours ago
@DarrenDreger: On the day word leaks Atl is willing to move Antropov, Hainsey and Modin. All 3 factor in the gwg in a 1-0 win over the Capitals.
Hockey Biltong
January 27th, 2011
10:30 am
Smoothie +1
World Be Free
January 27th, 2011
10:37 am
Zoomo-agreed on Hainsey, Ron his found his spot in the lineup. I think losing Hainsey or Antropv would be a loss for the team, unless what’s coming back is a major upgrade.
Bogo seems to have responded to his time off. Not a bad thing for a player get get some cat-bird (press box) time to alter their presective. Good for him.
I still don’t think there’s going to be alotta trades this season. Too many teams are close to playoff spots, they are not going to cash it in unless they get a deal that blows them away.
j nes
January 27th, 2011
10:39 am
Due to the recent disclosure of the Atlanta Spirits repeated lies to season ticket holders, I was wondering if anyone out there (lawyers in particular) sees grounds for a class action lawsuit. If so, I am sure there are plenty of plaintiffs on this blog ready to join the cause–myself included. ASG seems to enjoy lawsuits anyway. I say we indulge them in another.
Smoothie
January 27th, 2011
10:55 am
WBF – I agree, I’m not sure I’d like to see Hainsey go. He has really stepped up this year and he has responded to the challenge(s) issued by Coach Ramsay. I don’t find myself bemoaning his limp-wristed clearing attempts much at all this season and he has only 1 over-the-glass delay of game penalty I think. But in a trade scenario, you’ve got to give to get and we must be thankful that he’s elevated his value enough to justify at least 3/4 of his huge yearly salary.
If nothing else, I hope Duds decides to throw a 4th or 5th rounder (the one for Eager from San Jose) at Jarkko Ruutu. I’ve hated his guts, but other than a few questionable hits, he’s not nearly the jerk that Neil or Avery or Cookie is. He’s a big, mobile guy, good at both ends (check out his career +/-) and he’s got some decent hands for a big fella. I would love to have the gritty Finn to tangle with the other Ruutu, Jokinen, Staal et al in Carolina as the remaining 4 games with them may determine the 8th seed.
Hockey Biltong
January 27th, 2011
11:00 am
Ruutu and Alfredsson!
C'mon man
January 27th, 2011
11:00 am
j nes, you going to to sue them for what? You sue everyone who lies to you? You must be very busy. SomaAtl95, make sure this idiot is first on the plane out of town.
Smoothie
January 27th, 2011
11:03 am
Semin just re-upped for $6.7 M and one more year in Washington. Probably a good compromise for both sides to give them more time.
Still, won’t this limit their options again in FA as they have so much money tied up in Ovy, Green, Backstrom, Semin, Schultz, Laich and Poti?
Smoothie
January 27th, 2011
11:05 am
HB – if we had only one option to take an aging vet from OTT with Ruutu, I’d take Alfie, but that seems like the one vet they want to keep as he’s played his whole career there. Now way do I touch Kovalev with Boots Delbaggio’s dirty hands though!
Old Time Hockey
January 27th, 2011
11:06 am
You may not agree, but I don’t see upgrades for Hainsey and Antropov available by trade with equal salaries. I believe you’d have to keep similar salaries so as not to drop below the cap minimum. I like the way Ron has been playing and Antropov seems to have his game back. I give the guy credit for not complaining and obviously playing hurt. Ramsay and Dudley must have felt that Antro at 80 percent was better than a “depth” guy at 100 percent. Personally, I’m waiting for Slater’s energy to return.
Red Light
January 27th, 2011
11:23 am
Smoothie:
Good call on both Hainsey and the elder Ruutu. I’m not in favor of a 20-game rental, particularly another 35-year-old, although his edginess and defensive responsibility couldn’t hurt. Still, what need is he filling, as he is not a top-6 forward?
Semin’s cap hit won’t do anything to limit McPhee this season, but he still will have to clear more space for a key deal. Caps have $13.5 million in space next season and only Laich is a key $2 million-plus UFA to re-sign. He’ll probably let Hannan and Knuble walk and go with younger players, of which they seem to have an endless supply.
As much as I hate to admit it, World Be Free could be exactly right in terms of players available via trade. Only five of the 30 teams have little realistic hope of making the playoffs. Calgary has crept back in it going 6-1-3 in their last 10.
Atlanta’s recent play, nine points in 10 games, has allowed two, if not three teams back in the Eastern race, but the good thing is that they also have the most flexibility in terms of cap space if they are allowed to spend any of it.
j nes
January 27th, 2011
11:24 am
C’mon man:
I am asking if there are grounds for a suit, so thanks for answering my question with a question. That was helpful.
How about false advertising?
If a company makes false claims, like “our tacos are beef,” then that company is required to sell beef tacos. The ASG claimed to be selling tickets to see a NHL hockey team, but what we got was 17% NHL and the rest filler and by-product.
AtlFlamesFan
January 27th, 2011
11:32 am
I would love to see a class action lawsuit by STHs against ASG.
Consumers purchase a product based on information provided by the seller. When the seller blatantly lies about the product they are selling, the purchaser may seek damages.
Over the years, there have been several attempts by fans to sue owners, and I do not believe any of them have been successful. However, this case may exceed others in that ASG’s remarks were not simply marketing hype, but instead, outright lies with the intent to defraud purchasers.
When they acquired the Thrashers, the Hawks and Philips Arena operating rights, ASG promoted that their intent was to build championship teams. However, court documents now show that their intent from the beginning was to use the Thrashers as equity so they could essential get the Hawks for nothing. STHs purchased tickets to invest in the future of NHL hockey in Atlanta. ASG used their money in a scheme to increase their equity in the Hawks.
Sue the B*st*rds! Yeah, a winning verdict is not likely, but keeping it in court for years may have the same effect as the Belkin lawsuit and help prevent these blood suckers from selling our team to some Canadian.
j nes
January 27th, 2011
11:37 am
Thanks ATLFlamesfan. That is the kind of intelligent response I was looking for.
Smoothie
January 27th, 2011
11:40 am
Red Light – if nothing else, Ruutu >>>> Modin and he could protect Burmi with Antro on the RW. Modin, aside from the assist play last nite, was / is horrible along the half-wall. Ruutu, and I could be wrong, seems to have better change of direction and he always seems to be flying around our net and swarming our D-men on the F/C. I’m sick of Modin and if I see him on the PK one more time, I’m going to scream. Wait, I already scream when that happens!
Hainsey, Modin (just to move bodies and even up the cap hits), a prospect like Zubarev and our 3rd round pick for Michalek, Ruutu and perhaps a prospect to even things out. Almost an even swap in terms of dollars. Hainsey provides leadership on their blueline for young players like Karlsson, Lee etc and MM & Ruutu provide the grit and tenacity we need to re-invigorate our stalled forecheck. Our SOG avg has plummetted to a paltry 28.8 during January and 29.2 over the last 16 games. In November, we were getting over 33.4 SOG per game. We don’t so much need scorers as we do bodies who can play the game the way Ramsay wants it played. Move Kane and Antro to the off-wings and go with this:
Ladd – Little – Bergy \ Antro
Michalek – Pevs – Kaner
Ruutu – Burmy \ Corms – Antro \ Stewy
Boults \ Dawes – Slater \ Thor – Thor \ Stewy
Perhaps hang the carrot of Bergfors and Antropov to Edm and see if you can get Hemsky? Then you’ve got a legit top-line RW and Stewy can play 3rd line mins where he probably belongs. Don’t think Edm would want Antro necessarily but if Hemsky is damaged goods, so is Antro. Tit for tat on that one, but by giving up Bergy, we don’t have to give up a pick, just a couple of prospects perhaps?
C'mon man
January 27th, 2011
11:41 am
j nes, called the waaahhhmbulance for you…should be there shortly, but they’ll need you to sign a bunch of consents because you are so apt to sue. BTW, Taco Bell is counter-suing the non beef taco claim. What would you hope to accomplish by suing? Or are you one of those who wants the team to apologize to you for the poor product of years past? Add Damien Rhodes to the suit (he claimed he could play goalie), Heatley also (he said he wanted to be in Atlanta, then changed his mind…LIAR!)…probably Ferrari too….oh yeah…last game I was at the pretzel was not hot…got to add that vendor to the suit. Best team in years, even with the recent struggles and all you do is whiiiine. Try to enjoy it.
Joe Friday
January 27th, 2011
11:42 am
Makes no sense to move either Antropov or Hainsey, personnel wise. Antro is finally getting healthy, you could see his mobility is freeing up and he’s skating better, he’s an asset to make a playoff run with. Hainsey’s playing great this year and is flourishing in coach’s system. Only way they’re moving those guys is for financial reasons to make space under the self imposed cap as they’re both due a chunk next season. I suppose moving Hainsey allows you self imposed cap dollars to sign Buf to an extension. And moving Antropov allows you self imposed cap dollars to sign Ladd to an extension. But you better bring in replacements now to make a run with. If we get a top 6 forward and a top 4 dman in at the deadline, then ok, but I won’t like it if they’re just rentals. We need new owners so badly.
Great game by Pavs and Ladd last night. Bogosian was solid as well, looked like it clicked a little for him last night.
Red Light
January 27th, 2011
11:55 am
Question: How do they stay at the Cap Floor if they take the prorated amount of $8.5 million off the books this year and don’t replace them with contracts of equal value?
Answer: They can’t!
BlueSpark
January 27th, 2011
12:03 pm
I can’t see any takers for Hainsey or Antro. Both have 2 years left and are overpaid. I also can’t believe the Thrashers need to clear cap space, even self-imposed. Don’t they have one of the lowest payrolls in the league?
I think still think Bergfors, Oduya, and Sopel are more likely to be attract interest.
Joe Friday
January 27th, 2011
12:05 pm
remove Antro and Hainsey’s contracts.
That leaves their $ to extend Buf and Ladd
replace Antro and Hainsey with rentals for the playoff run (with players that make similar $)
replace Antro and Hainsey with youngsters for next year going forward
Only reason I see moving them is to clear the self imposed cap space to afford the extensions to Ladd and Buf.
World Be Free
January 27th, 2011
12:07 pm
Red Light-I think were are going back to something we have said before, I think Joe Friday chimed in some time back-you gotta spend money to make money. Fans on the fence gotta have some hope that the team is serious before they INVEST their money in a ticket.
Seems like we all agree that Ron Hainey is playing his best hockey since becoming a Thrasher. I still say he’s the most overpaid 6th defenseman in the league, but he sure has found his niche.
Jarko Ruutu? Boy do I dislike playoff rentals. But this guy might be able to help us because he has a controlled edge. It will take more than a 5th rounder to get him though. Ottawa has thrown in tohe towel on the season, but Sens management is under the illusion they can retool in 1 season. Trading for Ottawa’s available players will come at a premium.
Smoothie
January 27th, 2011
12:07 pm
This team is averaging a mere 2.05 goals scored over the last 17 games on roughly 29.75 shots on goal, for a shooting percentage of 6.9. Yes, only 6.9%!!!!! If you don’t think we need to add some scoring, then I don’t know what to say. Our defense is just barely good enough (with Enstrom) to make the playoffs unless the Bogosian of spring 2009 suddenly appears.
So scoring between 2.0 and 2.25 goals per game is gonna make it real hard to win 17/18 of the final 30 without adding something. Even if the shooting percentage normalizes back to the 9% realm, that is still borderline for making the playoffs unless Pavelectric somehow imitates his November performance for 2 months (unlikely indeed). So yes, we may have to part with Hainsey and / or Antropov, but the good news is that we’d have to take on that much salary to stay above the floor as RL astutely points out.
Joe Friday
January 27th, 2011
12:07 pm
and if that’s the handcuffs that the owners have Dudley on, it’s a good move, you’ve got to extend Ladd and Buf, they’re both a core to build around. Both of those guys are gold in the playoffs (they both stepped up their games big time for the Hawks last year come playoffs).
Associated Press Reporting
January 27th, 2011
12:11 pm
Reports have surfaced that a blogger, using the name C’mon Man, is none other Bruce Levenson or his son trying to dissuade STH’s from filing a class action lawsuit against the ASG for fraud.
In the class action lawsuit to be filed by STHs, a plethora of emails from Bruce Levenson, Michael Gearon Jr., and Don Waddell will be used as prima facie evidence that the ASG has consistently lied to the STH’s to induce continued sales. This civil tort is commonly referred to as FRAUD.
At the end of the lawsuit, the STHs inform the ASG owners that they will just have to DEAL WITH IT.
Smoothie
January 27th, 2011
12:17 pm
“and if that’s the handcuffs that the owners have Dudley on, it’s a good move, you’ve got to extend Ladd and Buf”
Agreed, Byfuglien and Ladd are much more valuable to this team for the next 4-5 years at $10 M then Hainsey + Antro at $8.5 M for the next 2 years. Problem is, with the doubt surrouding the next CBA when the current one expires in 2012, how many agents will be gung-ho on doing a deal longer than 1-3 years, if not more than 1 year?
Darren
January 27th, 2011
12:29 pm
I’ve always gone with the stellar legal team of Howard, Fine, and Howard.
World Be Free
January 27th, 2011
12:29 pm
So what’s the price we are willing to pay to improve this team today? Let’s look at some options.
1. Bergfors-he might be out young player-tradable commodity that will attract interest between now and the end of February. I happen to be a fan so I am not keen on trading Bergie.
2. A current roster player-addition through subtraction is a dicey thing at best. Not sure if doing this is going to put us that much further ahead.
3. Comes down to our #1 this year; are we willing to trade our #1, knowing we have already traded our #2? A number one should get us a 24-26ish forward with at least 2 year years remaining on his current contract that can contribute.
Thoughts?
Darren
January 27th, 2011
12:32 pm
Biltong, the Predators will not be trading Shea Weber. This is as much a certainty in life as death, taxes, and Atlanta Spirit litigation.
World Be Free
January 27th, 2011
12:37 pm
Dwayne-I remember the one Stooge episode that had a lawfirm in it. Can’t remember the name of the firm, but it will come to me.
This situation reminds me of one of my favorite Stoges films-”Disorder in the Court”!
Red Light
January 27th, 2011
12:37 pm
Darren: I think the Howard, Fine and Howard trio were doctors, not lawyers!
How’s this for improvement?
The Thrashers lead the NHL with 853 blocked shots and they finished 16th in the NHL last season.
Smoothie
January 27th, 2011
12:40 pm
WBF – Blake Wheeler? B’s need a C now that Savard may be out for the season. Antro & our 2nd (via a Bergfors trade to say CGY for a 2nd rounder & Staios?) to BOS for Wheeler. Staios’ salary fills in the salary gap b/w Wheeler & Antro. Boston gets their depth C, who can also play RW with Krejci, and we get our young, viable RW with an actual set of hands so Stewart goes to the 3rd line where he belongs. But then we’d still need a RW replacement for Bergy, who can we get on the cheap? Andrew Brunette perhaps??
Red Light
January 27th, 2011
12:41 pm
World: Brendan had it right…the law firm was Dewey, Cheatum and Howe.
The ASG does have this going for them…
Atlanta’s Philips Arena has once again earned international acclaim as a top ranked entertainment venue according to industry-leading publication Pollstar magazine. For the 2010 calendar year, Philips Arena has been named as the No. 4 concert and events venue in the United States, based on attendance figures released by Pollstar magazine in its January 17th edition. The rankings include attendance for concerts and other shows hosted by Philips Arena from January 1, 2010, to December 30, 2010, including sold-out appearances by acts such as Dave Matthews Band, Usher, Roger Waters, Justin Bieber and Zac Brown Band.
World Be Free
January 27th, 2011
12:47 pm
Thanks Red Light and Brendan, I missed that one. That is an LOL!
I remember the Stooges as doctors too “calling Dr. Howard, Dr. Fine, Dr. Howard”. Darren not Dwayne, sorry Darren.
Smoothie-not a big Wheeler fan and I don’t think you will see alotta trades between Eastern Conference teams. I think teams will want to egt players out of the conference if there’s a chance they may face them in the playoffs. Krecji is one of my favorite players – the guy always seems to make things happen with little fanfare. Would really like to have Brunette back for the run, though I wonder how much he has left in the tank.
Darren
January 27th, 2011
12:48 pm
Red Light, thank you for pointing out that if nothing else, the Thrashers are showing a greater willingness to sacrifice the body to try to win. Certainly the addition of Sopel has helped that, although I wonder how much of it is also the new coaching staff. And as much as I’ve repeatedly said I think he has been the worst defenseman all season, Oduya has blocked a high number of shots too.
j nes
January 27th, 2011
12:55 pm
Cum on man:
You claim that this is the best team in years and I should just enjoy it.
The current record is 24 wins and 28 losses–well below .500. Maybe you enjoy enjoy losing because you are a loser, but I don’t.
Smoothie
January 27th, 2011
12:56 pm
RL – who woulda figured we’d ever lead the league in Blocked Shots?? And we’ve got 4 guys all in the top 30 I reckon. I know Sopes and Tobes are definitely top 10, but I’m pretty sure we’ve got 4 in at least the top 50. Also, we have several guys near the top of the league in takeaways. If we could only figure out a way to capitalize more on them in transition — SHOOT THE PUCK IN THE SLOT PEVERLEY!!!! — then we’d be a dangerous team again like in November. But no doubt it’d be nice to add a scoring RW and a gritty 3rd liner like Ruutu.
Red Light
January 27th, 2011
12:57 pm
Darren: We’ll just have to agree to disagree about Oduya. No one, and I mean no one, played better during the successful streak in Nov.-Dec. than Oduya — whatever the stats may show you.
Red Light
January 27th, 2011
1:03 pm
Sopel, Hainsey, Enstrom and Oduya are ranked 5th, 9th, 10th and 17th respectively in blocked shots, while Thorburn is 10th among all forwards!
ZAvalanche
January 27th, 2011
1:06 pm
Pavs was amazing, he completely stole the game. Nothing like a good win to roll into the break. On another note, not that you all care, looks like Foppa (Peter Forsberg) will be back this year. Want some hockey entertainment, watch an Avs game when he dresses for the game. Only two players who can hold his jock when he is even 75%, and nobody can when he is 100%. If it happens, check it out.
Thrashy will be just fine. Buffy will become a force again and Toby’s return will rock the division.
Darren
January 27th, 2011
1:09 pm
No worries WBF.. I’ve been called worse!
Red Light
January 27th, 2011
1:14 pm
ZAvs: I always admired Foppa and I must say that during his stint in Nashville, he was largely effective both on the ice and in the room, where he was a Godsend for the young Preds. But, it has been three years since he has played in the NHL. I wish him nothing but the best and I hope he remains healthy. I wonder why he wouldn’t have to clear waivers a la Nabokov to suit up for the Avs? I guess it’s because he wasn’t under contract to any team this year, even though he played with Modo last year.
C'mon man
January 27th, 2011
1:28 pm
j nots, nice math skills…doesn’t change the fact this is still the best team in years and, for the most part, very enjoyable to watch. My definition of a loser is someone who bitches and moans about how life isn’t fair…like you! No one enjoys losing, but the name of this game is making the playoffs, not winning every game. Right now we are in a playoff spot. What’s so bad about that? The next 30 games will be exciting. You still haven’t said what you hope to accomplish with a class action suit. You want your money back from all those years as a season ticket holder? Going out on a limb and guessing you haven’t been to 10 games in total. You want them to refund your Center Ice Package?
Associated Press Reporting
January 27th, 2011
1:30 pm
Reports are surfacing that several ASG owners can be found next week in the Atlanta area. Numerous sources have confirmed that they can be found at the Cobb Performaing Arts Center. Much to everyone’s surprise they will not be trying to disguise their identities and can be easily recognized as the cowardly lion, the tin man, and the scarecrow.
Alan R.
January 27th, 2011
1:39 pm
When news breaks, we can always depend on Associated Press Reporting to fix it. With a sledgehammer.
Associated Press Reporting: America’s most reliable source for news!
Restless Native
January 27th, 2011
1:56 pm
APR…please be more specific about individual identities, and which one is TOTO?
Mikey
January 27th, 2011
2:07 pm
To our AP reporter: I think I know who the Wicked Witch of the West is. She’s constantly scavenging for not only ruby red slippers, but also a host of other assorted collectables, is surrounded by a lot of monkeys and has the right to be there.
goose
January 27th, 2011
2:20 pm
Red Light- Foppa won’t have to clear waivers because he has not played professional hockey this season as apposed to Nabby and Wellwood who both had contracts in the KHL.
Joe Friday
January 27th, 2011
2:26 pm
I really wish Forsberg wouldn’t do this. I absolutely loved the guy, my favorite Av behind Jooooeeeeee Sakic! But he’s pulling a Jordan/Farve here . . . best days are far behind him and he just can’t put it down and will damage his reputation in the process.
SomaAtl95
January 27th, 2011
2:29 pm
Associated Press Reporting – when news breaks they fix it – just to break it again.
erock
January 27th, 2011
2:33 pm
Philips Arena fourth busiest in the U.S.
World Be Free
January 27th, 2011
2:47 pm
Matt Walker (Philly) And ales Kotalik (Calgary) on waivers.
Interesting-Walker was always a hitter, Kotalik a good left point shot. If I remember right Kotalik was a good shootout guy too, though I don’t have his shoot out numbers handy.
If he is still good int he shoot out, he might be a smart pickup in the short term.
jimbo
January 27th, 2011
2:53 pm
Brendan- you are the league leader in posts. Nobody’s close. Good game last night. PK was solid for a change. Hannibal Leckter, aka Rammer even smiled at the end.
Associated Press Reporting
January 27th, 2011
3:19 pm
Accordng to numerous sources, TOTO is not really a dog, but an annoying loud attention seeking duck masquerading as a dog. TOTO will quack on command and follow instructions as told, therefore, TOTO is Don Waddell.
j nes
January 27th, 2011
3:20 pm
Cumonman:
A fan of a team has a right to complain–that what makes sports, blogs, and this county so great. By the way, you seem to be the only one defending ASG. I would love for you to explain why you feel they are so great.
Hockey Biltong
January 27th, 2011
3:28 pm
My sig other calls Rammer “Skeletor”!!!
Red Light
January 27th, 2011
3:31 pm
I predict the Thrashers will put in a claim for Matt Walker because he played in Chicago and was signed by Tallon/Dudley in July 2008 and he’s only making $1.7 million for this season and is signed for two more years. 6-4, 220 and is from Alberta and gets what the playoffs mean, but he has been hurt (hip injury, sigh). Kotalik is a possibility too although he has only six goals in 46 games with the Flames during the past two seasons since Sather dumped him.
Hockey Biltong
January 27th, 2011
3:34 pm
OTHockey, not saying I want to trade Nik or Ron, just reporting the rumour!
I saw last night, Nik play his best game ever, since post op surgery,with Hainsey playing inspired hockey as well, their value goes up….and we are left with the dilema of who do we trade to get what?
We need a right wing, a dominating d-man and possibly a center of high calibre to get us to and thru the playoffs.
I am hoping for the best.Like when ASG offered Kovy 100 million.
ZAvalanche
January 27th, 2011
3:43 pm
@ Joe Friday
I have nothing but love for Foppa and I do not think that if he didn’t think that he was able to go full bore he would even try it. He is in a league way above Favre. He is merely trying out his ankle (something like 11 operations to date). I listen to the sports station every day here and everybody says that it is all in his hands; if he says he is ready then they will sign him. He is classy enough to say if he isn’t. He has been skating with Duchene, 20 years-old, in practice and the coach noticed an extra step in Matty D’s step from skating with his idol. That can only help the team. A line of Duchene, Foppa and Stewart or Hejduk would be killer.
RL, he doesn’t need to clear waivers as he hasn’t been in the league this year or played for MODO this year. I had the same question and called in about it. He can sign the first contract he is offered. I have concerns about his health but from all I have read his hands and feet are up to 100%, and if that is true, he makes for a VERY dangerous player. There is nobody like him. I am not sure that this is not a move to pull in tickets but the buzz in Denver is way up.
Smoothie
January 27th, 2011
3:43 pm
“I predict the Thrashers will put in a claim for Matt Walker because he played in Chicago and was signed by Tallon/Dudley in July 2008″
I like the idea of picking up Walker. Kotalik is interesting for the shootout rationale, but this team needs to get better to the point of winning more in regulation. I’d rather save the $1M pro-rated dollars for someone else.
Fake Associated Press Reporting
January 27th, 2011
3:48 pm
Atlanta Spirit just announced they are suing agent Jay Grossman for damages related to the Ilya Kovalchuk negotiations. They seek damages in the amount of $4,200 in long distance charges, limousine rentals, airplane tickets, a portion of their monthly e-mail costs, and an inordinate amount spent on matzo ball soup, lean pastrami and Kosher dill pickles, and dry cleaning bills related to mustard used in conjunction with the lean pastrami.
Hockey Biltong
January 27th, 2011
3:50 pm
fyalls info.
January 20, 2011 // 10:08pm ET
Arnott an option for Thrashers?
TheFourthPeriod.com
1Share
The Thrashers picked up a valuable point Thursday night, despite losing to divisional rival Tampa Bay, but with Carolina hot on their trail, Atlanta management is looking for upgrades.
Thrashers president Don Waddell has acknowledged that ownership is willing to spend extra money to bring in some outside assistance to bolster the team’s playoff chances.
With the Thrashers positioned in eighth spot in the East, two points ahead of the Hurricanes, GM Rick Dudley is looking to make at least one deal before the Feb. 28 trade deadline that will improve his lineup.
The Thrashers are in the market for a top-six forward and a second-pairing defenseman. It’s believed New Jersey Devils veteran Jason Arnott could be an option for Atlanta, if he is willing to waive his no-movement clause. He is making $4.5 million this season, but his cap hit to any team that acquires him would be based on his remaining salary at the date of a trade.
Arnott, who can also play the right wing, has expressed his desire to play for a playoff contender, but he has not publicly stated which teams he would accept a trade to.
The Thrashers are also reportedly eyeing the likes of Toronto Maple Leafs right wing Kris Versteeg, Buffalo Sabres center Tim Connolly, and Edmonton Oilers defenseman Jim Vandermeer.
glovesave29
January 27th, 2011
3:52 pm
HA – the FC member who wrote that letter knows as much about hockey as I do about endocrine system in African beetles. A total blow hard that collects enemies.
NO WAY I get rid of Hainsey. That is definitely NOT addition by subtraction. He is a key element on this team and playing really great hockey. All out, every shift. We goalies appreciate that from our Dmen. Do you really thing there’s ANY chance of resigning Buff or Ladd – or adding more pieces via FA come this summer if we keep selling off critical components?
Am I the only one who thinks that Philips really isn’t THAT great of an arena? I personally think the ones in Minnesota and San Jose are faaaaaar superior. It’s not a bad place – just not a great one.
Red Light
January 27th, 2011
3:56 pm
The fact that Atlanta is only one point ahead of Carolina shows the credence of what the Fourth Period knows.
ZAvalanche
January 27th, 2011
3:57 pm
@Biltong
Arnott is ancient. Thrashy needs speed and youth – yes, even more than they have if they want to build. Versteeg and Connolly I like for a trade.
Red Light
January 27th, 2011
4:03 pm
The arena in St. Paul is one of my all-time favorites.
Zoomo
January 27th, 2011
4:16 pm
I was pleasntly surprised by the arena in Columbus. I saw a Jackets game there a few years ago. Great arena! I also liked the AA arena in Dallas. Caught a Stars / Coyotes game two years back. Very upscale.
Philips is a palatial estate compared to Nashville. Boy, that place is minor league all the way.
World Be Free
January 27th, 2011
4:19 pm
Buffalo will not trade Connolly. They are back in the playoff hunt and have a shortage at center with Roy out for the year. He’s a UFA, will not fetch much and the Sabres have no intention of resigning him. Connolly sidappears in the playoffs, even though he has had tough luck with injuries.
Stay away from Plastic Timmy.
Smoothie
January 27th, 2011
4:20 pm
That was written well over a week ago Red Light, but point taken. Grains of salt w/r/t the Fourth Period. They can’t even get their magazines mailed out in a timely fashion. However, who is intrigued by the prospect of Antropov for Arnott and Moose?
We need a reliable back-up for the stretch run and Arnott and Antropov practically cancel each other out salary wise. We’d be helping out Jersey by taking on salary, giving them flexibility with Antro who also plays C & RW and just so happens enjoys playing with that Kovalchuk guy. If we are really that concerned about freeing-up future dollars to re-up Buff & Ladd, then it makes sense to do such a trade for a guy like Arnott who would be a pure rental. Is renting those two guys worth what a healthy Antropov might bring in the coming years?
goose
January 27th, 2011
4:25 pm
Don’t Antro and Hainsey have NTC’s
glovesave29
January 27th, 2011
4:59 pm
What I don’t like about Philips is you cant circumnavigate the entire arena between periods. With the suite side being cut off, the end areas that lead to that side of the arena are empty, to the one side of the arena where the majority of the concessions are a packed.
Why did they remove all of the interactive games on the landings, and turn off all of the big TV’s next to the escalator?
Red Light
January 27th, 2011
5:00 pm
Zoomo
While Nashville’s arena might be outdated, there is a certain energy in that building that we don’t get here, maybe because of the coziness or the small-town vibe, but I love the place. You seem much closer to the action there and it can get extremely loud. I have been to regular season and playoff games there and the proximity to downtown bars and restaurants is excellent, which makes it a nice departure from many arena locations. A+ in my book.
Buff-n-stuff
January 27th, 2011
6:38 pm
Brendan – Word I heard today was that Dud’s does “not” want to trade Antro or Hainsey, nut “WILL” if he can get some young players to develop along with some mid-round draft picks. Why one might ask, simply because they do not factor into the “long term plans” (this team is on a youth movement) and it free’s $$$ to sign Buff/Ladd longer term (they are young guys)plus they realize between Postma, Kulda, Spencer, and a few other guys down in Chicago that “they are the future” (and currently cheap, so that fits in ASG’s wallet)plus they can use a combo of young tlent, mid round draft picks, and perhaps (1) player on our roster that we may have too many of at a particular position (dare I say a name) THAT HE CAN PACKAGE, TO GET YET ANOTHER YOUNG PLAYER, such as Versteeg, Seabrook, or others. Ramsay wants two way players, that are neither superstar scorers, nor mere role players, he likes team first, me second guys, that work hard 125% of the time. Dud’s will give him what he needs, because he has EARNED it !!!
glovesave29
January 27th, 2011
6:56 pm
2:59 PM
27 Jan 2011
Eklund reports Moulson an E4 (his rating of highly likely trade to happen) to Boston
5:58 PM
27 Jan 2011
Islanders report Moulson resigned to a new, 3-year $9.4M contract
World Be Free
January 27th, 2011
7:01 pm
Nice to see the Islanders step up and sign Moulson. How about Buff and Ladd?
Brendan
January 27th, 2011
7:48 pm
The offices of the legal representation of K-Mart, Inc., were all ABUZZ today over the bombshell that was dropped on them earlier today. Head of Counsel exclaimed, “This is the kind of flimsy, frivolous lawsuit that gives lawyers a bad name. I find it unconscienable that this has actually happened. This is as baseless and merit-less of a suit as I’ve yet seen in my 33 years of legal experience.” Apparently, Bruce Levenson is suing K-Mart over those novelty buzzing rides in front of the store. Not from this week, last month, or last year. But from over 20 years ago! He claims that the ride he paid for, which in those days cost a quarter, did not provide an adequate or remotely sufficient amount of vibration, either in quality or duration. And that, all children who rode that plastic buzzing pony … were shortchanged. He’s suing, not for money this time, but for “failure to deliver goods and services, as promised.” Mr. Levenson is seeking unlimited rides on the buzzing pony. One K-Mart executive said, “Well, to be perfectly honest, I’m outraged. We didn’t even manufacture those amusement rides. If Mr. Levenson should be suing anyone, it should be them.” When Bruce heard these comments, he quickly filed suit versus the manufacturer, thanking K-Mart for the idea. Film at 11.
Brendan
January 27th, 2011
8:18 pm
Jimbo, thanks.
Buff-n-Stuff, I can’t really support an Antropov trade. He’s got two years left on his deal, and does provide size and scoring, when healthy. Plus, his contract helps ownership inch ever-closer to the FLOOR of the salary cap. Same deal with Hainsey. Two years left, at a hefty salary, which helps ownership gaze upwards at the floor of the cap. That said, “anyone can be traded.” Gretzky was traded. So, no one’s entirely safe. Don’t know if Antropov has an ‘NTC.’ He might not. Hainsey has a limited one. Chances are, you’d have to get the player’s consent to move them. Which means they have to like where they’re headed. No one wants to go to Edmonton.
Glovesave29, I’ve always “liked, but not loved” Philips Arena. One of my favorite aspects of it … is the windows of the upper level. I love the panoramic views of the city from inside the arena. I kinda like the restaurants in the expensive seating area. I like the upper level activity center. But what I don’t like … is the overhang in section 212, where you basically have to watch the game on the TV overhead. And, if you’re sitting in Rows A-D, in section 310 or so, you have to climb all the way to the top of the mezzanine just to go to the bathroom or get food. Seems like there could be an aisle there, to do DOWN.
I miss the old Omni. I loved that building. And yes, I must confess … that I yelled “Knights!” during the anthem at that time. After all, that was a L-E-G-I-T-I-M-A-T-E “tradition.” And, it made a modicum of sense, not like today’s “monkey see, monkey do” hockey-going set, some of whom weren’t even BORN when the Knights played their last game here. So, what “tradition” could they possibly be following???
Red Light, Matt Walker, eh? I guess we could do worse. Any years left on that deal?
World Be Free, what are the odds we can sign Buff and Ladd, if the ownership does NOT display any ‘commitment level’ at the trade deadline. No one can FORCE them to sign here, once they become unrestricted. The time for this ownership to show they CARE and are willing to DO WHAT IT TAKES … is now. They have a nice little break here, with the All-Star Weekend upon us. It’s time to figure out a game plan, moving forward, for this franchise. Players won’t re-sign here, just because we fans want them to. It’s THEIR choice. And most players … want to go somewhere … where they think they can WIN.
Zoomo, my favorite arena to see hockey … is Scope Arena, in Norfolk, VA. I love small venues. Of course, they have no place in the NHL. But for intimacy, the SCOPE rocks!!!
Alan R.
January 27th, 2011
8:23 pm
What glovesave posted illustrates exactly how worthless Eklund posts are, and why they should be filtered.
World Be Free
January 27th, 2011
9:05 pm
Brendan, love the K-Mart bit. Litigation forever! the Stooges reference was great too. You never go wrong with the Stooges.
As for the signings, these guys have to get it someday, that the only way to get the people back is to show commitment. Not sure how much will be done at the deadline, with or without their extra dollars. I just know getting these guys’ names on paper will go a little ways in trying to rebuild, or build some trust. For what it is worth becuase I don’t know if there is any trust to build. Just trying to believe we have a real franchise here.
I am totally into to claiming Matt Walker-they guy loves to hit people and you know how I like hitters. Not sure why the Flyers are giving up, other than they may want the $$$ cap space for someone else. They are a team that looks to improve for the stretch run. Not a Flyers fan, but I respect their desire to improve, always.
Zoomo
January 27th, 2011
9:08 pm
I hear ya, RL. My only experience in NashVegas was last year’s Ice Bowl. Just didn’t care for the facilty. Thought the local fans were great! I’m sure the building rocks when there’s a big game.
But the building itself was outdated and simple.
I’m an old Deadhead and follwed the Dead everywhere for 22 years. Been to more arenas than I can remember. Lots of lemons. Nashville just seemed unimaginative and sterile. I’ll have to go back and give it another try.
glovesave29
January 27th, 2011
9:43 pm
Brendan – the old Omni was quirky and it had personality – not talking about the holes in the side that eventually popped up near the glass on the CNN Center side…but the fact that there was no press box. Really? Anyone else remember you could go up and talk to Jiggs and Boomer – and later on Ken Double when they were on commercial breaks as they sat right in the stands with everyone else. We used to sit in the “bucket” seats…in the upper level of the old barn there was one row that was in front of the walkway, and since the place was so little, they were FANTASTIC seats.
Great other arena – how about the Tacoma Dome? The place was made out of timbers that were felled in the Mt. St. Helens eruption. The accoustics and the sightlines are AMAZING.
The worst? Tough – but it’d have to be a tie between Oakland Arena and the St. Louis Arena.
Zoomo – gotta friend who’s a deadhead and about to turn 50. Any good cover bands in the area to get to play the event?
World Be Free
January 27th, 2011
9:51 pm
Saw The Dead at Lancaster Speedway in Lancaster, NY can’t remember the year.
Associated Press Reporting
January 27th, 2011
9:54 pm
In breaking news from unconfirmed sources, Mayor Kasim Reed has ordered the Atlanta Police Department to arrest the seven owners of the ASG as well as the Team President. Taking a line from former Mayor Andrew Young, Mayor Reed informed the Chief of Police to “pick up” those Smart Ass White Boys and throw them in jail for obstruction of a sports franchise.
The judge refused bail for the seven owners and ordered Team President Don Waddell to approve all contracts tendered to him by Rick Dudley. The judge informed Mr. Waddell if he failed to comply, he too, would join the other Smart Ass White Boys in the Fulton County Jail. Mr. Waddell, showing his true colors, asked the judge if he would continue to receive his salary for lack of services performed. When the judge answered Don Waddell in the affirmative, Mr. Waddell said “yes sir judge, I’m yours.”
Brendan
January 27th, 2011
10:17 pm
WBF, something has to be done about ‘player retention’ within this franchise. We seem to have these conversations all the time. And the reason we do, all the time, is due to the way in which the Thrashers are run. Players aren’t stupid. They pay their agents to find them the best situations, for them, in the NHL, with respect to (1) career objectives, (2) finances, and (3) climate/culture. Even Zach Bogosian could, theoretically, be poached on an RFA offersheet this offseason. Just because it probably won’t happen doesn’t mean it can’t happen. There are probably GM’s out there that believe that the problem with the Thrashers is player development. They saw what happened with Braydon Coburn. I do wonder … if an offersheet came (relax, it won’t) … just how high would the Thrahsers go … to retain Bogosian? I can already hear the ownership’s response, “It just wasn’t worth the money.” And that, from a team $18 million under the cap?? Also, Evander Kane would be eligible, July 1, 2011, for a proactive RFA contract, if the organization were so inclined to offer one.
Brendan
January 27th, 2011
10:23 pm
The judge informed Mr. Waddell if he failed to comply, he too, would join the other Smart Ass White Boys in the Fulton County Jail. Mr. Waddell, showing his true colors, asked the judge if he would continue to receive his salary for lack of services performed. When the judge answered Don Waddell in the affirmative, Mr. Waddell said “yes sir judge, I’m yours.”
Classic. I’m in tears. There’s puddles down my face. Looks like I missed with the Visine, or something.
AP Reporting is the best!!
Brendan
January 27th, 2011
10:35 pm
And how fast would Waddell sign those Dudley contracts?
Glovesave29 answers, “Faster than lightning?” Hmmn, close. But not quite.
Red Light answers, “Faster than you can say, ‘Rumpelstiltskin?’” Hmmn, that’s a good guess. But no.
AP Reporting answers, “Faster than Bruce Levenson can clog a docket? Ding, ding, ding, ding! Winner, winner. Chicken dinner!
Associated Press Reporting
January 27th, 2011
10:45 pm
Our motto is “We’re always there with the 411.”
Buff-n-stuff
January 27th, 2011
11:24 pm
Brendan – check out this link
http://www.forbes.com/lists/2010/32/basketball-valuations-11_Atlanta-Hawks_323662.html
….this apparently allowed the ASG to borrow 125M to help offset their losses from the hawks “AND” the Trashers…….these guys must be gearing up to offload one or both of the teams….
Buff-n-stuff
January 27th, 2011
11:43 pm
Here is the link from last months article on the Valuation of the Thrashers as well…….VERY interesting
Brendan
January 28th, 2011
12:01 am
Buff-n-Stuff, well … the ownership has been trying to offload the Thrashers since … about five minutes after acquisition. Or, faster than Bruce Levenson can clog a docket.
If the Thrashers are devalued, and apparently, they are … whose fault is it??? Answer: It’s THEIR fault. They had the power to run the franchise far more responsibly than they did.
Alan R.
January 28th, 2011
5:34 am
This, too, is interesting.
http://www.ajc.com/sports/atlanta-hawks/hawks-no-longer-collateral-818248.html?cxtype=ynews_rss
Zoomo
January 28th, 2011
7:23 am
@Glovesave29 Not a dead cover band, but they do the whole genre…The Flying Oatsmen http://www.flyingoatsmen.com/. For purely Dead… I hear these guys (Gr8fuldude)are pretty good http://www.facebook.com/pages/gr8FLdude-frenz/139652002916
World Be Free
January 28th, 2011
7:48 am
Brendan-agreed
You want to solidify this franchise?
Get all the players we have mentioned lately under contract for more than one season. Make the commitment, which is what a potential buyer will want down the road anyhow. The out-of-town media outlets seem to disregard the impact of the revolving door on team, player and fan morale. wonder how they would feel if such a thing happened in their cities!
Jerome Howard
January 28th, 2011
8:54 am
Kindly drop the vernacular.
That’s not a vernacular that’s a Deurby.
Judgie Wudgie!
World Be Free
January 28th, 2011
9:03 am
Jerome-Without a doubt the best Stooges film.
“Raise your right hand, take off your hat”
LAC
January 28th, 2011
9:13 am
When I even think of asg, it reminds me of a locomotive trying to pull a train without and engine or traction motors… AKA, car without engine/transmission. How far will you go ?
With the LIES they have told, How can they even afford to be seen in public ?
As for team, Modin has been in on two specific wins, In Florida, when Mason stopped something like 50 shots, Modin got two BIG goals for a 4-3 win… And he WAS the reason Anto scored Wednesday night. While he has been average at best, he has had some moments where he has helped us WIN. Hainsey is playing well, has one more year, I say keep. Antro has two years left, and would be expendiable at the right price.
Just need to tighten up and win against NYI/Flames. Those are two very winable games, with Kane back, should help. Lastly, Kudos to Freddie Meyer, he has played very well when he plays and should not be forgotten, he made a great poke check against Oveckin the other night to prevent a
2 on 1, Good pickup.
Buff-n-stuff
January 28th, 2011
9:45 am
Brendan – If ASG paid 80M for the Trashers, I bet they would take 75M to be done with them.
On another note – FEBRUARY is make-or-break month for us. We play nearly all of our games against teams with fewer points than we currently have (9 out of 11 w/other 2 teams being Coyotes and Rangers). If we can go on a run, we could set the table for the home stretch run to the playoffs.
Jerome Howard
January 28th, 2011
10:07 am
Tarantula?
You just shot five holes in a divet.
Who killed Kirk Robin?
Buck Wing
The Gentleman are timeless!
Curly
January 28th, 2011
10:19 am
“She was bre(a)d in ole Kentucky but she’s only a crumb up here, she’s knock-kneed and double jointed with a cauliflower ear!”
Joe Friday
January 28th, 2011
10:27 am
“When I even think of asg, it reminds me of a locomotive trying to pull a train without and engine or traction motors”
To bring a couple themes together from this blog, mabye we can break out the hookah and gather down in the gulch all singing this when Levenson/Waddell et al are gone:
Like a steam locomotive
rolling down the track
He’s gone
He’s gone
and nothing’s gonna bring him back
He’s gone
Or how about Waddell as the monkey in this one:
One day the engineer wanted a bite to eat,
He left the monkey sitting on the driver’s seat,
The monkey pulled the throttle, the locomotive jumped the gun
And did 90 miles an hour down the mainline run.
Big locomotive right on time, big locomotive coming down the line.
Big locomotive No. 99, left the engineer with a worried mind.
Further is coming to the Fox in April, and I’m going to be out of town, bah!
Tom Lysiak
January 28th, 2011
10:36 am
WBF – Huge fan of the Three Stooges here too! Got all of the DVD collection for the years 1934-1954. Great stuff!!
Related observation, the ASG is proof that more than three Stooges is not a better thing.
JB
January 28th, 2011
10:58 am
I’m imagining Disorder in the Court with the ASG clowns playing the roles of the stooges and laughing out loud at my desk. Thanks y’all.
Alan R.
January 28th, 2011
11:24 am
Joe Friday – After Waddell is gone: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SHhrZgojY1Q
Curly
January 28th, 2011
11:31 am
One of my best performances ever…Slowly I turned
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_yJBhzMWJCc
World Be Free
January 28th, 2011
12:14 pm
Jerome/Tom/JB/Brendan and all-
“See the deer, does the deer have any doe? Yeah, 2 bucks”
“We’re trapped like rates; speak for yourself, rodent”.
“Moe, Larry cheese, Moe Larry cheese.”
Tom-1934-54, that has to be quite a collection.
Two of my buddies saw Larry and Moe when they were appearing as a promotion for a new shopping mall in Buffalo. Moe was still slapping Larry even as an old man.
World Be Free
January 28th, 2011
12:18 pm
LAC-the locomotive man
I wish Dawes would have played a bigger part in the season, he hasn’t ciontributed much so far. Modin is what we thought he’d be-a pro at the end of the line, contributing where he can. Always like Freddy, though I would really like to have Matt Walker here too for depth.
JB
January 28th, 2011
12:21 pm
WBF – Man, I bet those two looked ancient and pretty sorry by that point given their age and the punishment they put each other through by then.
Never was the same after the Curly & Shemp eras though…
Tom Lysiak
January 28th, 2011
12:57 pm
WBF – agree on the Matt Walker idea. We could use some toughness. Hell, Moe, Larry and Curly were tougher than some of these guys!!!
Jerome Howard
January 28th, 2011
1:05 pm
Hey Curly – Niagra Falls!
Buff-n-stuff
January 28th, 2011
1:30 pm
Slowly I turn, step by step, inch by inch !!!
Tom
January 28th, 2011
1:41 pm
Interesting article on teams that get the most bang for their bucks. Thrashers are 3rd. Devils are 30th.
http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=hruby/110127_nhl_payrolls
Another interesting fact is the Islanders payroll is only 33 million. They are still carrying Yahin’s buyout on their books. I wonder if Kovy will be the Devil’s Yashin?
Jerome Howard
January 28th, 2011
1:49 pm
Gearon – Am I umday in pig language?
Levenson – You’re umday in any language.
World Be Free
January 28th, 2011
1:51 pm
JB-even after Curly left, never a Shemp fan. Curly could not be replaced.
Tom-wish I was there to see those guys, interesting bio on the Howard family and Larry Fine.
LAC
January 28th, 2011
1:58 pm
Joe… Steam locomotive ? 90MPH ??????????????????
That could never happen in today’s railroad world, Believe me.
Hockey Biltong
January 28th, 2011
2:41 pm
LAC-Downhill grade with a tail wind.
Tom Lysiak
January 28th, 2011
2:45 pm
WBF – Couldn’t agree more. That would have been hilarious even to see an old Moe slap Larry. Also, with you on the Shemp thing. Curly ruled!!!
On the Thrash, I can imagine how hard it is to find the right trade. It worries me that Dudley is even more hog-tied by the less-than-truthful owners. I can’t picture Dudley, Rammer or Torch coming into this situation as bad as it looks with ASG, without some sort of assurances. If not, they’re more screwed than we are as fans.
Brendan
January 28th, 2011
3:18 pm
WBF, maybe Tom Golisano could buy the Thrashers?
Buff-n-stuff, $75 million is an intriguing price. Maybe someone will bite?
Red Light
January 28th, 2011
4:05 pm
Lets see. Buy an NHL team for $75 million, then lose another $21 million per year for the next six years? Where do I sign?
Smitty
January 28th, 2011
5:02 pm
Brendan, Be careful; If Golisano comes here, you get Larry Quinn. No thanks.
Brendan
January 28th, 2011
6:05 pm
Red Light, you buy HERE, on the dotted line. Mwahh, hah, hah. I mean, by that, you’ve made a very fine purchase. You are familiar with our state’s stringent usury laws, correct? Oh my. I seem to have made up a word that doesn’t exist. Just sign here, and the franchise will be yours.
Smitty, EGADS!! If there’s a name that could make me want to hug Bruce Levenson, it’s Larry Quinn! The suggestion of Golisano is OFF THE TABLE.
glovesave29
January 28th, 2011
6:09 pm
Brendan – nice obscure Monty Burns referrence!
Brendan
January 28th, 2011
6:18 pm
Red Light, the way that it’s been explained to me … is … that you “make your money,” (See “profitablity,”) on the re-sale. Generally speaking. So, you buy low and sell high. For the AS, LLC, it’d be buy low, sell even lower, before it gets worse.
General question out there … if a team CANNOT be profitable while fielding a salary at BELOW the FLOOR of the cap, doesn’t that SCREAM for another lockout and/or an AUDIT (Sage of Bluesland, I’m looking in your direction,) of the NHL’s books? Stay with me on this one. Seriously, how do teams lose money, spending at the floor of the cap? Either the fanbase is wildly outraged, screaming for change but not getting any … or the tickets are priced too high … or there’s just no interest in the product. Or some combination thereof.
I can totally see … that with travel budget, advertising, admin staffers, rent, utilities, equipment, facilities, coaches, scouts and players salaries at MAX CAP situation … and no playoffs … that an NHL franchise could lose of tens of millions of dollars in any given season. The owner should be mad, if he’s greenlighted maxed cap, but gotten no playoff money in the return. But barring that situation, shouldn’t there be profit in owning a hockey team? Especially, if it makes the playoffs?
Barry Melrose once said, “The GM has one (1) job in hockey: To make money for the owners. If he doesn’t, bam! He’s gone.” I’m not too sure that’s still the rule around the league. So many teams are seemingly losing money, that it cannot be that most of the league’s GMs just, simply put, “suck.” It’s got to be … that the salary cap is too high. And, that the floor of the salary cap is too high. Or, am I completely wrong?
Brendan
January 28th, 2011
6:19 pm
Glad you caught that, Glovesave29.
Hokie P. Clisters
January 28th, 2011
9:25 pm
My friend Elrod always makes me laugh when he dresses up formally (which ain’t too often). He always called his attire a “lawsuit.” Yesterday I spotted Elrod dressed up again and he called out – hey Hokie, check out the new “lawsuit.” It’s just not funny anymore…………….
ASG’s new law firm is Pitts, Love and Hale. Better known as the Pits of Hell.
Curly – “I got sick of the dough and decided to become a loaf.”
Rawhide
January 29th, 2011
7:42 am
Good morning gang! All Star weekend is upon us, so I decided to take advantage of the break in the schedule to calculate just what the NHL standing would look like if only wins and losses were counted. The results might just surprise you.
Curly (The Original)
January 29th, 2011
1:55 pm
This is the real Curly here. To the fake Curly…. Please come up with an original “Handle”.
R. Stroz
January 29th, 2011
3:16 pm
LAST!
Rawhide
February 4th, 2011
10:58 am
R. Stroz – NNNNnnnnnnnnnnnnnope.