Thrashers are 1 of 15 teams to have their uni's remain unchanged.

Yes, I know, it's from Schultz, but it's positive - it's hard not to be when you read Dudley's optimism and unbridled (some might say unrealistic) confidence in the team.

How close are the Thrashers in that process?

"We’re as close as Chicago was two years ago," Dudley said.

Well, ok then. Here's hoping that the confidence carries over to the players, whoever the coach is, and the fans in the building. As much as I liked Waddell as a person and his intentions, Dudley brings an intensity to running them that DW never struck me as having.

Zach Bogosian says something. wish they would have addressed his play.

Big Nik happy in the ATL

I particular like the closing paragraphs in this article, talking about the awkwardness of the last few days of practice since it was announced Ilya would be traded.

Bottom line is, if he really did want to be here, then it would have already been done. He wants to go elsewhere and it seems he learned a valuable lesson from the Heatley departure in how NOT to handle an internal desire to leave a team/city you no longer want to play for.

Ben Wright recently sat down with Mad Max for a Q&A.

Great player AND he's dating Elena Dementieva. Max, you are living my life.