Zherdev to the Thrashers?

http://www.championat.ru/hockey/news-297953.html

Also with link in article.

Google Translation:

Former forward Rangers Nikolai Zherdev said that he wanted to go in Atlanta. "

"Negotiations are underway with several teams, but while I'm in limbo -
the contract is signed. I hope in the next two or three days all will
be determined. The most serious dialogue is precisely the" Thrashers ".
However, there are other options. But personally I would like to get
into the "Atlanta", which serve several good Russian players. With
them, it would be easier and more enjoyable to play. " - Zherdev said
in an interview with Sport-Express.


Match made in heaven. Would be a solid signing for sure.

That would definitely keep Kovalchuk in Atlanta. Would be a great signing if it's true, maybe this franchise could get better soon

Wouldn't he be a better fit in Washington's uptempo quasi-Team Russia?

Wow, The South East is going to be solid. With Kubina being added on the back end, Bogosian being healthy, and IF IF IF Lehtonen stays healthy, they may very well be pushing for a playoff spot. Even then they are counting on Pavalek to show is worth this year.

Anderson is a great coach as well and will get the most out of that team.

I'm obviously going to relate this in terms to The Sens, it just got that much harder for them to crack a playoff spot. Esssh. The South East might be the most competitive division in the EC this year... FLorida is really the only team I dont see as a threat and they tied for 8th last year....

very interesting, looking like Atlanta is turning the corner as a franchise to be honest. Lots of talent on that team already.

Supposedly he's flying to Atlanta on the 12th. Also, it's anticipated that Kane will spend the year with the Thrashers.

This could the Thrash a line-up of:

Kovalchuk - Antropov - Zherdev
Kozlov - Kane - Little
Armstrong - White - Peverley
Reasoner - Holzapfel - Gratton
*Slater

Kubina - Hainsey
Bogosian - Enstrom
Valabik - Welch

Lehtonen
Pavelec
Hedberg

Some ATL fans have suggested moving White after a career year, which could open up room for Esposito.

At any rate, that looks like a pretty serious roster.

PKC wrote:Wouldn't he be a better fit in Washington's uptempo quasi-Team Russia?

Anderson should get the Thrashers going.

Although I like the skill, I can't help but think the squad has a kinda fragile look in it.

If this happens, it's official, the Thrashers are finally a solid team. A few major ifs (like Lehtonen and Kane), but overall, very solid. Pretty close to a playoff team actually.

marakh wrote:Although I like the skill, I can't help but think the squad has a kinda fragile look in it.

That is a very solid point. They are pretty soft.

Soft matters in the playoffs, over an 82 game haul, tallent is good enough to get you there.

If Zherdev is motivated, then that is one hell of a top line. Scary, even.

I hope Esposito makes it on the roster

beedub wrote:If Zherdev is motivated, then that is one hell of a top line. Scary, even.

I hope Esposito makes it on the roster

Blah...is Esposito going to make the NHL period? I have some serious doubts to be honest. And if he does, I have a feeling his tenure won't be too long before he's utterly smoked by a bigger dude.

Unless he's changed as a prospect? From what I've seen, he doesn't overly impress me.

He was pretty physical at the WJHC. He definitely got under Hedman's skin, as you may recall.

At 6'1", I'm not overly concerned about his ultimate size, but I doubt he gets anywhere near the offence that some thought he would provide about three years ago.