Atlanta Thrashers Offseason Update

Three weeks into free agency and most of us were weary. Only Ron Hainsey brought in, and only Johan "Moose" Hedberg and Eric Boulton re-signed.

Since then DW signed Jason Williams, Marty Reasoner, and locked up Kari Lehtonen for at least another season.

Williams is a solid addition. Young and talented, he should be a nice feeder-of-the-puck to Mr. Kovalchuk. Our top line will most likely feature Kovalchuk-Christensen-Williams. I think it's a pretty good start...2 young playmakers for Kovy.

Marty Reasoner was a little surprising considering our current list of 3rd-4th line players, it looks like DW might not be done dealing. Most likely Jim Slater or Todd White are on the move. From everything said by Oilers fans about Reasoner, I think he will be a welcome addition. A solid lockeroom presence, with guts to spare. He's all effort.

Kari Lehtonen was re-signed to a 1 year deal. A little strange that it's only 1 year, but this should work out great for our team. Lehtonen's focus should be seen every night considering he is in another contract year. Johan Hedberg will continue to back up and bring his best effort every time he puts on the pads. Don't forget Ondrej Pavelec who will most likely play one more year in Chicago, barring any unforeseen goalie issues with the Thrash.

A slow start had some worried...but I think this team is starting to look like it has some direction. At the very least Don Waddell is opting for young players as opposed to washed up big name vets. That's a huge plus for this Thrasher fan.

CM