Rick Dudley has definitely been busy since taking over as the Thrashers general manager. He had a huge role in building the Chicago Blackhawks and is not shy about tapping into his old team for resources. Atlanta traded for forward Dustin Byfuglien, defenseman Brent Sopel, forward Ben Eager and prospect Akim Aliu from Chicago and has now hired John Torchetti from them to be the Thrashers’ associate coach.
When Ramsay was hired, there were rumors that Torchetti would join the Thrashers. On Thursday, Dudley made it official by naming the man with more than 26 years of professional hockey experience as a player, coach, and manager to the coaching staff. Atlanta is the fourth NHL team which Torchetti and Dudley have worked together. Torchetti is a knowledgeable coach that will strengthen the coaching staff and make sure the Thrash are in the right position and mindset on the ice. Ramsay called Torchetti “an invaluable resource” to him and “a significant asset for our players”, according to the Thrashers press release. Atlanta is a team that was destined for the postseason until they lost seven of their last 10 games last season. The Thrashers have had attendance problems for a decade now. It is hard to blame fans for not coming to see the team because they have only made the playoffs once in their history and were swept in the first round. However, with an improved roster and a front office that has a history of winning, fans will be watching home playoff games at Philips Arena in May.
The new coach wants to create as many four-man rushes as possible and have forwards come back on defense as well. He is an even-tempered individual that knows when to get in the players face and went to let them be.
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