Not sure where to start in what was the worst, most embarrassing night of hockey since I started watching the Allen Americans in 2009. As if the worst loss in franchise history wasn't enough, I left immediately after the second period so I could get home in time to watch the third period. The stats line after the second period showed the Americans were out shot 41-10 and outscored 8-0. How could the night get any worse you ask? It took me 15 minutes to find my truck in the south parking ramp. I thought I knew exactly where I parked even though it was not near my normal spot because the parking ramp was pretty full when I arrived. I was about to seek out a policeman to say my truck had been stolen. However, after my third around the second and third levels of the parking ramp I found my truck right where I left it. By the time I got home there were 14 minutes left in the game. The bottom line is both the Allen Americans and Barry the Blogger had an embarrassing night.
- It is hard to say this, but if you have been following the blog regarding the stats when a teams scores the first goal of the game, it was clear Allen was going to lose last night when Kansas City scored 16 seconds after the opening puck drop. When the dust settled the Americans were outshot 51-18 and suffered the worst loss in franchise history at 9-0.
- The loss last night was the culmination of a disastrous opening week for the Allen Americans. In three games, Allen was out scored 21-2 and outshot 126-47. Here is where the Americans now rank in some key stats among the 29 teams in the ECHL
- #29 in winning percentage (.000) - Allen is the only team in the league without a point.
- #29 in average goals allowed (7.00) - Next closest team is at 5.00.
- #29 in goal differential (-19) - KC is #1 with a goal differential of +16.
- #29 in team save percentage (.833) - Adirondack is #1 at .955,
- #28 in average goals scored (0.67) - Allen has scored 2 goals and suffered back to back shutouts.
- #28 in shooting percentage (3.5%) - Kalamazoo is #1 at 19.7%.
- #23 in power play percentage (11.1%) - Kalamazoo is #1 at 57.1%
- #15 in penalty kill percentage (80%) - 5 teams (ADK, REA, SAV, FLA, CIN) are at 100%.
- Not only was the 9-0 loss last night the worst loss in franchise history (by two goals), the 8-2 loss to Tulsa on Thursday also makes the all-time list. In the 16 year history of the Allen Americans the team has lost a game by six or more goals just 10 times, two of those happened in the last week. Notice all but one on the list happened at home and Kansas City was the culprit four times. Here is the list of all-time worst losses (6 or more goals) in chronological order:
- 9-0: Kansas City - 10/26/24 (home)
- 8-2: Tulsa - 10/24/24 (away)
- 6-0: Tulsa - 3/10/24 (home)
- 6-0: Atlanta - 10/29/23 (home)
- 8-1: Kansas City - 1/8/22 (home)
- 8-2: Rapid City - 12/3/22 (home)
- 7-0: Wichita - 10/23/21 (home)
- 9-3: Kansas City - 3/18/19 (home)
- 6-0: Kansas City - 3/6/19 (home)
- 8-1: Colorado - 11/14/15 (home)
- It will be hard to recover from a week like the Americans just went through, but they will be back at it on Wednesday at home against Wichita and it won't be easy. Allen lost to Tulsa 8-2 on Thursday. Wichita beat Tulsa on the road last night 6-2. After the Wichita game, Allen finishes the week with two games in Utah on Friday and Saturday.
- 1.000 - Kansas City (+16)
- .750 - Idaho (+6)
- .750 - Tahoe (+1)
- .700 - Tulsa (+10)
- .667 - Utah (-1)
- .500 - Wichita (+2)
- .125 - Rapid City (-13)
- .000 - Allen (-19)
- There are 24 individual ECHL players that have scored more goals than Allen has scored as a team. There are five players that already have five goals; Stinil (WIC), Morrison (KC), Poulsen (TUL), Butcher (TUL) and Bird (ORL).
- Allen's back-to-back shutouts by Kansas City matches the total number of times Allen was shutout last season. Ironically, both shutouts last season were by a score of 6-0.
- There are four ECHL games on tap this afternoon: Here is the ECHL Today with the previews: https://echl.com/news/2024/10/echl-today-oct-27
- The second week of the ECHL season won't be completed until this afternoon, but the number of undefeated team is already down to four:
- 4-0: Kansas City
- 3-0: Florida
- 3-0: Adirondack
- 3-0: Kalamazoo
Time for a clean out.
ReplyDeleteThis is embarrassing.
LJ and BJ and Ferguson, you all need to be held accountable.
BJ = biggest joke
ReplyDeleteComplete sabotage by ownership. Idiotic hire of both coaches and running talent out of town. The coach couldn't cut it in the OHL much less on a higher level. This team would have a hard time in the SPHL. Been a fan of this team for 15 seasons but I'm not going back to watch that mess. Congrats Jack's you can sell my seat to someone else.
ReplyDeleteYep, agree.
DeleteStupid decisions to hire the incompetent fools that they did.
This
DeleteJust curious, and I’m not disagreeing with you here, but what do you think the motivation is? I have no idea. But it’s obviously we have some knowledgeable fans here. We all knew this was going to happen in July. I’ve read all the posts. I’m really curious, what is the motivation for tanking a team? If that’s actually what’s going on. As a business owner myself, the only thing I can think is the team needs to move. Which would make sense. That’s just circumstantial and I have no evidence.
Delete-Bobby 226
Its total incompetence.
DeleteThere is no basis or benefit to tank.
They locked in and extended leases.
They could have negotiated better terms - they didn't.
Total lack of business or hockey acumen and a reliance to listen to Ernst/Zawyer created this mess.
It’s both coaches.
ReplyDeleteFerguson looks lost.
No direction at coaching at really any point.
BJ was motionless.
Started dropping f bombs at one point in what appeared to be a blowing a gasket moment.
Not a good look.
Players looked dejected.
Leadership needs to be held accountable.
I am not going to negate the anonymous posts as I agree with them all. The Jacks and management team certainly need a wake up call. Hopefully LJ and Myles understand the game enough by now to recognize this season will be a losing one if immediate changes are not mase.
ReplyDeleteAs a huge fan from the first season I know this team has spoiled me with great seasons and incredible players/coaches. I knew at some point in time there would be a bad season - it has to eventually happen.
ReplyDeleteBut this did NOT have to happen - that's the difference!
^^^^^^ 100% money
Delete100%
DeleteSave me some time, buddy.
DeleteBobby 226
Dave is out of town for most of the season.
DeleteI am sure when he's back he will swing by.
Maybe some of you can draw on your own years of experience in coaching hockey and provide some positive feedback? Yes these losses were horrendous but really picking on BJ? Have any of you played at the pro level? Because he has. Have any of you even had the opportunity to coach higher than your kids house league team( if even that much- I have)? Point is he’s not some fat ass who bought a season ticket and thinks he knows everything. Do give him a little respect. That’s all I’m saying, give him some respect.
ReplyDeleteThis chit again...?
DeleteSo what you are saying we got the best coach possible right now and just have to suck it up because none of us has eyes or a brain?
Maybe you can draw on your years of being clueless and be please with this clown car of an organization.
I flew fighters in the USN - didn't take another aviator to tell me when I was sucking and needed to clean up my act.
P.S. - If you think this is bad now - wait another week - it's only going to get worse!
DeleteFair comment to a degree.
DeleteAs posted above, this didn’t have to happen.
LJ and Myles own this.
As for BJ, it really doesn’t matter who the coach is, the comments remain valid. He is just the head coach and GM. He owns the results.
Let’s not debate that.
Ferguson also needs to own the results. He doesn’t get a pass. From what I’ve seen I am not at all impressed.
I’m a STH, but not a lazy fat white guy.
Have some thick skin. It’s ok for fans to blame the coach. But to be fair, LJ has copped a bashing worse on here.
How many times you gonna make this exact post? You can see you are WAY in the minority on this one. Costello may or may not have been the right person but it took a lot more than 3 games to see that.... When the team you coach can't be competitive at ANY level, what exactly are you doing as a coach?
DeleteWill be 0-4 Wednesday.
DeleteThis is a clown show.
For the record, BJ hasn’t really coached at ProLevel, so let’s be serious about what we are saying.
He is over his head, that isn’t his fault. It’s the clubs. But he’s responsible for results.
Respect is earned, not given. & yes I have played & also coached at a higher level than “kids house league”. & no I am not Chad or Gens. He can’t even earn the respect of the players. Why should we respect him?
DeleteRespect is earned not given…. Copy and paste your idiotic comments all you want lol
DeleteHopefully we will take the same path the previous place he coached at and say bye 👋🏼 before the season ends
It’s clear there wasn’t a due process for the hiring, and if this is disputed, and against what Barry has said and stated from the club, then BJ was the 4th choice because he accepted the lowball salary offer.
DeleteAgain, you get what you pay for.
You don't have to have played or coached at a high level to see this team has started this season as terrible as possible and haven't shown any reason to be optimistic that it will get much better.
DeleteHey Barry, elite prospects I think was wrong. I believe Kyle Neuber is the heaviest in the league. Pretty sure he is around 260 or so.
ReplyDeleteWeights are always suspect on hockey data base sites. The Florida Everblades have Neuber listed as 6’1” 225 on their website.
DeleteThanks for looking. He’s pushing 260 from watching him practice this season.
DeleteWell good. Without giving your name or the team names, what level did you play and coach? I’m not asking as a smart as. I’m curious, because that’s cool that you did.
ReplyDeleteOn another note-Maybe they will shut the team down and move the franchise. Then nobody will have to watch any of this and be miserable. Then you all can spend your money watching the sidekicks
CHL & ECHL
DeleteThat’s great Memphis Dave. When I read about the great NHL coaches, flying a fighter jet is always at the top of their hockey skill sets
ReplyDeleteTo the former CHL/ECHL coach/player( if that’s true and I don’t doubt it is). My hats off to you. You do know more than me or most of the others on here and I respect your opinion
ReplyDeleteNot looking for respect, but thank you. I have been watching this unfold from the day he was hired. The recruitment of this past summer told us exactly what was going to happen. It’s not rocket science, but more just watching the quality of players brought in. Nothing against the players as they are doing what they are told to do. I feel for that locker room. I
DeleteDave Doucette?
DeleteDouce did not coach pro. Great guy tho
DeleteNick Bootland
DeleteRiley Weselowski
Jamie Kompon
Bob Woods
Brett McLean
Frederic Chabot
Frederick Gaudreau
Filip Gustavsson
Jake Middleton
Ryan Reaves,
Andrew Brunette
Mackenzie Blackwood
Poster is on this list ^^^^
DeleteSo if they move on fromBJ, maybe you throw your hat in the mix? If your good with the pay cut
ReplyDeleteI’m good thank you
ReplyDeleteNot sure as to the legitimacy here, but as I’ve stated, Allen has a tarnished reputation in the league.
DeleteThe Jacks have a bad bad name.
^^^ truth
DeleteJoe Ernst wouldn't have told LJ to hire BJ if he didn't think he was going to be a great coach. Give it time. Joe is a smart hockey mind who reffed for a long time.
ReplyDeleteMoron 2.0
DeleteJoe also wouldn’t of told Myles/LJ to fire Chad because he was the right fit for this team either, but he did.
DeleteLJ and Myles pay Zawyer and Joe a lot of money to be their hockey ops advisors. Why would they not listen to them? Makes no sense to pay Joe big bucks then ignore him.
DeleteSeriously?
DeleteYour right it makes zero sense, but have you ever made a mistake thinking you knew what the outcome was going to be ahead of time? BJ isn’t cut out for this level. These are people’s livelihoods we are talking about. Not some experiment. Joe is very limited on what he thinks needs to be done or who needs to be hired. Just because you’ve seen it for years doesn’t mean it will work when it needs to. This was a bad hire & everyone knows it.
DeleteThis is Zawyer we are talking about though. They have success with Jacksonvillfie who is a good team. I think Joe Ernst knows what he's doing. I'm not giving up on this team after 3 bad games.
DeleteNo one asked you to give up. This is a blog where people can voice their opinions. To say you think Joe/Zawyer knows what they are doing is your opinion. We are allowed to disagree with you. Not gonna beat a dead horse bashing Joe. He does that on his own with his decision making with the Allen Americans.
DeleteAgree with the last post.
DeleteJoe is unproven.
It’s as simple as that.
He’s a few games into the season in his role.
He was influencing before he departed the ECHL, which if someone wanted to dig deeper would expose a number of things.
Joe can’t be trusted.
Joe is a joke! Joe absolutely had a hand in it. Joe is a small man with a big ego, and surrounds himself with yes men. Puck Joe
DeleteBJ needs to go.
ReplyDeleteFerguson needs to go.
LJ owns it, and needs to fix it.
For those supporting BJ, as posted above, it isn’t personal, it’s called accountability. That accountability is going to compound over the next few weeks.
If you think the pushback is bad now, let’s wait a week.
3 games into the season and people are saying BJ isn't a good coach? Give him some time.
Delete0-3
Delete2-21 Goal Differential.
Worst loss in Allen History.
Bottom of ECHL league ladder.
Want to discuss now or in a week or three when it’s much worse?
Give him a chance, hard pass.
DeleteMaybe he doesn't need to get fired today, give him 10-15 games. But by all accounts and those of the knowledgable fans, he’s going to go either 2-8, 1-9 or 0-10.
DeleteBased on the 0-3, likely to be 0-4 start and goal for/against, I wouldn’t put my chips on BJ doing any better than the fans have suggested.
Wasn’t the last excuse “they were still getting to know each other”?
DeleteStill too early for the Chad Costello chant to bring him back? Asking for a friend.
ReplyDeleteNope. Let’s start it (again)
DeleteAt least get goalies that can stop beach balls.
DeleteDid LJ really not call Costello and had Mydra do it with Sykes-Gilbert? That’s pretty disrespectful and wrong if correct.
ReplyDeleteCan we get clarity on Zawyers influence? I was told by a player they are still involved. Nothing further as to what extent.
Who really interviewed and hired BJ?
What defines accountability?
Who is managing that?
What is LJ’s expectations?
Pretty simple. LJ and Myles hired Zawyer to tell them what to do. They still run the team. Joe runs hockey ops. Joe hired BJ. It's not really LJ's fault what is she supposed to do- ignore Joe? Not happening when she's paying him the big buckarooskis
DeleteA) how much?
DeleteB) surely she has the common sense to effect change
C) if she doesn’t, then she should GTFO as fast as possible.
Wasn’t contract terminated?
DeleteMaybe barry can confirm but no, Zawyer still is in charge of the hockey operations with Joe numbe 1
DeleteThe roll Joe does now is limited & more of a consulting role. He doesn’t make decisions now from what I am told. He’s there for questions more or less. Basically weening himself out.
DeleteWell we have conflict in what we think he does. Perhaps Barry can truly clarify.
Deleteyea barry please clarify. Why would Joe hire BJ then just leave? That doesn't add up. He has to still be involved
DeleteHow the hell can LJ have him anywhere near the club? Total decimation. He should not have any involvement in any capacity.
DeleteJoe is still active unfortunately, he has not left and yes he's still making decisions. Whoever said he's not, sorry you are not correct but I wish you were.
DeleteThen that's a big phukn problem
DeleteRemember this, what a farcical approach and situation we all find ourselves in:
ReplyDelete“We are very excited to have B.J. Adams as our new Head Coach,” said Americans Owner La Sonjia Jack. “He is a great fit for our players, the community, and our organization. Adams comes with a breadth of experience, from his playing history and years as a fearless coach. Here’s to chasing victories and crafting champions together!”
Hyper inflated PR.
DeleteIt’s clear LJ couldn’t even run an ATT store.
Well, maybe she could do that.
Zero execution.
Zero planning.
Zero knowledge.
Zero expertise.
Zero clues.
Sykes-Gilbert ran fast as soon as he could.
Mydra is next.
This (the postings/comments)all seems very groundhog like
ReplyDeleteAnger reinforcement from fans.
DeleteIt’s going to get worse I suspect.
You can always, as per Memphis Dave says, phuck off
DeleteYou bet your ass this is going to get worse - NOTHING yet. They will feel it in the wallet soon and that is going to hurt like hell
DeleteMaybe we can see if Ogie Ogalthorpe is available ?
ReplyDeleteHappy Gilmore could be available.
DeleteOne hell of a swing.
Tried to save a buck with coaching and blew up team in the process.
ReplyDeleteI sincerely hope they didn’t terminate Costello simply for money.
DeleteThat’s just beyond dumb.
Ernst having an issue with Costello because of Martinson is dumb, but money where they had to pay Chad and Gens anyway?
Gens was allegedly paid.
Last I hear Chad had not been paid fully and it may drag over the course of this season - who knows.
We have some insiders on here, would love to get the full story.
You can accept this from the organization OR express you disgust of what they have done. There is very little middle ground...
ReplyDeleteI'm expressing my disgust because like I said - This did NOT need to happen - regardless of the morons at fault
Correct again. Did not need to happen. The mess is going to take years to fix and has and will continue to impact lives.
DeleteAll anyone needed to do was follow the signings and review each and every one of their stats. None of the new guys brought in have a PPG stat that would make anyone believe we were going to score lots of goals, not even one or two. That includes BJ's stats as a coach, and early firing out of Erie, should easily make one suspect where the Americans will end up at seasons end.
ReplyDeleteI suspect LJ and Miles may not have been aware they were getting shit advice from Ernst, however they should have done their own due diligence before accepting Zawyer's input and looked for a second opinion, with a professional. Ernst has always hated the Americans, ALWAYS. He has no great "hockey mind" either, he's a ref.
I bought season tickets just before Chad was fired. If I knew that was going to happen I would not have. I was also not surprised by the first loss, and after seeing that decided to stay home and not attend these two blowouts. Thankfully competitive FREE NHL games are available all season, so maybe I won't go to any.
If the Americans were 0-3 but goal differential was one, 1-0, 2-1, 4-3, at least it would look like maybe defense was pretty good and winning not far out of reach. Time will tell, the real question is how many losses will it take before ownership makes changes.
As I said yesterday, I know LJ has Martinson's number. At least reach out and get a winning coach advice instead of a ref.
Somebody owns this turd - waiting for them to fess up... Geez just have the guts to say you screwed up - step ONE!
DeleteMarty has a team currently and you’ll probably see his team next year in the ECHL. Joe would not allow the team to hire him anyway.
DeleteMarty will still follow the $, but I hear he is comfortable with long term Rock Lobster promises and prospects.
DeleteNot sure about them in the ECHL.
The answer isn't the current HC/GM and Assistant Coach.
It could be a Martinson/Costello double play .....
I prefer Iraq Lobster
Delete-Bobby 226
Martinson has a two year deal with Athens and being paid good money. Have not asked him if he would leave if offered an ECHL job though. Waddell screwed up his affiliations right after he was hired. No idea if Jack was involved in that but based on not extending his contract could be.
DeleteGo back to his Gulls days, which I was there for all of it, including as a player. One of the players, Martin St. Amour, married the owners daughter and at that point Martinson was let go. The Gulls never made the playoffs in the two years after he left, then the team folded. It is very strange also, because I've spoken to people with the current AHL team, and they refuse to even recognize the team from the past, I was told this. They would not send a congratulatory video when Marty reached the 1000 win milestone with the Americans, yet the Rockford Ice Hogs have inducted him into their Ring of Honor.
I found there are free youtube live games for the Rock Lobsters, and I think all the other teams in the Federal League. Although the video wasn't great was still worth watching, compared to a 4-0 and 9-0 loss here.
Where's Tissue Boy - I'm feeling the need to be called a...whatever he calls us...He is absent as offence/defense/special teams/coaching as last night...or all week. Come on Buddy - tell me what a chitty fan I am.
ReplyDeleteI unfortunately had to move away from the DFW area back in May, but I still follow the team. It's hard to stomach what's happened over the summer and the start to the season.
ReplyDeleteAt this point, aren't we pretty much stuck with the players we have?
ReplyDeleteYep, other than trading.
DeleteWe traded Farmer! Stupid move.
DeleteNo - look at what a real GM did the past 2 seasons..
DeleteI’m still curious what happened with Farmer bc it makes absolutely no sense when he wanted to be here
DeleteThey even filmed and ran promos at the game last night featuring Farmer. They must have been filmed very recently.
DeleteEither he wanted out or he had a disagreement and from what I hear its very much BJ's way or the highway. It will come out, things always do.
I would not keep playing that goalie, forget he was sent down, he can't cut it.
ReplyDeletePlayed NHL!
DeleteAlbeit one game
I bet there will be some player movement this week. There always guys who come back from Europe early
ReplyDeletelol they will not come here.
DeleteEnough of the anonymous argument. Everybody on here is anonymous. Unless you post your first and last name and your address, nobody knows who the hell you are. Especially if you have a common name like I don’t know, Mary. Does a name on here make you any more accountable than anyone else? It’s just a stupid way to not having opinion. I mean, look at Memphis Dave, does anyone really know who he is? But it’s obvious that he knows what the hell he’s talking about. If in fact, he is a he. Ha ha ha. Dave please stop by I’d love to meet you. You are my hero. Mary, you can stop by too no hard feelings. Probably best not to get all personal about this. Any news is good news Barry
ReplyDeleteBobby226
Memphis Dave has been very vocal as to who he is.
ReplyDeleteWe know who he is. He's been 100% correct.
Us knowledgeable fans called this months ago.
As others have indicated, we saw the trades happening and could put 1 and 1 together.
Anonymous isn't a problem folks because there are specific reasons why some of us have to post without identifying ourselves.
Yeah, I agree. That’s my point
Delete-Bobby 226
There will be a point that players are going to have their careers impacted because of the negative points being assigned when they are on the ice and we lose 9-0. No one has discussed that aspect. Records are numbers are analyzed like never before.
ReplyDeleteWho in their right mind would want to be on the Americans?
Hardie looks disillusioned and not as happy as last season.
Smedsrud the same.
Orzeck is getting better minutes, so he is happy.
Gagnon isn't himself.
Brodzinksi looked jovial at times, but angry at others.
Not a good team vibe. Starts at the top.
Maybe if BJ wasn’t such a prick to other staff members (front office & hockey ops) he would be listened to more often. He is not well liked among both staffs. For a coach/GM to yell & berate employees in front of other employee isn’t a leader. Also, for him to do this with zero experience speaks volumes of inexperience on his part. He’s not making many friends in the organization. While I know he isn’t here to make friends, at least treat people with respect weather you like it or not. If he thinks he’s above everyone else, he’s going to have a very short career. Just an opinion
ReplyDeleteHearing some discussion about this.
DeleteDropping f bombs and berating your players on the bench isn't a functional way to get them to execute pi$$ poor plans.
Doing it behind walls and doors wont get it done either.
Arrogant. But you get and see that speaking to him for 60 seconds.
To be fair, Marty drop some F bombs on his players too Over the years I’ve been right next to the glass at times on the road and heard some words that would get you kicked off of CNN. So that’s kind of a weak criticism , but I don’t like the head coach anymore than anybody else. But give me a break. Let’s not get all woke.
Delete-bobby226
Marty earnt the right to drop F bombs.
DeleteBJ is in his 2nd and 3rd game.
One had a reputation, one is earning it, albeit the wrong way.
It says staff, not players.
Delete6 to 1, half a dozen the other.
DeleteRespect people, its not that hard.
Be a prick, you'll never have support.
If you spell the word staff —
DeleteP L A Y E R S, then I guess you are correct
I was responding to the first responder.
Ok this is getting stupid.
Bobby 226
Wow. And that’s been confirmed? If so, unbelievable as in that sucks
ReplyDeleteTommy Daniels seemed to take such joy in reporting that Barry left after the second period. What a weasel
ReplyDeleteI couldn't hear Tommy.
DeleteTommy is all about himself and always has been. He will throw anyone under the bus. He has always been jealous of Barry because people like and respect him. Tommy shoukdn”t get too comfortable in his chair, especially since he had to beg Zawyer to keep his job.
DeleteIs there an open practice Mondaymirning? What time?
ReplyDeletePractice is to be referred to as “BJ berating hour” from now on.
DeleteThe Jacks purchased this team to wring it for profits, not win championships. They will sell once they get that last drop of milk, and the team will either relocate or fold altogether. I really hope I’m wrong, but it’s the way she goes.
ReplyDeleteThen they should have sold to a consortium of local investors and the City of Allen.
DeleteReally not that hard to pull that off.
If they have interest in selling, they should make that public and I’ll approach them.
They tried for years to sell the team, so you thinking it’s easy is funny. Thinking the city of Allen would buy them is even funnier. They had someone trying to buy them before the Jacks but when it came to time to pony up the money, they couldn’t and it was a complete waste of time.
DeleteIf you have the right investors, and can outline specifics for the City, it's a win/win. A lot of missed opportunities and now a significant devaluation of the franchise.
DeleteIt's one thing to find someone that's all talk, hence the inability to pony up the $2m+ .... and if they couldn't find that, then operating capital is non existent.
1. Have the right ownership structure (critical)
2. Have an executable plan with City of Allen buy in (not one way traffic and applaud with pom moms for the City as current ownership has shown)
3. Deliver on those plans and promises.
I am told ownership has no real business plan.
I am also told that the "excitement and visual" of owning a team was a priority for them.
I totally get what you’re saying and makes sense. I think the city knows that they are just better off leasing the venue out and collecting on food drinks alcohol vendors etc to make money then having the headache and stress of trying to own and run a team. Like why buy the cow when you’re making nothing but profits off the milk.
DeleteIf the main tenant leaves because they either relocate or fold, Allen has nothing. They don't even need to run the team, be a true partner for the next 10, 20 years. Forget looking at this as a year to year proposition. That's part of the problem here.
DeleteI am sure the City of Allen is to blame also, but we keep signing the agreements tabled.
Pennies on the dollar
ReplyDeleteBut really, what time does practice start?
ReplyDeleteThey may not let you in - should be around 10.30am/11am at the latest. BJ is probably asking for closed practices. He thinks other teams listen to his interviews and coaching comments. I'm serious!
DeleteFunniest comment ever, like what coach wants to take advice from him. Man he is delusional.
DeleteDid you get into practice?
DeleteHell - he probably signed a contract and is on the second line
DeleteEnjoy this.
ReplyDeleteA quick 15mins searching for the real history of BJ Adams lead me here:
https://forums.hfboards.com/threads/erie-otters-2022-23-season-thread.2897199/page-10
Wow ... Erie 2.0 occurring here folks.
Did anyone do their research?
Best option really?
To quote someone "Seriously, what does BJ offer if he can’t have a vet defense be a consistent, reliable backbone"
And this "BJ Adams needs to do better. This is terrible."
And this: "Just embarrassing. 8-1 loss and now it’s 1 W in 6 games. Team looked so tired and motivated the entire game no effort at all whatsoever. BJ didn’t make any adjustments and team looked awful."
And this: "BJ Adams said he felt the team was too individual and that they weren’t playing as a team."
And this: "What the F is this franchise doing?!? Seriously. What the absolute hell are we doing?"
And this: "No discipline...so much individual play...a defender taking the vast majority of shots on the power play...we are about 14 minutes into the 3rd and haven't seen at least 3 players on the ice for our forward group. Down right embarrassing...
That’s what a defensive minded coach will do. Embarrassing. Power play is worthless."
And this: "BJ Adams said “We’re really, really, really close to being a good team.”"
Haven't got as far as January in that blog to see when he was fired.
Those comments were all in October 22.
Anything seem or sound familiar? LMFAO.
WHAT A DIABOLICAL JOKE.
😬 am I reading about Erie or Allen ? This is not good.
DeleteAgree he is a joke! Yep read all about that when he was announced.
DeleteLaSonjia Jack - June 12th 2024, Allen TX (Just 13 days after dismissing Chad Costello)
Delete“We are very excited to have B.J. Adams as our new Head Coach,” said Americans Owner La Sonjia Jack. “He is a great fit for our players, the community, and our organization. Adams comes with a breadth of experience, from his playing history and years as a fearless coach. Here’s to chasing victories and crafting champions together!”
LJ you own these comments. Fix the situation.
She need to own these comments.
DeleteI had no idea the fan base in Erie hammered BJ. I just assumed it was a club decision. This is unbelievable if no one did just a little due diligence 🫣
Someone might want to let LJ know if she is going to be on TV promoting the team it would be good to know the schedule. Apparently the next home game is November. someone might want to let the Thunder know. I was also wondering if she is so clueless or just have no situational awareness to know it is bad taste for her to be walking around in a #13 sweater. I hope it is not that she just does not care but it could be that also.
ReplyDeleteAll of the above.
DeleteNext time she is in town (likely November) we should ask her.
I don't see her walking around, but there is a lot of glorified look at me from what I hear.
Maybe she wants Costello back?
Maybe that's the only one in her closet?
Maybe she doesn't realize that's his number? .... just saying....
DeleteYou mean the number they retired last night when she was an owner? Yeah I am sure she does not know.
DeleteBy the way just a note to let you know that you have scored as many home goals as everyone on the Americans right now.
ReplyDeleteTrading a almost point a game player last season isn’t a good start. Get rid of the SPHL/FHL players idiot
ReplyDeleteSerious question, why get rid of the red kingdom song? That was a great song. I'd think there is room also for the new "come together" song. Just a miss if you ask me. Kudos to Hallie Stueckrath who put the red kingdom mix together. Was awesome last season. Bring it back.
ReplyDeleteMaybe we should wait to bring it back to they can score a home goal. Just saying
DeleteSmedsrud (C)
ReplyDeleteAllen Americans
Traded to Rapid City
Smedsrud, 26, joined Allen on March 29th. In nine regular season games last spring, he scored three goals and totaled seven points. The 6-foot-2, 195-pound forward also played in all four of the Americans’ playoff games and scored once. He has skated in all three games this season.
DeleteThere we go again, trading a 7pt player in 9 games away.
Rapid City is in #28 position. Seriously?
DeleteI’m glad someone mentioned that cause I was thinking the same. Good young player for futures..
Delete-AmericansMan on “x”
His Aunt (I think) was on the American Facebook page the other night from Minnesota
DeleteThis coach is a joke.
DeleteTrading away talent.
Anything to try and deflect blame, responsibility and accountability.
Time for change before the club is destroyed any further.
No I didn’t sign a contract. The Jacks offered me lots of money but this is too much of a mess. I’ll wait until next year if there is one. But no didn’t go to practice. It would probably been over by the time I got there. Played Madden instead
ReplyDeleteThat's cool - I couldn't make it either - stayed home and watched Dr. Pimple Popper reruns on Hulu...
DeleteActually I did sign a contract. But the Jacks terminated it before I left the rink. They said something about me not having enough experience and how they didn’t want to make that mistake again. LJ gave me a free copy of her book and was gonna sign it……for $20. She also gave me a piece of business advice- Have a son who is good at football and can buy you a team. Words to live by
ReplyDeleteI hear the words of the great goalie Denny Lemieux ringing out from the locker room- Trade me right f*king now!!!!!!
ReplyDeleteIsn’t that what Farmer said?
DeleteNo he cut Farner so one of his defense guys could come in. Another stupid call
DeleteIt appears most of the people posting would agree that the team was dismantled purposely. What was the motivation? Who benefits and how?
ReplyDeleteNo due to a massive level of incompetence
DeleteJoe Agenda has all the answers and on 1/1/2025 he will slip away laughing…and shout mission accomplished. That dude is the one to blame and as owners you can only be “naive” for so long…the players are clearly exhausted and have no legs which comes from a training camp that was more of a beat down than a way to “gel”…tomorrow has it the Coach (BJ) says nothing during any of the games, just fines and sits behind closed doors…way out of his league and he knows it…whatever you are doing…just do the opposite…maybe be accountable and try a different method other than trace for future considerations…when I see that…it’s a sign you have no idea what you are doing…3 games into the season…
ReplyDeleteA mean do something? Anything! You can’t hide behind the reality of what this is…accountability is the first step…at least Zawyer made a business decision and bailed…😳🤣😳
By the body language on the bench, him & his asst DO NOT see eye to eye & DO NOT get along. Body language tells a lot.
DeleteI second this.
DeleteThey walk off the ice separately.
DeleteWatch our opposition coaches.
Always in tandem.
It’s becoming a circus!!
ReplyDeleteIt's already a circus.
DeleteCan ECHL coaches actually fine players and take it out of their paycheck????
ReplyDeleteNo
DeletePlayers should be fining the coach
DeleteCurious as to the question. There’s more to this question being asked I think….
DeleteThe ECHL/PHPA does not allow that.
DeleteThat post was a player or departed recently player.
DeleteNo just an educated fan. The PHPA CBA is online to read.
DeleteI think he meant the original question
DeleteThe question about fines was because FAFO said BJ “just fines and sits behind closed doors”.. maybe I misunderstood…
DeleteI think it was a typo. Maybe *hides
DeleteHides
DeleteI feel really bad for the vet players that could have signed elsewhere. Now they are stuck in this mess. The younger players/rookies just need a place to start and this is probably, albeit not much, better than nothing
ReplyDeleteFor what it’s worth; the Allen Instagram page continues to post garbage, and I continue to ask questions and hammer them over the issues being discussed here.. multiple former players have liked my comments, specifically the ones about the organization being in shambles, and BJ being a turd of a coach… almost like they wish they didn’t have to leave… even firing BJ, I don’t think this season is salvageable, but if ownership will make it right, there is always next season and beyond.
ReplyDeleteThis situation is a total joke.
DeleteTrading away anything to do with legacy Costello at any cost.
Create a team of your own disciples.
Problem is they have zero leadership so its going to take years.
Why on gods earth was Smedsrud just traded?
This is a total lack of ECHL knowledge, understanding of what it takes to win and all of the comments above from Erie are eerily being replicated in Allen.
What a phuckn joke.
Barry, here are some questions maybe to Mydra and LJ when able:
ReplyDelete1. How do you feel being 0-3 (likely 0-4 tmrw night) including one of those losses being the worst in franchise history?
2. Do you still believe the off season decisions were still the right decisions?
3. There is significant backlash from fans regarding the changes and results season to date, what would you say to them?
4. LJ, is there a point this season where you draw a line in the sand as to if we need to hit pause, and for the sake of the future, make a change?
5. LJ, there seems to be disconnect and unusual interactions between BJ and Ferguson, have you seen that or have comment?
6. LJ, fans spend a lot of money on both season tickets (some of the highest in the ECHL) and the concession prices are high, are you concerned you may lose them with a bad season?
7. LJ, we noticed you wearing a #13 jersey, any particular reason?
8. LJ, would you consider reaching out to Marty or Chad if things don't work out with BJ?
9. Jonny, there has been a lot of talk about having certain decision making powers removed, can you speak to that?
10. Jonny, can you talk as to Zawyer and their involvement today?
11. Jonny, is REV taking over from Zawyer? When? What will be their core responsibilities?
12. Jonny, are you committed to the franchise and its future?
Anyone else? Let's get this list going. Yes, some of these are uncomfortable, but they need to be asked. No President, presidential candidate, or political person ever likes answering the hard questions, but they get asked.
LJ did you personally call Chad Costello to announce the change in direction?
DeleteLJ there was confidence in Costello 10 days prior to his firing by your son Myles, what changed? Was Myles misrepresenting ownerships position by telling Chad he had his full unequivocal support?
LJ a lot of fans are holding you to your words that BJ was hired to deliver wins and championships to Allen. The start of the season and trading of players has upset many. I know you’re a fan and an owner, but you have to be frustrated?
LJ who does BJ report to?
LJ does BJ have KPI’s that he is measured by?
To LJ, did you or Joe Ernst make the decision to fire Chad Costello?
DeleteDid you personally feel that with a season decimated by injuries, and a clear lack of help from Belleville, that making the playoffs wasn’t a satisfactory result?
I understand your involvement today in hockey, I’m still unsure if you were a fan before your involvement with Zawyer, but the core GM tasks that Costello executed on, and the talent delivered to Allen, including multiple AHL players unaffiliated with Belleville, surely you noticed that and the change delivered on the back end of the season? Can you walk us through what you saw, and why the changes were needed?
Would you be open to selling the team?
DeleteDid you terminate the Zawyer agreement, or did Zawyer walk from the agreement ?
DeleteIf you terminated, can you walk us through the reasoning?
Is Myles involved in any decisions regarding coaching hires, executive decisions, marketing decisions, player decisions, season ticket holder decisions?
DeleteI know he was involved in guaranteeing Chad he had his back, but that didn’t end well and a fan base feels Chad was lied to and deceived. Will Myles be involved with coaching discussions moving forward?
What about you LJ? Are you involved in any of these or are you deferring decisions to Zawyer and/or REV?
Do you comp Barry his seats for his efforts on this blog? If you don’t this should be the first thing you do after reading this.
Delete😁
LJ/Jonny:
DeleteWhy have you not separated from Zawyer in entirety?
Why not empower JM like has historically been done to manage and execute independent of Zawyer influence?
Do you regret engaging Zawyer to manage the Americans?
Did Joe Ernst influence you to part ways with both Costello and Gens?
Obviously you are aware of the animosity and feedback from former players, do you feel their comments are warranted in any capacity?
DeleteAre you offended or do you take it personally that they have taken their talents elsewhere, especially Crone who now is excelling at a Conference rival?
I get the excitement with owning a sports team, on a scale of 1 to 10, where would you rate your commitment to bringing a championship to Allen.
DeleteNext question, on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 being the worst and 10 being the best, how do you rate the teams decisions in the offseason?
Finally, do you think the team can make the playoffs this year?
The suites must be a great experience, but let’s now talk about the concessions.
Deletewhat are your thoughts as to value for money ?
Do you think the offerings are adequate, could they be improved?
Is $7 or $8 for a water reasonable?
Is this value for money?
When does the contract expire with the City of Allen and the Event Center?
DeleteIs there the ability to move the team or separate from the agreement prior to this date?
Is there the ability to extend or renegotiate the agreement prior to the contract expiration, if yes, what date is this?
If you were to part ways with the current coach, and this is purely speculative, would you be opposed to calling Chad Costello to right the ship?
DeleteWho were your Top 3 Head Coach/GM’s in the league last year?
DeleteDo you read Barry’s blog?
DeleteHow do you respond to season ticket holders frustration over the continual offering of free tickets to games?
DeleteThey understand the desire to fill the arena and convert people to STH, but let’s face it, they all know how to get free tickets. The concern lies with are you trying to appease the ECHL or create a solid foundation of STH that don’t feel the value of their monetary commitment is eroded ?
You sold me a team with a coach locked in for his 3rd year.
DeleteYou changed the offering. I understand that can happen.
Why wont you refund me my money?
I haven't read your book, I am not sure if it touches on leadership or executing strategically in order to deliver results, but I am interested to hear your thoughts on leadership, managing effective change and how you execute strategically, more specifically, the LJ way, not ATT or Cox's approach. Thanks.
DeleteDo you think you are the right person to lead decisions for this franchise?
Deleteno use in asking about Marty coming back here. He has moved on and is doing awesome with a brand new team. Outside of that awesome list of questions to ask!
ReplyDeleteBJ still has calls to/from Joe
ReplyDeleteWhen Zawyer is done in January, Joe will still do hockey ops until end of the season
Aren’t we lucky (sarcasm)
Calls with fanboy? Seriously?
DeleteWhat the heck are LJ and Myles doing here?
Are they that oblivious?
JM just has to go with the flow in fear of losing his job?
Dumpster fire that isn't going away anytime soon.
Tissue Boy I wish you had been right and everyone else had been wrong. Unfortunately Allen by every marker is the worst team in the ECHL and they have been historically bad. Much rather would have been proven wrong! This is even worse than I could ever imagine.
ReplyDeleteQuite frankly, we all wanted him to be right. A $hit load of us would’ve been wrong, we’d have a great on ice product, and we’d eat humble pie.
DeleteMany of us saw the mechanism of roster building, or lack thereof. We could see the writing on the wall.
I’m sorry, but you don’t go from half a season 18 months ago as a OHL coach to what should be considered a decent level premier ECHL team’s head coach.
As a team, ownership and leadership, the decision making and execution has been diabolical.
Mediocrity at its finest.
Numerous people should not be in their current positions, and the Jacks should be in damage control.
Think I’m joking? Wait until the next 3 games when we are 0-6 with a seismic goal differential. Any win at the moment would be pure luck.
Again, most all of us don’t fault the players.