From our Thrashers blog, Bird Watchers Anonymous:

I'll have more to stay about the hiring when it becomes more certain, but selecting Ramsey would certainly be a strong signal that the Thrashers intend to get better at playing defense. Ramsey was a left wing who won the Selke Trophy given to the best defensive forward. He was also known as a terrific shot blocker. A coach like Ramsey could greatly improve the Thrashers zone coverage and commitment to taking away passing lanes. He might also be able to help a young Zach Bogosian improve on his defensive reads.

The pending big trade with the Blackhawks will move the Thrashers in the direction of getting bigger and tougher. The hiring of Craig Ramsey would signal a greater commitment to team defense. In the history of the franchise the Thrashers have finished in the bottom half of the NHL in defense every single year. The Rick Dudley version of the Thrashers might just have a shot at breaking that streak if they can add another quality goalie to pair with Pavelec.