The Atlanta Thrashers have been one of the NHL’s biggest early season surprises. They currently sit one point behind the Washington Capitals for first place in the Southeast division. The problem: nobody in the city of Atlanta seems to know about their success. Atlanta currently ranks 28^th in the NHL in attendance. Attendance struggles along with rumors about the possibility of moving the team have plagued the 2010 side of the Thrashers’ season.

The front office decided there was only one way to save the franchise: a mascot related publicity stunt. Atlanta Thrashers’ mascot Thrash stole a Zamboni in attempts to draw the type attention the team deserves for its hot start. Of course, stealing is wrong and Thrash was arrested. The only way Thrash will avoid jail time is if fans buy 5,000 additional tickets to remaining December home games.

Here’s the video created by Thrashers.com

It’s always fun to get the mascot involved, but it makes the team look desperate for attention. Can we imagine the Toronto Maple Leafs or Boston Bruins sending the mascot out on the freeway to sell an additional 5,000 tickets?

Matthew Coller is a staff member of the Business of Sports Network, and is a freelance writer. He can be followed on Twitter

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