During his tenure as general manager of the Thrashers, the team recorded a 308–401–45–66 record and made their lone playoff appearance after winning the NHL's Southeast Division in 2006–07. Waddell also served as executive vice president and co-chair of the executive committee for the Thrashers' parent company, Atlanta Spirit.
While serving as general manager of the Thrashers, the team compiled a record of 308 wins, 401 losses, 45 ties, and 66 overtime games. They made their only playoff appearance in 2006–07 after winning the Southeast Division. Waddell also held executive vice president and co-chair positions for the Thrashers' parent company, Atlanta Spirit.