After the Ducks’ skate this morning, coach Randy Carlyle talked about his team’s need to make things tougher for Kings goalie Jonathan Quick, to get traffic in front of the net and not allow Quick to see shots cleanly. That’s pretty much the goal of every team, against every goalie, but given the size of some of the Ducks’ forwards, they’re more equipped than most to get it done. The Kings can counter with Quick, who also has good size and doesn’t get pushed around, in front of the net, the way smaller goalies might. After his team’s skate, Terry Murray talked about the need for his players to play a strong game in front of their net.
MURRAY: “That’s it right there. You just have to do a strong job in front of the net. And you’re not going to eliminate it. They’ve got some great players over there. You’ve got big bodies and you’re going to try to limit the number of times they can get position, but your defensemen, your low tracker, they have to work very hard to get proper body positioning. We’ve got to get in some lanes up top, with the defensemen. They’ve got some guys who are very mobile up there. They do a lot of rotating in the top, so they can find some seams, but we have to work hard on the checking part of the game. But that’s hockey. Going to the net and battling hard, that’s the exciting part of the game.”
Rich… NPR in NY did a special on what appears to be happening in this new age of sports related blogs. I didn’t catch all of it clearly, but it started out by them saying ‘a few months ago we did a piece featuring Rich Hammond and his work with….. ‘ and it clearly implied that you were a sort of pioneer with all this (as I understood it). I don’t know if you heard it, but it made me think of not only how proud the fans are of the team, but also of you and the work that you’re doing. So, just wanted to let you know that.
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We’ve all known Quick has size and is strong in net. But the other day at practice, he (and Brown) happened to walk by me and I was actually surprised just how big Quick is. Tall, wide, lumbering fellow. Looked like he could play football for Oklahoma or something. Just beefy. It’s his young face that’s deceptive.
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This is the precise reason why picking up a guy like Witt and/or Boynton off waivers would be a wise decision…
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Definitely think the Getslaf line will come out hungry. I’m on my way down to Honda Center as I type this. Got great seats for face…can’t wait to see what should be a terrific game.
Any notice that Gigi has now gone seven periods without giving up a goal (Tor leads SJ 1-0! after one)
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Can’t wait to watch Greene and JJ clearing the garbage away from Quicker. If someone wants to come in front and set up shop, MAKE THEM PAY!!! I have always been in favor of setting the tone early even if it costs a penalty early on – bring the hurt and don’t let them stake their claim to that area. Punish them boys!!! Go after the Quacks early and don’t let up!
GO KINGS!!!!
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Yeah Rich, congrats on the NPR kudos. You’re the Man! We all agree we’re luck to have you. Thanks again.
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oops — San Jose just scored twice to break the Gigi streak at 83 minutes.
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The Kings are just now going to make the playoffs after Rich started doing the blog for the Kings…coincidence? I think not!
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No, it wouldn’t Khanon…we would spend half the game killing their penalties they take. They had their time…when a player is sent down by some of the bad teams in the league, that is normally a good sign that you DON’T want them around.
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mrbrett,
I wish DL followed your reasoning before he picked up Jones…
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Get Ratias in there first thing! He can take care of Parros in the first period. He can also throw others off their game as well. I really hope the Kings come out fightin!!!!!
Should be a great game……..
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Just mop the ice with the ducks….hit anyone who looks at quick crossed eyed….with the ducks….its personal…10 straight….10th against ducky boys….Im getting wood just thinking about it.
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Brett, it is good to see you’re still usually the voice of reason.
I am hopeful that the quacks have gotten out of rhythm and become even a bit complacent to start this game since they haven’t played we pounded them.
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My so called friends are ducks fans. Since the kings are playing well this season im not allowed to come over and watch games anymore on the giant flat screen.
LOL They hate me this season. I you have friends that are ducks fans you know how good it feels this season.
GO KINGSS
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* If you have
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Congrats, OC. Banishment is the ultimate compliment in that situation…
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As much as I loathe Anaheim and what they represent, I have to admit that they categorically have better beer options than Staples Center. What a joy to drink Guinness during the game!!
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Let’s go boys! 10 in a row!
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Pretty pathetic turnout for the home team. Looks like a Preseason game in here.
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