A couple notes…
– Unless the Kings reach agreement on a contract with Brad Richardson in the next week, he will have his arbitration hearing on July 23 in Toronto.
– Tickets for the Kings’ “Hockey Fest,” to be held Sept. 11 at the Toyota Sports Center in El Segundo, go on sale today, and 2,000 tickets are available. Tickets cost $15 for Kings season-ticket members, and Partial Plan and Group Leaders and are available at 1-888-KINGS-LA (1-888-54647-52). Tickets for the public are $20 and are available at LAKings.com/hockeyfest2010. The Kings have said that the event “will feature special Q&A and autograph sessions with Kings players, coaches, alumni and hockey dignitaries, in addition to Kings merchandise – including merchandise discounted at 40 percent — and hockey memorabilia being available,” with more details to be announced later.
– The Hockey News has a nice feature on Kings goalie prospect Jeff Zatkoff…
Will IK be there? OK I know, but someone had to do it.
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Thanks Rich.
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Thanks Rich. Will you be at Hockeyfest?
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Show him the $$$. He over achieved expectations even though TM bounced him from line 1 to line 4.
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ih8theducks Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 11:31 am
@Puckin-A, YUP! He blew me away in the playoffs.
I have a whole new respect for B-RAD!
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Day number 15 on the island……
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brandyn Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 10:19 am
@brandyn,
the island of lakinginsider.com….
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luc20rules Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 5:15 pm
@brandyn, No better day to sign RFA Brad Richardson.
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and time marches on…
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Can anyone elaborate on the DL to Denver quote from Money on PMS?????? Anyone?
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Danielle Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 11:19 am
@Andrew,
Just curious, but what was the quote? Doesn’t Anschutz live in Denver?
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Tookie Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 11:37 am
@Danielle,
Somthing to the effect of Liewicki or Deano were on their way to Denver to get Phil’s authorization to do the deal….
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sstephen17 Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 12:41 pm
@Tookie, I heard that too. Money said it was rumored DL is going to Denver to meet with Anshutz.
Andrew Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 1:12 pm
@Andrew, I like M&P a lot, but I don’t really put a lot of stock in Money’s reports on the Kings. I haven’t however been able to find ANYONE else saying DL is on a plane. Guess it’s still up in the air (pun intended
)
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Damn! Going to be in Atlanta on business that day. Oh well…I’ll still be wearing my Kings cap and jersey to piss off the Thrashers fans.
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Sean Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 10:27 am
@Keeper, all eight of them
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Lanny McDonald's 'Stache Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 5:56 pm
@Sean,
Now now, we wouldn’t want other cities assuming that about LA would we?
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Kevin Y Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 11:49 am
@Keeper,
Stitch “Kovalchuk” on the back of the jersey
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Keeper Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 12:35 pm
@Kevin Y, If this is a done deal by then, I’ll buy one of his jerseys just to make them even more mad.
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when are they going to change up the kings home page???
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Puckin-A Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 11:07 am
@kingsfan5680, When they have a new face/faces to showcase. Might be a while, don’t hold your breath. I just hope it’s not like when we thought we were getting Briere, and then Nagy,Calder,Priessind and Handzus( thank goodness he worked out) adorned the Kings home page.
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It’s funny how the Hockey Fest went from a two day affair at L.A. Live area encompassing the giant tent, the Nokia Theater & the street hockey that closed the street to one day at Toyota Sports Center. It’s surprising because from the crowds & interest we saw it looked like it went over big time. How will they fit all that at the Toyota Sports Center? I guess it will be cut back significantly as the price suggests.
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Stop the Puck Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 10:29 am
@Howe 9,
now that the management doesnt need to worry about the kings drawing 8000 fans per, they are scaling back the benefits for us fans…typical.
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Golfnut Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 10:31 am
@Howe 9, Last year after it was over we were told it was going to be bigger this year, Mattias Norstrom was definitely going to be there, etc.. Now its at Toyota sports, sounds really pared back.
Saves us an airplane ticket from Denver to come out for it.
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Atomic Steve Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 11:05 am
@Howe 9, The reason they gave for making it smaller this year was because we had the Draft here.
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Atta boy Kings mgmt, a whole FIVE dollars off for season ticket holders. What a benefit for being a season ticket holder!
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thound Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 10:33 am
@Golfnut,
Hey.. AEG gotta have that coin to pay Beckham and Posh Spice.
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USHA#17 Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 11:25 am
@thound,
yep, gotta put a lot of quarters in that girl’s pockets to keep her from blowing away in a breeze.
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sstephen17 Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 11:14 am
@Golfnut, To look at it another way, it’s 25% off what non-season ticket members pay. My season seats are ~28% less than the single game price so it’s not far off.
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wavesinair Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 11:41 am
@sstephen17, That’s if you pay single game prices. BIG “if!” I typically pay well below face value for just about any section in Staples.
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USCG Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 11:49 am
@wavesinair, craigslist, ebay, and stubhub > season tickets. Stub hub is hit or miss with their ridiculous service charges but still, getting 300 level tickets for 10 to 15 bucks including service > season tickets.
Also, they just did a nice video piece on Drew Doughty: http://www.thehockeynews.com/articles/34509-VIDEO-Oneonone-with-Los-Angeles-Kings-defenseman-Drew-Doughty.html
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kq949 Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 11:12 am
@Daniel,
Love Dewey but the guy needs to get a media coach. 28 “you knows” in a 3 minute interview is a bit annoying!
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Gabby Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 12:13 pm
@kq949,
Let’s see…
A stud, 20-year-old D-man or an eloquent 20-year-old public speaker?
Hm…tough call…
I think I’ll take the D-man, though.
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Choralone Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 3:16 pm
@Gabby, It’s not like you can only be one or the other, and I don’t think kq949 was asking for Cicero.
turbo laser davey Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 8:10 pm
@Gabby,
I think learning to not give crappy interviews wont come at the expense of being a good D man. I love him to death, but I dont even bother watching his interviews because I know exactly what hes going to say. Lets just axe the doughty interviews altogether.
sstephen17 Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 12:48 pm
@kq949, I think it adds to his boyish charm, lol.
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KC23 Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 8:25 pm
@turbo laser davey ,
You know exactly what DD is gonna say? I wonder if the “Hockey Night in Canada” announcers knew that DD was gonna say “first time I met Gretzky, we were taking a piss”.
DD answers in that interview we’re canned, but he isn’t always that way.
Sebastian Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 1:07 pm
@Daniel,
Anyone else think the interviewer guy was a little bit creepy.
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schoeny Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 1:51 pm
@Sebastian, YESSS!! I thought it was a farce at first… NOT the kind of guy you want to meet in the urinal next to you.
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Deadmarsh Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 5:08 pm
@schoeny, LOL. Is there a guy you WANT to meet in the urinal next to you?
when are the going to change up the Kings home page??
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kjchip30 Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 12:47 pm
@kings fan from 80′s, When Kovi signs
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I have a friend who saw Zats play for Manchester a few years ago and he said “a natural”. It is good to see him get a fulltime shot again.
It seems for the last couple of decades THN has done all their King stories in July and August. Can we break the chain and get a story or two about the Kings during the season?
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Thanks Rich…
But really, no Kovalchuk news?
In seriousness, if Kovalchuk doesn’t sign by July 23, I don’t see Richardson signing a new deal before his arbitration hearing. Maybe the two aren’t really linked together, but I don’t see the Kings signing ANYBODY (impact player-wise; Corey Elkins’ agency Norton Sports tweeted that he will return) or doing much of anything until the Kovalchuk situation resolves itself.
Of course, that’s really disappointed Brian Burke and Boston’s GM, who are basically waiting for the dominoes to fall.
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Did anyone notice that one of the Hawks supposed replacements, Beach, ripped the shoulder out of one of his teammates during prospect camp? After Beach crosschecked him in the back, the kid from Norway wacked Beach’s hands with his stick and Beach lost it. The Hawks are going to have a lot of trouble putting together any kind of cohesive team. Might they put both Huet and Campbell in the AHL? 12M +, ouch. But, Rockford is going to be one heck of a team.
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DougS Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 1:50 pm
@jet,
The double-darned thing is that the Hawks might not even be able to put Beach on the roster this year, even if they dump Huet. His cap hit is about $1.1 mil, and they’re going to need some players who come cheaper than that if they’re going have a full roster of 22-23 players.
But yeah, the incident you describe kinda falls under the heading, “And we thought Teubert was out of control.”
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jet Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 6:46 pm
@DougS, good point, I did not even consider the fact that even 1M might be too big of a contract. I guess when they say we are going to keep the core, it means they will going into games with 12 players.
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@Rich,
On a different topic, any word on how Ryan Smyth’s injury from the world championships is healing?
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I was watching the morning news, and they had Luc and Brownie on. While I was cleaning I heard there was a big announcement. I jumped off my seat to hear they were auctioning off a tv. To think I thought it would be finish on day 15 and counting. Should this be held at Staples Center not Toyota Sports?
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Is it just me or is anyone else getting tired of playing against the NJ Devils on NHL10 lol? I swear since July 1st every time I play online some clown picks NJ after I choose the Kings. It was lame enough playing against Vancouver for 2 months straight.
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The Kings have a trackrecord of picking up injuried players… Handzus, Williams, Smyth I think and Modin. Hope they can break it
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DougS Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 1:55 pm
@Pat,
Well, at least 3 of those 4 acquisitions have not worked out too badly. And it’s a fact that Modin was acquired for nothing because of his recent injury history, so DL got a real bargain.
DL checks out the guys with injury histories because the market values them as they are now and not as they will probably be once they have healed up; i.e., the market undervalues them. He’s doing the Moneyball thing, trying to accumulate talent on the cheap and get good value for what the salary cap allows him to spend.
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Pat Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 2:24 pm
@DougS, Injury? Must have been Cloutz? And Jones?
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DougS Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 3:10 pm
@Pat,
Seriously, I have no idea what you mean. I took your initial post as a statement that the Kings have picked a lot of players who have been injured in the past, and that this was a bad idea.
I responded by describing the logic behind taking an interest in players who have been recently injured. I also pointed out that of the players that mention, that group overall worked out fairly well for the Kings. In the case of Modin, he made a real contribution down the stretch, and he was acquired literally for nothing precisely because he had been injured earlier in the season and Columbus (as it turned out) undervalued him.
And the problem with that is… what?
fun fact of the day. did you know that the reason we have rolling blackouts in california is because the power company sells our electricity to other states when they need it because they make more money that way. no b.s. GO KINGS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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Danielle Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 11:22 am
@chuckrocks,
Oh, is that it? And here I thought it was because Juraj Mikus was drawing from the power grid in preparation of unleashing his fury upon unsuspecting foes.
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USHA#17 Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 11:28 am
@chuckrocks,
not quite Chris, we pay a lot of money to insure power is available to keep the factories running when electricity runs short.
that was a major cause of the deficit–we were extorted by energy companies and were in the process of recovering the money when Arnold was elected and ordered the suit dropped.
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KingMe20 Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 2:16 pm
@chuckrocks,
Not entirely sure what this has to do with hockey.
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Kingsfanone Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 3:10 pm
@KingMe20,
Yeah, just SHOCKING, isn’t it?
sorry……
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chuckrocks Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 4:55 pm
@KingMe20, well, because you cant have a power play with no power.
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AZKingsFan Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 7:43 pm
As happy as I am for Rich that this site has really taken off in readership and participation, there are times when I long for the old days. The guy made a comment about selling power. So what? Agreed, it’s not relevant, but then again neither are our lengthy discussions about fast food burger joints. If you don’t like what you’re reading, skip to the next comment. Okay, I’m done and now will resume taking my own advice…
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Shakes Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 8:08 pm
@AZKingsFan,
I guess your comment makes sense….as long as you concede that In-N-Out is better than Tommy’s…
Citizens Business Bank Arena, where the Reign play, is within walking distance of my apartment. I saw Zatkoff play there quite a few times and I was impressed with his composure and consistency in net. Its nice to see some serious goaltending depth in the Kings organization.
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Is there a feeling of what Richardson would get from arbitration? Will it make him a trade candidate?
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kingsfan4life Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 12:27 pm
@5thLine, richie will get a raise, nothing too crazy prolly 1.5-1.75 per…he really isnt worth much more than that…dont get me wrong i love the guy but he isnt a 3-4 mill guy, he doesnt produce that much…yet
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Everyone is a part of the “core” until their salary figures hit a certain point then they don’t “fit” anymore.
Ask Cammalleri about that one..
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Dave Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 11:43 am
@KOHO, Correct, that is why Kopitar was traded.
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Inexcusable Questions Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 11:54 am
@Dave, Kopitar was traded?
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King Stanley's Home Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 11:59 am
@Dave, Explain yourself.
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DBB Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 2:41 pm
@King Stanley’s Home,
//sarcasm
Matt R Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 1:02 pm
@Dave, I’m guessing you meant Cammy
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Dave Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 1:39 pm
@Matt R, I needed /sarcasm? Obviously Kopi wasn’t traded and he has a high enough cap hit. This Kovy thing is dulling all of our senses.
Matt R Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 2:25 pm
@Dave,
It must be dulling my senses because I don’t remember being sarcastic. And thanks for the confirmation, I was worried they had actually traded Kopi (now that was sarcasm).
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Dave Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 2:41 pm
@Matt R, No, I meant did I need to put that to indicate I was being sarcastic. I didn’t take your post as such.
Dan H. Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 12:11 pm
@KOHO,
Cammy had several reasons he was let go.
Dad as agent that’s a reported pain to deal with
One sided player
One dimensional on the ice
I don’t think he was great in the locker room.
and the #1 reason…..man I HATED the one footed wrister and going do his knee every time he took a one timer.
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Sebastian Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 12:55 pm
@Dan H., the guy scored every time he went down on one knee!
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Dan H. Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 1:01 pm
@Sebastian,
I had a joke about two knees but I’ll leave that one be.
DougS Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 1:57 pm
@Dan H.,
And let’s not forget that after the arbitration hearing, DL sensed that it would be difficult, if not impossible to re-sign Cammy. So it was trade him now and get something in return, or lose him for nothing later on.
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Matt R Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 2:55 pm
@KOHO,
Ah, gotcha, now I get it!
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Volchenkov is trying to get IK to sign with the Devils >:/
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Freddy Fingers Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 1:18 pm
@Subby,
How’s he doing that? Maybe offering Kovi 30-mill out of his own pocket?
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This is the issue we don’t want to run into with emotional contract signings:
“There’s some interest, but nothing concrete,” Grebeshkov’s agent, Todd Diamond, told ESPN.com on Thursday. “We’ve spoken to a lot of teams, but I think the problem is that we’re in the fifth and sixth cycle of this CBA, and from my standpoint, the system is clogged with teams having contracts they don’t want.”
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I’m repeating myself, but i still think we should sign KOVI’s son. by the time this odessey ends, he’ll be NHL ready! he should come cheap.
he can’t be asking for a signing bonus!!!
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It’s too Quiet today….
I’ve checked this blog 15 times already hoping for something
Bueler Bueler Bueler
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TVA333 Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 2:48 pm
@KingzzFan,
“I like these calm little moments before the storm. It reminds me of Beethoven. Can you hear it? It’s like when you put your head to the grass and you can hear the growin’ and you can hear the insects. Do you like Beethoven?”
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Atomic Steve Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 4:32 pm
@TVA333, Love that movie.
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This is stuped! why is this draging on with Kovi? There has got to be somthing to report on. And is this stoping us from getting anyone else?
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I’m KingsFan in OC, and I am a REFRESH addict.
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Doug D Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 1:30 pm
@KingsFan in OC,
‘Hello KingsFan”…..welcome to the club
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Rich- still curious on what you heard as to why you thought there would be an end to this saga the other day. Maybe a blog post about it?
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Freddy Fingers Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 1:35 pm
@Brent,
I find it very interesting that Rich has no problem commenting on just about anything relating to the Kings(hell, we even get the monthly ‘Ask Rich’ segment where he gladly handles anything thrown at him)….but not so much with this issue. Rich, to my knowledge, hasn’t commented with his own take regarding the Kovi negotiations one bit….WEIRD.
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Gary Livingston Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 3:17 pm
@Freddy Fingers,
It’s not that weird if you think about it.
With so much shoddy journalism and rumors being spread across the board someone like Rich would want to do what he could to distance himself from that.
What Rich has been posting is as much as he should. Delving into little whisperings he came across from people in the organization would just lump him in with the other rumor mongers.
That sort of information is nothing more than gossip that has gone through numerous players of the game telephone.
And, he did share his thoughts in his own Rich like way by very ambiguously stating he thinks it’ll come to an end soon without explaining why.
I’m sure Rich will give lots of thoughts once this is all over with and the rest of the media and people’s nerves have cooled down.
I think he’s been handling this situation like any ethical journalist.
It’s silly seeing people complain about all the posts about non updates. I think those are important to make. Not everyone is glued to twitter and other sources. It might seem unnecessary in the mix of everything else but, it’s great for someone like me and shows he has his ear to the ground non stop.
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Kingsfanone Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 3:25 pm
@Gary Livingston,
Well said. Rich wants to keep it ethical and accurate, not a unsubstantiated rumor mill.
Quiet is good at this point. Means DL is working the phones big time. And since Kovy hasnt signed in NJ means DL is working on the last ditch effort.
We either get Kovy or seal a trade before the weekend is over IMO.
Hear is to hoping for Kovy at a reasonable rate.
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VanKingsFan Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 1:33 pm
@src, I would agree something will happen before Monday…. buuut I thought that last weekend too…
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KingsFan in OC Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 1:50 pm
@VanKingsFan, …and the weekend before that.
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Good DAY ! so far so good. No bad news.
..Hey,the whole NHL is paralized,no trade ,no signing…seems like everybody is waithing for Kovalchook deal.How are you Rich? Day 17 would be “THE MAGIC NUMBER”…I hope.
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@KingsFan in OC,
Hi, KingsFan in OC
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Go Ahead And Keep pushing those tickets AEG..Keep serving the Kool Aid. Keep the facade up of really persuing those UFA strong only to come up short to teams like Anaheim and Tampa Bay..(Two Teams That Have Cups By The Way)I cant get enough of my Ticket agent calling me daily to upgrade my seats and to make sure I buy Frozen Fury tix and dont forget golfing with a king for 500.00 or tip a king for $$$$$$$$$..its OK for them to do it to the a fan but when a Top 3 player in the league says I want to come to LA we say heyyyy wait a min. I need alot of extra monies to sign guys down the line. STOP THE INSANITY…Im out
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pr0cess Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 1:50 pm
@RJB, Are you? please say its so, if you dont like what you see go down the street im sure the ducks can use some fans.
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Tookie Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 1:57 pm
@RJB,
Since it sounds like you’re already writing off your season ticket purchase, can I have your season tickets? If you’re giving them away I’ll take them, otherwise I’m willing to put up a little cash for them.
Let me know!
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PV Kings Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 2:02 pm
@RJB, I am so with you on this one, they keep taking and taking, but when its time to find a way to win a Cup they dont want to give. The Kings are the most profitable team in the NHL why not spend some of that and go get some players who will help win us a Cup!
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Mike L Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 2:24 pm
@PV Kings,
Its called a Salary Cap, and theres reason to believe the cap will significantly go down in the next CBA thats why its taking so long. Teams are being careful with long term deals.
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dana Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 2:40 pm
@Mike L,
So in the future it will be called “The Salary Cup” instead of The Stanley Cup…..
flex Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 2:58 pm
@Mike L, …if “they” are afraid that cap will go down,then ,just make it the part of contract!!….DEAL !
Erik Black Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 7:09 pm
@Mike L,
PLEASSEEE!!! They never even come close to the cap. Sign the gy now…
VanKingsFan Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 2:31 pm
@PV Kings,
I think you are misquoting things as fact, that are not. The Kings are not the most profitable team in the NHL.
I dont think you understand the issues here; it is not about the amount of money at all, it is about the salary cap. If there was no cap he would have been signed by now im sure.
It IS about winning the cup, Dean and his staff are making the difficult decision of what is the BEST way to win the Stanley Cup. It may mean signing IK, it may not. But whatever they do, you can be sure that it is what they think is the best possible decision for this franchise and the best way for us to win numerous cups.
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Lanny McDonald's 'Stache Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 6:06 pm
@VanKingsFan,
Exactly right VanKingsFan. There’s so much disinformation being farted out everywhere here lately it’s dizzying
ten for instigating Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 3:19 pm
@RJB, Tip a King and the Golf Tournament are both charity events. Pretty sure the Kings dont make money on charity events. They do make $ on Frozen Fury but, likely not a lot but worth every penny for the fans.
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RJB Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 3:53 pm
@ten for instigating,
The Charity my friend has been my Season Ticket purchases these past 8 of 9 years..
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shades Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 7:20 pm
@RJB, IMO you’re right…and it’s your right to state it in this manner.
Whay aren’t people given some slack to complain around here without everyone jumping on them and telling them to go to another site?
What do you want? 27 people on here all patting each other on the back and saying how wonderful it is that everyone agrees with each other? How boring would that be? BORRRRRRRRINGGGGGGGGGGGGGG!
Yeah, I know…I can go somewhere else, but I wouldn’t want to give some of you the satisfaction.
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xeropoint Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 7:46 pm
@shades,
Just out of curiosity…
Why do you have to “give slack” to those who complain? Wouldn’t it be equally boring if people said all they wanted with no opposing response?
Most of the complaining around here is something along the lines of “DL sucks!” or “Pay Kovy what he’s worth!”
If you can’t make an insightful argument as to WHY “DL sucks” or WHY “Kovy will win us the cup”, you should EXPECT people who disagree to respond strongly.
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I haven’t posted in several days. That being said, this article I came across made me really question just How good of an idea it is going for IK. I was on record as wanting him, but some points made here made me sort of question my initial thoughts. It’s very difficult to argue with any of the points made here.
http://www.puckupdate.com/2010/07/15/how-ilya-kovalchuk-should-have-handled-free-agency/
[Reply]
LBlocal Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 2:40 pm
@number 6, Thanks for posting this.
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flex Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 2:52 pm
@number 6, …SO what????just an opinion only…
we got more than enough of those.
[Reply]
number 6 Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 7:50 am
@flex,
Yes, there are lots of opinions. Every single post on this site is an opinion, so you’re correct about that. The difference here is that there is Evidence given to back up the opinion and make very salient points.
But that’s just because I happen to think the article makes very good sense.
[Reply]
jet Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 7:12 pm
@number 6, makes sense
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Demitra to KHL. Good riddance. He should’ve done that a few years ago.
[Reply]
Something is going to give today. I can feel it in my bones.
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VanKingsFan Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 2:32 pm
@puddle, Puddles don’t have bones… will take this as a sign that NOTHING will happen lol
[Reply]
puddle Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 2:54 pm
@VanKingsFan, LOL I loved this response. You got me.
[Reply]
kings fan 5680 Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 2:35 pm
@puddle, Only one could hope.
[Reply]
Kingsfanone Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 3:21 pm
@kings fan 5680,
One could only hope “for a big splash?”
[Reply]
I just hope the 40% actually has stuff people can wear. At Team LA store during select-a-seat, there were tons of third jersey XL, XXL, XXXL and even 4XL, wtf??? Needless to say, I didn’t buy anything since they had no damn stock. I really want my away jersey too!!! LOL. People want to spend money Kings, help us help you, we need that for Kovy, LOL!!!
[Reply]
VanKingsFan Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 3:27 pm
@Erik4Kings, hahaha only in the USA does XXXXL even exist!!
[Reply]
Mikko Koivu just signed for $47.25 million over 7 years ($6.75 per). There goes any chance of getting Kovalchuk at a reasonable cap hit.
That is a horrible contract by Minnesota.
[Reply]
Andrew Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 3:17 pm
@Sydor25, Just FYI, If you compare this deal to his goals scored and apply that to Kovi scoring 50 goals, Kovi’s contract would be $107MM. Stupid Minnesota.
[Reply]
Gary Livingston Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 3:24 pm
@Sydor25,
He almost scored 25 goals in a season once.
haha. wow.
[Reply]
VanKingsFan Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 3:29 pm
@Sydor25, That is pretty high, but Mikko is AMAZING. He is very under rated I think; very much like Saku, but with a bit better scoring touch.
Excellent PK and a leader.
This reminds me of when Drury and Holik got giant contracts because of their defensive ability; but this one seems more worth it because of his age and scoring potential.
[Reply]
xeropoint Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 7:51 pm
@VanKingsFan,
Thank you for reminding people that goals and assists are not the end-all be-all of a players worth.
[Reply]
Kevin Y Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 3:53 pm
@Sydor25,
Mikko’s a good player… but this really screws up the Kings and Devils.
Jay Grossman is somewhere, laughing maniacally.
[Reply]
gralx Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 4:07 pm
@Sydor25, Koivu is NOT worth that kind of money. It is almost as out of line as the Gomez contract. Grossman may try and use this on in his negotiations. But, the fact of the matter is that you over pay Kovi, you cannot afford to have a full team behind him…. Play for the money (ATL or NYI), play for the cup NJD or LAK…
[Reply]
DLB Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 5:22 pm
@gralx, Yes, this was a situation unique to Minnesota. Losing Gaborik probably affected this more than anything. The Wild decided Mikko was the franchise rock and they couldn’t afford to lose him too. Mikko’s their version of Drew Doughty…but of course I think we have the better player.
They did use some creativity to get a lower average cap hit — alternate high and low every other year until the final year, which has the highest total. Interesting.
[Reply]
lol wtf? mikko koivu getting that much? oh man. this is what happens when you let people who wear hockey helmets 24hrs/day be a GM.
[Reply]
Kovalchuk will score 60 goals next year for the KINGS.
[Reply]
Rich,
Given the extension to Mikko, do you believe this will price Ilya out of LA? 6.75 per year for 7 years includes 5 years of bonuses. Seems exactly the deal Ilya would want but obviously with a higher per year amount. I can see him asking for 7.9-10 per year. Would the Kings be able to go to 7.9 per year and still have space to retain the kids? I understand it also goes back to your original analysis of how Mikko is now betting he will make close to that at 34 vs. what the Kings goal is to take Ilya to 40 and reduce the cap hit that way. But by looks of things Ilya is not budging on his made up value at 34 while the kings are not budging on the cap number that they need. My predicition is if NJ still has that offer of about 8M for 7 years he will go there.
[Reply]
Kevin Y Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 3:59 pm
@Bobo,
I’m not sure it makes either LA or NJ more likely to sign him… that is, if he doesn’t go to the KHL.
I don’t know how serious an option the KHL is for a player in his prime like Kovalchuk, but if it was just down to NJ or LA, I don’t think it changes the odds.
[Reply]
Bobo Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 4:44 pm
@Kevin Y,
I would have to disagree. If the offer from NJ is correct, that of about 8M over 7 years, then I dont see the Kings matching that. An 8M dollar cap hit seems too high for Dean and Co. if the offer we presented his team was with a 6M dollar cap hit.
Let’s remember this all boils down to keeping our core and the cap hit that is needed. If Kovi is firm with his asking price and wont compromise for more years to spread the cap hit. Then NJ is his only choice of a “winning” franchise.
This is why the feeling to me is that with the Mikku signing Kovi now has a comparable in the sense that Mikku believes he will be worth the same at 34 then he does now and he did not take a long term deal to reduce Minny’s cap hit. Now I am assuming Minny approched him with that, they might not have. But in any case, now Ilya wont get anywhere south of 7M per year for a deal of 7 years or shorter, and I think LA believes that is too much with the uncertainty of the CBA and CAP and the asking prices of their young players. So out option now is only a long term deal, which means it is up to Kovi and team to decide if he gambles on his 34-40 year old version for a smaller salary.
[Reply]
Heading for the wilderness now… 3 night hiking trip into the wilds and I will be out of communication/civilization til Monday…. by then this BETTER BE RESOLVED!!!
[Reply]
Andrew Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 3:55 pm
@VanKingsFan, Two words for you: Satellite Internet!
[Reply]
dMan Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 4:44 pm
@VanKingsFan, or else…?
[Reply]
@Doug S, nothing wrong with that. DL is doing a wonderful job. However this year, I was to get a healthy impact player not to wait a year until they get their groove back. All the players that had prior history of injury are doing great now. I just want to get an immediate impact player. Is that too much to ask for?
[Reply]
Wow, thats a big contract, one thing to remember is that Mikko is a center, so they usually earn more money. Even had said that, it is still to much for his production IMO.
I am sure it doesn’t help our negotiating stance at all, with any player.
BUT I DONT EVEN CARE, JUST FREAKING SIGN SOMEWHERE YOU INDECISIVE IDIOT!
But I will love you if you sign with us
!
[Reply]
Not a good signing, Koivu was overpaid
[Reply]
Damn you, Minnesota…
You couldn’t have waited until AFTER we signed Kovalchuk?
It’s okay… you weren’t gonna make the playoffs this year ANYWAY.
[Reply]
Hey, it’s almost 5. Time for Rich’s daily “no update” update.
[Reply]
Joey No-No Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 4:34 pm
@Yog S’loth, though we cannot blame Rich, I am right there with you…prove us wrong Rich!!!
[Reply]
Scootty Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 5:09 pm
@Joey No-No,
I agree with Yog S’loth as well, but you are right, we can’t blame Rich. But I do believe he knows something that he can’t tell us. Which I don’t blame him for either. It just looks like with these last couple of blog entries, he’s been dodging the hot topic.
[Reply]
I blame Gary “I wanna Be Like David Stern” Bettman.
[Reply]
So another evening without any signing. First it was home run derby,the Allstar Game, the death of of George Steinbrenner (RIP), and then it was the 13th which is bad luck, now what? This has gone on long enough. I would like to know what the hold up is? I still have faith that he will sign here, but being left in the dark and our free agaent history worries me. Anyone else feel this way?
[Reply]
Rich,
I believe it was on Monday you mentioned that you had good reason to believe there would be an announcement that night. Although there was never an announcement, can you tell us what that good reason was?
Thanks
[Reply]
Andrew Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 4:53 pm
@Redlights, Yeah Rich…spill it.
[Reply]
Rich Hammond Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 5:08 pm
@Redlights,
The word I used was resolution, not announcement. As I explained that night, I had good reason to believe there would be a resolution, and there wasn’t. Negotiations continued instead. The nature of that information was not, and will not be, for public consumption. As I attempted to explain before, not every single word in my notebook ends up on the blog. I know people are starving for any morsel, but that’s just how reporting works.
[Reply]
edwood2 Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 5:17 pm
@Rich Hammond, Thank you for maintaining your integrity. Now there is a word you do not hear in the media often anymore! I am confident that when there is news to break, you will be the first to do it.
[Reply]
Redlights Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 8:10 pm
@edwood2, Please stop! This has nothing to do with integrity. Integrity is not reporting on rumors and not on speculation whereas Rich had facts. The fact that Rich chose not to post this information is apparently his personal choice or a choice that was made for him. I can only assume that choice was made because of who is his employer. I’m not bashing on Rich nor making a personal attack on his character. I am simply stating that he knew something and can’t or won’t say. So when he say as soon as he knows something he will tell us is simply not true. Again- not an attack just a fact.
Andrew Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 5:30 pm
@Rich Hammond, blah blah integrity, blah blah public consumption. I’m totally messing with you.
glad we got a response outta ya though.
Now off to the Circus, the REAL circus down at Staples. If I see IK I’ll let ya all know
[Reply]
Cynic Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 5:39 pm
@Rich Hammond,
In laymans terms, not Rich’s:
“If you want the inside dirt, become a reporter.”
Too much work, I’ll wait for Rich.
[Reply]
BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 6:46 pm
@Rich Hammond,
Methinks the inhabitants of this Blog Abode are getting even more edgy than normal…
Forgive us our sins. It’s not often a kid gets taken to a toy store, told to go browsing, finds his most sought after toy, like the rifle from “A Christmas Story”, and is holding it in his/her hands still wrapped in its box, staring at it…
But the kid can’t open it, can’t buy it, can’t put it back, and can’t leave the toy store. Yes, there was the moment he/she found the box and it was his/hers, they were standing in the cashier’s line and it looked like it was a sure thing. But then the toy had to go back on the shelf, and there was only one of them. At one point there was this other kid that picked up the box, making our kid afraid the toy would belong to someone else and lost forever. But then the other kid’s parent made him put it back on the shelf, so he/she scooped up the box and clutched it tightly to the chest…
BUT… All the poor kid can do now is stand there with the toy in his/her sweaty hands and STARE AT IT, day after day after day, times 15 days…
–That’s where we’re at, Rich!
We are all just a little insane right now…
[Reply]
goldielocks Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 5:17 pm
@Redlights,
Actually, it was Tuesday and I don’t think he will because if he could he has done so already. I believe the info was something only an insider should know. Remember Rich is the one and we are not. And I’m glad to see DL treats him that way. When this is all over, he may tell us … or not.
[Reply]
Lanny McDonald's 'Stache Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 6:10 pm
@Redlights,
Do some people really not realize that releasing private information regarding player negotiations can actually — wrap your head around this — AFFECT THE NEGOTIATION?! You really need Rich to spell it out for you?
[Reply]
Redlights Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 8:16 pm
@Lanny McDonald’s ‘Stache, This has nothing to do with the negotiation. I’m not bashing on Rich nor making a personal attack on his character. I am simply stating that he knew something and can’t or won’t say. So when he say as soon as he knows something he will tell us is simply not true. Again- not an attack just a fact.
[Reply]
Rich Hammond Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 8:28 pm
@Redlights,
I just made a sincere, polite and honest attempt to explain to you why I (and every sportswriter who has ever written sports) does not publicly disclose every piece of information supplied to him or her in confidence. I presented something, that I believed a resolution would take place (not that one was promised, mind you). I was asked, “How did you know that?” and “What happened?” and I explained that I’m not at liberty to discuss the nature of that information, and that “What happened?” was simply that the sides continued to negotiate. Beyond that, I do not know the minute details of why there was no resolution that night. No idea. I have explained this the best that I can. I won’t make a further attempt, but by virtue of you even bringing “my employer” into this, you’re implying that I might be lying or misleading people, since I’ve made it very clear that there’s no “gag order” or anything of the sort in my work. It’s pure fantasy, and by questioning that, I’m having a hard time seeing how you’re not “making a personal attack on [my] character,” or at the very least insinuating one. If you’d like me to present a 5,000-word dissertation on the history and nature of the relationship between reporters and sources, I will, but I assure you that you’ll be bored to tears. Beyond that, I’m done discussing this topic. Thanks.
Lanny McDonald's 'Stache Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 8:40 pm
@Redlights,
Rich, you’ve just discovered the price of comprehensive journalism — a pervasive attitude of reader entitlement! How dare you withhold information from us!!! Haha
Rich Hammond Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 8:45 pm
@Lanny,
It sounds terribly elitist if I say that myself, but I’ll just say this: you’re quite wise! I’m not trying to be combative, mind you. From now on, I’ll just let you explain it!
Lanny McDonald's 'Stache Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 8:50 pm
@Hammer,
Haha, that’s what I’m here for… let the mustache be your mouthpiece. Whoa, that just blew my mind I think
DougS Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 9:46 pm
@Redlights,
It’s quite clear to me what happened here. Rich was told something off the record, and he actually bent over backward to tell his readers about it without burning his source and breaking that confidence. Reporters have gone to jail rather than burn their sources because it’s a bad thing to go back on your word, and because once you do that, people will stop talking to you. And when people stop talking to you, you don’t have anything to write about.
It’s as simple as that. There’s nothing more to it. Might as well let it drop.
Don’t you guys get it by now?? Rich has been told by Kings management to keep quiet on the Kovalchuk situation….it’s blatanly obvious.
[Reply]
Rich Hammond Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 5:11 pm
@Freddy Fingers,
Interesting theory. Complete fiction, but a lot of fiction is interesting!
[Reply]
John Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 5:40 pm
@Rich Hammond,
Ain’t that the truth! This is SO starting to resemble Kafka’s The Trial.
[Reply]
Deadmarsh Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 5:19 pm
@Freddy Fingers, yea don’t drink what Matt Barry gives you.
[Reply]
Freddy Fingers Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 5:37 pm
@Deadmarsh,
Matt Barry is a douche.
Ok, so maybe Kings management isn’t behind Rich’s silence….but it’s clear that Rich has information or theories that he purposely (for whatever reason) is NOT sharing with us. I just find it a bit ironic when that is never the case with any other subject.
[Reply]
Rich Hammond Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 5:47 pm
@Freddy Fingers,
`I just find it a bit ironic when that is never the case with any other subject.”
Also not true.
shades Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 7:29 pm
@Freddy Fingers, I agree…at first I didn’t but now I do, it’s just gone on way too long without any additional information AND what information did come out, from Helene Elliot and others was simply confirmed by Rich.
He’s zipped tightly on this one.
[Reply]
jet Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 10:32 am
@shades, Rich is probably responsible for the oil spill in the gulf also.
[Reply]
I think that Rich would jump at the chance to tell us new news. He is not an idiot though. If he ruined a deal by disclosing the terms, I’m pretty sure he’d get canned.
[Reply]
Ok then how about news on any other players?
[Reply]
Who Knows? Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 5:39 pm
@king lopez, Demitra signs with the KHL.
[Reply]
king lopez Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 6:34 pm
@Who Knows?, oh, i ment with the Kings.
[Reply]
Why was my comment deleted Rich Hammond? (RE: DL not in town)
[Reply]
Rich Hammond Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 5:46 pm
@Harry,
It’s certainly nothing personal, but I’ve determined that allowing the posting of “information” from certain websites is akin to yelling “fire” in a crowded theater.
[Reply]
Chris P. Bacon Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 6:32 pm
@Harry,
It’s garbage, Harry. Don’t tell me you’ve been actually following them for these past 2 weeks. I mean, really?
[Reply]
Harry Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 6:44 pm
@Chris P. Bacon,
I’m not really following “them”…The net is full of bunk rumors…….
Thought it would be fun to see peoples reaction about Dean not being in town….
[Reply]
After Mikko…
POACH BOBBY RYAN!
3 years, 5.5/mil per. Plenty of space to sign the kids.
DONE!
[Reply]
kq949 Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 5:51 pm
@Cynic,
….uhhhh…Saiku plays for Anaheim!
[Reply]
Cynic Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 6:13 pm
@kq949,
Let me expand it:
After Mikko Koivu got his 6.75mil a year for 7 years from Minnesota which just gave Grossman more ammunition against DL for Kovi…
POACH BOBBY RYAN!
Did that help?
[Reply]
Mike L Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 6:22 pm
@Cynic,
Thats his cap his actual salary is as follows
2011-12 $7.29 M; 12-13 $5.4 M; 13-14 $7.29 M; 14-15 $5.4 M; 15-16 $7.29 M; 16-17 $5.4 M; 17-18 $9.18 M
LBlocal Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 6:36 pm
@Cynic, At 3 years – 5.5M ave, the quacks would most certainly match. But I’m with you 100% in getting Bobby Ryan in a Kings uniform, AGAIN!
gkg!
[Reply]
quisp Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 6:55 pm
@LBlocal,
The Ducks would match any offer sheet. Period. There’s just no point. You think Lombardi would offer Ryan $6MM? He’s barely willing to offer Kovalchuk $6MM. And the Ducks would match even then.
[Reply]
LBlocal Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 7:16 pm
@Quisp, Indubitably, kind sir.
gkg!
5holer Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 7:18 pm
@quisp, Not so fast. Too soon to present offer sheet to Ryan. Quacks have Cap space still. Gotta wait to strike a opportune moment when BMurray is Capped up more. He will be soon enough, then bang with a stretched out deal in term, only if no Kovy deal. The “De-Talloned” Hawks are easier prey for a Sharp deal with prospects only involved…good bet there & friendly Cap hit. Forget damaged goods like Gagne, Souray and the like. Don’t help Philly with their cap. Hope DL is not copying Holmgren/Snyder blue prints. Deals are there but LAK need a final call on Kovy first. I bet he gets here at a “compromise deal”. Friday could work as a media splash day. Any takers?
Stop the Puck Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 7:46 pm
@quisp,
so then offer it. why not? everyone says, “oh , then he will offer sheet doughty, etc”. well, dont let any RFA you want to keep get that far. its really quite simple. since we wont (most likely) get ryan if we offer sheet him, let the ducks suffer in the cap, then use all this $$ we are wallowing in (that isnt going to kovalchuk) to sign all the ppl we want to extend (that seems to be the popular opinion around here). and maybe that would end up impacting someone like richie down the line (a lower level player who we let become an RFA), but does it matter? i say go for it
Cynic Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 7:49 pm
@quisp,
I don’t believe that’s completely true.
The problem in their negotiations has been TERM not MONEY. Ryan wants a 3 year deal so he can be a UFA sooner, the Ducks want him for 5 years to lock up a young star. Ryan has publicly said he is not looking for Getzlaf & Perry money (In the OC Register article about 3 weeks ago, too lazy to find a link), So if we offered him MORE money and gave him the 3 years, Ryan will sign.
Now if the Ducks match a 3 year deal, we win there as well. The ducks will have less money to spend on D-men, making them weaker. When Bobby Ryan is a UFA in 3 years, where do you think he’ll go first? He’ll go to the team who game him what he wanted before. US. If we don’t get him now, we’ll look pretty good to him in 3 years, AFTER the CBA is figured out.
To me, it’s a win/win…I’m not worried about them poaching our RFA’s. If Dean is doing his job right and drafting the right guys, he should be able to work deals out before they are offer sheet eligible. Granted that is a perfect world scenario, but it should alleviate most of the fear.
Just my 2 cents.
5holer Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 8:22 pm
@quisp,@StopthePuck,@Cynic…Now you are onto something with nailing the 2 birds (maybe 3) with one strike of the pen. Do or don’t get him now, do get him later if not now, kill Quackers Cap, and keep ahead of RFA curve on our own players. Its LAK vs the world of Capologists of the NHL. Sharp could be a surer thing still.
Just my nickles worth
I wonder what Gary Gnews has to say on the kovalchuk sweepstakes.
[Reply]
Puckin-A Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 11:26 am
@JimmyShine, Kovalchuck is with Speed Reader and the rest of the gang on the Great Space Coaster, they just got back from Minnesota with huge grins on their faces????
[Reply]
I think today, July 15th, has officially become:
“Hammer Rich Hammond” Day.
Congradulations Rich!
[Reply]
I know this long wait is making us all mental, but do we want to drive Rich nuts, too? It’s just a confusing situation. There is no conspiracy.
[Reply]
Matt George Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 6:51 pm
@DLB,
Um first of all:
Why was the rebel pilot who supposedly destroyed the Death Star reported to be on the Death Star days, maybe hours, prior to its destruction? Why was he allowed to escape, and why were several individuals dressed in Stormtrooper uniforms seen helping him?
and Why has there not been an investigation into allegations that Darth Vader, the second-ranking member of the Imperial Government, is in fact the father of the pilot who allegedly destroyed the Death Star?
oh yes my friend … there’s a conspiracy alright
[Reply]
xeropoint Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 7:59 pm
@Matt George,
F*&%$&^g awesome!
[Reply]
Kingsfanone Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 8:30 pm
@Matt George,
And Dean Lombardi, AKA The Emperor, has foreseen it!!!
[Reply]
iansez Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 1:50 am
@Matt George, funny you are!
[Reply]
DLB Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:13 am
@Matt George, Made my morning, thanks
[Reply]
Don’t know exactly who Scott Farrell is, but he was twittering this “I’m hearing from my sources the Kovalchuk will sign with the Kings any day now”. so I looked him up, he does have a readio show in Tampa, and he was the play by play guy for the Atlants thrashers, still I don’t really care, Nothing happens till it happens……..which leads me to… it ain’t over till it’s over? Damn you Yogi!!
[Reply]
Matt George Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 6:54 pm
@Ravens,
I know a guy who knows a guy who ran into this dude that thinks ..
oh nevermind
[Reply]
gene Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 7:00 pm
@Matt George, I dnot know that guy but I talked with a drunk in a bar in ALaska and he jsaid dont worry cause DL has no idea whats going on.
[Reply]
bure10 Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 7:15 pm
@Matt George, checked it out on
Ferrall Radio…so it may not be true but it is up.
[Reply]
John Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 7:34 pm
@Matt George,
No, no, finish, dude. I know where you were going with that & I think people deserve to hear it!
[Reply]
DLB Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:18 am
@John, But why won’t he tell us? WHY?!?
Very suspicious if you ask me!
Slapshot Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 8:02 pm
@Ravens, Scott Farrell is a sports radio guy that has bounced around for years, currently on XMSirrius radio on Sterns channel. He has connections Im sure but I would not consider him a wealth of knowledge when it comes to Hockey.
[Reply]
Cynic Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 8:12 pm
@Ravens,
You guys don’t know who Scott Ferrall is? I actually did an hour on his radio show ‘Ferrall on the Bench’ in ’95 while promoting an album my band put out. He was on Westwood One radio in LA for a while in the 90′s. TOTAL Hockey freak! Hell of a nice guy. He follows the sport like all of us AND he is a Kings fan!
I don;t think he’s super connected, but he does know a lot of industry/entertainment/sports people, so who knows? He’s a better source than 1/2 the sites we’ve been visiting, I know that for sure.
He’s on Howard Stern’s 101 channel on Sirius now.
http://ferrallradio.com/
[Reply]
Kingsfanone Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 8:37 pm
@Cynic,
I KNEW that name sounded familiar! I remember that radio show. As for reliable, well…..
[Reply]
Ravens Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 9:11 pm
@Cynic, Aww Cynic, a fellow musician!!
[Reply]
What is all the banter about M Koivu deal. BFD, it has no effect on IK/GRman team. To say MKoivu is in class of IK is silly. Not comparable assets. Can you spell sniper =Kovy, not Koivu! There are a number of Koivu types around, but scarse Kovys! To go with character types you need GOALS. LAK have enough strength in their room, now for some goals please! Cores do not win Cups alone, you need HD lamplighter to get there. Must spend to get it, if you don’t have it. The looming Fehr years with death of CBA are big hitches in deal or its done by now. Lou cannot go over Cap more than 10% or penalties of some severity..No NJ unless salaries are dumped. No sal dumps without deal with IK, Chicken or Egg thing! Hurdle is as always not $ but Cap plus CBA death imminent with Fehr. Heard of Catch 22? This is it as I see it.
[Reply]
yobro Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 7:53 pm
@5holer, This just in…… The chicken came 1st. Scientists proved it on Tues. Something to do with a particular enzyme IN the chicken that makes the eggs strong, otherwise they wouldn’t make it to hatch time. Just fyi.
Go Kings
[Reply]
5holer Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 11:33 am
@yobro, I was just testing your finite knowledge of chickens. Now I can sleep better and have my eggs in the morning with no worries of origin, repleat with enzymes. Yumm! One hurdle cleared, now on to the headlines. DL can’t have all his eggs under one chicken, enzymes or not!
[Reply]
Hey Rich, If you could, would you let it out about some kind of time limits on offers left on table by LAK? In my view they must be at a precipice with 2 known offers out there (maybe more variations as well) with no broken off talks. But how long do you wait for a yeah or a nay on such? How many look alike counters do you look at? How many different ways can you write 10M x 10Yrs in a 45 page contract? Cannot wait all off season to assemble your team (15 skaters do not do it). Must be a drop dead date, or at least that may be next chess move. I see a few shoes floating over the room waiting to drop. Don’t worry I see an umbrella bucket there too! Take cover. Can you say anything, if you knew the answers? I bet not!
[Reply]
Jonathan Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 7:29 pm
@5holer,
I’m sure Rich is going to get right back to you on revealing the labyrinthian internal machinations that is signing a premiere unrestricted free agent.
[Reply]
Screw all of this Kovy drama. I have had enough of being kept in the dark! Anyone want to go to Soak City with me? Let’s get wet!
[Reply]
Haleyyy Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 8:29 pm
@NealyBoy, i’m down!!! Forget him, let’s party with Kopi instead!!!
[Reply]
NealyBoy Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 8:32 pm
@Haleyyy, We can’t play monopoly at center ice with Ivanans anymore..
[Reply]
Haleyyy Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 8:50 pm
@NealyBoy, ohhhhhh noooooo!!!! I just fell to the ground im so sad about that!!! i dont care if i got my permit that ruined my day. Haha
I’m getting sick and tired waiting for this cocky guy t sign with us…illya aint the best and for sure isnt worth the most…im a big fan and loved the whole plan but kings save your money. Thanks to Rich for keepin me updated.
[Reply]
#1faninVegas Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 3:05 am
@lakings99,
I agree with you. Kovi is good, but he doesn’t deserve an Alexander Ovechkin or Sidney Crosby type contract
[Reply]
Dean get creative and unload a player with a high salary who has been unproductive in a sign and trade to get Co-vol-chook to stay under the cap…start bringing those excellent players you drafted up to the NHL.
[Reply]
Miller29 Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 8:38 pm
@Joe Chuck,
That’s been my belief all along too.
[Reply]
I bet this is what purgatory feels like.
[Reply]
5thLine Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 9:19 pm
@stagger,
Metallica » Trapped Under Ice
[Reply]
Purgatory is being forced to listen to Hayward EVERY SINGLE GAME.
[Reply]
Deadmarsh Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 8:07 pm
@Buster, no, that would be HELL my friend.
[Reply]
Buster Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 8:19 pm
@Deadmarsh,
No. Hell would be hearing Hayward every game AND the WOW THAT IS A LOW PRICE commercial looped over and over again during the stoppages.
[Reply]
Deadmarsh Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 8:25 pm
@Buster, i stand corrected.
chuckrocks Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 9:38 pm
@Buster, I would rather wake up next to a naked Betty White and having Fran Drescher yelling in my ear after a long night of drinking than have to listen to Hayward for 1 period.
Danielle Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 11:22 pm
@Buster,
Well, if you believe Dante, there are multiple levels to hell. So I think you were both right… those are both hell, just on different levels.
Old Codger Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 11:54 pm
@Buster, I literaly watch the game with my finger on the mute button.
now that the British Open has started we’re going to have to delay any IK press conference until after Sunday to ensure maximum sports attention…however then we start getting dangerously close to the MLS All-Star game…
[Reply]
Michael J Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 6:44 am
@Shakes,
Don’t forget that we’re in the middle of the Tour de France. They better wait until that is over too.
[Reply]
Im thinking if we pay Semion Mogilevich 3 mil a year he can get ole chuk to come to reasonable terms, say 4 mil a year?
[Reply]
i seriously want to cry.
this is all i think about all day!
put my soul to rest and sign!
[Reply]
I say we sign Gagknee Googlechuck and Semion Mogilevich for 2.8 a year each…What do you think?
[Reply]
This just in!! Juraj Mikus has ordered the owners not to lower the salary cap in 2012 under punishment of total obliteration. Clearly, the Mayans knew of Mikus.
[Reply]
Guess this just goes to show how difficult and complicated this deal really is, eh? And maybe shows just how much Dean won’t give up on the core players.
Dean……man of his word?
errrr, is that the ground shaking beneath Staples Center? Ely’s coming!
[Reply]
Lanny McDonald's 'Stache Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 8:51 pm
@Kingsfanone,
John Ely plays LW???
[Reply]
Kingsfanone Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 9:03 pm
@Lanny McDonald’s ‘Stache,
You do know the NHL Network has been playing a tribute commercial about Lanny McDonald?
And you are a FINE stache, too!!!
[Reply]
Lanny McDonald's 'Stache Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 11:35 pm
@Kingsfanone,
Why thank you. I’ve been told I’m one of the finest examples of “the Walrus” style in history!
For some reason the website editor forgot the to delete Jones from the lakings roster.
[Reply]
USCG Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 9:06 pm
@ducksuck, Ah man you must not be a very good King’s fan…didn’t you hear? We signed him to a 5 year 40 million contract. That’s why we haven’t signed Kovalchuk yet DUh!!!!
[Reply]
Buster Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 11:58 am
@ducksuck,
I’d like to see any mention of him BANNED from Kings history. He was THAT bad.
[Reply]
I heard today on Lee “Hacksaw” Hamilton’s best 15 minutes of sports that DL and the Kings flat out refuses to pay IK 10 mil for 10 years, anyone else hear something along those lines?
[Reply]
5thLine Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 9:34 pm
@Goring 19,
I love Hacksaw from XTRA Sports 690 days and at least he talks Kings hockey, but he is always two weeks behind the curve when it comes to hockey. His reported rumors have been some of the worst I’ve ever heard and they never end up being true. You could disagree with him, but you would be wrong….
[Reply]
DougS Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 9:49 pm
@Goring 19,
The idea that DL would refuse to pay IK $100 mil over $10 years is hardly earth-shattering.
[Reply]
Goring 19 Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 11:03 pm
@DougS, yes I know, unless IK or Grossman wont budge on his absurd demand.
[Reply]
Dan H. Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:12 am
@Goring 19,
Is 690 and Hacksaw still on the air? I haven’t listenen to them in forever.
[Reply]
Goring 19 Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:57 am
@Dan H., Hacksaw in on AM 1090 in San Diego, 3 or 4 to 7 pm, not sure which. “HAVE I GIVEN YOU ENOUGH TO TALK ABOUT, L.A. KINGS FANS, WHERE ARE YOU!!?” LOL I still get a kick out of Hacksaw.
[Reply]
Everyone needs to Chill OUT! He is at home packing his stuff up right now. He is coming here and I will guarantee it. If I am wrong I will buy a Frickin Ducks thong, wear it and submit it to the photo site here. It won’t be pretty but it won’t be as bad as us not signing him. Anyone want to take this bet. If so you have to put something on the line as well. Who does not believe in Dean?
[Reply]
#1faninVegas Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 3:01 am
@Dazed N Confused,
ROFL! Funny! I believe in Dean, it’s Kovis’ agent who’s the problem
[Reply]
Rich, people are starting to go for torches and pitchforks here. Maybe time for a new thread, like, win a date with an ice girl, or, where is Mikus?
[Reply]
5thLine Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 9:54 pm
@edwood2,
Despite all my rage I am still just a rat in a cage…..
[Reply]
Is anyone’s girlfriend/wife as annoyed as mine is that I keep checking for updates?
[Reply]
demob Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 10:01 pm
@chuckrocks,
Mine.
[Reply]
Gary Livingston Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 10:11 pm
@chuckrocks,
haha, she hasn’t said anything yet but, she has definitely noticed.
[Reply]
Miller29 Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 10:33 pm
@chuckrocks,
My wife is getting pissed. She wants me to get up and do anything besides sit here a constantly check for updates. She even said, “go shooting at the range, anything!”
Come on DL and Kovi, help a guy out!!
[Reply]
chuckrocks Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 10:49 pm
@Miller29, Mine told me to get a life so I told her I already have a wonderfull life because I have you sweetie, she gave me a dirty look and walked away. Sometimes I would rather have Kovi….in a straight way of course.
[Reply]
Beeze Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 10:46 pm
@chuckrocks, Lol. My girl says the same stuff.
[Reply]
Andrew Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 11:49 pm
@chuckrocks, My wife has started rolling her eyes as soon as I say start a sentence with “Ilya…”
What she doesn’t know is when we sign him it’ll get infinitely worse.
[Reply]
kjchip30 Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 12:04 am
@chuckrocks, my wife rolls her eyes whenever I say, “KOVI”
[Reply]
kingfish Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 12:32 am
@chuckrocks,
I dont have one. which is why I spend so much time chasing down kovalchuk rumors…..
[Reply]
src Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 1:26 am
@kingfish,
Sorry guys cant feel your pain. I have mine trained. She gave up 2 years ago. Originally from LA, moved to Norway in 93. So she allows me these pleasures without hastle.
However, I am always broke, cuz she spends all the money………….Any connection?
[Reply]
chuckrocks Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:15 am
@src, She always says “you sit there and read about all that hype and then in the end he most likily wont sign with them, then you will be pissed for weeks for nothing”. Then I say ” No I wont be mad I will be going postal” and not the kind where you go mail a letter. Then I say “leave me alone I need to refresh my page to see if he signed yet, go watch sex in the city our one of those “REAL HOUSE WIVES” of some city show”. Well it could be worse if she was one of those “REAL” house wives and spent all my money then her “REAL” azz would be out in the streets. j/k…………………..
chuckrocks Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:24 am
@kingfish, I was calling around for motorcycle insurance and the guy was asking me questions and one of them was ” Are you married or are you happy”, I thought was fricking funny as hell.
[Reply]
5holer Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 11:51 am
@chuckrocks, Familiar problem and quite seasonal too. Mine buys the season tix, never misses a home game, sometimes watches the better road games on TV. But off season she is on another planet without hockey. I go with flow and just call my adult daughter in off season, or do this right here…Hockey is for everybody, for some all year round. I bet everyone on here still shows up at Staples this season, even if we sign a couple of lug nuts and a wheel barrow this off season. Hooked and not booked, a plight with no cure.
[Reply]
Puckin-A Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 11:57 am
@chuckrocks, You can’t hear mine, my office is pretty far from our basement. Oh, that reminds me, I have to make her gruel and give her 100 lashings. When we sign Kovi she can move back upstairs.
[Reply]
I say we villagers show up at Health South with pitchforks and torches pounding on the doors DEMANDING ANSWERS!…for the love of humanity…WE want answers or were taking hostages!
[Reply]
I say we villagers show up at Health South with pitchforks and torches pounding on the doors DEMANDING ANSWERS!…for the love of humanity…WE want answers or were taking hostages! just saying…
[Reply]
Kings Fan in Temecula Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 10:12 pm
@Forecheck!, i’ll second that. its about time :O
[Reply]
GloryHole Reply:
July 15th, 2010 at 10:36 pm
@Kings Fan in Temecula, You might want to go to the Toyota Center instead…
[Reply]
…So far so good….Even Better,Man, I love the “wild” deal for Kouvu….Another “K”…From the beginning I wanted the fair Dieal for KOVi,because I would like the see him at his best!!! We are in waithing game,which means nothing is final.I am sure there is “TIME DEAL”. From AEG side The offer was final,that is for sure, From Kovi side…I think there is possible Dark Horse(back to atlanta) ..who knows? or try to “Find” another team who will much “our” Dls downgraded offer…to punish him..Of course there is ALWAYS another option for Kovy..KHL!! I am really sorry
for Kovy…Bad !!! timing at his Prime…All this Crises….Mayan..Mickus ( or something like that..)Tigh and cheap AEG,pure Bruce Mc Nall…Cap problem in NHL,cap problem in Golf…40 year old Cup problem with this (forever pure) organization.
[Reply]
LAKings6 Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 7:48 am
@flex, Elegantly said…amen
[Reply]
Alen Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:48 am
@LAKings6, Rich this guy can post without having to get it approved and moderated but I can’t?
[Reply]
I found this on the NJ Devils blog site.
This is getting so repetitive. Who knows what is going on behind closed doors. All I know is that if Ilya signs with the Kings, I cannot WAIT until the Devils woop their ____es (10/30 is the game I think…?); and I really can’t wait until we win the cup in 2011.
Anyone else want to save the date and let them know how we really feel?
[Reply]
JJ4Pres Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 7:49 am
@Dazed N Confused,
Just show them a video of Doughty scoring an OT last year….
[Reply]
Rich, its all good…you don’t need to explain anything to anyone, I get that. But seriously, is DL denying commenting on anything?…has he told you that or have you just given up for the time being? I don’t recall seeing a DL quote since last Sunday when he explained the Kovi visit.
Can you tell us if they are currently working on things? Is DL in town?? Rumors are saying that DL has taken a break from this soap opera…any truth to that??? PAGING RICH HAMMOND, HELLO!
[Reply]
Trade for Gagne (only 1 year left on deal)
Pick up veteran Dman (don’t ask me how)
Give Doughty all of Kovulchuks money (way better investment)
Make Frolov come back (promise sweaters?)
[Reply]
Since I retired and moved away (almost in Shark territory, yuk) I have survived the past two years without my season seats.(Almost a 40 year run there). I do have Versus and FSW, and with Rich’s insider I get along fine.
However, I spend so much time here, as do others, checking for news that my yard work is suffering. I think I heard a lion roar in my backyard the other day and the hedge is attacking the neighbor. One of the vines has already strangled a cat. My wife is thankful she is still working, she just shakes her head and dutifully goes to work.
By the time all is said and done and we sign Kovi (and we will), I will be a blithering idiot and won’t be able to enjoy the three consecutive cups we will win with these boys!
[Reply]
Did you see the Koivu signing? 6.75 mil cap hit for 7 years. Now tell me that Kovalchuk is not worth 7.5 cap hit. I would offer that much!
[Reply]
This says it all, for kovy anyways lol, just imagine the possibles omg!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r0pEMG6WqKQ&feature=related
[Reply]
number 6 Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:15 am
@Kings Fan in Temecula,
Would mean more if he was actually scoring some of those goals vs. decent teams. LOL
[Reply]
I know a guy, who has this friend, who ate russian food last week, and said he saw Kovalchuk with a Kings tattoo on his neck and he told him he’s having a press conference July 18th for realz!
This has been stupid for a long time now.
[Reply]
Well, with all the IK drama, which would make a good day time soap opera, I keep during research everyday to find out what in the bloody blue heck is going on with the possibility of signing IK. Well, The Hockey News came up with an excellent article saying, that we can and will be Stanley Cup contenders even with out Kovy, check it out:
http://www.thehockeynews.com/articles/34495-THNcom-Blog-Kings-dont-need-Kovalchuk-to-make-a-Stanley-Cup-run.html
Hopefully, we get Kovi, but Im starting to say screw it, and move on with my life, cuz this is absolutly getting rediculous. I got it… Maybe we need WWE chairman Vince McMahon, to help finance Kovi. Oh wait… He was the founder of the XFL… NEVERMIND!
[Reply]
Buster Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 3:17 am
@#1faninVegas,
The only way that DL can put a monkey wrench in the works is by re-signing that **** Randy Jones.
[Reply]
If the Kings sign Kovalchuk, who will get to keep the number 17? Simmonds,or Kovi?
[Reply]
rocky3236 Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 6:35 am
@James R,
I believe that Simmonds is permitted to keep it based on seniority. That being said, I think that Simmonds will offer it to him. A lot of players have been know to do that in the past.
[Reply]
TB Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 7:19 am
@rocky3236,
They’ll settle it between them…I remember when Luc returned to the Kings after his stint with Detroit and he had to make a deal with Ray Ferraro to get his no. 20 back. If I remember correctly, Luc sent Ferraro and his family to Hawaii as a concession for giving up his no. 20.
[Reply]
James R Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 7:34 am
@TB, and @rocky3236
Thanks for the explanations!
number 6 Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:17 am
@TB,
Isn’t this all irrelevant if we don’t get him?
Old Codger Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 10:42 am
@TB, Also Foxie gave up 19 to Robinson. That’s when JF became #4.
OnTheFly Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:53 am
@James R, I say we give him the number equal to the days without a contract. If he signs today he wears #16, tomorrow #17 and so on.. that way we never forget all this we fans have been put thru. With all that in mind, tomorrow sounds like the day the ink will dry on the contract signing and wear #17.
[Reply]
5holer Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 12:06 pm
@James R, It doesn’t matter that Sim has #17, cause Kovy will get #100M if he signs…but more like when he signs…a Mayan and an Armenian “epos” just emailed me that everything else is on hold for 2012/2013 pending Kovy’s decision. Boy does he have clout! Its earth stopping. There is always a new presidence setting number to take by a Superstar, i.e. Gretzky 99, Coffey 77, Lemieux 66 etc. How about double dollar signs $$ that would be unique! His name will be spelled KovyChecks!
[Reply]
Nick Kypreos from Sportsnet.ca is reporting on Twitter that there has been “A big swing in the Ilya/Kings talks. Major stumbling blocks have been rectified. A source now described it to me as “close but not done”.
[Reply]
Joey Drillings Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 6:37 am
@rocky3236,
This is the second report in the last two weeks by him saying the exact same thing. He had us signing him last week also.
[Reply]
rocky3236 Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 6:44 am
@Joey Drillings,
They gotta get it right at some point. Don’t they?
[Reply]
Kings Fan In Idaho Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 7:12 am
@rocky3236,
This is the first post I’ve read today, and although it is only rummor, it still made me smile.
[Reply]
James R Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 7:35 am
@Kings Fan In Idaho,
It has gotten my hopes up as well.. again.
[Reply]
Ravens Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 8:24 am
@rocky3236, http://nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/38276783/ns/sports-player_news/
[Reply]
Cynic Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 10:07 am
@Ravens,
Right below that was this gem about Bobby Ryan:
http://nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/38275508/sports/player_news
He’s moving or someone is going to offer sheet him with a 3 year deal. It might as well be us!
[Reply]
hockey/Kovalchuk was being discussed on Versus early today…..I only caught the last few seconds of it, but got the impression that the consensus is that Kings WILL eventually sign him….did anybody catch the whole conversation?
[Reply]
At what point do the Kings end negotiations with Kovalchuk for good and get on with Plan B to improve the team?
[Reply]
nykingfan Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 8:39 am
@YES on 19,
when both sides agree it won’t work.
I’m sure DL has plan B all set. He’s too smart a GM not to.
Why the rush to get him signed right away? Camp doesn’t start until Septemember. Don’t get me wrong..as a fan, one way or another I’d like to see this come to a conclusion, but if it takes until 9/1 to finalize everything..whether it be Kovy or plan B, I have nowhere to be and neither do any of them.
[Reply]
The silence breaks today! There can be no other explanation than they have been working out the details. We know it is easy for DL to say NO, but it hasn’t happened. It ends today and announce tomorrow (July 17). Do you feel it?
[Reply]
Don’t know if anyone already posted this, but Marc-Andre Cliche accepted his qualifying offer yesterday. 1 year $660,000
[Reply]
RealDrew Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 8:44 am
@Atomic Steve,
Hadn’t heard that. Thanks for the update.
[Reply]
Rich:
Those of us who support the Kings via this site have been impacted by this Kovi situation. By now, probably heading toward the negative, and I say that with no malice toward Lombardi. I know you cannot comment on what you don’t know, and you only know what you can confirm from your sources. However …
What is the impact of this negotiation process on the Kings players themselves? Their reactions should be something you can report on. And honestly, I’d like to know that.
[Reply]
YES on 19 Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 8:48 am
@IceGuy, If any of the Kings players are negatively impacted by the Kovalchuk negotiations it probably wouldn’t behoove them to voice their opinions about management.
[Reply]
5holer Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 12:27 pm
@IceGuy, I would say no impact on players. Players would love to have a player of his caliber on their team anytime. I don’t think they care about negotiations until its their turn to go it. More $ to a player is probably liked by most other players, good for their future contract talks overall. My bet is players leave 99.9% of contract stuff to their high paid agents/lawyers and keep out of it. These guys probably apply a team mentality to getting new team mates. They just want to win games and a Cup or 5. They are all on same end of rope with each other in the players vs. owners tug of war on contracts. By union decree for sure. Brownie did not have to meet Kovy because he was in awe of the money he’ll get, more for the wins he will help bring the team, and potential of cups. Just my nickles worth.
[Reply]
I’ve got a good feeling, so I wore a Kings shirt today (new purple Smyth one I picked up at Select-A-Seat) for work.
[Reply]
Atomic Steve Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 8:46 am
@sstephen17, Thats funny, I did the same thing. I’m wearing a Kings polo shirt at work today.
[Reply]
BluLiner Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 8:55 am
@sstephen17,
Good idea, I’m going home to put on my old Kings cap with the McDonald’s logo on back.
[Reply]
Cup B4 I Die Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:03 am
@sstephen17,
Me too!! Casual Friday at work today…rocking the Kings shirt. I also have a feeling that something is going to happen today…not sure if we’ll get Kovalchuk, but i’m thinking the saga ends today. Then, we can all go enjoy our weekend.
[Reply]
src Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:15 am
@Cup B4 I Die,
Alright Im in-Deadmarsh jersey!
[Reply]
sstephen17 Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:18 am
@src, Wow, kicking it old school eh?
gralx Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:33 am
@sstephen17, going home to put on my Kings Crocs lol
[Reply]
Tookie Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:38 am
@sstephen17,
I’m wearing my Lost… shirt. I thought it was more appropriate with what’s going on.
[Reply]
Bryan Agee Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 10:06 am
I saddled up and put on my Bailey’s Buddies hat!
[Reply]
DLB Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 10:32 am
@Bryan Agee, Forum Blue and Gold jersey pin!
edwood2 Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 11:03 am
@Bryan Agee, Wearing my In-N-Out shirt. Close enough?
I have to wonder what sort of impact the signing of Koivu by the Wild would have on negotiations w IK. If Grossman is as difficult as I’m led to believe, he would be all over Kings Mgt. by comparing the $6.75Million cap hit of Koivu to what his client merits.
Hmmmm.
[Reply]
Report: Kovalchuk close to signing with Kings
http://nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/38276783/ns/sports-player_news/from/ET
[Reply]
Joey Drillings Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:36 am
@Harry,
Already posted at 6:32 a.m. One report being regurgitated.
[Reply]
http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/2010/07/16/kovalchuk_kings_close_but_not_done/
[Reply]
Joey Drillings Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:38 am
@IHATESTARS,
Same Kypreos report that is sited all over now.
This is one person’s report that was wrong about the same thing last week. Believe it when I see it.
[Reply]
I think Rich is quiet because he knows that something big is about to go down. That is why he is doing these “other posts” about other King’s news . . . the suspense is killing me!
[Reply]
Jonathan Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:53 am
@Brian,
The last “other post” he made was posted 24 hours ago.
Clearly he’s not just keeping us busy – he’s reporting relevant Kings news because the team is not solely Ilya Kovalchuk.
That being said, if Rich could make a post regarding the signings of Cliche and Elkins, it would give us a nice clean for new comments. It’s becoming increasingly difficult to sift through 350+ responses.
[Reply]
Nother day sitting at the computer!
[Reply]
Maybe we should all start calling Jay Grossmans’ office and demand a decision be made today. Just kidding Well maybe.
[Reply]
YES on 19 Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 10:27 am
@Ose, Just tried calling him, but I don’t know if his cell is working or not.
[Reply]
hold back all the negative ju-ju everybody.
I had a good feeling about all this today, and this report is starting to solidify it.
Will the hockey gods shine on us today??
[Reply]
Has anyone shecked Vegas for the odd on Kovi signing with us or with someone else? If the line is good enough maybe we could earn enough money to get who ever we want. Who’s up for a trip? I will wear all my Kings gear to bring out all of the good JU JU. We will hear something great today, I have a great feeling he will sign today. We would of heard bad news a few days ago. Bad news travels like wild fire, good news travels like the 405 during rush hour.
[Reply]
Dazed N Confused Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 10:32 am
@Dazed N Confused,
Spell Check – Shecked is supposed to be checked
– Odd is supposed to be odds
It’s been a rough couple of weeks.
[Reply]
I wonder if Kovalchuck got amnesia, went fishing in Siberia and forgot he was a hockey player? Memo to Kovi:
You don’t have an team to play for. Sign anywhere already.
[Reply]
My birthday’s NEXT Saturday…
C’mon DL, gift-wrap this for me! I wanna buy myself a Kovalchuk jersey for my birthday!
[Reply]
It would figure that when DL takes a vacation the Kovi deal gets done. Is this guy the schwartz or what. Dont get me wrong I like DL but when it comes to negotiating with anyone or making that big trade his track record…well..not so good. I hope for the best news possible today. Deano, if your out there, please extend your holiday a couple more days while we close Kovy..Thanks
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1. Thank you Rich, for putting up with all of the good, bad and downright silly on this site.
2. Thank you Rich, for using that little thing we call discretion in releasing information. It’s a pleasure to know that when we read something from you, it’s the product of “getting it right” not “spitting it out first.”.
3. Thank you everybody, for making visiting this site such a hoot. Even if I’m being snarky in the comments, I’d rather be reading everybody’s posts than hoping someday we get a website with passionate fans contributing.
4. So I talked to a guy who knows someone who shares the same first name with Kovi, and that guy says Matt Barry had dinner with Eklund, Hacksaw, and the guy who empties Bettman’s trash…
Cheers everyone! Have a great weekend!
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What? They traded Bailey?????
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I feel like Rainman -
“F5…yeah, definitely F5.”
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Howe 9 Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 10:55 am
@KingsFan in OC,
That made me laugh out loud. Thanks,
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Nick Kypreos is reporting that Ilya Kovalchuk is close to signing a contract with the Los Angeles Kings.
A source close to the situation said that the major problems that was holding the deal back have been corrected and that Kovalchuk was close to signing a long-term contract with the Kings. Stay tuned as Kovalchuk was the major UFA in the NHL in the off-season.
Source: Nick Kypreos on Twitter
I don’t know what to make of this…?
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Howe 9 Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 10:57 am
@Forecheck!,
Read the above posts.
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Cynic Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 11:00 am
@Forecheck!,
At this rate, Kypreos is Grrek for ‘Eklund’.
Back away….
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YES on 19 Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 11:03 am
@Forecheck!, Nick Kypreos was a better player than reporter, and that’s not saying much…
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PV Kings Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 11:09 am
@Forecheck!, What was the main reason for the deal being held back, no-trade clause?
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5holer Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 12:57 pm
@Forecheck!, Never trust a former Ranger for any reason! I’d sooner hear directly from Zeus at Mt Olympus then pay any heed to a lug nut like Niko Kyprios. All the same, there is a basis for his optimism. Just ask Kreskin or the Mayans or some Armenian guy. Howard Stern might even know by now! There are alot of T’s to cross, I’s to dot, and alot of punctuation marks to plot on a 45 page contract, maybe 450 pages if Congress has to sign off on it? Just kidding! Something is done in someone’s board room by now. Gotta clean it up and make it presentable to us fans first.. in the Spin Cycle right now I think. Watch out for another Brown Out tho? Never ending story never ends, or maybe it does in a flash. Someone unplug the pencil sharpeners.
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I’ve got a story to share:
I was having lunch with some co-workers at a little Pho’ place near the office last Friday.
We were sitting outside on this patio, well, it is really a sidewalk next to the parking lot, and at the table next to ours sat Paul Kariya, his agent (I’m guessing), his brother (looked just like him), and two smoking hot chicks.
I overheard them discussing Kovi and the numbers that have been thrown around.
As I was leaving, I asked if he had made a decision as to where he would be playing next season. He said he hadn’t.
I followed up with, “Any chance you might be a King?” He replied: “Yes”, to which I said, excitedly, “REALLY?!?”, and he said, “No, not really.”
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puddle Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 11:09 am
@Sparman, This made me laugh.
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BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 11:13 am
@Sparman,
Maybe he said, “No, not really,” to keep his
Smoking Hot Chick happy…
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Rich, I think you need to install a counter to this page to see the number of hits this site has taken over the past 2 weeks. I know just from my visits alone, would account for over 200 hits so far.
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I really think that the deal was already done a few days ago. That was the reason D. Lombardi took a few days off. I don’t think you leave without resolving the situation either way. As people are saying this deal could be one of the biggest FA signings in KIngs history (Not including Gretzky of course).
I compare this to bidding on a major project. You work the numbers every wich way you can, work out every possible situation, put in for all kinds of contigencies, and then submit the proposal. Having experienced this throughout my carrer, it is a very exhausting ordeal. After it is over you are spent, done.
I think D. LOmbardi still has some more “tweeking” to do with the team, but he needs to “shut it down” for a few days.
Deal done a few days ago, just the final details being worked out between lawyers.
Just my $0.02
OSO
P.S.
Keep up the good work Rich
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oso Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 11:31 am
@oso,
correction: Gretzky was traded to team, but you get my point
OSO
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I would crack up if a press conference was held tomorrow at 5:17 PM to announce the IK signing. (You guys on military time will know what I’m talking about here.)
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