Just to clarify, there’s not yet any deal finalized between the Kings and Ilya Kovalchuk, but it’s starting to feel as though it could happen at any time. A couple people are starting to get more cryptic with their denials, so we shall see. It’s worth noting that Tim Leiweke is doing business in Europe this week, which has the potential to complicate management approval because of the time difference. Presumably, the sides are talking long term, and remember that every free agent who signs a medium-to-long-range deal is going to have his eyes on 2012, when the potential for labor strife exists. If there’s a lockout — and Donald Fehr looms large for the players’ association — players will do their best to guarantee themselves money that year, because they wouldn’t be drawing a regular paycheck. This was a big part of the “Money Players” book I mentioned a few days ago, in reference to 2004-05. Anyway, we’ll see if anything develops tonight.
LATEST NEWS- Los Angeles is Kings of the road
- Kings' success brings back memories of 1993
- Can anyone stop the Kings?
- Kings' run evokes memories of '93 for broadcasters
- Kings await Rangers or Devils in Stanley Cup Final
- Kings, Coyotes differ sharply on Brown's hit
- Penner's overtime winner caps personal turnabout
- Live Chat: Western Conference Final
- TV and Radio - Tonight
- West Finals Game 5 Notes: Kings vs. Coyotes
RULES FOR BLOG COMMENTING
- No profanity, slurs or other offensive language. Replacing letters with symbols does not turn expletives into non-expletives.
- Personal attacks against other blog commenters, and/or blatant attempts to antagonize other commenters, are not tolerated. Respectful disagreement is encouraged. Posts that continually express the same singular opinion will be deleted.
- Comments that incite political, religious or similar debates will be deleted.
- Please do not discuss, or post links to, websites that illegally stream NHL games.
- Posting under multiple user names is not allowed. Do not type in all caps. All violations are subject to comment deletion and/or banning of commenters, per the discretion of the blog administrator.
SOCIAL MEDIA
LA Kings Insider LA Kings Official
woo….
[Reply]
LBlocal Reply:
July 17th, 2010 at 4:36 pm
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2lcTKe_EUNg&feature=player_embedded
Only in L.A.
gkg!
[Reply]
and there ya have it! thanks rich!
[Reply]
FINALLY?? YOU MEAN….FINALLY MAYBE?! Break in the clouds folks!!!
[Reply]
Please let today be the day so I don’t spend all weekend on my blackberry.
[Reply]
Joey No-No Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 5:12 pm
@RBR, dude…I am so with you!
[Reply]
I think i saw a pig fly past the window…
[Reply]
BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 4:27 pm
@oldthunder,
ROFLMAO!
…Unless it was a pulled pork sandwich!
[Reply]
kingfish Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 5:26 pm
@oldthunder,
Is Roger Waters practicing near your house? Its happened before….
[Reply]
Danielle Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 6:22 pm
@oldthunder,
It must have been the Flying Pig (http://www.flyingpigtruck.com/index.html) or TastyMeat! lunch trucks (http://www.tastymeat.org/)
[Reply]
You’re the best Rich, thanks!!!
[Reply]
This is unusually optimistic….
[Reply]
mrk Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 5:45 pm
@5thLine,
I agree. I don’t see how “more cryptic in their denials” can be anything but.
[Reply]
Aaaaannnnyyyy second now…
[Reply]
Please let this end!!! My wife thinks I am crazy because I just sit at the desk and hit refresh all night. (shhh, I do it all day at work also.)
[Reply]
The legend of Juraj Mikus ordered Zues to briefly drop rain on the Imperial Valley yesterday. I Like Mik’.
[Reply]
The prospect of Fehr leading the players off the precipice like lemmings, effectively killing the sport I love scares the bejeezus out of me. Especially at a time when the Kings may be hitting their peak makes it all the more frightening. I am a season ticket holder who will be leaving LA in the next few years so I would REALLY like to see them win a cup while I am here [I put in my dues, not as much as some but more than enough].
[Reply]
Marbles Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 4:32 pm
@fehr be fair,
Just curious, where are you going?
[Reply]
I usually dread the offseason, but you have made it SO MUCH FUN. Thanks for everything you do!
[Reply]
jesse Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 10:39 pm
@Elizabeth, Like you I usually have dreaded the offseason, but after the season that the boys had and now the possibility of adding a true sniper to our arsenal has made this offseason—as you said-SO MUCH FUN. Go Kings Go.
[Reply]
Great stuff Rich. I just finished posting on the previous thread that I thought it would all be over by Monday. I hope I am correct in this.
And seriously for anyone interested, definetely read Money Players, I have one copy so email me if you want it, I wrote on a thread how this had been the deal breaker previously and it seems like it should be done with quickly now.
[Reply]
Marbles Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 4:34 pm
@EASportsMgt,
What’s your email because I would like to get my hands on it haha.
[Reply]
Jorgen Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 7:58 pm
@EASportsMgt, I’m really interested in reading Money Player. Do I tell you here where to email it or?
Much appreciated!
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:23 pm
@EASportsMgt,
Funny this should come up, I just got my copy of “Money Players” today from Amazon.com. Rich should get a kick back. BTW, thank you Rich for all you do.
[Reply]
Rich, is DL still in CO., or back in LA?
[Reply]
Do you get paid by the web hit? I only ask because this whole thing has been made into such a drama… and it isn’t in the least. I think it’s hysterical how you’ve poured gasoline on the fire and the fans sit there fanning.
Who cares. When it gets done (or if it gets done…) we’ll have a hockey team. Til then, we have a hockey team.
[Reply]
Daniel Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 4:42 pm
@Marc Nathan, Dude, there are no ads here. Get real.
[Reply]
Darren Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 5:02 pm
@Marc Nathan, then don’t come on this website and moan about how nothing is happening, easy as that. God forbid we have 1 MORE WHINY LA KINGS FAN.
[Reply]
Ronnie Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 7:32 pm
@Darren, Dude do blame whiny Kings fans its been over forty years one Cup appearance no STANLEY.
[Reply]
Mike S Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 5:11 pm
@Marc Nathan, Thank you so much for that brilliant, brilliant insight. Some people…
[Reply]
Dave Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 5:25 pm
@Marc Nathan, in a world turned topsy turvy by Kovy madness, it is good to know we can always count on you to be snarky.
[Reply]
Lanny McDonald's 'Stache Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 7:00 pm
@Marc Nathan,
This comment is about as obtuse as they come. Last time I checked, the rest of the league, and every other hockey-related website out there considers this situation to be a fairly big deal. But of course, fans must only care about it because Rich “pours gasoline” (completely unsubstantiated and incomprehensible claim). Crawl back into your troll hole now please.
[Reply]
Jason08 Reply:
July 17th, 2010 at 1:01 pm
@Lanny McDonald’s ‘Stache, Well stated.
[Reply]
A signing of this scale seems more likely to be announced after the weekend rather than before, I’d guess — if this thing is indeed imminent at last.
[Reply]
xeropoint Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:47 pm
@Pumpernicholl,
Massive props on the screen name!
“Do the pumpernickel Bernie!”
[Reply]
So, Rich, what are the odds now? 90/10 for the Kings and Kovalchuk?
[Reply]
I’ve spent the last 14 days checking my phone, my pc…. then i’ll probably end up hearing something on the radio, where some part-time weekend sports anchor says Kings signed some Russian player….
I’ll believe it when i see it…
No offense Rich…I think you are doing a fantastic job….
[Reply]
From Helene’s twitter:
over bonus/salary in 2012-13 season and maybe over no trade/no movement clauses and how deep into the deal a clause would kick in.
[Reply]
We need this deal to take the next step.
This will help show FAs in the future that LA is a viable place to ply their trade and will give them a good chance at winning a SC for many years to come.
INK HIM THEY WILL COME!
[Reply]
Not sure what is hotter, the rumors at how close the deal is to finalizing or the temperatures in the Southland. 103 here in Covina!
[Reply]
Matt R Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 4:55 pm
@sstephen17, Ha! Got you beat! It’s 70 here in Redon…wait, nevermind, you win.
[Reply]
sstephen17 Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 5:57 pm
@Matt R, Them’s fighting words, lol. Worse part about it is our AC is out and the repair guy isn’t coming until Monday. I’ll sweat it out for Kovi though, lol.
[Reply]
Ronnie Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 7:35 pm
@sstephen17, dude I do heating and aircondition live in valley village Ca, if your local ph-818-438-6249
Buster Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 8:23 pm
@sstephen17,
It FINALLY got DOWN to 105 in Vegas.
[Reply]
Goring 19 Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 10:24 pm
@Buster, at what time? Midnight? LOL
[Reply]
Buster Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 11:24 pm
@Goring 19,
It was last night at this time.
Two Words:
Saskatechwan ButtThunder
Name of the new NHL expansion franchise. Gotta lighten this thing up a little!
[Reply]
sasKing Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 5:00 pm
@Cynic,
If you’re gonna make fun of my province, at least spell it correctly. Go Saskatchewan ButtThunder!
[Reply]
Cynic Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 5:11 pm
@sasKing,
WHOOPS! Typing too fast. My apologies.
Rolls off the tongue though, doesn’t it? I’d buy a damn jersey!
Really though, I’d just want to see the words: SASKATCHEWAN BUTTTHUNDER etched on the Cup! LOL!
What would be the logo? I’ve never seen an actual picture of a RoughRider, so…
[Reply]
jet Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 5:49 pm
@Cynic, you get a free soybean burrito with every ticket.
[Reply]
Arron Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 6:16 pm
@jet,
Oh God those jerseys would be green and before you know it there would be Buttthunder jerseys everywhere. Just like the Roughriders of the CFL those things will breed like rabbits. This coming from a Bomber fan.
Yikes (but all in good fun)
Heck I would drive to see a game or two.
[Reply]
Cynic Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 6:20 pm
@jet,
OK, I spit coke out all over my desk. LOL!
[Reply]
I’m hearing 15 year/80 M contract?
Might this really be correct?
[Reply]
flex Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 7:05 pm
@LGK!!, Yes ,it’s true,but that one is for Nicol Kovalchook to performe the national antem before the game.Also,part of the deal…after every 10 goals Kovi scores,they would stop the game and she will performe national antom of russia(free of charge) all funs get a bottel of russian vodka.
[Reply]
Kevin Y Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 8:33 pm
@flex,
Do those… “underage” fans get the vodka too?
(Not that it matters… I work in a grocery store, I could sip some in the back without anybody knowing.
[Reply]
Git ‘er done, Dean!! We can’t take anymore!! That’s it; I am hereby calling upon Juraj Mikus to phone Kovy and do what Dustibn Brown wasn’t able too; that’s convince Kovy to drop the pretenses and sign!!
(Okay; I feel better now, a bit…Thought for a second maybe we ARE waiting for Mikus to tell him to sign!)
[Reply]
Yes, that is a nice update. Are we any more sure that something might happen soon? No. How many times do you think we going to fall for this trick?
[Reply]
DLB Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 4:52 pm
@Skebo, yeah, and how many times are people here going to keep asking for updates? How many times are they going to be unhappy once they get them?
[Reply]
Possibly TL is trying to talk Braun into coming over to the Kings next season.
[Reply]
Guys, there is no need to sit on the desk and hit the refresh key every minute. I get a text from twitter i believe on my phone every time there is a new update from rich. Just go here http://www.twitter.com/lakingsinsider, set you cell number on the site and get the recent updates. I used to sit here just pressing F5 all day hahahah how sad.
[Reply]
Keeper Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 5:15 pm
@- ViC -, Do you need to have a Twitter account to get those updates? I refuse to get one.
[Reply]
mrk Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 5:56 pm
@Keeper,
I’m with you.
[Reply]
Buster Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 8:18 pm
@Keeper,
I still don’t like any site that will open itself up so much to the point where a poster can be called the “head twit”.
[Reply]
- ViC - Reply:
July 17th, 2010 at 6:53 pm
@Keeper,
Yes, it requires you to make an account but i dont even use twitter, i only made it to get updates from Lakings Insider. It’s not going to hurt you.
[Reply]
Maybe we could buy Fro back on a one-season deal, convincing him to wait’ll next year when UFAs have a better market.
Of course that’s baloney — especially after the contract Soiku got with the Wild — but I DO miss Fro already. I’ve never seen ANYbody — not even those monsters from Detroit — hold onto the puck the way he can.
[Reply]
I wouldn’t expect any announcements until Sunday night…at the earliest. The PR hit would be much better then, as Friday is not a great day to broadcast any big news. IF they can keep it quiet til then, I say look to Sunday night or early Monday. Just enjoy your weekends.
[Reply]
gralx Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 4:55 pm
@kngsfn77, I keep hearing that from various sources. But, this is a huge story to those of us who care. (LAK, NJD, and hah, the Quacks bandwaggoners who are about to come back) Big news, they will have plenty of PR on this even if the announce it at 3 in the morning.
[Reply]
I hear he might sign with the Clippers. Okay seriously, he needs to sign somewhere so the NHL can get on with things.
[Reply]
5 minutes on Facebook, stop, back to lakingsinsider to see the absolute latest, repeat.
[Reply]
Great news Rich! I hope something gets done today!
[Reply]
Who cares if he is in Europe!!!! Wake him up!!!!!!!!! LOL
[Reply]
Robitaillefan Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 4:58 pm
@gralx,
Wake him up and sign off NOW! Can’t take this any longer!
GO KINGS GO!
[Reply]
This is depressing, how can something this boring and maddening go on for 16 days and yet still get our attention and yet avoid the national media like LeBron James, oh well at least I’m not in school while following this
[Reply]
Question????
If we tendered an offer sheet to a player, and their team matched, would that player have the right to still choose OUR team instead?
If not, then why?
And if yes, then how many draft picks would we have to give them?
[Reply]
gralx Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 4:57 pm
@Deadmarsh, The team holding the rights to the RFA (Ducks and Ryan, I assume you are after) hold the right of last refusal. This is the team’s leverage, not the players. The players leverage is the ability to go find another suitor.
[Reply]
Kevin Y Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 8:46 pm
@Deadmarsh,
To answer your question about draft pick compensation, this will help:
$1,020,348 or below: None
Over $1,020,348 to $1,545,981: Third-round choice
Over $1,545,981 to $3,091,963: Second-round choice
Over $3,091,963 to $4,637,944: First-round and third-round choice
Over $4,637,944 to $6,183,925: First-round, second-round and third-round choice
Over $6,183,925 to $7,729,907: Two first-round choices, one second- and one third-round choice
Over $7,729,907: Four first-round choices
I believe, for example, “four first-round picks” means your NEXT four picks. You MUST have those picks, and they MUST BE YOUR OWN. You can’t use a pick acquired by another team (unless you re-acquired your own pick) for compensation.
So, in the case of Hjalmarsson, his offer sheet was at $3.5M AAV. That means that, in order for San Jose to sign him to that offer sheet, they must have their own 1st-round and 3rd-round pick in the 2011 draft.
If a team were to sign Bobby Ryan to an offer sheet, maybe worth $5M annually, they must have their own 1st-, 2nd-, and 3rd-round picks in the 2011 draft.
(All this information came from a comment on Fire & Ice, a nice NJ Devils blog) http://blogs.northjersey.com/blogs/fireice/
[Reply]
With this whole Kovulchuk situation, I feel like a dog watching someone eat a roast beef sandwich.
Drop a crumb! Drop a crumb! Oooh! Crumb! *devours* More! More!
[Reply]
BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 4:59 pm
@FiG17,
Make that a Golden Bird fried chicken drumstick, and I am with you!
[Reply]
tyler Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 5:03 pm
@FiG17, Haha well put
[Reply]
For Rich to come out and say this MUST mean something is about to happen. If there really is a deal, in principal, and all thats left is hammering out details such as NTC and lockout year “bonuses”…
[Reply]
refresh,refresh,refresh,refresh, damit, ok one more time,refresh,no not yet ok then, refresh, ok one more time.
[Reply]
BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 5:02 pm
@chuckrocks,
It’s like Lloyd Brides in the movie ‘Airplane’…
“Well, I picked a bad time to stop sniffing glue!”
[Reply]
What’s going to drive me to drink is the fact that I’ve been hooked on this drama since 9am on July 1. I’ve cried, prayed, screamed, cheered, dropped zanex, changed plans….. everything you can think of just to hear the good news when it happens. And now I can see what’s going to happen. He’s going to sign, but I’ll be at a movie or somewhere when it happens and I’m going to have to learn about it from one of my kids who already think I’m crazy for refreshing all the time. Where’s the justice in that???????
[Reply]
rich ur a beast….u r the man and deserve an award when the season starts for all the countless hours u have spent with the kovy situation ur the man rich….l
[Reply]
If the price is right sign him. I will not repeat #s I don’t believe came from anyone that knows anything. Anyway they always state #s that don’t mean anything.
The year by year salary is real indicator of the benifit to Kovi. Like I have said before Kovi is about the 15th best Forward in the league just to name a few between 5-14 Semin, both Sedins, Nash, & Parise. I wonder if he would take a 1 yr 9+ mil deal? Basically, I think he would be hooked if he spent a year here, and would sign for less than what the contract would be long term right now.
[Reply]
Due to the influx of rumors involving Juraj Mikus, I feel the need to warn everyone of the seriousness of their actions.
Kovakchuk is HUMAN and therefore, when subject to rumors, cannot do any damage to those who spread them.
Juraj Mikus on the other hand is NOT MORTAL! We have all read tales of his wrath and I, for one, would NEVER want to tempt fate and subject myself to utter annhilation.
Now seeing as I hold the magic jersey (Purchased at his summer home in Anaheim), I hold the connections to give you the latest information on Juraj Mikus and his status. Ok then…………
We ALL know KovyGate is a pretty powerful and frustrating ordeal. The REAL reason it is being held up is because Kovy wants to be top dog and KNOWS if Juraj Mikus resigns the Kings to himself that Kovy cannot be said ‘Top Dog’. The REAL reason for all the holdups is that both sides are working TOGETHER to convince Juraj Mikus to obstain from resigning and simply staying with the organ-eye-zation as ‘Spiritual Advisor’. This would allow Kovy top billing and allow the Kings to not lose the more improtant ‘Mojo’ of Juraj Mikus, which without, they cannot with the Cup.
It’s been said we can win without Kovy. This is true. Kovy knows it. We cannot win without Juraj Mikus. Kovy knows this and continues to back away from the table for fear of retribution if he does not approach Juraj Mikus the right way. He is being very careful. He understands the PERFECT balance that needs to be in place for the miracle to happen.
It has taken this long in order to appease Juraj Mikus and achieve the perfect balance. It was never about money. It was never about term.
It was simply about Juraj Mikus. It always is. You now have the exclusive Rich. Go forth and drop knowledge.
[Reply]
luc20rules Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 5:10 pm
@Cynic, I dare not even use the first name. To me he is just refered to as the MIKUS. To speak or write his first name would imply mortal status.
[Reply]
fourtunato Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 7:04 pm
@luc20rules,
As I type this I avert my eyes lest they linger too long over that holiest of names and unleash a karmic retribution so deadly and so utterly complete that I shudder at the imagining of the consequences.
[Reply]
Buster Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 8:26 pm
@fourtunato,
On August 1st, sharks are going to protest that the week isn’t dedicated to THE MIKUS.
variable Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 7:21 pm
@Cynic,
nice…:)
btw…
thanks for the foxy pic…WAVES sent it to me…it’s my fb pic now…:)
yr awesome, T…!
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 10:00 pm
@Cynic,
Quickly turns eyes away. Says 10 hale mary’s. Forgive me lord, they know not what they do speaking the holy M word.
[Reply]
By the way it is only 1 a.m. in Europe, TL should still be awake!
Get it done DEANO!
[Reply]
luc20rules Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 7:37 pm
@Robitaillefan, If TL was serious that he feels his & AEGs job is incomplete until the Kings with the Cup he won’t mind the wake up call.
[Reply]
Ok I myself think he should sign and that it would be great for our developing team but we need to understand the magnitude of the situation. Not only is k-chuck deciding where the rest of his entire career will take place but the team is committing a HUGE chunk of salary to one guy. K-chuck needs to be 500% sure he and his family want to live in la and the team need to know that signing him for this sum of money will make him the established face of the franchise. What if he signed and then next year his production falls off? (god forbid) or he gets hurt and isn’t the same after? Just things to think about in wondering why it’s taking a few weeks. Anyway go kings!
[Reply]
jet Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 5:43 pm
@Cortex949, never buy a house, you will not be able to ever sleep.
[Reply]
Lol, Rich at the kings playoff game 6 you were at the top and I said hi well before the game and said bye to you. Being like a celebrity do you remember things like these? I’ve always wondered because I asked Kopi the same thing once and he was al…..”uhhhh” !! funny
[Reply]
King4life Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 5:16 pm
@Tyler, dude I always wonder about that too if people remember me from a certain day
[Reply]
“Kovi looks done 15 yrs 80 mil. Structure being finished. Kings-m”
http://twitter.com/PetrosAndMoney
I hope this is true but this is what is being said…Helene Elliot is saying it still isn’t done but thats what these boys are saying enjoy writing countless comments now I can’t wait to see what everyone has to say
[Reply]
For all doubting the contracts made which are not meant to have the player play thru the life of the contract. Checkout Chris Pronger’s Salary Cap Hit then click the Actual Salary Button.
http://www.hockeybuzz.com/cap-central/team.php?team=PHI
[Reply]
Matt R Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 5:27 pm
@luc20rules, You know, I’ve seen a number of these contracts that go down to under $1m. I thought there was a veteran’s minimum of $1m per season. Is that not the case anymore? Or perhaps I was just imagining it in the first place.
[Reply]
luc20rules Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 7:50 pm
@Matt R, I believe it is just over 0.525 mil for 2010-11. It keeps changing each year. I looked over the 476 page CBA and if anyone is wondering if Kovi retires or plays in the KHL the cap hit would stop, and if a buyout needs to be done it is 1/3rd the cap hit for the life of the contract, which is what makes the 15 yr think get scary. If an injury does make it so he can’t play why retire if that stops the paychecks.
[Reply]
-J Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:30 pm
@luc20rules,
Assuming he gets a front-loaded contract, the cap hit is more complicated than that as it is related to cap savings so it has to be adjusted for every year. For ex, if he was set to earn 1 mil in one year and 5 mil in another, the cap hit in the 1 mil year would actually be higher. Also for a player over 26, it’s not 1/3, it’s 2/3rds, and that is stretched out over twice the number of years remaining on the contract.
Anyone else creeped out by the realization that, in fifteen years, you may not even be alive?
Man, I’m getting old!
[Reply]
luckyluc13 Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 5:22 pm
@BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy,I will be retiring that year also.Wish I knew I would make $100 mil by then
[Reply]
gralx Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 5:22 pm
@BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy, If we have a cup or 5 by then…. I will have died a happy man!!! :>)
[Reply]
Newf Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 5:27 pm
@BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy, i know my liver won’t be
[Reply]
Lanny McDonald's 'Stache Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 7:05 pm
@BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy,
How old are you Bako?? In 15 years I’ll be 40, AKA, might as well be dead
[Reply]
BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 7:39 pm
@Lanny McDonald’s ‘Stache,
Too old to say here…
Let’s say that when I was born, the Dodgers were still in Brooklyn…
[Reply]
Lanny McDonald's 'Stache Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 7:49 pm
@BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy,
Well, that explains the cogency and wisdom in your posts!
fourtunato Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 7:07 pm
@BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy,
Neither might Kovy. Life is uncertain.
[Reply]
Kevin Y Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 8:50 pm
@BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy,
I’m 19… if by any chance I’m not alive by then, it would’ve been because of alcoholic poisoning, me drinking so much vodka after Kovalchuk leads us to the Stanley Cup!
[Reply]
Thanks for all the updates, Mr. Hammond! How are you enjoying your summer break?
[Reply]
Is it going to happen by today or next week?
Kovalchuk Watch 2010 LIVE CHAT
http://deepinsidethekings.com/2010/07/12/kovalchuk-watch-2010/
[Reply]
All I have to say is there better not be another lockout, Kovy or no Kovy.
[Reply]
bingram Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 8:41 pm
@Gabby, Just what we need the NHL shooting themselves in the other foot!
I’m with your 100%.
Go kings go!
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 10:08 pm
@Gabby,
The owners and especially the players really screwed themselves the last time. I can’t imagine they’d be that stupid yet again. Everyone lost big time, but especially the players.
[Reply]
Gabby Reply:
July 17th, 2010 at 10:35 am
@KC23,
I hope you’re right. We lost out more than anyone, though. That was a dark year for hockey fans.
GO KINGS!!!
[Reply]
“Kovi, I have just faxed you the final chart, #146″ says DL. “let me know when you are ready to sign”.
[Reply]
rich,
just curious if tim leiweke is in europe trying to get ronaldinho over to aeg’s other team, the la galaxy? is that why he’s gone?
[Reply]
RoyalPain Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 7:05 pm
@paul,
Yeah, we need him since NY got Teary Ennui.
[Reply]
Forget about the lockout in 2012. DOn’t you know the world is ending then?
[Reply]
fourtunato Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 7:09 pm
@SaveByCechmanek,
I wonder if the whole Mayan end of world thing was just misread. Perhaps they were hockey fans and were simply predicting this strike.
[Reply]
I don’t want to get ahead of myself, but I already plugged the 15yr/$80mil deal ($5.333 annual cap hit) into cap geek (clearly I want to get ahead of myself):
Richardson re-upped? check.
Cliche, Parse and Clune? check.
AUTO-GENERATED CAPGEEK.COM LINES
FORWARDS
Anze Kopitar ($6.8m) / Ryan Smyth ($6.25m) / * Kovy ($5.333m)
Michal Handzus ($4m) / Jarret Stoll ($3.6m) / Justin Williams ($3.5m)
Dustin Brown ($3.175m) / Brayden Schenn ($3.14m) / * Brad Richardson ($1.5m)
Scott Parse ($0.9m) / Wayne Simmonds ($0.822m) / Marc-Andre Cliche ($0.66m)
* Richard Clune ($0.625m)
DEFENSEMEN
Drew Doughty ($3.475m) / Rob Scuderi ($3.400m)
Matt Greene ($2.950m) / Jack Johnson ($1.425m)
Davis Drewiske ($0.617m) / Peter Harrold ($0.583m)
GOALTENDERS
Jonathan Quick ($1.8m) / Jonathan Bernier ($0.843m) / Erik Ersberg ($0.75m)
CAPGEEK.COM TOTALS
(these totals are compiled using the bonus cushion)
ROSTER: 22; CAP: $59.4m; PAYROLL: $56.815m; BONUSES: $4.955m;
CAP ROOM: $7.040m
LOOK AT THAT CAP ROOM! TRADE FOR ANOTHER DMAN, RE-SIGN DD & JMFJ and after all these years, we finally have reason to be excited!
If 15/80 are the final #’s, DL is gonna look a genius. Please be true!!
[Reply]
John Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 6:15 pm
@Doughty99,
If true, we need to tattoo IN DL WE TRUST under the crown on our ass!
[Reply]
Rich
Thank you so much for all the info you have been just great and i think your passion for the game should be felt by all. It was a pleasure meeting you at the draft this year as well
Mike
[Reply]
Hey Rich,
When is the press conference announcing Kovi’s signing?
[Reply]
I won’t beleave it until I see K chuck at a press table puting on a kings jersey & cap
[Reply]
I knew it! Kovalchuk was just waiting for Cliche to sign…*now* he knows the Kings are serious.
[Reply]
TVA333 Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 6:49 pm
@Mel, ROTFLMAO
[Reply]
“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.’”
Kypreos did not provide details on what the winning offer might be.
i’m guessing close too being done but could be few more days
[Reply]
Freddy Fingers Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 7:01 pm
@nate101,
Nate, seriously? A little late to the party there, bud.
[Reply]
Hey, Kovalchuk backwards is Kuhclavok. Where are my meds?
[Reply]
Hope everyone is ready to see Kovi on the next season of ‘Keeping up with the Kardashians’…..we all know how much those ladies love superstars
[Reply]
Hey Devils fan here, you guys think he will sign with you or what?
[Reply]
tuan jim Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 10:22 pm
@Satan,
Welcome. No one knows anything., All of us think EVERYTHING.
Half the time I don’t even want him to sign, for fear it will cost us players I like a whole bunch more than Kovy.
He put up about a point a game for you guys, but I can’t get that moment out of my head where he got zapped for that short-handed goal.
[Reply]
Kovy is happily married to a Lithuanian chick
[Reply]
There a light at the end of the tunnel, and by god I do not think it is a train this time!!!
[Reply]
Hey, the paint’s dry. Cool.
[Reply]
If they’re getting close to a deal then that must mean they solved the biggest sticking point of the negotiations… Who gets to wear #17? Simmonds, Kovalchuk… or Lubo when we steal him back from the Ducks?
[Reply]
TVA333 Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 7:29 pm
@Brandon,
Aaaaaah Lubo.. Tugs at me heart strings every time… That will most likely not happen.. But, what will happen is a gentlemanly conversation between Dean an Simmonds which will go something like this:
Dean: “Hey Simmer, you got a minute”?
Simmer: ” Nah, nah, totally Dean-o.. He’s got it… I’ll just go back to 57. Don’t even sweat it”.
[Reply]
BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 7:35 pm
@TVA333,
Simmonds = 71
Kovalchuk = 17
[Reply]
Eric K Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 7:48 pm
@BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy, Lubo=97. Or, a giant cookie.
TVA333 Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 8:05 pm
@BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy,
Makes perfect sense… Good call Bako
RoyalPain Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 7:56 pm
@Brandon,
Voite for Lubo!
[Reply]
Matt George Reply:
July 17th, 2010 at 5:13 am
@Brandon,
hmm .. that’s actually kinda cool
those of us with current simmy jerseys will be like (yup … this here is a “pre-kovi” jersey… i was one o the first to rekonize the kid)
Lubo? who? what???
How the heck did THAT rumor get started?
Lubo would be awesome
[Reply]
Okay I said earlier that … whatever
This thing is really getting freakin effin redickulous
total
freakin
buzzkill
[Reply]
http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=533377
# Free Agency Blog: King-sized deal for Kovy?
[Reply]
I CALLED THIS LAST YEAR BEFORE HE WAS A UFA KOVI TO THE KINGS TO LOCK UP THE KINGS FIRST CUP!!!!!! LONG TIME COMING, he wants to win, jsut at what cost, I think we need to thank lebron and bosh and wayde for taking pay cuts to show that a CHAMPIONSHIP is worth more than making the money!!!!! LA will lose 18 games this year!!! 10 by 1 goal NOONE CAN BE AS DEEP AS LA. this will complete a potentiaL dynasty!!!!
[Reply]
KOHO Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 10:01 pm
@chris P,
They might’ve given up something to play together but let’s face it they will all make $15 million a year so that’s probaly double what the Kings will pay Kovi.
IF that was Crosby, Ovechkin and Kovi they would’ve done that in a hearbeat. ; )
[Reply]
I know I’m so burned out on checking NHL rumors for Kovy this is killing me and my girlfrend stop torturing Kovvy and Kings get this done. This will be so awsome finally STANLEY CUP CONTENDERS and WE WILL BE THE TALK OF THE NHL FOR ONCE.YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS
[Reply]
So, looks like you’ll have Kovy.
[Reply]
This just needs to be said:
IN “THE HAMMER” WE TRUST!!!
[Reply]
In real news.
http://lakingsnews.com/2010/07/16/brad-richardson-has-signed-a-one-year-deal/
[Reply]
TVA333 Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 7:58 pm
@Surly Jacob,
Thanks for the post mate! Wish it were for longer… But I’m just glad to know that Richie will be back to dominate the dot-to-boards again for 1 more year, so that he can really make an impression on the organization.
[Reply]
fourtunato Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 8:47 pm
@Surly Jacob,
I like that logo. It’s better than the third sweater.
[Reply]
Will Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:54 pm
@fourtunato, I love that logo also. It is very sharp and classy
[Reply]
Good luck with him. The guy basically ran away from the East because he can’t be a star with the likes of superstars like Crosby, Malkin, Ovechkin, Parise, Gaborik (grrr), Stamkos, Briere, Lecavalier, Afinoganov etc…
No major rival games like Ranger Devils games, or Philly Pitt games.
He’s going to LA to be a fat cat for 10 years, let his wife be a famous actress, rob Lombardi if there is a strike, and bury Kopitar. He’s a playoff blunder. Although, he’s quite exciting to watch. He’s as fast as lightning. But doesn’t know what the term TEAMWORK is.
You got it right.. I’m as bitter as a toothless cat in a room full of mice.
Good Luck with him.
[Reply]
TVA333 Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 7:55 pm
@RickyM2,
Well at least you called yourself out.. Saves us all the trouble.
And if you really think that you’ll see the same Kovalchuk on the team he will spend the rest of his career with…
Not to mention the team that can actually provide him with support and defense…
Not to mention secondary scoring and one hell-of-a PP…
You are undeniably mistaken.
So go ahead and cry yourself to sleep on your huge pillah.. Your presence is not welcome here.
[Reply]
RickyM2 Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 8:09 pm
@TVA333, just calling it like it is, and has been for 8 years with him. He had plenty of support in 2006-2007 in Atlanta with guys like Hossa and Koslov, with a defense having vishnevski and hnidy. They got SWEPT by a rag tag team like the rangers!! Why would it change now? Especially if he’s locked up for BIG $$$…
[Reply]
Matt George Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:15 pm
@RickyM2,
Those other teams had no JJ or Simmonds and they Damn Sure had no Doughty.
Yes he hasn’t gotten passed the first round … but there’s no way he’s ever been on a team like this one.
Big time.
waxieman Reply:
July 17th, 2010 at 5:35 am
@TVA333,
Sour grapes my friend
[Reply]
xeropoint Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:22 pm
@RickyM2,
Afinogenov is a star?
If Hnidy and Vishnevski are your anchors on defense, I would be a little hesitant to say he had “plenty” of support.
I’m not saying Kovulchuk is guaranteed to make us a dynasty or even win us a cup (like some crazy people suggest) either, but Atlanta has never had more than an average team. Ever.
Just sayin’
[Reply]
KOHO Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 10:09 pm
@xeropoint,
The Kings will have him on the same page as the rest of the guys playing team hockey. Kopi and Kovi on the same line you can throw a pylon out there with them and it would even score.
The Kings will get a few more skill guys to step up and contribute so I’m not worried about Kovi going Kobe on the league.
[Reply]
Mike S Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 10:08 pm
@RickyM2, Briere? Afinogenov? You can’t be serious. And really, just because the Eastern Conference has a few big names doesn’t mean it’s the better conference. Quite the opposite, actually. And the Pacific Division is no joke. But I understand your bitterness, and I also understand that it’s easy for fans to dump all the blame on the high profile players when their teams fail. So if Kovy buries Kopi and causes us to choke in the playoffs, then feel free to come back and say “I told you so”. But we all know that’s not going to happen.
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 10:22 pm
@RickyM2,
Good point about the forwards, but the defense is laughable compared to what the Kings will have. Not to mention the goaltending debth the Kings will likely have.
The Kings will have a very very scarey PP.
[Reply]
Rich,
Can you confirm that Richardson has signed a 1 year deal with the Kings?
[Reply]
All right. Once we get Kovi locked up what are the chances we can trade for Patrick Sharp?
[Reply]
TVA333 Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 8:01 pm
@Big Rob in Dallas,
Oh man I hope… That would be ridiculous… Watching that cat dominate playoff Hockey was priceless… But I though I read somewhere that he had already been traded.. Could be wrong… Might need to call upon waves/variable/quisp for a recap…
[Reply]
Scootty Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 8:29 pm
@Big Rob in Dallas,
Don’t see the Hawks dealing Sharp to any team in the West, especially the Kings, who are about to become their main competition for the Western Conference title in the next year or two.
If they do end up dealing Sharp, which I really don’t see happening, then he’ll be going out East.
[Reply]
Bingram Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:05 pm
@Scootty, The Blackhawks that won ‘The Cup’ are no more.
[Reply]
Kevin Y Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 11:04 pm
@Scootty,
“especially the Kings, who are about to become their main competition for the Western Conference title in the next year or two”
God, NEVER thought I’d hear that! That just feels so good.
[Reply]
waxieman Reply:
July 17th, 2010 at 5:41 am
@Big Rob in Dallas,
Agree all the guys they have unloaded have went too the east. No chance on Sharp.
[Reply]
“So yer sayin’ there’s a chance…”
[Reply]
Have to say, even though I feel like Ive delivered a baby the last two weeks.. a 200 pound baby, I am grateful for the Kings organizations integrity the last few years and for Rich’s professionalism. Ill be cheering like a freak next season one way or the other. Kudos! MAKE THE ANNOUNCEMENT!!
[Reply]
Devils fan here,
I really hope you guys sign Kovy, and soon. He was fun to watch and I wouldn’t be heartbroken if he re-signed in NJ for the right price. But any deal could put keeping Parise in jeopardy and that would be a deal breaker in the eyes of most fans.
[Reply]
kingfish Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 8:37 pm
@puckbandit,
I would rather have parise. Better player. you guys are better off without kovy, would be a lopsided team with 2 1st line LWs
[Reply]
RickyM2 Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 8:45 pm
@kingfish, I wouldn’t say Zach is “better” than Kovy. But definitely in the same league.
[Reply]
kingfish Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 8:53 pm
@RickyM2,
to me zach is willing to do whatever it takes to win that includes going to any part of the ice, in the corner and in front of the net. the goal in the olympics sums up parise. that kid works his a off
for a lot of his goals. kovy has a deadly shot but I think zach is more complete. hopefully kovy will buy into our system and play in the corners and be solid on D. if that happens kovy will be better than zach
Kevin Y Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:01 pm
@kingfish,
I agree that Parise is a better player in the gritty aspects of the game… of course, that’s the kind of player we were looking for when we got Smyth last year.
Because they’re both predominately LWs, I don’t see them spending a lot of time together except maybe on the power play, but I think Kovalchuk would improve defensively in TM’s system. With Kovy, that I’m not too concerned about.
RickyM2 Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:05 pm
@kingfish, You seem to have a pretty good eye for hockey. I didn’t think LA fans followed players from the east. I admit, I rarely follow players from the West. Except for Bobby Ryan (NJ Native)
[Reply]
DellaNooch Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:39 pm
@RickyM2, East coast games are on earlier and the media focuses on the East Coast teams much more so than the west…so if you follow hockey on the west coast, you should know the players in the east
kingfish Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:42 pm
@RickyM2,
thanks, there are a few guys I kinda keep an eye on
thinking they would be perfect for the kings hoping DL could work some trade magic. parise is one of them. If im Lou right now Im getting a big offer sheet together for Ryan and locking up parise long term. Parise and Ryan on the same line would be sick!!
@kevin Y,
yeah they might only play on PP together. I think the issue is why have 2 guys who should both be on the 1st line at LW on your team? who plays 2nd line LW? it just seems like NJ would be better trying to improve in other positions considering some of their guys are getting pretty old. No offense to them they’ve had a hell of a run.
Kevin Y Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 11:03 pm
@RickyM2,
I’m not sure, after this whole thing, DL and Lou wanna deal with each other HAHA… well maybe, but I’m sure they’re sick of each other by now, having to compete against each other.
RickyM2 Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 8:38 pm
@puckbandit, It didn’t necessarily put Parise’s future in doubt. They could have dealt Rolston, or wait till Arnott’s money erases.
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 10:27 pm
@puckbandit,
It is rare that I am a fan of any player not on the Kings and even rarer if he never has been on the Kings, but I am a huge fan of Parise. You lucky bastages. I’d take him over Kovi in a heart beat.
That being said, I’m still very excited about Kovi being a King.
[Reply]
ah the old copy and paste…
FAIL
[Reply]
Glad to read that Richardson signed a new deal. (I was “glad” to read a lot of Kovalchuk stuff also, keep in mind).
Not sure exactly how big this is in reality, but I’d think this is a huge relief for the morale that they didn’t go to arbitration. You know, like how Richardson can go “hey, they think I’m worth $###, and that’s good enough for me”… not like one of those greedy players (*cough* Blake *cough*).
[Reply]
Today in History;
Washington DC named our nations capitol,1790;
Worlds first parking meter installed,1935;
Apollo 11 leaves earth, 1969;
Earthquake hits Phillipines, 1990;
Atom bomb first tested, 1945;
Why in the Heck couldn’t we have had something REALLY important happen?????? !!!
[Reply]
Kevin Y Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:03 pm
@Old Codger,
What are you talking about? You already listed like the most important event to happen on this date…
…where would this planet be without parking meters?
[Reply]
@kingfish – don’t hold your breath for Kovy to go into the corners, that is definitely NOT his game. He’s a sniper, pure and simple. Can he improve on defense? Yes, and did a bit in NJ
@RickyM2 – I know you wanted to keep Kovy in NJ, and I agree that he is a special enough player for Lou to go after, regardless of the fact we do not need another winger, but the guy wants LA. He played in Atlanta and lives in Fla. Maybe he’s a warm weather guy? I also guess all the talk of enjoying the intense Atlantic Division rivalries was just talk.
[Reply]
kingfish Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:50 pm
@puckbandit,
yeah im not, ha ha. I just hope he can put the puck in the net when needed and when not needed just for fun, (especially against Luongo, I hate that prick). Every guy on our team plays in the corners so it would be interesting to see how kovy plays. and if TM alters the system or makes an exception for Kovy. I also hope we dont mess with the leadership group on this team, let kovy just do his thing. ah hell we havent even signed the guy yet so we’ll see what happens. I mentioned above NJ should get an offer sheet together for Ryan. despite NJ cap what do you think?
[Reply]
RickyM2 Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 10:25 pm
@kingfish, Well, Bobby had some bad experiences in NJ as a kid. I don’t know he would ever wanna call this place home for a 2nd time. Plus he was a die-hard Flyers fan. NJ is divided up in to 3. North, South and Central. Central is mostle Devils fans, South is mostly Flyers fans, given in close proximity to Philly, and North is split between Ranger and Devils fans, given its close proximity to NYC.
I don’t think he would be happy here at a matchable price. He’ rather play anywhere else.
[Reply]
RickyM2 Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 10:27 pm
@kingfish, here is a link to his story as a boy.
http://sports.espn.go.com/espnmag/story?id=3782270
[Reply]
kingfish Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 11:05 pm
@RickyM2,
thanks for the link, wow thats crazy had never heard that. interesting mike futa (kings scout) picked him for the attack. at any rate I hope he doesnt stay with the ducks, I want them to suffer.
puckbandit Reply:
July 17th, 2010 at 5:08 am
@kingfish,
If Kovy signs with LA, I will also root form him to score loads of goals against Luongo! So we have that in common.
As far as Bobby Ryan, he’s a good player, but I think the Ducks offer is fair, and would not give up the compensation (1,2 & 3 round picks) for him. That’s probably why there have been not offer sheets for him. Also, NJ doesn’t have a 2 round pick (traded for Arnott) so we would have to re-acquire that first.
Back to Kovy, he is fun to watch, but is no magic bullet. I think that is why so many Devils fans are split about keeping him. You guys are building a fine team for the future and I don’t think he is necessarily a tipping point for a cup. Nobody is, really.
Remember, we had a really, really good team last year and Lou traded for Kovy hoping he would get us closer to a cup. And it did – on paper. We still finished 2nd in East and 6th in league.
Everyone points to early exit, but Philly was the only team in East top 8 that we had a losing regular season against. It was a nightmare match-up. One that we would have faired better in if we had picked up a shut-down defenseman instead of a sniper.
My point is, we were a contender BEFORE we added Kovy, and he still couldn’t put us over the finish line.
There are no guarantees not matter who’s on your team and how good they are. Just ask your northern neighbors.
[Reply]
Waxieman Reply:
July 17th, 2010 at 5:48 am
@puckbandit,
Alot too give up for a player that played in less than 30 Games, that’s why i’m so glad that Lombardi rolled the dice and didn’t get him at the deadline. Devils went for it and it didn’t work out which most rental players don’t. Tuff break
kingfish Reply:
July 17th, 2010 at 6:28 am
@puckbandit,
good points on the offer sheet.
Absolutely one guy cannot be the tipping point these days I completely agree. some are/were Gretzky, Messier, Orr, a few other legends. I think those days are gone though, back when there was more open ice and one guy could dominate a game. Heck Brodeur could shut the door on another team so he and other great goalies are game changers in that respect.
If you look at Hawks and Flyers its the depth on those teams that made the difference IMO. Those are monster teams depth wise (were in hawks case). If flyers had better goaltending could have been a different outcome. Philly is a beast team, underachievers in reg season. tenacious in the playoffs. insane depth at forward.
To me kovy is just another piece. I dont think anybody here (maybe a few) thinks one guy is going to instantly make the team a contender. The kings needed upgrades at 1st line wings and kovy is a great fit.
Hopefully he will get a modest cap hit, if that happens we can afford to keep the kids and still have some room. And with smyth on 2nd line and hopefully schenn coming up to play 3rd or 4th line C we are gonna be lookin pretty good ourselves. 1 more stay at home D-man and maybe another upgrade at 1st line RW and it will be a really solid team. plus we got quick and bernier tandem which is going to be awesome.
RickyM2 Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:58 pm
@puckbandit, As of now, no deal has been signed. Lou Lamoriello is pretty sharp.
[Reply]
According to Helene Elliott a source familuar with the discussions is 98% sure the deal with Kovi and the Kings will get done.
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/sports_blog/2010/07/ilya-kovalchuk-kings-dean-lombardi-nhl.html
[Reply]
Smyth-Kopitar-Williams
Kovulchuk-Handzus-Simmonds
Richardson-Stoll-Brown
Clune-Schenn-Parse
Doughty-Scuderi
? -Johnson
Green-Drewiske
Quick-Bernier
[Reply]
Mike L Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:51 pm
@xeropoint,
Kopitar NEEDS Kovalchuk and Kovalchuk NEEDS Kopitar.
Smyth should be on 2nd line so he doesn’t have as many minutes and won’t wear down for playoffs like this year. I think IMO a top line of
Kovalchuk-Kopitar-Brown would be amazing
[Reply]
Gary Livingston Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 10:01 pm
@xeropoint,
Haha. No way Smyth is on the first line if Kovi is on this team. That’s insanity.
[Reply]
xeropoint Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 10:27 pm
@Gary Livingston,
I realize Kovulchuk and Kopitar will most likely be paired. I really have NO problem with that either. The right winger then can’t be Brown IMO.
Ideally though, in my head, those lines have better balance. How do you match up against them?
[Reply]
Mike L Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 10:46 pm
@xeropoint,
why can’t it be Brown? To me Brown would be like the Smyth and be in front of the net and try to give Kovy and Kopi room. also I think Zeus is still 3rd line as the shutdown role thats what he does best with some offensive chip-ins here and there.
Kevin Y Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 10:56 pm
@xeropoint,
Personally, here’s what I’d go for:
Kovalchuk-Kopitar-Brown
Smyth-Handzus-Simmonds
Richardson-Stoll-Williams
That #1 line looks like one that could really do some damage… and ain’t nobody gonna be bullying Kovalchuk around with Brownie out there.
Also, can’t put Brown on the third line… he’s our captain, so I see him as basically HAVING to be Top 6. I understand the “balancing” of the lines, which I do all the time on NHL 10… but with the way TM shuffles the lines, anything can happen.
[Reply]
xeropoint Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 11:41 pm
@Kevin Y,
True that, brother! You can bet we will see every possible line combination. A nice problem to have regardless.
[Reply]
Lanny McDonald's 'Stache Reply:
July 17th, 2010 at 1:24 am
@Kevin Y,
Agreed, that is the best line combo for this team. Brown/Williams are interchangeable if one starts to slump and the other is playing well.
[Reply]
aklemen Reply:
July 17th, 2010 at 5:26 am
@Kevin Y, My predictions for would be:
Kovalchuk-Kopitar-Brown
Smyth-Stoll-Williams
Richardson-Handzus-Simmonds
I think that this 2nd line could do great together!
[Reply]
Tookie Reply:
July 17th, 2010 at 2:49 am
@xeropoint,
There’s no way the season doesn’t start..
Kovi-Kopi-Williams
Smyth-Stoll-Brown
Richie-Zues-Simmonds
I don’t see any changes being made. Williams had a REALLY crappy end to last year, hopefully he’s pissed and comes back with a vengance (except he not injured, at all, for the year), I don’t think Brown has the skill to play that top line. Kovi can handle himself and with Drew and scuds behind them that line would be awesome.
The only way the second line works is if Smyth and Brown go to the net and Stoll or D-men pound pucks through. I don’t see a lot of creativity on this line and it starts with the center. We’re stuck though so WTF.
Third line could use size but I think it’s well rounded. It’ll be tough for any team to get open ice on that line. Add to that the scoring ability there and it’s probably the most well rounded line we have.
[Reply]
miracle.on.manchester Reply:
July 17th, 2010 at 8:48 am
@Tookie, I can envision Kovi + Kopi sticking together throughout the season unless there is a stretch of struggles that is team-wide and TM would start spreading out the firepower in an attempt to kickstart the offense.
As for the RW’s, I can also see TM interchanging all the top 3 and go with the hot hand or until one of them really gels with Kovi/Kopi.
As long as Smyth and Brown play together, there will be lots of goals that come from crashing the net and thugging their way through. It won’t be pretty but it will be effective.
The third line Richardson + Zues + Simmonds will score mostly from pressure and grit.
Line #1 – Beauty.
Line #2 – Beast.
Line #3 – Ugly.
Line #4 – Energy Line.
Nonetheless, this would be fun and exciting to watch game-in and game-out!
[Reply]
xeropoint Reply:
July 17th, 2010 at 10:59 pm
@Tookie,
Those lines work for me. Although the whole Stoll problem (lack of creativity on that line)could easily be rectified by trading him for the veteran #4 Dman we want.
This is assuming, of course, Schenn or Loktionov are ready.
[Reply]
gene Reply:
July 17th, 2010 at 9:24 am
@xeropoint, Question? WHo is your big bad ass inforceer?
[Reply]
xeropoint Reply:
July 17th, 2010 at 10:55 pm
@gene,
I’m not really an advocate for having an enforcer. That’s the sort of thing for a by-gone era, IMO. If you really want one, Westgarth could be the man.
[Reply]
hey we all know kovi scores an average 40 goals a season, but thats generally against the eastern teams..
but…how do you think he’ll fare, playing the majority of his games against western teams? the west always ends up having more points in the end of the year.. do you think it will have any impact?
just a theory..
[Reply]
I am done, I cant take it anymore! All I have to say…
&^(&%(*&%&*_**(&&%$%9@#^%$^%^%**&9!
thats IT!
[Reply]
IF ,again ,If DL “forced” (?!!) Kovi to accept $5.3 million (??) exept him to score no more than 25-32 goals.that would be almost “crime”.We need this guy and we need him in good mood.There are only a few players like him…(iginla ..2 3?) He is much better than “wild” 6.7 m Kouvu,better than $7.5 Million gaborik. He is uniqe ,hard to find,fast strong ,accuret.
He is 27 only.He can help us a lot.Give him the money he desreves and let us finaly wach and enjoy our REAL KINGS.No less than 7 million
[Reply]
Mike L Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:52 pm
@flex,
5.3 is the CAP HIT. He will make 8+M$ but the money goes down in later years of contract which lowers the Cap hit. Don’t think 5.3 is the money he’s being paid he’ll be pay over 7M
[Reply]
tuan jim Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 10:32 pm
@Mike L,
I’m so nuts over this Kovi business that I can’t tell the difference between fact and speculation.
Is there ANYTHING behind your numbers but fluff and dreams?
[Reply]
Mike Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 10:42 pm
@tuan jim,
The 5.3 Cap hit is if the rumored deal of 15 years 80M is real. other than that I know as much as we do from this thread. This whole thing is being kept as private as possible.
F#$&* yeah!
Greetings and happy friday to all Kings tonight, FINALLY AFTER SUFFERING SINCE 1993 WE HAVE SOLIDIFIED OUR SQUAD WITH SKILL, TALENTED YOUNG PLAYERS, YES!!! TIME TO KICK ASS ALL THE WAY TO THE S.C. FINALS. I have been waiting for this 17 years and now, THANK YOU DEAN AND STAFFF…YOU TOO RICH
[Reply]
Lanny McDonald's 'Stache Reply:
July 17th, 2010 at 1:25 am
@Forecheck!,
Amen to that! I’m so excited for the coming season(s)
[Reply]
Waxieman Reply:
July 17th, 2010 at 5:54 am
@Forecheck!,
Try waiting since 1974 fell in love with the Kings after I saw my first game against the Blues at the forum. Many ups and downs but the future is bright and I see the cup on the horizon.
[Reply]
I gotta say I havent been this excited for a season since Kuri joined Gretz on the kings. I remember listening to that preseaon game on the radio when they reunited. Bob Miller: “Kuri to gretzky, gretzky to kuri, score!!” hopefully Kopi to Kovy will be that kind of magic. Lets not get ahead of ourselves here though, we gotta sign him first.
“Now I dont want anymore bulls#$t today, from anybody and that includes me!!!” – jack rebney
[Reply]
I’m falling apart here. Is there any REAL news? Not just the same fist-pumping in front of our flies, but REAL VERIFIABLE YOU-CAN-BET-YO’-ASS-AND-TAKE-THE-WINNINGS-TO-THE-BANK AUTHENTIC DEPENDABLE news?
[Reply]
Mike L Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 10:41 pm
@tuan jim,
No, LA and Grossman are trying to keep this as private as possible, but its noted all over that there close and everybody in the NHL believe Kovy will be a king soon maybe this weekend? Only LA and kovy know that.
[Reply]
In hoc signo vincess.any sigs up in here?
[Reply]
Monday the 19th might be a great day for Kings fans.. It seems that Kovi is still talking money,but he’s talking space cap also.. Everyone knows about the salary cap space,my hat’s off would go to both the Kings and Kovi if they would do a contract that would benefit the Kings cap wise…..
[Reply]
tuan jim Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 11:04 pm
@kfan,
I dunno if I can make it to the 19th.
Where . . . where are my nitro-glycerin tablets?
[Reply]
Mike L Reply:
July 16th, 2010 at 11:07 pm
@kfan,
Helene Elliot is saying the hold up might be his 2012-2013 salary and when his NTC/NMC he gets or wants when it will start and thats usually after the money has been agreed on.
[Reply]
Honestly this sounds fake..but honest to god.
A good friend of mine, has been a huge kings fan his whole life , season ticket holder(the whole nine yards)and all that. Anyways, he works in real estate, and actually did work for Scott ( the kings VP). Today , i was with him, and Scott called my friend , and he mentioned how he was with some new season ticket holders (finnally got myself a pack) , and scotts exact words were “Thats exciting, they get to see Ilya”. Bam, Done deal.
Honest to god.
Im stoked.
[Reply]
Cry Baby Reply:
July 17th, 2010 at 12:11 am
@Michael_dd8, Never, never, never would a VP say that. Bam retarded!
[Reply]
Michael_DD8 Reply:
July 17th, 2010 at 2:45 am
@Cry Baby,
Chris* was the name, and i know i cant sell my case so i wont try…honest to god though.
[Reply]
nykingfan Reply:
July 17th, 2010 at 6:53 am
@Michael_dd8,
my garbageman also told me this morning in NY to get out my Kovy jersey. well at least I think that’s what I heard..Spanish to English translation issue.
cmon….He’ll tell your friend but not Rich?
[Reply]
crashin' da net Reply:
July 17th, 2010 at 10:51 am
@nykingfan, that’s “joizy” not “gercee”
[Reply]
Day 17 Number 17? some kind of correlation? Get out of Europe and COME BACK TO LA!! looks like finally some closure to this. Thank god it didnt go to Day #71.
Looks like Kovi, Grossman and DL know whats really going on.
To point out Chicago signed Marian Hossa last year and see the results. We need another top 4 dmen. Maybe Lubo? I’m so excited!! Its going to be done and hopefully soon!! GO KINGS!!
[Reply]
Kevin Y Reply:
July 17th, 2010 at 12:00 pm
@Pat,
Day 71 would be… September 9. Don’t want to wait THAT long.
[Reply]
We all are (SOOOOOOOOOOO) exicted….But you better stop daydrieming.With Lubo and Kovi in this line up..”they” can deliver S cup direct to LA,but…Lubo is too expensive for this organization.Why, do you think they send him to oilers.I am sure , he himself is much better than Green and stoll together,but again ,more expencsive.Looks like we are close to sign Kovi,but I am sceptical about “downgraded Version” Anyway,will see.I hope I wrong based on published contract numbers.
[Reply]
Now I know why IK has # 17 on his back. He warned us before, it will take him 17 days to sign with Kings.
[Reply]
Well, here I am at Staples Center, but there’s nobody here. What time was the press conference, or am I at the wrong place???
[Reply]
My neighbors are yelling and screaming at each other. Some might think it’s the heat of booze getting to them, but I’m pretty sure it has to be the 16 day long Kovi-watch:)
[Reply]
wavesinair Reply:
July 17th, 2010 at 7:33 am
@kings4queens,
Kovi Fever makes people do funny things. There’s only one cure… a pen!
[Reply]
a interview with kovi on why he turned down the 100 million..
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lGpRvBZpw-4&feature=related
[Reply]
shades Reply:
July 17th, 2010 at 6:58 am
@Kopi-chuk, LMAO
[Reply]
miracle.on.manchester Reply:
July 17th, 2010 at 8:37 am
@shades, See? That means he is coming to the Kings for a chance to win the SC and not the money. Because $500m won’t buy a SC. Anyways, that was funny as hell.
[Reply]
Kovi?
(ahem)
it’s 5:17 am buddy… you need anything?
we’re here for ya .. you just take your time okay?
want some coffee? … how bout some of that russian cinnamon sproikas you like so much?
alright bud … you just take yur time.
we’re just hangin out ……
…
……
….
SIGN!!! PICK UP THE PEN!!! SIGNSIGNSIGNNOW!!!!
whoa… what was THAT?
hey, hey, hey, it’s okay. everyone’s here… no pressure kiddo…
how’s that coffee? need more sugar?
SIGN!!! DAMN YOU SIGN!!!! SSSAAAIIIIIGGGNNN!!!!
whoa … sorry bout that… not sure where that’s coming from.
want another sproika?
[Reply]
wavesinair Reply:
July 17th, 2010 at 7:32 am
@Matt George, Ahhh, you’re up too!
[Reply]
This Kovalchuk stuff always pulls me back in. I hope he signs today and they announce a press conference for monday, for him to meet with media and such. I really hope we dont have to wait till monday for this to be finalized….or even longer lol.
Kovalchuk and Kopitar i think would play great together!
[Reply]
HEY RICH:
Call it gut, but is Dean on board with this or is this a Leiweke deal? Maybe that is why he leaked this? WHy he is away? Or have I had too much caffeine today?
[Reply]
just a gigolo Reply:
July 17th, 2010 at 8:04 am
@Joey Drillings, I have a feeling if Dean was against this move,that either this would not happen OR Dean would sign him and then resign shortly after.
Dean would not go unemployed long if he left the Kings.
This is a great move,getting a super star 40 to 50 and in the west may be even a 60 goal scorer who other teams have to go to great links to try to contain him.
If Kovi was a N. American player then all his critics and doubters would go gaga over him but since he is a Russian then they have to put labels on him and say he is not tough enough.
When it comes to playoffs then teams have to account for this guy and that is when the other guys are going to be able to close games out.
I would feel real good if Dean could get a nasty as hell enforcer for Kovi to make sure he is not messed with.
This is now a legit lord SC team I feel I am about to explode and can’t wait for season to start.
[Reply]
John Reply:
July 17th, 2010 at 8:42 am
@just a gigolo,
Laraque?
[Reply]
puckbandit Reply:
July 17th, 2010 at 9:09 am
@just a gigolo,
I agree with you that Kovys value is subject to anti-European, pro North American bias, but that doesn’t mean that all negatives are incorrect.
Having watched Kovy lots in the east (Devils fan, but watch lots of hockey in east and a bit of west also) his play can be brilliant, but not always effective.
I don’t recall much talk about him not being tough though, he’s a big body out there and can stand up for himself and others He doesn’t need a “protector” because he can skate through most and muscle past others.
He sealed a place in Devil fans hearts (even now with his going to La) when he fought Avery for pestering Brodeur. Classic I’ll try to post link
http://ballhype.com/video/avery-yaps-at-brodeur-kovalchuk-sees-red-nj-devils-vs/
[Reply]
This is as done as it gets.
Starting with them coming over here to LA in the first place and Grossman staying a few days ago…
Then, the Jersey blogs about how they were used by Kovi to get a better deal in LA and evidently AEG can give Nicole a sweetheart deal.
Now all we have to decide is whether this puts the Kings into the cup picture or destroys them…
Kovi will make it exciting but who knows how the players will react.
I think they will all be fine until the contrat negotiations start for JJ and Doughty….then all hell will break lose as they demand top $$ as well…
Should be an exciting season with Nicole Kovalchuck singing the national anthem on opening night!
[Reply]
No wayyyyy!! This dude has some stones for saying this!!
TGfireandice: RT @dchesnokov: KHL Pres Medvedev challenges Kovalchuk after his mom’s comments: “I hope he will make a ‘manly decision’ and will join SKA.”
*gotta love that communist charm. Lolol
[Reply]
hey, if kovi signs, anyone think he’ll want the C and Brown will have to be an alternate?
[Reply]
AZ King Reply:
July 17th, 2010 at 11:00 am
@tommyking,
Not a chance. That’s an honor you have to earn. He might get an “A”, but that’s probably a stretch as well. No one in their right mind would come in demanding a “C”, and no team worth their salt would let it happen.
[Reply]
I just happened to read the Helene Elliot article concerning the progress of the Kovi negotiations.
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/sports_blog/2010/07/ilya-kovalchuk-kings-dean-lombardi-nhl.html
I have to say that I’ve been supportive of Dean Lombardi and AEG in this process to say the least; that if they can’t sign Kovalchuk because of a cap hit and the potential for losing two of Doughty, Johnson, Bernier and Simmonds next season, then I would ultimately be ok with letting Kovi go.
This story puts AEG in a terrible light that I find completely unacceptable. Tim Leiweke has claimed that it’s all about the cap and not about the money. If this account is true, it would make Leiweke out to be a fraud. Whether someone gets paid during a lockout seems to have nothing whatsoever to do with the cap, and everything to do with penny pinching. (I may be wrong here, and I stand corrected if that’s the case.)
It seems like a reasonable concession on the part of Kovalchuk that would allow him to be paid during a potential lockout season in exchange for keeping down the cap hit.
I for one believe in capitalism and have no problem with AEG wanting to make money on their investments. However, the marketing campaigns they could design around Kovi and the potential to increase the Kings’ profile in the city would more than make up for a potential loss during the lockout. Wasn’t that their mentality in bringing Beckham to LA…that Beckham would more than cover the cost with his star power? Granted, Beckham was a potential Gretzky and had more name recognition world wide. But I don’t think Kovi is going to command $250 million dollars.
This potential deal has the making to be written about for years. When all is said and done, the posturing that AEG has made will all be for naught if they come out undermining the perception that they’ve been trying to create for a while. There’s certainly a lot more at stake here than just one high profile free agent signing. I hope when all is said and done, the Kings maintain their credibility, or it will be years before they can repair their image.
[Reply]
Kings Fan in Temecula Reply:
July 17th, 2010 at 10:54 am
@Joel, WOW!! What a post! Outstanding job all around!
[Reply]
gene Reply:
July 17th, 2010 at 10:58 am
@Joel, great take, right on.
[Reply]
shades Reply:
July 17th, 2010 at 11:05 am
@gene, Well, some of us around here don’t call him Tim LIE weekly or LIE weAkly for nothing.
And, although I was screaming for the Kings to get him last season I now think it could turn out very badly for us.
On the other hand, I don’t see any alternative. We need a scorer and he fits that in spades…just as long as the players don’t revolt because of what Kovi (and his wife apparently) get out of it.
I have no idea how this will turn out, but it will be interesting to say the least!
[Reply]
tuan jim Reply:
July 17th, 2010 at 1:30 pm
@Joel,
Kovy is no Gretzky. Nor is his “Coming to the Kings” anywhere similar to the impact the Great One had in 1989. And even Gretzky was just one of three players in a trade that brought us Marty McSorley and Mike Krushelnyski. At the close of his initial year here we just made the second playoff round after beating his old team in the first.
Kovy can bring nothing like that. And even to suggest he brings us anything like the same “star power” we got from Gretzky is insane. Yes, hockey fans are fascinated by all the negotiations and false negotiations and reports and false reports since July 1. But those outside hockey circles probably know Kovy — if at all — as just a minute blip compared to LeBron.
I don’t blame Kovy for wanting income protection during a possible lockout. But if we give him too much of mit, what can we expect to, give DD, JJ, Simmer, and the MANY RFAs whose contracts come up at year’s end? Won’t they, too, insist on the same protection?
At some point business must come first. There is no guarantee that Kovy will, in fact, do for the Kings what we hope and pray that he does. Maybe his signing will prove to be such a disaster that THAT — and not all these negotiations — is what will be written about for years.
As for AEG’s “image”? There’s a sure-fire way to make it classy and respectable — just put a winning team on the ice.
Kovy has never done that. He may be a “piece of the puzzle”, but he’s no more. All the rest of our the Kings — the so-called “core” players — are the ones to do that job.
Frankly, I regret the loss of Fro. He has never done what Kovy can do. But he does things — valuable things — that Kovy has no interest in doing.
[Reply]
tuan jim Reply:
July 17th, 2010 at 1:33 pm
P.S. Excuse all the typos. My hands are shaking because I’ve run out of Waiting-for-Kovy medication.
[Reply]
Joel Reply:
July 17th, 2010 at 3:51 pm
@tuan jim, I agree that Kovi is no Gretzky, but he certainly has generated enough interest on this site to make me believe that merchandise, ticket sales, and overall interest will improve if the Kings get him. I don’t know if a risk/reward analysis would conclude that a lockout year which would result in an unrecouped bonus would still be justified by the increased revenue they would receive, but it certainly is a valid analysis that you can’t just dismiss.
My point is that if AEG is willing to take an enormous risk in investing $250 million in Beckham, why would they now balk at a signing bonus at potentially $10-$15 million? This is the first time that the business perspective of AEG just doesn’t make sense to me. It’s probably the most confusing angle this saga has taken in my opinion.
[Reply]
5holer Reply:
July 17th, 2010 at 3:30 pm
@Joel, Superb points, good journalism! Take one thing into consideration (maybe several really)…”Term” and “Terms” are not even closely associated in contract/lawyer/agent speak. Tim L was probably making a point about “terms” when referring to payment in Bonus in event of CBA stoppage in ’12-13 season. It is not about money as I read into his point. Term being length of deal doesn’t seem to be an issue with either party from what we can gleen so far. The issues are Cap Hit and ability to preserve what fruit has been harvested from DL 3-5 yr plan so far…Core preservation! Then there is this Bonus payment at CBA Stoppage point. Now think of credibilty issue concerning payments in Bonus in circumvention of Cap in a CBA stop yr. By definition a Bonus is not a compensatory payment. It is an extraordinary gift/payment subject to no certain rule of compensation. Unlike the Santa Claus thing, it does not have to be earned per say, just granted like a gratuity. So does this mean it is a clear circumvention of the Cap? Debatable and will be debated for sure! Depends on which side you stand on the subject I think. Tim L must think it is a circumvention of sorts, therefore making it an real issue on his side. There is the perception factor to consider as well. Of course the agent does not (cannot!) believe it is. In short, it is not really about the money, as the same dollars are going to be paid in this deal, since they have this much presumably agreed to at this point. It is really about “terms” on how this amount of dollars is to be paid out, increments and definitions of payments(“salary compensation” vs. “bonus monies” vs other “contractual benefits”). Tim L is really not making a fraudulent stand here, as I read it. I don’t say stand corrected, just give some levity to the definitions angle. Hell, we cannot really know for sure, but its fun to pontificate some! Keep those great comments coming…provocative & I eat it up!…….Also, Just remember Tim L is first a Fan, perhaps a very frustrated fan as the rest of us are, but a fan with the good heart of intentions(he is dying to win something here, just look at his waistline now!). AEG/Tim L/DL have 40+ yrs of no credibility to make up for from previous foolish regimes (save McNall with best of intentions but for larceny)…and all that hard work to get us to a shot at a Kovy! Takes alot of painstaking checks and balances to get thru such a deal. Gotta be right or Franchise could go back to oblivion with the stroke of one pen or two.
PS- I don’t buy into the DL angle that it has to be a perfect fit to work either!…that’s corporate company man speak….Goals fit just fine! Pucks in the net fit perfectly for Cups on display, with no concern who it is that scores them. Snipers are a flaky bunch i think, like GTs used to be(maybe still are), but you gotta have 1 or 2 to get to pay dirt as a team. Teammates like guys who score alot of goals, no matter what they think of them off the ice or on it. There is alot of latitude given to superstars on any team in any sport. Many examples to reference here, but I’ll leave that to you to reflect on. Kovy is there now, no one else fits the bill at any price a team could pay(trade cost?) and stay relavent to gain a cup or 5.
[Reply]
They should announce the signing if minor details are left to work out i.e. Private Jet back to Russia, Free McFlurrys for family if Kovy scores 3 goals in one game,Staples center suite in honor of the man Kovalchuk. etc.
[Reply]
While everyone is pointing out that this is the 17th day into this saga, did anyone realize it is JULY 17??? Freaky. Aren’t the russians supposed to be superstitious? it will get done tonight.
[Reply]
Subby Reply:
July 17th, 2010 at 2:28 pm
@RJB, and his number is 17
[Reply]