Ponikarovsky to Kings « LA Kings Insider

Ponikarovsky to Kings

Posted by Rich Hammond on 27 July 2010, 12:07 pm

Still up north vacationing, but I received word that the Kings have reached agreement with Alexei Ponikarovsky. More details to come as they’re available. This comes on the heels of Alexander Frolov joining the New Yorl Rangers, and with the Kovalchuk situation headed for arbitration.

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148 Comments

Sebastian says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:08 pm

Missed you Rich!

[Reply]
kingsoly Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 12:22 pm
@Sebastian,
gay

[Reply]
Gary Livingston Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 12:24 pm
@kingsoly,

I sensed the “nohomo” tag.

Ya dink.

[Reply]
Tookie Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 12:24 pm
@kingsoly,
racist
no, wait….

[Reply]
Sebastian Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 12:32 pm
@kingsoly, come out of the closet already…you know you missed him more than I did.

[Reply]
guuny says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:08 pm

woohoo

both the signing and the new post

[Reply]
tcontreras says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:08 pm

Poni?
What is the scoop on him?

[Reply]
Tortfesor says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:09 pm

Welcome back Rich, hope class is going well! Nice to see the Kings make their first addition of the off-season.

[Reply]
Chris says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:10 pm

I’m ok with this….

[Reply]
Renbe says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:10 pm

TSN-It did not take long to replace Alexander Frolov in Los Angeles, as Alex Ponikarovsky has agreed to join the Kings. The deal has yet to be signed and terms have not been disclosed.

The 30-year old Ukraine native had 21 goals and 29 assists in 77 games last season, split between the Toronto Maple Leafs and Pittsburgh Penguins. He added a goal and four assists in the Pens’ 11-game playoff run.

Originally drafted by the Leafs 87th overall in the fourth round of the 1998 NHL Entry Draft, Ponikarovsky should immediately fill the role that the departed Frolov held on one of the Kings’ top two lines. He should also see some time on both the power play and penalty killing units.

This is the first significant move by the Kings so far this off-season after missing out on both Frolov and Ilya Kovalchuk.

[Reply]
Freddie Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 12:51 pm
@Renbe, Missing out on Frolov?? Typical TSN idiots.

[Reply]
hiway39 Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 1:25 pm
@Freddie,

sadly its true. it was reported that after the kovy fiasco, the kings reached out to frolov and he spurned their advances. so yes, we actually missed out on him.

i like this signing, esp if its just for one year. no need to overextend after missing out on kovy.

[Reply]
Puckn-A Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 1:27 pm
@Freddie, You Frolov bashers are gonna eat your words! He is gonna kick butt next year and your all gonna piss and moan. This was so stupid of the Kings to let him go for nothing. Big deal we replaced him with an older less talented version of himself. Man some of you fans are sooooo dumb it cracks me up, just regurgitating the garbage Dean and Terry spewed about Frolov without ever backing up your argument. You all just say he loafed or was inconsistent but you will see how bad the offense will miss him. Poni couldn’t hold Fro’s jock strap and you all will see how retarded Deano was for letting Fro go. Good luck Fro you will always be one of my favorite King and I hope Kings fans will actually watch games and not just play follow the leader when commenting on players. I challenge anyone on this sight to show me a King who didn’t take nights off last year from time to time. Frolov was the scapegoat for Dean,Terry and the fantasy hockey Kings fan. You Fro haters are retards and I can’t wait for you all to see him flourish this year. I will always love the Kings but this reeks of stupid! Great signing there Deano per usual

[Reply]
Matt R Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 1:59 pm
@Puckn-A, Wow, calm down dude.

USCG Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 2:01 pm
@Puckn-A, I am with you 100 %. Prepare for the bashing though haha

Jeff Hoffman Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 2:06 pm
@Puckn-A,

This is laughable to say the least. Not your opinion as you are welcome to it. But saying those that don’t share your opinion are “sooooooo dumb” (by the way do the extra o’s help drive home your point?) is a joke to me and should be to anyone else. We all have opinions and those with intelligence can talk about theirs without bashing others opinions.

Puckn-A Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 2:23 pm
@Puckn-A, It is not about sharing my opinion, it is about what Frolov brought to the team and how people just jumped on the scapegoat bandwagon. Everyone just says the same vague b.s. about “Froloaf” as the haters call him, however they don’t see those flaws in the rest of the roster, just Frolov. I watched every King last year take certain nights off and they weren’t demoted publicly nor bashed on this site daily.I guess people don’t understand his importance as a puck possession guy(only one on the team pretty much) who generates the cycle down low, which is of utmost importance in TM’s dump & chase strategy. He will be missed badly and you will see.

Puckn-A Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 2:25 pm
@Puckn-A, Sorry fellow fans for flying off the handle, this is just one of my worst days as a fan as Fro was one of my all time favorite Kings. I am in mourning and the anger just shot through my veins that we got a second rate replacement for him.

Flatlinered Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 6:17 pm
@Puckn-A, Well said…. gotta believe Kings are worst off without Frolov.

Kwaz Reply:
July 28th, 2010 at 10:56 am
@Puckn-A,

I’m a Fro fan, and will miss the guy, but Kings fan first. Wish he was still here but he’s not, oh well. Hope Ponikarovsky makes us all forget about him.

BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 2:21 pm
@Puckn-A,

Answer me this:
–Why are TOR fans and PGH fans so happy to have him off their teams? Because he didn’t show up to play very often…

–Why are some Kings fans (obviously not YOU) glad to see Fro go? Because he has voluminous talent and OFTEN did not show up to play at his demonstrated level of talent. Fro can bang, Fro can puck-possess like a Mother-, and Fro can score… All WHEN HE WANTS TO! There were many important games Fro didn’t represent…

…So very, very sad.

[Reply]
Puckn-A Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 2:31 pm
@BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy, Not when he wants to, when the flow of said game allows it, so did Doughty or Kopitar score every night?Did they not have droughts last year? I saw them make mistakes, I saw them get tired during stretches, I saw them pass up checks etc. They can do no wrong but Frolov had a microscope on him nightly as far as TM,DL and Fro haters are concerned.

[Reply]
SpyWife Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 3:27 pm
@Puckn-A, Wow, such anger – I for one am glad to see Fro go to another team and despite your ramblings, I am not a moron. We are all entitled to our opinions, you included.

I don’t think his style of play was a good fit for the current style this team plays. Yes he was great at holding onto the puck …but he was not great at seeing when other players were practically begging him to pass to them.

Passing up checks??? I went to every game for the past several years and I remember only a handful of actual body checks that he threw. He was good at bumping – not checking. It wasn’t a matter of “passing up checks” because all players as they get tired will pass up making a hard check. He just didn’t make checks at all.

At best he was a perimeter player – very seldom putting himself in front of the net and taking the kind of punishment that Zeus or Simmonds do. He’s a nice guy; I wish him well and hope he scores a ton of goals for NY (just not against us), but not sad to see him leave.
Newf says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:12 pm

Depending on the price, this could be a pretty good signing.

[Reply]
VanKingsFan Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 12:14 pm
@Newf, Agreed. I proposed this a couple weeks ago.

Pleaaase say that it is under 3 Million.. 2.8 hit or something like that

[Reply]
Puckin-A says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:13 pm

That is an odd move unless he came significantly cheaper than Frolov. Kinda seems like another player that will be in Terry Murray’s doghouse if he doesn’t get the production that is expected. Maybe he will excell with Kopi but he did have Crosby so we will see.

[Reply]
O-Dawg Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 5:27 pm
@Puckin-A, I would rather have Fro. Considering how he was treated, I don’t blame him for leaving. He’ll do great playing with Gaborak. His buddy Sean Avery is there don’t forget!

[Reply]
Puckin-A Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 5:34 pm
@O-Dawg, me too brotha me too.

[Reply]
kngfan004 says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:14 pm

Could be a good signing….Good by Fro…hello Alexi…big body with good skills! Another one that has to be motivated…maybe the change will be a new startt for him!

[Reply]
KingzzFan says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:14 pm

Thank god… A new thread

[Reply]
Belexes says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:14 pm

Welcome back Rich, thanks for a lil bit of good news!

[Reply]
Jonathan says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:15 pm

Another LA Kings offseason, another 30+ year old player signed to an autumnal career lap or two in the Southland.

I hope we got him cheaper than what NYR paid for Frolov.

[Reply]
Puckn-A Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 1:28 pm
@Jonathan, Serious, why not keep Frolov????

[Reply]
rontheking Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 3:55 pm
@Puckn-A,

frolov was enigmatic and i for one was willing to give him the benefit of the doubt and watch him bounce back next year…

but let’s face it–his timing stunk. the year your contract ends you have to play your ass off, not put yourself in a position where people are questioning you.

bottom line: i will miss him but i think he wrote his own ticket out of town. and…maybe there was just too much bad blood after all the criticism. it sounds like he wanted to go.

[Reply]
Kevin Y says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:16 pm

Dean Lombardi did something!!! Stop the presses!

I think Poni could be good. Had fair numbers for bad Leafs teams, and wasn’t needed to put up big numbers in Pittsburgh. A failed stint there, I think, but he’s good for 15 goals at least, and depending on who he plays with, could be Better.

[Reply]
Andrew says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:16 pm

RRRRIIICCCHHH!!!

good to see you again.

Hooray for good news. I like this signing ESPECIALLY if he falls in the 2-2.5MM range.

GKG

[Reply]
VanKingsFan says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:18 pm

IMO he looked at his best when he was with Sundin; which gives me hope that he can find some chemistry with a similar type of player, mr. Kopitar.

[Reply]
McDonalds says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:18 pm

Thank god…a signing

[Reply]
lv is the way Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 12:26 pm
@McDonalds, Couldn’t say it any better.. I am speechless. Maybe this a sign of some good moves to come..

[Reply]
Seattle757 says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:19 pm

A bit sad Frolov is gone, but at the same time a bit relieved. He was a kid with skill but just didn’t use it and he lacked the consistency.

Hopefully Alexi will get recharged and won’t do the Fro, but will be consistent.

[Reply]
Michael J. says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:19 pm

Rich, you’re back!

Thanks for the new post!

[Reply]
Doug D says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:19 pm

I’m guessing kings were forced to over pay due to their lack of options but we shall see

[Reply]
Kevin Y says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:21 pm

If this is a one-year deal (which I’m expecting, considering he’s extremely comparable to Frolov, only with better defense, and Fro only got one year), then this is good. Don’t have to worry about the cap hit, really, on a one-year deal, since they’ll have plenty of space this season.

And even if they look to add salary from other teams at the deadline, they should still be in a good position to do that.

[Reply]
Lanny McDonald's 'Stache says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:21 pm

Please be at the right price.

[Reply]
Marshy says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:22 pm

I know nothing of this ponikarovsky…at least he is a 20 goaler. my main concern though, is he a grinder? we need skill plus someone with a brown/simmonds mentality down low in the corners, offensively and on D.

[Reply]
rockfx says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:24 pm

WOW…. Thats a lot of letters to grace the back of a Kings jersey. Which brings up this Q….. Who had the longest name on a KINGS jersey. I think we just had the longest thread count for this site with that last post, i could be wrong tho… (lol)…. Just passing time here people, but fun to research…
Peace!!

[Reply]
Chris Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 12:42 pm
@rockfx,

My guess is Sheldon Kannegiesser.

[Reply]
Rockfx Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 1:59 pm
@Chris, Actually he”s tied with Mike Krushelnyski…Both have 12 letters.

[Reply]
rontheking Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 3:57 pm
@rockfx,

I dunno…but fukufuji is the best name ever…not sure what he had against the fuji corporation though….

[Reply]
oldthunder says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:26 pm

Welcome back Rich, thanks for a new non-1500 comment post.

Not a bad signing considering we just lost Fro. I’m just wondering who else Lombardi is expecting to sign or trade for.

I wish Fro luck, I’m glad he didn’t go to the KHL. Its gonna be weird not seeing him in a kings uniform anymore.

[Reply]
friarking Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 1:00 pm
@oldthunder, I’ll miss Fro. I kind of hope he proves the Kings wrong and has a good season. Plus now he and Avery can go buy clothes together.

[Reply]
TB says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:26 pm

Wasn’t Poni the same guy that got into seperate altercations with a teammate and coach Wilson in Toronto? If my memory serves me right…its why he was traded to Pittsburgh.

If I’m remembering correctly…I’m not happy about this signing. So much for the talk about developing a solid locker room.

[Reply]
SPIDEY35 Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 2:27 pm
@TB,
Uh-oh, now that scares me.

[Reply]
Lanny McDonald's 'Stache says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:27 pm

I have a feeling his official website of “Poni23.com” is going to have to change unless Brownie is feeling charitable…

[Reply]
Cup B4 I Die says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:27 pm

WOOT??? Well, I guess it all depends on who he plays with (could be everyone knowing TM’s line shuffles)…but he could put up 25 goals.

2 years @ 2.65 per (My guess).

[Reply]
Mark Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 12:44 pm
@Cup B4 I Die,

will be less than 2.65 IMO
2.2 a year

[Reply]
josh Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 1:20 pm
@Mark, you must not know who he is if you actually think he signed for 2.2 a year…i dont think your even close

[Reply]
Tookie says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:28 pm

I don’t think this is really going to improve us very much. If anything it’s a lateral move to Fro at best. It’s something but Poni has not impressed.

[Reply]
jammer06 says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:28 pm

Happy we filled back in the third line spot but if it’s for the same or more money than fro I don’t see what we’ve gained. We’ll see where TM ends up using him.

[Reply]
John Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 6:44 pm
@jammer06,

Wait! You just said we “filled in the 3rd line”. But then “I don’t see what we’ve gained”, Hmmmm???

[Reply]
Michael_DD8 says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:29 pm

Alexi is a good addition. Watching some videos on him, hes bigger, seem like a little bit faster, and a way better of a trigger shot. Seems like a possible good 2nd line winger, strong third liner if not.

[Reply]
vplaza says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:29 pm

Looks like a move to negate the loss of 20 goals from Fro. So, just a push so far this offseason, no gains.

[Reply]
RJB says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:32 pm

Who cares who he is and or what he has done in the past he now a King…Hopefull another underacheiver waiting for the trade deadline to roll around…BUT with that being said I dont care if DL signed a Mannequin …at least he showed all those Season Seat Re-Uppers that he is working with his new 2 year extension..

[Reply]
BigSeeGas says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:35 pm

Good move Dean. He is playing this NHL game of chess pretty well. Think about this, it wasn’t that frolov was a bad player he just lacked the motivation to play in los Angeles. He gets a new home in new York and we sign a guy to fill the void. Yes he is a bit older than frolov but that doesn’t matter. Look at the impact that Ryan smyth had on our young guys. I think this will improve the team slightly and I hope this isn’t the only move dean makes. It’s still early and I sense a trade coming. That’s my two cents GO KINGS!

[Reply]
kingsfan in Seattle says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:36 pm

now lets go out and get that top 6 veteran D-man and bring back Modin for modest 1 yr deal.

[Reply]
C-Note20 Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 12:47 pm
@kingsfan in Seattle, my thoughts exactly !!!

[Reply]
John Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 6:54 pm
@C-Note20,

Who you guys thinking? Trade for Kaberle? Sign Mitchell or Bergeron? Who fits and can be had with prospects, picks or money?

[Reply]
goodguy says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:38 pm

If this is 3 mil or more I’ll puke… Wow we are so much better than we were in april(sarcasm)… Way to make it happen deano…

[Reply]
Jorgen says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:40 pm

1 year @ $3.5 (my guess)

[Reply]
wavesinair says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:41 pm

The guy’s got a good sense of humor at least! Good stuff.

http://deepinsidethekings.com/2010/07/27/ponikarovsky-so-so-sola/

[Reply]
Lanny McDonald's 'Stache Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 12:51 pm
@wavesinair,

Holy crap, that was hysterical… I loved the part at the end with the bathroom. Looks like Poni’s personality will fit in well in LA.

[Reply]
tcontreras Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 12:53 pm
@wavesinair,
That made me lol.
I want BOTH those guys…

[Reply]
luckyluc13 Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 12:58 pm
@wavesinair,Thanks for the link.I like this guy already.Seems to have a good attitude.I have been checking him out and I think he will be a good fit with the Kings

[Reply]
King John Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 6:33 pm
@wavesinair,

This is good stuff. Worth the watch, people.

[Reply]
Rudedogg says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:41 pm

calling the season ticket office right now I bet their lines are busy………..

[Reply]
LVKINGS88 says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:43 pm

Finally! a new post,thanks Rich.I watched his videos and a couple of things come to mind,#1 he drives to the net(which Fro never did,even on a break away)#2 he looks very fast(Fro of course never was)#3 he likes to park his a&& in front of the net(Fro liked behind the net)#4 he looks to have some sort of personality(Fro, only when he’s buying clothes with Heidi,and of course who would’nt like that).Don’t get me wrong I have been a Fro believer for a long time, but last year he had the chance to come out and prove his place on the team,and I think he did’nt take the bull by the horn.I think some of it had to do with TM,but he did’nt seem to work with Kopi either.Maybe we go out and sign Stempniak(he looks fast),and trade for Kabs,then we’ll be known as Leafs west,not Flyers west,(that would make Anthonyy and WWAMD happy,haha).Question: where are those two guys? Answer?.

[Reply]
KeithZ says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:48 pm

Very sad to see Fro leave. One of the strongest behind the net guys around. He may have had some better seasons than others, but was a solid team guy who provided some exciting moments. This new guy is 2 years older and has less career points than Fro. I think DL screwed the pooch on this one!

[Reply]
Renbe says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:48 pm

When are we going to sign a legitimate player. Not a guy coming off a bad yr, or a guy coming off an injury, or 30+ yr old veteran nothing. Come on LB give us a legit top 6 forward or top 4 defenseman. Make a real move!!!

[Reply]
DougS Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 12:58 pm
@Renbe,
Perhaps because what you call “legitimate” players tend to be overvalued by the market; hence, it is highly likely that you will pay more than they are worth.

Since this question seems to mystify you, I would suggest reading Michael Lewis’ book Moneyball. Apparently, DL has read it. It’s about how to build a successful baseball team with a limited budget, but in a salary cap environment (where league rules put a firm limit on how much you can spend) every team has to be a Moneyball team to some extent.

[Reply]
JDH Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 1:28 pm
@DougS,

And exactly how many World Series have the Moneyballin’ Oakland A’s won? I understand that the hard salary cap makes assembling a championship team that much more difficult, but Moneyball is not the philosophy for an organization trying to win a championship (in any sport)

[Reply]
KOHO Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 2:10 pm
@JDH,

Exactly…screw moneyball. The teams that push the limits of the cap always do way better than teams that play way under the cap.
goldielocks says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:48 pm

Wow! This thread reads fast!

[Reply]
USHA#17 says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:48 pm

Looks like the Kings are clearing cap space so they can sign…me.

Looks like he might be a consistant player (‘cept for last season).

Meanwhile if Frolov thought he was taking heat here, just wait until the Garden. Those fans call it like it is.

[Reply]
KOHO says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:53 pm

Well if you can’t get the Russian you wanted might as well get the one nobody wanted.

[Reply]
Sebastian Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 12:59 pm
@KOHO, Ukranian does not = Russian

[Reply]
KOHO Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 2:07 pm
@Sebastian,

You say tomato..

[Reply]
John Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 7:01 pm
@Sebastian,

The Cold War’s over?!

[Reply]
Sebastian says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:55 pm

“1 year for Kings and Poni. Not sure of $” Darren Dreger

[Reply]
Jim says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:56 pm

Living in Southern Ontario I have been watching the Leafs forever and I like the signing. Poni is big and fast. I wish he had better hands as he seems to be in good position all the time but just can’t finish. He does drive to the net and is good at killing penalties as well. Excellent signing

[Reply]
number 6 Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 1:34 pm
@Jim,
What, another guy who doesn’t have good hands and can’t finish? Just what this team needs!! 5 on 5 here we come.

[Reply]
gene says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:57 pm

Wow DL did something; now DL you need a big bad ass D man and also a big bad ass enforcer to protect the other forwards.

[Reply]
friarking says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:58 pm

Seems like a sideways move

[Reply]
number 6 Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 1:34 pm
@friarking,
See my post just two spots above.

[Reply]
Bryan Agee says:

July 27, 2010 at 12:59 pm

Next.

[Reply]
Jammers says:

July 27, 2010 at 1:00 pm

Thank you for getting rid of Frolov. I don’t know who this new guy is, but he can’t possibly be as frustrating to watch as Frolov was.

[Reply]
Tookie Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 1:09 pm
@Jammers,
Same player with less offensive talent. Your frustration will know no end.

[Reply]
Puckn-A Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 1:42 pm
@Tookie, Ahahahah totally. Kings fans, especially Frolov bashers are gonna be in for a rude awakening!

[Reply]
DLB says:

July 27, 2010 at 1:03 pm

Here’s one stat rundown on Poni, when Low on Oil looked at him as a possible trade target. Interesting read.

http://lowonoil.com/2009-articles/november/edmonton-oilers-are-the-trade-winds-blowing.html

[Reply]
EASportsMgt says:

July 27, 2010 at 1:04 pm

How’s this for vad news on the first signing for the Kings, from Helene Elliot:
He was always last on the ice for practice and first one off. When practices were optional he always opted out. Poor defensive coverage too.

[Reply]
Brian Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 1:20 pm
@EASportsMgt, She’s talking about Frolov, NOT Poni.

Notwithstanding the fact that it’s Helene Elliot, who just doesn’t get it when it comes to hockey in a salary cap era.

[Reply]
therope Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 1:27 pm
@EASportsMgt,

She was referring to Fro….

[Reply]
Dan H. Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 1:55 pm
@EASportsMgt,

Not sure what Brian was watching but Fro was excellent in the defensive end last year. His puck control work on the 3rd line was probably the best in the league. We just replaced a guy who could control the puck for days with someone who…has questionable hands from someone above.

[Reply]
Pumpernicholl says:

July 27, 2010 at 1:06 pm

More energetic than Frolov and more of a power forward than Frolov.

I have been a Frolov fan ever since he was drafted 10 years ago but it was time for Fro to try greener pastures, truly. I’m definitely good with this move. That’s the second player who was useful to the Penguins that we have swiped from them in 2 offseasons.

[Reply]
duffbag310 Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 4:24 pm
@Pumpernicholl,

Might be the second Pitt player that we’ve overpaid as well.

[Reply]
flex says:

July 27, 2010 at 1:06 pm

..this is cheap bone for sturving fun.Fro was much better player,than this guy…but It’s good for AEG…
I think this is $1.5-2 million deal…
The buttom line..we can not call this as team improvment.
same old ,same old LA kings…Less is more.
The Big problem with 5on 5 play is still there.

[Reply]
sammuch says:

July 27, 2010 at 1:06 pm

Yes…. One Ukraine down out of 3. now we just have to grab fredenko and we got 2 ukrainians on the team.

No more Russians signs the Ukrainians they are more down to earth!

What TSN.com said!

It did not take long to replace Alexander Frolov in Los Angeles, as Alex Ponikarovsky has agreed to join the Kings. The deal has yet to be signed and terms have not been disclosed.

The 30-year old Ukraine native had 21 goals and 29 assists in 77 games last season, split between the Toronto Maple Leafs and Pittsburgh Penguins. He added a goal and four assists in the Pens’ 11-game playoff run.

Originally drafted by the Leafs 87th overall in the fourth round of the 1998 NHL Entry Draft, Ponikarovsky should immediately fill the role that the departed Frolov held on one of the Kings’ top two lines. He should also see some time on both the power play and penalty killing units.

NHL 493 116 150 266 stats

[Reply]
MartinRW says:

July 27, 2010 at 1:07 pm

It should be a decent signing assuming that he was cheaper than Frolov.

[Reply]
Ersberg says:

July 27, 2010 at 1:09 pm

I’m onboard with this one, he’ll replace Frolov nicely.

[Reply]
5thLine says:

July 27, 2010 at 1:11 pm

Too bad we didn’t just trade Fro when he had market value.

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Kings Fan In Idaho says:

July 27, 2010 at 1:13 pm

I’m still too bummed about losing Fro to get excited.

But welcome to the team Poni.

Go Kings!

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Kingszz says:

July 27, 2010 at 1:14 pm

About as exciting as buying a $3 scratcher and winning $2

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Sparman says:

July 27, 2010 at 1:16 pm

@MartinRW,

I think Frolov at 3 mil for one year was a great deal for NYR.

Why couldn’t we have done this deal and picked up Ponikarovski?

[Reply]
McDonalds Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 1:33 pm
@Sparman,

Well, after looking at Fro’s agent’s comments about the Kings, i think it’s pretty safe to say that Fro resigning with the us was never really that strong of a possibility.

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sstephen17 Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 1:35 pm
@Sparman, Perhaps Fro didn’t want to play in LA for $3 mil.

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Johnny Utah says:

July 27, 2010 at 1:21 pm

So we replace Frolov with another enigmatic Russian that has not lived up to expectations based on his apparent talent level???

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Puckn-A Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 1:39 pm
@Johnny Utah, Yep. Dean sucks at gaging free agents, he really does.

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VanKingsFan Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 1:47 pm
@Johnny Utah, Why does everyone think Poni is russian?

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Thailure Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 2:01 pm
@VanKingsFan, He was born in Ukraine, USSR in 1980. That means he was a Russian.

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VanKingsFan Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 2:07 pm
@Thailure, Key word is WAS

King John Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 2:34 pm
@Thailure,

If you call a Ukrainian a Russian, you’re going to have the whole Ukrainian nation in an uprising! lol… Kiev is the capital of Ukraine. The exception would be if he is a Russian living in the Ukraine (there are some), but he’s probably Ukrainian.

Ukrainians, Armenians, and others were under Soviet rule prior to 1991 and never considered themselves Russian. They have a long long history of being Ukrainian or Armenian, etc. millennia before the USSR formed just after WWI). And even during the time of the USSR they each were separate republics.

Most Ukrainians think of themselves as Ukrainians. Just like Alexei Zhitnik (a former King).
Smo says:

July 27, 2010 at 1:29 pm

Awful, awful player.

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Brian says:

July 27, 2010 at 1:31 pm

We’re looking for scoring and we get Poni? Am I the only one scratching my head at this? Good riddance with Fro but I hardly think this is a step up…

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Cry Baby says:

July 27, 2010 at 1:32 pm

@Michael_DD8, I just hit my LIKE button!

FYI…here’s a scouting report from SB Nation…

Scouting Report
Assets
Is usually among the most industrious skaters on the ice. Displays a sound two-way game and some offensive ability. Has good size and strength. Is strong in the corners and in front of the opposing goal.
Flaws
Will never be confused with a natural goal-scorer. Doesn’t always take full advantage of his imposing frame. Misses a lot of quality scoring chances. Lacks intensity from time to time.
Career Potential
Two-way big-bodied winger.
Awards

[Reply]
number 6 Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 1:38 pm
@Cry Baby,
That sounds like the scouting report on Brian Boyle. Didn’t he used to be with the Kings.
Sorry, but if this guy couldn’t get it going playing with Crosby I’m not exactly sure where he goes now. If he doesn’t play w Kopi (that would be Smyth) then how many goals is he gonna score playing with Stoll?
I mean, I’m not jumping up and down at the moment. Think I’ll go outside and get some sun

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VanKingsFan Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 1:50 pm
@number 6, Watch the games dude. He rarely got playing time with Sid.

many, many wingers have not been able to gel with Crosby, thus the long line of guys that have been in and out. Many different theories for this; some say he thinks the game too far ahead and his linemates can’t keep up.

But I wouldnt judge Poni on 27 games with the Pens; not terrible numbers either

[Reply]
number 6 Reply:
July 28th, 2010 at 5:13 am
@VanKingsFan,

Well my friend, I reply a day later. First, I do live on the east coast…. and while I don’t watch all the games, i do remember seeing him on a line w Crosby. How Much he played w Crosby I can’t vouch for.

One thing I Can vouch for though is his numbers w the Pens. TWO goals in 16 games during the season. ONE goal in eleven playoff games.
Maybe you meant ‘not terrible numbers’ based on his time w Toronto. In any case he’s a notoriously streaky scorer. We need consistency on this team now…. not streakiness. You know well how this team can go cold offensively as they are already offensively challenged 5 on 5.

We’ll see how it plays out.
BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy says:

July 27, 2010 at 1:48 pm

–Po-ni-ka-rov-sky!–

My favorite NHL name!
…Not my favorite NHL player…

–Enigma alert!–
–Enigma alert!–
–Enigma alert!–

Why in the Jumpin’ Je-ho-se-fats did the Kings sign an enigma, just after letting another enigma go? And, this enigma is probably LESS TALENTED and OLDER than our old enigma?

–ARGH!–

[Reply]
number 6 Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 3:39 pm
@BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy,

This is Exactly the impression that I had. Maybe he didn’t play w Cros, or maybe he tried and it didn’t work, but nonetheless I never had the impression he lit it up w the Pens.

Hey Bakes, lets go take some photos of…… I don’t know… maybe macro photos of snails or something.
We are both so excited.

Well don’t feel too bad… I mean we at one point had Ivan Nagy….

[Reply]
OttoKing says:

July 27, 2010 at 1:53 pm

The signing is good and all, but I will just never be able to think of his name as anything other than what Don Cherry always called him: “Pocahontas-ovsky”…..

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BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 2:05 pm
@OttoKing,

So true!
A Fro-clone who can’t hang onto the puck, doesn’t go into the corners and doesn’t want the puck on his stick with the game on the line…

–LOO-HOO-SER-HER!–

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King John Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 2:37 pm
@BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy,

At least give him a chance! It gives us more depth if nothing else.

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KOHO Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 2:15 pm
@OttoKing,

That’s cold!! LOL

Don Cherry craps on you like that you’ve got some serious holes in your game.

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Thailure says:

July 27, 2010 at 1:56 pm

Great! We won the Bronze Medal in the Russian Sweepstakes. Wake me up when it gets exciting.

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Dan H. says:

July 27, 2010 at 2:19 pm

Dreger is saying 1 year 3 million and a 200k signing bonus.

So less production than Fro for more money

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jammer06 Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 2:22 pm
@Dan H.,
but its a better cap hit
Actually how is he allowed to have performance bonuses? He wasn’t injured last year and he’s not 35? Anyone?

[Reply]
John Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 7:12 pm
@jammer06,

SIGNing Bonus, I’d imagine

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kluka68 says:

July 27, 2010 at 2:31 pm

So we sign Poni for 3.2M and lost Fro for 3.0M. This is “great move” I still think Fro is better player.

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Kingsfan86 says:

July 27, 2010 at 3:05 pm

First off Frolov turned us down after having a awful season, yes he’s a great player AT TIMES !King nation didn’t need his attitude of not wanting to be there.Alexi doesn’t make us any better but at the same time doesn’t make us any worse.It’s all about the young guys getting better for the kings to win it. Also someone said show me a player on the kings that didn’t take a night off last year? Dustin Brown .

[Reply]
KOHO Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 3:29 pm
@Kingsfan86,

Is that before or after the baby?

[Reply]
Michael_DD8 Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 4:38 pm
@KOHO,

I dont think Doughty did either.

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John Maclean says:

July 27, 2010 at 4:10 pm

Would have been cool to sign Bobby Ryan!

[Reply]
Arthur Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 5:28 pm
Is Ryan still available? Why not make an offer if he is available? OK….so we start a “player signing war” with the Ducks. By the way….did Fro have any shot other than his extremely predictable “wrap-around”. Fro thought the front of the net was the part with the red light and the water bottle on it. Poni can not harm us.

[Reply]
DaveTheWave says:

July 27, 2010 at 5:45 pm

Oh gee, this solves our scoring winger issue now doesn’t it? Stanley Cup here we come…That is once this franchise WAKES THE $@@$@& UP AND FIRES DEAN LOMBARDI!!! until then…Let’s go Ducks!

[Reply]
John Reply:
July 27th, 2010 at 7:16 pm
@DaveTheWave,

“OUR” scoring issue?? Get the hell out of here, duck!!!

[Reply]
Kings Fan in Temecula Reply:
July 29th, 2010 at 9:09 am
@DaveTheWave, BOOOO!

[Reply]
King Jefe says:

July 27, 2010 at 10:41 pm

WOW! Thanks for opening my eyes to whatt a bunch of morons we are that think Fro was only sporadically an effective power foward. You make a very intelligent argument for the “I’m right, you’re idiots, shut up” school of thought. I must have imagined all the disapperaing acts Fro did over the years in between his all-star caliber bursts. Get real, we like Fro, but you can’t count on him to show up. I hope he thrives with NY, but it won’t prove anything about his play in LA. Change is good and it’s always a gamble. Grow up.

[Reply]
1divisionTitlein40sumYears says:

July 28, 2010 at 7:44 pm

Poni isnt a replacement for Fro. He is just a guy to fill one of the open left wing spots on thet roster. Raitis was a left wing too, to those comparing him to Fro, that would be the same as me saying Poni was replacing Ivanans. In that case its a very good upgrade. He is not replacing anyone. He is just an addition to the team. Fro didnt suck, but he definitely didn’t play to his potential. He didnt help us, so get rid of him. Regardless of his potential offensive talent, he just doesnt have the right attitude to be part of a team on its way to a championship. He is a nice guy, but would have liked to see him show some guts every now and then instead of smiling when he got smacked into the boards. He will continue to be streaky, Im sure he will keep making the same type of numbers. He is one of the best guys in the corners in the entire league, but it does no good to protect the puck in the corner for 5 mins if you’re not going to bury it in the back of the net. Maybe Fro can grow some cajones in NY

[Reply]
hire_tocchet says:

July 31, 2010 at 11:00 am

poni is a career underachiever who fell out favor in toronto and pitt. fro will be under ny media pressure, unlike here in socal where nobody cares. fro doesn’t know what he’s in for. poni can now underachieve in a very media friendly market.

[Reply]