As we know, the Kings’ defense filled in a significant piece yesterday when the team added Willie Mitchell. Mitchell joins Drew Doughty, Jack Johnson, Matt Greene and Rob Scuderi as a clear “top five” — although Greene is expected to miss perhaps the first month with a shoulder injury — but how will all the pieces fit together? I examined that subject today in a piece for LAKings.com. Please give it a read!
Defensive picture becoming less puzzling
And here’s your chance to be heard. Who should be Mitchell’s partner this season?
Obviously, I’m not the only person to say Johnson…
Except on the PP, Doughty and JJ never really meshed well together. I think it’s just too much youth there, to be honest. And I love Doughty and Scuderi together.
Mitchell’s presence on the ice will GREATLY improve JJ’s game, and (assuming we’re talking about after Greene returns from the injury) that gives us a shut-down defenseman on the ice at all times (Scuderi, Mitchell, and Greene).
Not sure who the sixth D-man is gonna be… Drewiske, Harrold, one of the prospects, but Mitchell-Johnson seems to have the most upside for this team.
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Chad1344 Reply:
August 26th, 2010 at 3:50 pm
@Kevin Y,
I agree…that would be a nasty pairing with JJ & Mitchell. Very tough to play against!
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blah blah Reply:
August 26th, 2010 at 4:10 pm
@Kevin Y,
i also think Mitchell will be a great compliment to Johnson. He is real solid and that will give JJ the confidence to try and be more offensive.
secondly…JJ and doughty not a good pair on the pp? really? did you see what they did in the playoffs? i dont have the stats in front of me but…ya, they were pretty damn effective against van
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blah blah Reply:
August 26th, 2010 at 4:12 pm
@blah blah,
i apologize if that last comment sounded rude. wasn’t intended to come out like that. sounded much nicer in my head
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UpperV Reply:
August 26th, 2010 at 4:22 pm
@blah blah,
FYI – He said “except on the pp.” Meaning that they are good on the power play together, but not otherwise.
blah blah Reply:
August 26th, 2010 at 4:26 pm
@blah blah,
oooohhhhhhhhh! criss cross what i said. thanks upperV!
McDonalds Reply:
August 26th, 2010 at 4:58 pm
@blah blah,
haha yea i read it the same way too at first.
DD and JJ were beast on the PP in the playoffs. Here’s to hoping that TM doesn’t touch that pp pairing
Kevin Y Reply:
August 26th, 2010 at 6:07 pm
@blah blah,
I see somebody else already got to it… I misread my own comment, as well =)
If memory serves, TM put them together… the team sucked, and they were quickly pulled apart, except for on the power play in the VAN series. They were a beast.
If they can find a way to make it work 5-on-5 (which seems to be the general issue with this team), the options are unbelieveable!
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KC23 Reply:
August 26th, 2010 at 6:44 pm
@Kevin Y,
I think Mitchel should be paired with DD for the simple reason to get DD used to playing with another player. At least start the year out that way. It would be easy to switch back.
Rich
Great article as usual. Well done!
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thegriffster Reply:
August 26th, 2010 at 8:51 pm
@Kevin Y, I think it’s time for Hickey to step up we’ve heard so much about him it’s time to see him step up for that sixth spot.
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Duckhunter Reply:
August 27th, 2010 at 11:20 am
@Kevin Y,
I would also like to see Willie play with DD, for the simple reason of protection. DD is a tough kid but I want someone out there that will tear skulls apart if any funny business goes on. Nothing against Scuds of course.
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the major discovery in training camp [IMO] will be Johan Fransson, who has major league skills, without doubt….the only question in my mind is how he will fit in, adjust, to NHL level hockey after having played in Sweden for years….he would fit perfectly on a 3rd pairing with Greener or Jake….
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Agame Reply:
August 27th, 2010 at 4:27 am
@Real 9, I think Fransson has been brought to organization, because of Greeners shoulder problems. For first month I see Fransson as a top 5 D.
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Doughty doesn’t need any help from a new defensive partner – Mitchell can only help Jack Johnson mature as a Top 4 NHL defenseman.
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KC23 Reply:
August 27th, 2010 at 7:00 am
@Jonathan,
Quote: “Mitchell can only help Jack Johnson mature as a Top 4 NHL defenseman.”
By saying that you are suggesting Scuderi can’t help mature Jack Johnson as a Top 4 NHL defenseman and I’d say Scuderi didn’t do too bad with DD last year. DD progress big time last year compared to his rookie season.
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Greene’s injury actually means the Kings will have 2 open spots for Hickey, Fransson, Drewiske, etc. Should be interesting to see that battle play out before Greene comes back.
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Doughty-Scuderi
Johnson-Mitchell
Greene-???
I like it.
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People are getting way too high on this.
Obviously WM belongs with DD.
Jack belongs with Scuds, a guy who can try to get him to move his damn feet and move the damn puck!
I think we all know Jack will be great, but his -17 or whatever the hell it was last year means he will only eventually find his game by moving the puck with speed and using his head. If you need a reference, open the dictionary and see “Rob Scuderi.” That’s who he belongs with.
Same story though right now; we still need another d-man and a left winger.
It looks like the Kings are finally going to be on TV as well!! Those will all be good games. The game against the ‘Hawks might be an ugly beat down, but I will keep faith in the boys.
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Matt George Reply:
August 26th, 2010 at 4:47 pm
@Doc. Mark 1968,
I just don’t see the hawks making the same noise as last year.
The Byfuglien loss alone was a major hit.
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HeyChief Reply:
August 26th, 2010 at 4:50 pm
@Doc. Mark 1968, whether paired with Scuderi or Mitchell, I’d like to see JJ add a little more MF to his game.
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broncokings Reply:
August 26th, 2010 at 9:45 pm
@HeyChief,
i totally agree with that, all we heard was how mean he was, and loved to hit…I still love the guy just want to see that physical presence he was touted for
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KC23 Reply:
August 26th, 2010 at 6:51 pm
@Doc. Mark 1968,
Chicago had half their team changed. Nobody knows how that will play out. I doubt they’ll be as good and their goal tending is till suspect.
JJ doesn’t have a problem moving his feet … except he does it too much and gets out of position. And he was different player after the Olympics. From that point on he was a plus 2. Huge improvement over his -17 up till that point in the season.
I want DD to start with a different player because it would be easy to switch back if need be. That way if there is any injuries between Scuderi or Mitchel DD will be used to playing with either.
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Dominick Reply:
August 27th, 2010 at 12:28 am
@Doc. Mark 1968,
I think JJ’s shown exceptional speed and puckhandling skills. Earlier in the season he was making the choice to take the contact, which usually got him into trouble because he would get bumped off the puck, which would result in a turn over.
After the olympics he started avoiding contact and carrying the puck up ice himself.
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sstephen17 Reply:
August 27th, 2010 at 8:24 am
@Doc. Mark 1968, It’s hardly obvious. Last year, Doughty was a Norris level dman with Scuderi. We know that pair work well together. Johnson was usually paired with the 6th defenseman last year, so his partner this year is going to be a major upgrade. Training camp and pre-season will ultimately determine what the pairings will be to start the season but I hardly think it’s an obvious call at this point.
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You all know don’t you that TM will try all the combinations anyway, so we will just have to see who he belongs with. LOL
Just for the record, I voted JJ, however I may have been influence by the artical I just read. Doc Mark 1968 has a good point.
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KFII Reply:
August 26th, 2010 at 4:53 pm
@KFII, Okay, dont you just hate it when you find you spelled a word wrong after you post? I meant article, but then of course you all knew that.
@Doc Mark, I should also clarify the good point I was refering to was the pairing of JJ and Scuds.
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irish lak Reply:
August 26th, 2010 at 5:24 pm
@KFII, got your back . I hate it to. I cant spell for crap. On another note i agree scuds is a good pairing too him or johnson. Have a great day. I watch from the cancer unit at ucla.
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ideeho spudm Reply:
August 26th, 2010 at 8:06 pm
@KFII,
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I would like a johnson pairing. But he will help us every were with d od was good at best. Wm will give us a f u defensman with a f.u and have a nice day.
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Jack johnson …… go kings. We will *%$&/%# destyoy
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Sorry to change the subject. I Hate it when people do that.
But Kovi just put a 48 hour ultimatum out.
But even more interestingly, he has a new agent, a Russian Guy. Looks like Grossman was the one who got skrewed in the end.
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Anonymous Reply:
August 26th, 2010 at 5:17 pm
@R.E.M. Murray, he still has Grossman as agen for NHL team. IK has two agents one who is dealing with KHL and the other for NHL.
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R.E.M. Murray Reply:
August 26th, 2010 at 5:32 pm
@R.E.M. Murray,
I think I’m gonna go lay 100 Commies (or whatever they call Russian currency) on SKA St Pete. I’m sure they’ll win the Russian version of the Stanley Cup. I bet it is as nice as our version of the Stanley Cup. I’M sure Kovi and Nabby will really enjoy it as they did their LeBron James impersonation.
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USHA#17 Reply:
August 26th, 2010 at 6:00 pm
@R.E.M. Murray,
Stanley Cup is filled with beer and champaign while the Gagarin Cup is lined with the lost savings and stolen property of their people.
http://thehockeywriters.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/kubok_gagarina.jpg
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USHA#17 Reply:
August 27th, 2010 at 6:50 am
@R.E.M. Murray,
Best if Upchuk goes to the KHL.
Think about the future of 15 year deals.
Teams will have one of two looks.
Your favorite club will have an average age of 38 and all playoff beards will be gray or your club will be filled with a bunch of guys getting paid $250K a season with dirty uniforms while a could of guys in wheelchairs sit in the press box with broken hips.
I kinda like the second option. It sounds like Hockey going back to its roots…
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Interesting stuff – what about this injury to Voynov ? Knew that Teubert was injured, this was the first I’d heard about Voynov……
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HCKYJOC Reply:
August 26th, 2010 at 5:53 pm
@JKA, From Rich’s post Kings retreat report:
In the latest “injured prospect” update, Hextall revealed that Vyacheslav Voynov has a shoulder injury and is “not going to be healthy at the start of the year.” Murray noted, in what shouldn’t be a surprise, that the Kings would not consider carrying three goaltenders and that he would prefer to limit his No. 1 goalie to a range of 55-58 games next season.
http://lakingsinsider.com/2010/08/21/kings-retreat-report/
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JKA Reply:
August 27th, 2010 at 10:27 am
@HCKYJOC,missed that, thanks for the update
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Stop fighting each other we love the kings we want them to win.ive watched them for 27 years win or lose. And in reply i dont spell well. Im even worse on are you smarter than a 5th grader. Lets just watch the games and help our boys out. Oh and f kovi. Stupid pre madona. Kopi will have your @## in 2 years anyway . Good job d.l .
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Kwaz Reply:
August 26th, 2010 at 9:28 pm
@irish lak,
Don’t worry brother, things have seemed pretty positive around here since yesterday since we acquired Willie! I agree with you on the ‘F’ Kovi. Unless that is, somehow, he takes less money to come and play in LA, in which case GO Kovi! Anyway things should be good this season! I think that we have enough prospects that whatever holes we have will be filled by them. I’m just waiting to see which players step up.
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$&?@ kovi. And his stupid sap agent. He screwed with d.l and ffffffffd us.
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Deadmarsh Reply:
August 26th, 2010 at 5:34 pm
@irish lak, spam much?
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Nitrohockey Reply:
August 26th, 2010 at 5:45 pm
@Deadmarsh, He did say in an earlier post he was at the cancer unit at ucla. I think if I were there, I’d probably post alot to keep my mind off of things.
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Deadmarsh Reply:
August 26th, 2010 at 6:11 pm
@Nitrohockey, my bad. I thought he meant he “worked” there. Carry on.
Now let’s get a first line sniper and I know we will go deep into the playoffs!!!
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To deadmarsh. Im sittling in a hospital bed with terminal n.h.l . Cancer . Ive been here for a long time. I just got a pda that i can talk online with. Im not too goog with online codes. What does spam you ? Mean? ……
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USHA#17 Reply:
August 26th, 2010 at 6:02 pm
@irish lak,
Its an old way of saying that it time to eat.
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I thought this was a place were people could say what they felt. I guess i was wrong. Making fun of people dieing thats funny. Ha ha. While you sit in a nice room with your computers im stuck in a room with pick lines a bald head and vomit. You people make me sick. I lost my 6 year old son last year to cancer. Are you going to make fun of him his name was johnathan. I think i for the first time i wont watch the kings. And fans like you did it. Ive got at best 8 months so i wont miss much. Thanks but no thanks. And fffffffff kovi and people who have nothing better to do than pick fights with cancer patients.
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05/29/93 Reply:
August 26th, 2010 at 8:36 pm
@irish lak,
A post like this certainly is a vivid reminder that hockey is just a game and that there are more important things in life. Best wishes for you and your family. May you soon be reunited with your son in heaven!!
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God bless you all the people that are good people. I had a few hours to go online today i only get to go online 2 times a month. I spent my time with you. I have to go do more radiation in 15 min. Im sorry i got mad im just angry and the only thing that made me happy was waching the kings.
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paul Reply:
August 26th, 2010 at 10:30 pm
@irish lak,
God bless you to Irish la
The kings have always been a piece of my heart also and so will you be.
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Puckn-A Reply:
August 27th, 2010 at 12:45 pm
@irish lak, hey man if you ever want to chat about the Kings hit me up, my e-mail is monsterzero23@yahoo.com. I always am up for talking Kings Hockey.
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To nitro hockey thank you god bless
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Wow……talk about a buzz kill!
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Completely off topic but I was wondering if you(Rich) or anyone else has a list of Kings players that use Twitter?
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We need a Big Name Big Time Scorer For Our Wing. We need a wing man like Goose was to Maverick.
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sstephen17 Reply:
August 27th, 2010 at 8:28 am
@rjb, Great analogy, unless that winger meets the same fate that Goose did, lol.
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So much talk about IK and then he signs with NJ and then his contract is null and void. Then DL does what he does best, he signs a player that may not be as high profile as IK but who does fit with the team and makes our Kings a better team. Defence is what wins games, playoffs, and God-willing, a Stanley Cup. Now all we have to do is sit back and enjoy the season and say thank you very much DL.
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OKAY FELLAS… I just asked Dustin Brown on his facebook page to weigh in on “The Great Burger Debate”… And he answered rather promptly… “In-N-Out Hands down”… Read it and weep!
The Captain speaks, therefor the answer stands!
http://www.facebook.com/dustinbrownnhl
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ksy2648 Reply:
August 26th, 2010 at 8:25 pm
@TVA333, I agree with the captain. I tried 5 guys last week and wasn’t impressed at all. It was good, but I’d take a Double Double over it any day.
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TVA333 Reply:
August 26th, 2010 at 8:54 pm
@ksy2648,
100% Agreed It was like trying a carls jr $6 burger for the first time… The hype didn’t match the taste…
If you’re feeling like something new and interesting though… The burger trucks that are popping up around LA are pretty satisfactory… Check out Patty waggon/grill ‘em all.. if you’re ever in the downtown/silverlake area.. worth it since, in n out a little far..
Also Hugo’s tacos in atwater has a pretty decent burger (not to mention a wicked steak burrito. F%^# I’m hungry)!
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sstephen17 Reply:
August 27th, 2010 at 8:33 am
@TVA333, I’ve been oversaturated with In-N-Out. I went to UCI for college and they had one across the street. Lived in Burbank and Covina where there are multiple locations.
Like Hickey and DD2 much, but I want Muzzin.
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I think Mitchell should be paired with one of the young kids, so they can learn from him. Jack can play with another young kid untill greene comes back. Why make two young kids play with each other at the beginning of the season. IMO
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Pair WM with JJ. DD is a better defender than JJ and therefore doesn,t need WM backing him up. JJ can utilize his offensive skills and help our 5 on 5 scoring while WM strengthens our defense. I would team DD up with Scuds or Greener for the same reasons. We are really fortunate to have this “dilema”!
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@RJB
Sorry but i think the goose ended up getting cooked in that movie.
I do agree that the next hole that needs to be filled is a top six left winger,I do not know if it will be taken care of by trade,fa signing,or one of our young guys but there is a need.
I don’t know about you but i feel the poni signing was a nice upgrade for modine on the 3rd line and penalty kill,But i am not sure if he is top six material.
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Real 9 Reply:
August 26th, 2010 at 10:41 pm
@Bkrs-Bud,
I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the progess of our young guns, forwards like Moller, Parse and Schenn….Parse is already being counted on for more minutes [at least that's the plan]…let’s hope Oscar returns to top form….he could make an impact this year…
and Schenn is young, maybe too young, but he certainly has the tools….then there’s Clifford, who will definitely figure into Kings plans, but likely next year….I don’t count out a trade for a winger, but don’t expect it will be until later….after the season starts we’ll all have a clearer picture….
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John Reply:
August 26th, 2010 at 11:32 pm
@Real 9,
Don’t forget Richardson. He seems confident & could be ready to take the next step!
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I voted for Willie and JJ. Seems like he needs someone like Willie so he can open up and play more offensive which seems like he is more tuned into.
I also liked seeing JJ play with the edge at the end of the season. I want to see more of that edge type of JJ.
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Real 9 Reply:
August 26th, 2010 at 10:43 pm
@Kingsfanone,
I voted for Willie & JJ several times!
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IceGuy Reply:
August 27th, 2010 at 6:53 am
@Real 9,
Really? You did? Are you from Chicago?
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Sorry about the earlier off subject post.
I voted for WILLIE and D.D.for the following reason and if i am wrong please let me know.
I do not know if willie plays both sides of the ice i heard he plays the left side and isn’t that the side j.j.plays best.
And i believe SCUDS can play both sides of the ice,wasn’t that part of the reason we signed him.
And we all know D.D. plays the right side.
I’m glad they have a full camp to sort it out.
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@ Real9 replay
Thanks, that sounds great i would much rather have the young guns step up,Than have to make a trade, I can hardly wait for some hockey.GO KINGS.
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@ Real9 reply
Thanks, that sounds great i would much rather have the young guns step up,Than have to make a trade, I can hardly wait for some hockey.GO KINGS.
sorry got your sign wrong.
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I dont have the time or energy to read all the posts here (even if its only 63 now), so maybe someone stated this before.
I think it will be a high risk at the start of the season when Greene is injured to put 2 unexperienced defenseman in the third pairing. Therefore I think that either Scuderi or Mitchell will start in the third pairing, together with either Muzzin/Fransson or Hickey. Then maybe Drewiske will play with Doughty or Jack. Thoughts? We need a steady defensive pairing behind or shutdown line with Handzuz, Poni and Simmonds..
And another thing… I hear some whispers that it is probable that Kings will make a trade for a forward before the season starts, and I think even Hextall mentioned it (or at least didn’t deny it) in the interview with Heidi.
Hava anyone any thougths on who that migth be? I think it is very hard to predict. Who saw the Smyth-trade coming? No one. But very common DL trades for a player he have had eyes on before, like Richardson and Ponikarovsky. If you use that way of thinking, maybe we could figure out which players he is targeting?
Another issue I brought up before, I dont think we have any trade-material as everyone is speaking about. Who should we trade? No one want Williams. We wont give up Simmonds. Maybe Stoll. Hickey is supposed to break the team? We wont trade Bernier.
So, how in the H*ll are we going to trade for a scoring forward?
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Dominick Reply:
August 27th, 2010 at 1:03 am
@MacSwede,
I’ve mentioned the same thing about the D myself on other websights. Also we have plenty of trade-material with prospects and draft pics. There are alot of teams that are looking to move players contracts.
We just need to find the right player for the right price.As long as DL sticks to waiting for the right fit, I’m behind him all the way.
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MacSwede Reply:
August 27th, 2010 at 1:28 am
@Dominick, I agree with you, I am not desperate. I just think it is going to be harder than many think.
It is all to the definiton of what forward we should go after. If it is a top scorer, then it would take more than prospects and picks. If it is another Smyth like player, then I dont see any problem aquiring it.
To get a player like Vanek, Gaborik, Semin, Carter or whatever of that caliber is going to be expensive, and they probably would want a roster player along with prospects and picks.
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Real 9 Reply:
August 27th, 2010 at 4:37 am
@MacSwede,
Injuries may be the catalyst for a trade….say we have two forwards out of the lineup for more than a few games….say also that we have hot goalie, making it difficult for TM to get the 2nd ‘tender into a game…
do you trade the sitting goalie when there is obvious interest in him from other teams?
I can think of another scenario which would result in a trade: you have a defenseman who is not playing up to his all-star potential, and might be happier with another team….perhaps another D-man has shown he is capable of increased ice time, but has not been given a chance to play a regular shift…
in either case you could trade for an available forward….there’s ALWAYS someone available for the right fit….both teams benefit….
KC23 Reply:
August 27th, 2010 at 4:24 am
@MacSwede,
Guerin from Pitts is rumoured to possibly coming to the Kings. Good player, but getting on in years (40 in Nov). I think he would be a good pickup.
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MacSwede Reply:
August 27th, 2010 at 5:13 am
@Real 9, I hope you are referring to JJ, not DD. But if we trade JJ, then we have a hole in the back (hmm, that did not come out right). Whats the point of filling a hole while creating another? Maybe if some of the prospects surprise us. Nevertheless you are suggesting that “the trade” will come later in the season.
@KC23, I dont agree, I mean, I like Guerin, but it is a very shortsighted solution. It will at most be the backup plan. Guerin is also a right wing, and we need lefties.
I think the best we can put togheter is Hickey(unproven), Stoll(underrated), a 1st round pick, Moller(unproven, with little more experience), voynov(unproven) and maybe Williams (but who would want him).
A combination of above maybe can get us some decent scorer… Thougts on that? Do you still believe in Hickey and wont give him up? Would the team we trade with believe in Hickey?
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Real 9 Reply:
August 27th, 2010 at 5:31 am
@MacSwede,
you tell me who the underachiever is….I sure hope that changes, but if not, then….
so long!
MacSwede Reply:
August 27th, 2010 at 6:03 am
@MacSwede, I am not sure I understand what you mean, maybe it is a language-problem since I am a Swede.
You are suggesting that “the trade” will come later in the season when we know if someone is underachieving or could be replaced by a surprising prospect. Maybe this is what wil happen.
But the “whisper” I initially talked about was that a trade would happen BEFORE the start of the season. So, right know, which players can we user for trade?
KC23 Reply:
August 27th, 2010 at 6:56 am
@MacSwede,
Of course its the back up plan. What other plan is there at this point?
src Reply:
August 27th, 2010 at 6:15 am
@MacSwede,
Yo Svensken!
I dont see Hickey making it. Small, injnuries etc. 1 more year AHL. I think Jonnson will be the next Quincey. Great numbers for elite league. Scored alot and got apparently alot of PP time. I say Jonsson and DD2 will be fighting for the 6th spot whne Greener gets back.
In addition, I dont think we trade for anyone yet. i believe Parse with regular playing time on the second line with Stoll and Brown will replace Frolovs numbers.
I also see Moller taking over for JW, but not until next year. 1 more year to get stronger.
anyway, my 2 cents.
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Real 9 Reply:
August 27th, 2010 at 6:45 am
@src, go Swedes! JF will surprise!
MacSwede, no trade now, that’s the point….
it will all become crystal clear as we progress
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MacSwede Reply:
August 27th, 2010 at 6:52 am
@src, I am sure that you mean Fransson, not Jonsson. But I agree with you, he could very well crack the roster.
If you dont think very highlys of Hickey, then perhaps we could use him in a trade, but that depends on what the other part think of him ofcourse.
I understand both your points, but I am not sure that everyone agree with you. Many in here would like to see a trade for a scoring winger, but only if it is “the right fit” ofcourse.
I think that it will be tough to make the playoffs if we dont improve our scoring 5 on 5. Maybe Parse will be better. Maybe Loktionov/Schenn or Moller will surprisingly break out, and maybe Simmonds will score 30 goals or more…..maybe
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Tookie Reply:
August 27th, 2010 at 7:19 am
@MacSwede,
I’ll throw some thoughts up…
Regarding D: To start the year I see this being a 4 dog race for the two rookie spots and the 7th D man. I think DD2 gets in unless he totally blows it in camp. Fransson will probably get in if his game can translate to the NHL, we’ll find this out in camp. The way Muzzin impressed last year, he’ll also vie for that spot. For the 7th D-man I just don’t see anyone but Harrold again. Leaving the rest to keep gaining experience in Manchester, including Muzz if he doesn’t get the 6th spot.
With that being said, I don’t think you play Mitchell in the third pairing. It seems as if they’re going to pair him with Doughty, then Scuds with Jack, then the rook pairing. Sounds dicey to me but if works then when Greene comes back our D will be among the best in the confrence if not the entire NHL.
Regarding offense: I don’t think DL makes a move unless it’s for picks and prospects. It sounds like he’s comfortable enough with the team as it is. After all, it’s basically the same offense as last years 100 pt team. It sounds like he’s banking on the growth of the younguns, and a little better luck health wise. I don’t see Simmer netting 30 in 3rd line duties but what do I know. I think we’re going to see some exciting rookie campaigns this year. *cough* Schenn *cough*
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OT — did you see where Shane Doan had to settle out-of-court….
http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/August2010/27/c5379.html
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Chad Smith Reply:
August 27th, 2010 at 1:34 pm
@Real 9, How unusual for a Frenchman to quite before the actual battle begins. I also heard that Coderre has a collection of world war two french issued weapons for sale, never fired and only dropped once.
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Anyone have any ideas on what number Mitchell will wear. I doubt he will ask Drew for #8…Thoughts
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We B Ilya'n Reply:
August 27th, 2010 at 9:07 am
@Matty,
00 (8 turned sideways). I’ve seen this # in NFL before but never NHL, wonder if it’s legal.
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I’m not worried about the pairings, nor am I going to pick one.
TM will establish the pairs, then, as they start to gel together and the chemistry develops, he’ll mix them up.
It will continue this way for the entire season.
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fsd1 Reply:
August 27th, 2010 at 10:33 am
@Sparman, That is an old complaint that carries no merit at all, please come up with a different angle
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I like how DL put it that Johnson and Doughty are both good to get that mix of a guy that his solid in his own end but can still move the puck decently combined w/ some more offensive flashes. And then when you need to shut people down you can put him w/ Greene.
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1st thought- Drewiske and Fransson start as 3rd dman pairing. Drewiske has over 1/2 season experience last year and Fransson 5 years in Swedish Elite League. Drewiske has also played well with Greene in the past making for an easy transition upon his return.
2nd thought- Hickey and Muzzin also get a look during this time at least to get a couple of NHL games under their skates.
3rd thought- No trades until we get Doughts signed (hopefully before trade deadline) so we have a better idea of what can be spent and also get a good indication if Schenn will be ready for 2nd line center spot.
4th thought- Ya gotta pair Johnson and Willie just for their names alone. Plus WM’s great +/- balances out with JJ’s less than favorable one.
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VanKingsFan Reply:
August 27th, 2010 at 9:58 am
@We B Ilya’n, bahahahha… love the 4th thought dude: what could that pairings nickname be??
The Penetrators?
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BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy Reply:
August 27th, 2010 at 10:17 am
@VanKingsFan, @We B Ilya’n,
MWAHaHaHaHaHa!
Think DEFENSE.
–Steely Dan.
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Dazed N Confused Reply:
August 27th, 2010 at 10:52 am
@VanKingsFan,
The “Rock Hard” defense
The “Stiff Ones”
What ever you do do get our defense pissed off!
Ok I am done.
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We B Ilya'n Reply:
August 27th, 2010 at 11:53 am
@Dazed N Confused,
Our defense will be hard on everyone as soon as we get Jack off the bench
Mitchell’s gonna be a coach or league executive one day. I think he’s going to be a fantastic addition on and off the ice.
Watch this…
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Imv7owJKLic
then listen to this…
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e_UWOVVzaO8&feature=related
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Niko Reply:
August 27th, 2010 at 9:27 am
@Matt R, God I hate that coward Malkin. Somebody better step up and split his face open. Show Willie we got his back! On that note, we should set the tone early if someone takes liberties with our new dman. Let him know the Kings will not tolerate another concussion and will do everything in their power to protect him.
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Rich, I noticed on LAKINGS.COM under Team Roster that Willie Mitchell is listed as “**Injured Reserve”. Is this just a “procedural” thing until he passes a Team Physical? Or is there a reserve list issue that gives Kings some space until training camp opens?
Crash
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Rich Hammond Reply:
August 27th, 2010 at 12:13 pm
It’s just a carry-over from last season, probably something that automatically carries over from the main NHL.com database of players. I’m not sure if the Kings can manually remove that designation, but they probably should if they can. I’ll ask…
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So much talk and questions about the D pairings, yet TM has shown to change up lines all the time. Maybe more with the Fs than with the D.
That being said, I really like seeing JJ and DD together when it’s needed.
I think WM with JJ would be a good fit.
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Tookie Reply:
August 27th, 2010 at 9:58 am
@KINGSfan,
I thought TM was really consistant with the D pairings last year. Only exceptions being situational and with injuries.
When you’re dealing with Jones and Harrold it’s pretty tough to find someone that sticks.
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deadcatbounce Reply:
August 27th, 2010 at 11:10 am
@Tookie, But if you throw enough sh*t on the ice some of it is bound to stick, right?
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Shakes Reply:
August 27th, 2010 at 10:13 am
@KINGSfan,
best.comment. of. the. day.
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its interesting to see all the D prospects we have, its been awhile since i’ve seen all their names next to each other, and not even listed was Teubert. i cant help but think that a handful of teams would salivate at the chance to get there hands on one or two of these guys.
obviously, muzzin and fransson are the new “toys” and wouldn’t be any kind of trade bait. but i would think that it would be advantageous to see what we might be able to get for a hickey, a voynov, a teubert, or a martinez. we’ve seen these names for a couple years, and i am aware that a defenseman does take some time to develope, but we’ve done well with keeping the pipeline flowing.
there is a draft coming up (2011 or 2012, whichever was the one we got the mapleleafs pick in the deal from this past draft) that is suppose to be loaded. if we cant get that 2nd line LW we need, why not parlay one of these guys into something to help down the road. maybe before these assets mature and we have to just let them go cause we couldn’t find room or we couldn’t use them in a way that allowed them to bloom.
we’ve got Greene till ’14, Scuds till ’13, WM for 2 years (god willing, no pun), should be able to lock down DD for forever and a part of me will be a little surprised if JJ signs a long term deal (but thats for another discussion) but we should, at least, have him for a couple years. and lets not forget the children we drafted this year, Forbert will be here in 3years and Gravel has that professional size, so he’ll be in the picture in 2-3 years.
since the 08 draft, i’ve loved hearing how much upside Voynov has, but right now, i would be very cool hearing that “the Kings have traded Voynov and aquired (current NHL forward)”
we are deep in goal, we are deep in D. i trust DL, but i wouldnt mind seeing that deal they’ve talked about where they have these assets to move. its not making a move to make a move, its saying bye to talent to get talent. even if that talent is an unrealized draft pick projected 20-30 overall in that loaded draft coming up.
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puck73 Reply:
August 27th, 2010 at 10:54 am
@jayhay, I know he doesnt get mentioned often but I’m tellin you, keep an eye on this kid Niclas Deslauriers. Every time I have watched him play in these scrimmages in El Segundo the kid just shines. The most important thing about playing defense is decision making and this kid always seems to make the right decision at game speed. It’s not that he blows you away with physical play or offensive capability, but he always seems to know when to pinch in, and when to stay back. Also he seems to be a very good skater, and usually makes a good outlet pass to get out of the defensive zone. Also, this kid was a plus 22 on his junior team last season and that is very impressive for a d man so obviously his hockey sense is very good.
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Real 9 Reply:
August 27th, 2010 at 11:32 am
@puck73,
OOOO! trade bait….can’t keep all these prospective D-men, so I’m sure at some point DL will send at least a couple of good prospects packing….that’s better for them, of course…
and if we can bring in someone who can help,
better for us….I’ll keep an eye ND..
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We B Ilya'n Reply:
August 27th, 2010 at 11:34 am
@puck73,
Yeah, seems like management is high on this prospect, too.
Where were all these guys a couple years ago? Hell, they coulda all been starters ’07-’08 season! Now instead of having great prospects, we have good trade bait.
Also seems like we got about 10 guys to play 3rd line wing… geeezzz!
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LOL! I was just looking at NHLNumbers.com and noticed that Mitchell is now our highest paid D man!
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tuan jim Reply:
August 29th, 2010 at 11:00 pm
@Matt R,
That, too, will pass away.
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I just wanted to say thank you for all the support. Im being moved to the cancer treatment center of america on the 28th. My mom just wont let me go. The doctors said my cancer is becoming more agressive. They are woried that it will spread to my brain. So while ill be in arizona my heart will be in l.a with all of you. My wife and my baby daughter and remaining son blake will be going with me . Just know ill be puting on my lucky luc jersie and my son jack johnson as my wife her johnson jersie. For every game. If i dont post its because i cant. God bless you all
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kings fan in temecula Reply:
August 29th, 2010 at 9:00 pm
@irish lak, GO IRISH!!! Make that cancer tremble and give it your all, have no regrets, and be proud of the life you’ve lived and fight like a warrior!
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tuan jim Reply:
August 29th, 2010 at 10:59 pm
@kings fan in temecula,
Ditto!
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Irish, Godspeed. Both you and the Kings are winners.
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@ Irish, We’re all gonna cheer extra loud for you and your family.
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