Mitchell, Ponikarovsky out « LA Kings Insider

Mitchell, Ponikarovsky out

Posted by Rich Hammond on 8 November 2010, 2:57 pm

The Kings have announced that defenseman Willie Mitchell will miss approximately 4 to 6 weeks with a fractured wrist and Alexei Ponikarovsky will miss approximately 4 weeks with a broken finger. Both injuries were suffered during Saturday’s game against Nashville, and a team spokesman said that neither player is expected to require surgery. The injuries were probably pretty apparent to those who attended Tip-A-King yesterday… The Kings will be back on the ice for practice tomorrow at 10 a.m.

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189 Comments

VanKingsFan says:

November 8, 2010 at 2:59 pm

Whaaaaaaaat…… is it just me, or with today’s modern medicine, shouldn’t a broken finger only take like a week to heal …
This posting is like a big punch in the stomach Rich

[Reply]
BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 3:59 pm
@VanKingsFan,

One week for a fracture to heal?
Seriously?

[Reply]
54FIGHTING Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 4:08 pm
@BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy,

Miracle medicine. Maybe I shouldn’t be a PA after all

[Reply]
BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 5:19 pm
@54FIGHTING,

Stick to hockey…

LAfan13 Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 6:26 pm
@VanKingsFan,
you must have stayed at a holiday inn express last night.

[Reply]
Kyle Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 6:29 pm
@VanKingsFan, Have no fear, Westgarth will fin in where needed. Oh, wait, no. No he won’t. He’ll just keep skating around embarrassing hockey fans around the world.

[Reply]
OC KINGS FAN Reply:
November 9th, 2010 at 7:33 am
@Kyle, HAAHAHA that was funny, but kind of harsh. but still LOL

[Reply]
Kyle Reply:
November 10th, 2010 at 12:44 pm
@OC KINGS FAN, Sad but true.
ADub87 says:

November 8, 2010 at 3:00 pm

Well that full lineup was nice for the 2 games it lasted…

[Reply]
FM3 Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 9:07 pm
@ADub87, No kidding huh. Geeeeeeeez. Well, that depth will be tested now for sure. I’m thinking Muzzin will be recalled but who else? Clune perhaps or Loktionov back?

[Reply]
Count Rockula says:

November 8, 2010 at 3:00 pm

Guess schenn and clifford will be staying awhile…

[Reply]
ADub87 Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 3:01 pm
@Count Rockula, I was just about to say the same thing.

[Reply]
Moondoggie Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 5:14 pm
@ADub87, Me too…..

[Reply]
KH says:

November 8, 2010 at 3:00 pm

Hello muzzin and loktionov?

[Reply]
VanKingsFan Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 3:07 pm
@KH, Or King? Or Cliche?

[Reply]
big_island_kingsfan says:

November 8, 2010 at 3:01 pm

Awwww man! well, I guess that Schenn will be in the lineup for sure on Thursday then. Anyone knows who is going to take Willie’s spot till he gets back?

[Reply]
Krusher Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 4:29 pm
@big_island_kingsfan, Muzzin

[Reply]
Moondoggie Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 5:15 pm
@big_island_kingsfan, I think Muzzin gets the call up, Schenn & Clifford make the team for sure now with Clifford filling Poni’s spot….

[Reply]
Harty Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 7:20 pm
@Moondoggie, your right moondoggie

[Reply]
Luc20Rules Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 6:00 pm
@big_island_kingsfan, Verse Dallas? Last game was very physical in Dallas, so my guess is Muzzin gets called up and plays. If we were going against a speed/finesse team I would think Harold plays. Just MHO is my guess.

[Reply]
tornado12 says:

November 8, 2010 at 3:03 pm

@#%$*!…the only silver lining I can see is Muzzin getting more time and maybe schenn/lokti….question is who replaces poni? I would assume it would be a imilar player and only clifford comes to mind…maybe richie? maybe a little adversity does the team well in the long run. (I know this is all BS im making up to make myself feel better)

[Reply]
pr0cess Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 3:07 pm
@tornado12, problem is that line was great, the size was perfect and the speed wasnt to bad. i dont think we got anyone like poni ready to step in…

[Reply]
tornado12 Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 3:24 pm
@pr0cess, can we trade for frolov? (tongue in cheek).

[Reply]
pr0cess Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 3:25 pm
@tornado12, LOL Epic!! i still love the fro man but ya… it was time for him to move on

mcsorleyfan Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 3:24 pm
@tornado12, I look for Clifford to step up to that third line, and then Schenn, Ritchie, and Westy on the 4th

[Reply]
pr0cess Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 3:26 pm
@mcsorleyfan, that would make the 4th line a little small??

[Reply]
mcsorleyfan Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 4:20 pm
Seems like the obvious choice; it gives Schenn and Westy more ice time; they can both use improvement in their skills. Ritchie and Schenn are both under 200 lbs, but Westy at 228 should provide ballast there. Ritchie plays with a lot of energy, and knows that role. Would you rather see Ritchie on line 3? That line has some big responsibility, and Clifford has filled in there before.

Stuart Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 4:12 pm
@mcsorleyfan, I was thinking more DB take that 3rd line spot and one of the skilled hands from MAN coming up and taking a stab at the 1st line… IMO

[Reply]
xhockeywriter Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 4:18 pm
@Stuart, Gee, and here I thought Brown was tied for the team lead in goals and a valuable player.

Krusher Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 4:30 pm
@mcsorleyfan, Concur 100%

[Reply]
Stuart Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 9:30 pm
@Krusher and xhockey, it’s not like the 3rd line will get 4th line time, he’ll be out there. But at least he’ll be out there with 2 other guys that aren’t looking for pretty passes, or someone that can work a give and go. They can all just put their heads down and skate the puck to the wing and take a bad angle shot. Seriously, DB is a solid player, but he is a shift killer.
People want to know why Kopi’s numbers are down? it’s real simple, DB. Not hating on Brown, just not swinging from his sak either.
pr0cess says:

November 8, 2010 at 3:04 pm

Willie got #2 goal of the week!!

[Reply]
tornado12 Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 3:28 pm
@pr0cess, i was watching NHL on the fly and they were showing “highlights of the year” so far and absolutely NO kings plays came up. Talk about east coast bias. I thought JJ hit against TB and willie goal would have made it, but absolutely no love for the Kings!

[Reply]
TYLER47 Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 5:17 pm
@tornado12, i hate that….number 1 in the nhl and still no respect

[Reply]
pr0cess Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 5:30 pm
@tornado12, Serious… JJ hit was in the Top 10 for the week… NHL on the fly is a bunch of scrubs. But let me guess Crosby plays baseball and there all over it.. BS

[Reply]
Deke'r Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 5:38 pm
@tornado12, Who needs love when you got WINS! GO KINGS!!

[Reply]
David s. Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 8:57 pm
@tornado12, willie’s goal was the hi light of the night on nhl on the fly the other night and the end of tonights hi lights had jj’s hit and willies goal …….

[Reply]
Bingram Reply:
November 9th, 2010 at 7:51 am
@tornado12,

Most of the so-called hockey experts are sleeping when the best NHL hockey is being played in the Western Conference. JJ hit the other night had to be the best, hardest and clean open ice hit of the year.

If most of us prepared for our jobs as thoroughly as these experts do. We would be unemployed.

As Kings fan we’re used to our team not getting any respect. But that changes this year.

Go Kings, go!!

[Reply]
poonagi says:

November 8, 2010 at 3:04 pm

Muzzin to be called up and will split time with Harrold filling in fo Mitchell. As for the third/fourth lines I predict we see:

Handzus/Simmonds/Clifford-Richie
Schenn/Clifford/Richie/Lewis/Westgarth

I don’t see a reason to recall Lokti at this time (for a third or fourth line role).

[Reply]
number1fan Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 5:01 pm
@poonagi, I agree completely! This is exactly what will happen imo. I think this will help take the ease off of losing both these solid guys. I really hope we continue this winning streak and that Muzzin or Harrold and Clifford and Schenn step it up in both these guys absence.

[Reply]
puckbob Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 5:42 pm
@poonagi, isn’t cool to have great choices to call up instead of saying ” OH NO! we’re screwed now” ?

[Reply]
Seems A Good Fellow Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 6:12 pm
@poonagi,

Muzzin will definitely be making his return to the NHL…sucks its under these circumstances

I really do think that we will end up sending Schenn back to Juniors only because he is still learning the defensive side of the game and with these injuries that is what will be taking a hit…the D.

I think Clifford will move up to the 3rd line and Harrold will play on the 4th line with Richardson and Westgarth.

[Reply]
Telos says:

November 8, 2010 at 3:05 pm

Worst possible news short of the word “concussion” entering the discussion. I think it is a guarantee that Schenn and Clifford are staying now.

[Reply]
mrbob25 says:

November 8, 2010 at 3:10 pm

Wow. Weird, both Poni (2 weeks) and Willie (4 weeks) went down in my NHL 11 Be a GM Mode this weekend. I played enough games this weekend for Poni to come back but Willie is still out for two more weeks. I know, who cares.

[Reply]
Danielle Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 3:14 pm
@mrbob25,

Please stop playing…

[Reply]
TinaBeana Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 3:17 pm
@mrbob25, it’s almost real life, no?
haha but yes weird.

[Reply]
tornado12 Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 3:30 pm
@mrbob25, when is the roster update coming out? i dont have schenn on my roster

[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 3:35 pm
@tornado12, Was wondering the same thing. I want Froloaf off my roster.

[Reply]
Count Rockula Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 3:38 pm
@KC23, it’s been out for about a week for ps3. i hate that they still dont have doughty back in the lineup, though.

mrbob25 Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 3:42 pm
@Danielle, Haha, as you wish.

@TinaBeana, so weird!

@tornado12,

Rosters should have come out already. Schenn and Clifford you have to sign or send to juniors when you start.

If it doesn’t show, go online through the game. Attempt to play a game online and rosters should load/update themselves. Don’t actually play a game, just exit online play and the rosters should be updated.

Remember though, if you create any ‘Mode’ of any kind, your rosters can only change there-on-out by you or the CPU (trades, waivers). You can’t start a Mode and keep updating rosters through the updates, they become fixed and you can’t create a player or anything like that. My advice is to create all the players you want and move players around the way you want, first. Then create your ‘Mode’. Hope that makes sense and helps.

[Reply]
tornado12 Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 3:58 pm
@mrbob25, do you have to purchase the online play package?

kink lopez Reply:
November 9th, 2010 at 7:46 am
@mrbob25, what about to unlock the other jersey?

src Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 3:52 pm
@tornado12,

x-box, You have to purchase the online play to get the new rosters. You then click in on a quick game and it will make you download the update. Then exit and save the roster

[Reply]
mrbob25 Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 4:07 pm
@tornado12, No, didn’t buy it. Think it was a free-trial for the first 10 days or something.

[Reply]
LAfan13 Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 6:32 pm
@mrbob25,
You do not need Xbox Gold.
All you gota do, is start an online game…
versus, HuT or something… then once you get the match all set up, it will promopt you to download new rosters… once you do, save it…. Then it will give you an error saying you dont have an account able to play online, and will boot you out… but at that point your new rosters are already saved on the xbox so vwalla….

ColoKingFan Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 9:00 pm
@mrbob25, could you maybe GM the sharks and stars for a while?

[Reply]
mrbob25 Reply:
November 9th, 2010 at 9:59 am
@kink lopez,

Jersey code should be out in December-ish. We must wait for the NHL to release another round of alternate jerseys (like we don’t have enough). Keep periodically checking gaming message boards.

[Reply]
JWR says:

November 8, 2010 at 3:10 pm

It will hurt a bit that both are a large part of our PK.

Guess the bright side is that a break is much better than a ligament damage.

[Reply]
Jorgen says:

November 8, 2010 at 3:10 pm

Good teams fight through adversity. They will fight through this and still be on top…

[Reply]
roadtripper says:

November 8, 2010 at 3:13 pm

WOW! DARN! SHOOT! FUDGE!!!

Hopefully Skuds stays with JJ, as we need someone back there who’s VERY responsible for when JJ goes wondering… I would also think Muzzin would have a lot of fun, not to mention perhaps really learn a lot, with Doughty. I also agree with POONAGI’s assessment of a possible Lokti call up. Once again, thank you DL for our depth!!!
Get well SOON boys!!!
GKG!!!

[Reply]
Dan H. says:

November 8, 2010 at 3:16 pm

Harrold played really well filling in for Drew. I think he gets the call and unless he or DD2 falter they’re covered.

I think Clifford is the 3rd line guy and Schenn gets more minutes at 4th line center.

[Reply]
Sebastian says:

November 8, 2010 at 3:16 pm

WOW…suprised. thats a long time.

i would suppose we can expect Schenn to play regularly as the 4th line center and Richie would step in for Poni…so that should be no big deal. Mitchell on the other hand will be a tougher spot to fill.

[Reply]
Harry says:

November 8, 2010 at 3:17 pm

Matt Barry reported Mitchell and Poni will be out for a while (I think he posted it yesterday, or the day before) but you know sometimes he is on track and sometimes he isnt’……

[Reply]
Dan H. Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 3:23 pm
@Harry,

Law of averages.

[Reply]
VanKingsFan Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 3:32 pm
@Harry, I take issue with Berry getting credit for anything, ever. The trick is being vague like saying ‘a while’ instead of telling the truth, i.e. 4-6 weeks

[Reply]
Dan H. Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 3:35 pm
@VanKingsFan,

And you know he was at fanfest so he saw the casts anyway. That’s a gimme even for him.

[Reply]
Harry Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 3:37 pm
@Dan H., He actually reported it before yesterday’s event… I believe he reported it the day after we win Nashville…

@ VanKings: I feel you man.
seamless says:

November 8, 2010 at 3:21 pm

@Jorgen, I’m with you 100%. I think this team has a lot of heart and enough talent to overcome this.

[Reply]
TinaBeana says:

November 8, 2010 at 3:22 pm

my best wishes out to Mitchell and Poni for a speedy recovery. injuries happen.
I like Clifford and Lokti, but whoever they put in, I am not worried.

[Reply]
pr0cess Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 3:33 pm
@TinaBeana, LOl you should be, everyone here has a feeling of “things are to good” Its like people saying to me hey the kings are in 1st eh? And im like shhh i dont want to talk about that. We go about are lives not thinging about how good the team is… cause of crap like this

[Reply]
TinaBeana Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 4:18 pm
@pr0cess, nah man, worry = stress = no fun. i am a relaxed Kings fan.
we did fine with DD, Green, and Parse out. We’ll be fine.

[Reply]
pr0cess Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 5:31 pm
@TinaBeana, just the *looks around* Curse you know…

TinaBeana Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 5:39 pm
@pr0cess, the curses and jinxes will end! if we keep believing in those dumb things, it will continue. so i stopped believing in such nonsense.

yeah, i don’t want to get my hopes up, but i’m not gonna freak out either. i’m zen.

[Reply]
poonagi says:

November 8, 2010 at 3:27 pm

The problem with pairing Harrold or Muzzin with Drew is that you don’t want either of those guys playing 20+++ minutes.

How about sliding Greene up to play with Drew? That gives you the physical defensive presence on that pairing. Then the third pairing is Drewiske with Muzzin or Harrold… who have all played together effectively this season. This allows them to stay under more reasonable minutes.

[Reply]
TinaBeana Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 4:19 pm
@poonagi, i actually like that idea.

[Reply]
Kevin Y says:

November 8, 2010 at 3:29 pm

Well ain’t that just swell… Mitchell was a very noticeable reason for our defense’s success so far. Now Muzzin really needs to step up. We need him.

[Reply]
Michael_DD8 says:

November 8, 2010 at 3:29 pm

Major Shock, i saw Helene tweet yesterday that Mitchell has “No breaks” but yes, a fracture is different. In some cases, Fractures are “worse” so lets hope it develops okay. As for Poni, he should be back quicker then we think.

It will be interesting to see who gets the call. Muzzin or Harrold. As for offense, SOO many options to predict!

[Reply]
BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 4:02 pm
@Michael_DD8,

“…i saw Helene tweet yesterday that Mitchell has “No breaks” but yes, a fracture is different. In some cases, Fractures are “worse” so lets hope it develops okay.”

Seriously?
Break = Fracture

Perhaps Queen H.E. was incorrect…

[Reply]
jet Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 4:44 pm
@BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy, Thanks, that last one confused me.

[Reply]
Moondoggie Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 6:24 pm
@jet, I am too….I thought a break was, well a break as in the bone being completely broken?? And maybe a fracture is like…a crack perhaps?

Am I missing something here? Ah, semantics perhaps??

Kingsfanone Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 6:23 pm
@BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy,

It may be the reason I am quite picky about believing what the Legend writes all the time. Ha Ha!

[Reply]
rick says:

November 8, 2010 at 3:36 pm

Very unfortunate, but I will still sleep tonight. This does, however, hurt our chances of winning every remaining game this year, as some people here seem to be expecting….

[Reply]
Lilly Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 3:56 pm
@rick,

Don’t burst my bubble dude

[Reply]
rick Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 4:20 pm
@Lilly, My bad.

[Reply]
jet Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 4:45 pm
@rick, no it doesn’t.

[Reply]
rontheking Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 4:46 pm
@rick,

we’re not going to win every game?
heretic!

[Reply]
Matthew says:

November 8, 2010 at 3:36 pm

i have a feeling that richardson will be on handzus and simmonds line, and then greene and doughty will be paired together on defense and then prob will recall muzzin. then on the fourth line will be schenn/clifford/westgrath/lewis

[Reply]
KC23 says:

November 8, 2010 at 3:39 pm

Shrugs. Usual injuries every team has every year. Very unusual to have no injuries for any team. We have tons of debth for Mitchel, but Poni that is another story. We are winger poor in debth.

[Reply]
Barry's Mullet says:

November 8, 2010 at 3:40 pm

Well that sucks! Poni was playing beyond my expectations, but I don’t believe we will miss him as much as Mitchell.

My guess is you don’t want to break up the pairings, so Muzzin plays with DD. You need a lefty to play along side DD and Harrold is a righty.

Heal fast boys!

[Reply]
Chaz Curry says:

November 8, 2010 at 3:43 pm

This is just me but I’d put Richie up on that third line and let Clifford and Schenn and Westie bang some bodies on the 4th.

[Reply]
LAfan13 Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 6:34 pm
@Chaz Curry,

I thought the same thing, Or move Brown to line 3 to fill a defensive roll, and move richie back to 1.

We can switch lewis/lokti/scheen/cliff/garth around with line 4 to keep them fresh…

[Reply]
Stuart Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 9:34 pm
@LAfan13, dont say move DB to the 3rd line… *winy/childish voice* “gee. here i thought he was tied for the team lead in goals”… still doesn’t mean he’s helping that first line to be as much as it could be.

[Reply]
DesertKing says:

November 8, 2010 at 3:44 pm

Not that there is ever a “good” time for injuries, but we are looking at a minimum of 17 games over the next 6 weeks. Fortunately, only two of those are against Division rivals (SJS and the Sucks). We always credit the success of our team to its depth, and this is where the team will prove it. We got by without Greene the first few weeks and lost DD for 2 more so we should be ok.

[Reply]
puck73 says:

November 8, 2010 at 3:45 pm

This is the reason why you build up your farm system with a lot of overstock..for situations like this. Now, do we have anybody that can totally replace the quality of play and experience that these 2 guys had? No. But at least we have guys that will fill in and do a decent job till they get back. I believe we are one of the few organizations that could survive something like this. Look at Nashville without Suter, their defense stinks without him.

[Reply]
Kingsfanone Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 5:47 pm
@puck73,

Well said, dude! This is exactly the reason we have all the depth on this team! We can only hope we get a decent job out of the replacements.
Like you say, we can’t expect anyone to totally replace these guys, but if they do a good job and we keep winning, we all keep smiling.

[Reply]
sstephen17 says:

November 8, 2010 at 3:46 pm

Could be worse, could have been a concussion to Mitchell. Four weeks = 14 games, of which 8 are at home. Looks like the Kings will be leaning on their depth.

[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 4:15 pm
@sstephen17, Not to mention that most of those teams will be dealing with injuries as well which is usual.

[Reply]
Goring 19 Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 4:37 pm
@sstephen17, my worst fear when I heard about Willie was the concussion symptoms returning. Right about now I can deal with a fractured wrist because you know it’ll heal relatively quickly. Concussion symptoms can go on, and on, and on……
I feel we’re gonna miss Poni considerably but it’s a chance for the younguns to step it up.

[Reply]
Alma says:

November 8, 2010 at 3:47 pm

Let’s pour holy water on the rest of the team, please…

[Reply]
Crosschecked says:

November 8, 2010 at 3:48 pm

J. Muzzin: “Hi Coach Morris.”

Coach Morris: “Welcome back Jake, it’s good…

Intercom: “Coach Morris, Line one. It’s Mr. Lombardi.”

Coach Morris: “Jake, you didn’t unpack did you?”

[Reply]
Jeff0184 Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 3:59 pm
@Crosschecked,

Hahaha, good one!

[Reply]
Kingsfanone Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 5:49 pm
@Crosschecked,

Funny! Probably just how it went too!

[Reply]
8ball says:

November 8, 2010 at 3:57 pm

no genius here but teams manufacture “injuries” to test the prospects.not always a bad idea.

[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 4:16 pm
@8ball, I always thought that as well, but not 4 – 6 week injuries.

[Reply]
8ball Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 4:32 pm
kc23
if some poor soul cuts himself shaving in my
town there’s sirens screaming all over the
place.

[Reply]
Kingsfanone Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 5:52 pm
@8ball,

Naw, that’s what the Devils are doing…….errr, my mistake, they don’t test anyone, they go without replacing them.
I wonder if they’d try playing with 6 guys?

[Reply]
8ball Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 6:12 pm
@Kingsfanone,
what a screwball scheme that was. happy holidays,devs.

[Reply]
Daren Reply:
November 9th, 2010 at 9:42 am
@8ball, Manufacturing injuries? Hah…dumbest thing I have ever heard. Come on now!

[Reply]
8ball Reply:
November 10th, 2010 at 3:19 pm
Daren
ok. maybe not manufacturing. embelish might be
the better term.mitch may be a legit problem
but month for a sore finger? there’s got to be more than meets the eye here.you’re forgiven for cussing me.

[Reply]
Schoeny says:

November 8, 2010 at 4:00 pm

Not great, but not a travesty. Poni has looked great on that line – great complement to Zues and Simmer and really buying into the system. I can see Clifford on that line. That opens up space for Schenn on the fourth line.

On D – I’m finally a Whiskey fan. I had doubts all the way up to 3 weeks ago. He’s legit. Muzzin isn’t proven but he’s worth keeping around. I’m torn btwn him and Harold.

We’re going to be fine; we just wont have the depth and options as we normally did. How many other teams would be able to fill two empty roster spots as easily or quickly??

[Reply]
Deke'r Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 5:53 pm
@Schoeny, 29?

[Reply]
driller1 Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 6:16 pm
@Deke’r,
Nope, 28. Devils like playing with a short bench

[Reply]
Darrell says:

November 8, 2010 at 4:09 pm

Did the Mitchell break definitely happen during the Nash game, or was it something lingering from the Downie scrap?

[Reply]
Deke'r Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 5:55 pm
@Darrell, I was wondering the same thing, especially with a fracture.

[Reply]
Michael_DD8 Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 9:20 pm
@Deke’r,

Oh wow, good point. Forgot about that.

Doesn’t seem so.

[Reply]
Cynic says:

November 8, 2010 at 4:19 pm

Wow…

This is where ‘Options’ become real nice to have. Pretty easy call here:

Richie or Clifford up to the 3rd line. Schenn on the 4th line. Muzzin up as 7th d-man and rotate in with Harrold/Drewiskie.

Didn’t even have to break a sweat thinking about it. When has a Kings fan EVER been able to say that.

Looking forward to Thursday!

REST UP Mitch & Poni! See you around Christmas! Get well soon!

[Reply]
Moondoggie Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 8:50 pm
@Cynic, Kinda the way I see it too……I’d keep DD2 in tho….he’s been good…..

[Reply]
rick says:

November 8, 2010 at 4:22 pm

Didn’t Drewiske play with DD quite a bit last year? How about moving him up to Mitchell’s spot, and putting Muzzin on the third pairing with Greene?

[Reply]
Andrew says:

November 8, 2010 at 4:25 pm

Dang you Rich!

I’d been feeling so good reading all the Forum Questions and then POW. Kick to the groin.

I guess this highlights what a blessing it was that Greener and DD were out. It shows we can fill in gaps and still play a high level of hockey.

I for one am looking forward to seeing Muzz again. I think he’s gonna be a heck of player.

GKG

[Reply]
Jeremy Smith says:

November 8, 2010 at 4:28 pm

This sucks, but it isn’t a death knell by any means.

Muzzin comes back up and rounds out the 3rd pair with DD44, who has been looking extremely confident.

Richardson moves to LW on the 3rd line, and Schenn and Clifford both stay.

Kings will be just fine.

[Reply]
Dbargaehr Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 4:38 pm
@Jeremy Smith,

That’s the ticket, you read my mind on the line combos.

Parse-Kopi-Brown
Smytty-Stoll-Williams
Richie-Zeus-Simmer
Clifford-Schenn-Westgarth/Lewis?

Unless Parse suffers a fall from grace, I think Murray will leave him on the no. 1 with Kopi/Brown (he’s playing better than Richardson did up top on the #1, IMO). 2nd line is same by default. Zeus/Richie/Simmer is a proven line combo, so they’ll stay together. The 4th line will get a bit of shuffling depending on whether or not they need an enforcer with Westgarth.

[Reply]
LAfan13 Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 6:41 pm
@Dbargaehr,
with richie on line 3, i bet schenn plays alot more now since coaches seem pretty set on keeping him at center.

Wonder who gets called up to replace poni’s roster spot???

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BigSeeGad says:

November 8, 2010 at 4:34 pm

Hey I know everyone is a little bummed out. When I originally read this I thought it was the big C word! I didn’t sleep that night. Now I feel a lot better I know it sucks but 6weeks will fly by. Get well soon boys. I’m sure the team will hold down the fort.

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8ball says:

November 8, 2010 at 4:38 pm

blues might be as good as us. and that’s good.hope not.

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lv is the way says:

November 8, 2010 at 4:40 pm

Well I hear no fat lady singing.. It’s far from over people. Team plays with a lot of heart. the boys will fight on until they come back.

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Ed says:

November 8, 2010 at 4:44 pm

Rich,

Have you asked Terry Murray about the lack of defenseman goal scoring so far?
Is there any concern?

We have 1 goal scored. And that’s a deflection off a skate.

I know the team is winning, but at somepoint the defensemen need to take some load off of the forwards.

[Reply]
Dbargaehr Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 4:47 pm
@Ed,

Don’t fix what ain’t broke. In terms of points, the defenseman have assists, often taking the first shot and having forwards knock in the rebounds. Just cuz the pucks aren’t going in the net with the first shot doesn’t mean a forward won’t put it in on the rebound. The goals will come, as several players have had great point shot opportunities.

[Reply]
Harry Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 4:55 pm
@Ed, They don’t score goals, but they sure know how to shut down other teams top scorers. Like Dbarhaehr said, Don’t fix if it isn’t broke!

[Reply]
BrokeKingsFan Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 5:06 pm
@Ed, as of right now the forwards are getting it done, so i dont think there is much of a load so to speak. If we wernt getting the point production from the forwards then yeah for sure the defense would need to maybe up the anti a bit and take somemore chances in the offensive zone. i think or D is able to just play sound defensive first hockey and not have to worry about taking chances and needing to score goals. As Rich says”goal prevention is just as important as goal production”

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BrokeKingsFan says:

November 8, 2010 at 4:52 pm

How is it that both of our free agent signings get hurt? Lame!!

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Buster says:

November 8, 2010 at 5:07 pm

There’s so many four letter words that I want to use right now, just not that many that would be ideal for the censors.

Get well soon guys, and may it be quicker than expected.

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8ball says:

November 8, 2010 at 5:28 pm

buster
no problem. they’re just spreading it around.good plan.

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408kingsfan says:

November 8, 2010 at 5:49 pm

I see a pattern with Mitchell injury’s

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fsd1 Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 5:54 pm
@408kingsfan, what pattern might that be?

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408kingsfan Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 7:31 pm
@fsd1, um he was injured at key times with Vancouver

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Michael_DD8 Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 9:22 pm
@408kingsfan,

In that sense then, this isnt a key time. As alot of our upcoming games are NOT Division.
Brian says:

November 8, 2010 at 5:50 pm

Wow, bad news! I’m sure Muzzin will be right back up. I wonder how Murray will fill the gaps…

I think this makes the most sense…

Loktionov – Kopitar – Brown
Smyth – Stoll – Williams
Parse – Handzus – Simmonds
Clifford/Lewis – Schenn – Westgarth

Doughty – Scuderi
Johnson – Greene
Harrold – Muzzin

Quick/Bernier

[Reply]
Brian Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 5:52 pm
Oops, forgot Richie — take Lokti off, move Parse back up to the top line, and put Richie as a wing on the 3rd line.

[Reply]
fsd1 Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 5:53 pm
@Brian, jinx….lol

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Brian Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 5:53 pm
Yikes, forgot Whiskey too…don’t pay any attention to me anymore…

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fsd1 Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 5:52 pm
@Brian, loki stays in mach, parse stays on 1st and richardson on the 3rd. do that and i agree.

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Luc20Rules Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 6:06 pm
@Brian, What happen to DD2 he continues to start for sure & Clifford filled in for Simmonds well and is a natural LW so I think he is got Poni’s spot. Not to worry though TM has done a great job. I am concerned about being without Mitchell & Poni for a month, but this club has depth and will get thru this.

[Reply]
Harty Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 7:24 pm
@Brian, not sure you have quite right….

Richie, Kopi, Brown
Smyth, Stoll, Williams
Clifford, Zeus, Simmonds
Westy, Schenn, Lewis

[Reply]
AlexB says:

November 8, 2010 at 6:03 pm

Well, that is quite a setback – but at least the injuries are not as severe as Matt Green’s. They will fight through this, and come through. We have loads of young talent, but it’s disappointing that we will lose that kind of size on the third line, and the experience from Mitchell. Mitchell will still be in the locker room, which is nice.

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Doughty_Franchise says:

November 8, 2010 at 6:04 pm

Id rather see Hickey come up than Muzzin.

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Luc20Rules Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 6:11 pm
@Doughty_Franchise, Hickey is not the physical presence Muzzin is. I think in TM’s mind Muzzin is a more all around player than Hickey at this point. Muzzin has offensive skill, size, strength, physicality, and speed I think he will have a better career than Hickey who at best will be a Visnovski type.

[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 8:39 pm
@Luc20Rules, Totally agree Luc. Lets be a honest here, if Hickey (a former #4 pick overall) was ready, then you can best believe they would bring him up asap. As of right now he couldnt carry Muzzin’s jock. The best thing for Hickey is to stay healthy for a change and see if he can play with grown boys and men in Manchester before they throw him in the fire up here with the Kings.

[Reply]
Quisp Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 9:05 pm
@puck73,

Oh, I don’t know. I think Hickey could carry Muzzin’s jock.

KC23 Reply:
November 9th, 2010 at 12:51 am
@Luc20Rules, Agreed. I’d take Muzzin over Hickey any day.

[Reply]
jayhay says:

November 8, 2010 at 6:13 pm

Like to see some extended time to build some chemistry for Clifford & Simmonds and Schenn & Richardson. Both of those pairs could work real well together.

[Reply]
Luc20Rules says:

November 8, 2010 at 6:16 pm

I knew it was bad when Mitchell said he couldn’t sign anything at Tip a King, Poni was there with his left fingers on his left had bound together. I have to give a ton of credit to both for showing up. Apparently loyalty to each other and the Fans. We got character guys for sure.

[Reply]
Kingsfanone Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 6:30 pm
@Luc20Rules,

Yeah, Iverson or T.O. and others would/could have used it as an excuse to not be there. It had to be uncomfortable for both, and I’m not even talking about the pain.
Such a “small” thing just for them to show, but just the kind of character guys DL has put in the room!

You think Kovalschmuck would have showed?

[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 8:41 pm
@Kingsfanone, Kovalspanks wife would have showed up because she needs to see more of L.A.

[Reply]
8ball says:

November 8, 2010 at 6:22 pm

we are just starved until thursday. that’s all.

we will smoke them big.them and their BBQ’s. texas bs.

[Reply]
Pumpernicholl says:

November 8, 2010 at 6:22 pm

I’d like to see Loktionov come back & play with Brown and Kopitar. Move Parse to Handzus – Simmonds line – that would probably make for the easiest transition for the forwards.

[Reply]
Luc20Rules says:

November 8, 2010 at 6:29 pm

Keeping both Schenn & Clifford past 10 games may reduce the flexibility we have as far as call ups. I think we can do it if the injuries are signifigant enough for IR. We can call up Muzzin and Loki or LW-Meckler/RW-Kozun/C-Elkins/D-Martinez(10 points each), and LW-Dwight King with 9pts. The Kings could cycle in any of these players King & Elkins have size. Its one of the tougher choices DL & TM have had personnel wise for a while.

[Reply]
KingMorrison27 says:

November 8, 2010 at 7:03 pm

I broken finger? wow and he’s going to sit out? had to be a russian. I broke my finger three times already and it doesnt even hurt once the swelling goes down wow im in shot 4 weeks ha ha ha

[Reply]
Choralone Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 7:59 pm
@KingMorrison27, Yeah, and on top of that he doesn’t even need to use his hands to play hockey – he can hold his stick with his teeth. I wish he were as tough as you….

Also, for the record, he’s Ukranian, not Russian.

[Reply]
rick Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 10:09 pm
@Choralone, Thank you.

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irish lak says:

November 8, 2010 at 8:00 pm

Sorry rich im just upset at the lack of respect for my team. I gues i should state it this way. ( the nhl network is not nice and its unfair that they dont talk about the kings omg, i wish they would be our bff, but omg not so much, ) shame on you not one curse word in that coment all were $%*?

[Reply]
Rich Hammond Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 8:09 pm
Rules are posted on the left. I’m very confident that you can express your frustrations without expletives.

[Reply]
irish lak says:

November 8, 2010 at 8:20 pm

To rich, deal, im sorry i love your blog and the kings, keep up the good work. Ill be more aware in the futer, I just got realy mad , but their is no excuses.

[Reply]
irish lak says:

November 8, 2010 at 8:28 pm

To rich , i didnt put deal in my last post, it is not corect. I respect your opinion. I have watched the kings since i was 10 years old so 23 years . This is the first blog i have been part of , im a irish imagrant, saying bad temper’s are just in my blood. But i will respect your rules, curse words are a norm for my

[Reply]
irish lak says:

November 8, 2010 at 8:31 pm

(Cont) mum and dad and family, just not used to watching my toungue.

[Reply]
mcsorleyfan Reply:
November 9th, 2010 at 2:58 pm
@irish lak, you’re not the only hot blooded Celt around here…lol Mind the words you use and you come off looking more intelligent!

[Reply]
roxo says:

November 8, 2010 at 8:55 pm

Wow! I’m surprised they got specific, instead of the standard “Upper Body” injury.

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G.G. says:

November 8, 2010 at 9:04 pm

Just saw plays of the week on NHL on the fly. No King’s highlights for the 2nd week in a row. How do some of the saves Quick made last week not make it. Or how does that sweet goal by Anze the other night not make it. Rodney Dangerfield would be proud.

[Reply]
Moondoggie Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 10:17 pm
@G.G., Yea….and TSN has them 3rd in their Power Rankings with the Bruins and Blues 2nd & 1st. STL I can understand but BOSwith three less wins???

[Reply]
Bonvivant1 Reply:
November 9th, 2010 at 7:05 am
@G.G., You’re expecting too much from the media. The media is asking the question- what have you done for me lately? L.A. is the second biggest media market in the world but Hockey and Football media is predominantly East coast. L.A. obviously is not in the East. We’re not an original 6 team. We’ve only made the playoffs twice in the last 10 years. Many people around the country do not like L.A. as a city and they do not like California. These personal biases and our lack of success as an organization influence coverage, rankings etc.

[Reply]
G.G. Reply:
November 9th, 2010 at 9:16 am
@Bonvivant1,

I’m not talking about rankings. I’m talking about highlights. I’m seeing highlights from Coyote games on plays of the weeK. I’ve seen plays from Atlanta. Teams with no market whatsoever. I just can’t believe the disparity is this bad.

[Reply]
Bonvivant1 says:

November 8, 2010 at 9:04 pm

Folks It’s all about the system!!!!! Play the system, stick to the system and players are interchangeable. That’s why Terry Murray is adamant about the system. Players suffer injuries. Fortunately Mitchell and Poni are depth players and not superstars. Look how well we played without Doughty. Why? Because Harrold, DD2 and Muzzin played within the system. Other players need to step up.

I think that Lewis would be a good fit for that 3rd line. He has good size and the same skill set as Poni.

[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
November 8th, 2010 at 9:13 pm
@Bonvivant1, Agreed. The sum of this team is larger then its parts. I think sometimes a lot of us fans (me included) look at players stats on other teams and say, wow, I wish we had that guy. Thats why I am glad Dean is running the show around here otherwise some of us would make trades and completely screw this organization up!

[Reply]
TinaBeana Reply:
November 9th, 2010 at 1:13 am
the sooner we all get on this level, the better.
we may need the Dallas game to get it together, but I’m sure it’ll be golden after that.

as long as we don’t suffer anymore injuries that is…

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Ike says:

November 8, 2010 at 10:57 pm

Some adversity will build character.

I’ve been using those new Bauer gloves and my thumb has been cut with a slash and my pinky has never been the same after taking a puck.

Might be time to go back to those robo gloves. Never got hurt with those.

[Reply]
ToughD says:

November 9, 2010 at 1:44 am

Yikes! Two big blows…especially at the same time and with our first line struggling. Yeah we have some decent subs (who would have thunk we’d be thanking god for Drewiske), but our GAA is going up. Definitely don’t see us continuing to win at a 77% clip.

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Mike C says:

November 9, 2010 at 3:24 am

Way to go, Kings. Just when we finally have something special special going this season, durability is going to cost us, yet again. Who’s next? Williams, you game? How about you, Smythy? Can’t all you f-wads stay healthy for a season? This is why it’s just great to be a King’s fan. Just when you think you finally get your hopes up, this franchise seems to find a way to knock it right back down to earth. One things for sure, the PK will suffer with these two out for this long of a span.

[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
November 9th, 2010 at 6:39 am
@Mike C, Let me guess, you’re a glass is half empty kind of guy.

[Reply]
AZ King Reply:
November 9th, 2010 at 6:55 am
@Mike C,

Yeah, because a fractured wrist and broken finger are durability issues. Expecting any team to stay healthy for an entire season is ridiculous, that’s why you spend time building depth.

[Reply]
rick Reply:
November 9th, 2010 at 9:53 am
@Mike C, Somebody woke up cranky in the middle of the night.

[Reply]
AZ King says:

November 9, 2010 at 7:04 am

Wow a little adversity and all of a sudden the season is over. May as well just pack things up and wait till next year right? Some of you need to get real and understand injuries are part of this game. The great teams battle through and find ways to continue to win. If we really want to be considered a elite team we need to find a way to get through this.

[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
November 9th, 2010 at 8:18 am
@AZ King, CONCUR!

[Reply]
poe says:

November 9, 2010 at 7:52 am

The sky is falling, the sky is falling….NOT! The team will survive and the team will thrive. All you negative quantities, go back to sleep. The Kings have depth and hockey is still a team sport. It is unfortunate because both Willie and Poni were doing so well . They will be back

[Reply]
puck73 says:

November 9, 2010 at 8:29 am

I agree. It just sucks because these 2 offseason signings have really helped the Kings overall team defense and penalty kill. Have you noticed that Mitchell almost never takes a penalty? Thats because he is such an awesome skater that he is able to keep up with most of the elite forwards in the game and shadow them and talk junk at them, it cracks me up. This is a great chance for Muzzin and Drewiske to learn, grow, and gain valuble experience. Peter Harrold I am not worried about at all because he showed me in the couple of games he has already played in that he got better and stronger in the offseason and has the experience to handle anything that TM asks him to do.

[Reply]
vplaza says:

November 9, 2010 at 8:42 am

Definitely bad news, but the Kings should be able to keep things going. There may be a slight uptick in the goals against, but I’m confident that the rookies can fill in for them until they get back. It’s unfortunate because they were obviously contributing a lot to the team’s success.

Very odd that both the free agents signed during the offseason suffered injuries at the same time. Just bad luck. Everyone knows injuries are part of the game.

[Reply]
ToughD says:

November 9, 2010 at 8:58 am

Cmon now…I don’t believe anyone thinks we’re gonna suddenly tank. We now basically have the same team as last year and we were ok. Of course, minus Frolov and Drewiske is a slight upgrade? over O’Donnell.

Just saying Mitchell is huge for our D, a little concerned over the chemistry of our shutdown line, and both critical in our PK success.

[Reply]
ToughD Reply:
November 9th, 2010 at 9:02 am
@ToughD, Hopefully DD, DD2, or Scuderi don’t get hurt now because then all the naysayers will be jumping off the Quick bandwagon.

[Reply]
ToughD Reply:
November 9th, 2010 at 9:06 am
@ToughD, I wonder if Mitchell got hurt in the Downie fight? Now that guy is a real embarassment to the game of hockey!

[Reply]
Mesquite Smokie says:

November 9, 2010 at 11:00 am

I never saw where Poni could have gotten hurt. Anyone with some tape of that?

Sucks that Mitchell got wounded. Could have been a slash that everyone missed.

Thursday will be a big test.

[Reply]
KingsfanFL says:

November 9, 2010 at 1:00 pm

great when are team gets full strength back together we loose two more at the same team dam oh well still a good team andcant wait to see us with the right people in it

[Reply]