I caught up with Dean Lombardi today, during practice, to talk about some of the latest issues involving the Kings…
Question: How do you recognize the difference between a temporary slump and a bigger problem? Coaches point to specific things that players need to improve, but when do you worry that a team might have wider concerns, and are you concerned about that right now?
LOMBARDI: “No, not at all. I think part of it is just because of the way the league is. Things were going our way. We were playing well early, but things were also going our way. For the most part, during this period, we’ve come out ready to play. I can’t think of any game — Chicago, Columbus, Ottawa — we’ve always come out pretty good. Then, throughout this slump, something goes against us, whether it’s questionable calls, like Ottawa, or you’re not getting bounces, like Chicago, with pucks going in off gloves. Then, at critical moments, everything is so tight and Spezza beats you in Ottawa and Nash beats you. Other than the Montreal game, we’ve been in every game, and all of the games could have been won, or at least we could have got a point. Before, we were riding the wave. Stoll’s goal goes in off a stick, and things are going our way.
“Probably, to answer your question, they’ve shown they have the ability. When you start to worry is when you think the guys don’t have the mental fortitude to fight through it, and I think they do. They’ve shown it to me before. They’ve got themselves, now, with even higher expectations. They’re in a rut right now, and they have to fight their way through it. So to answer your question, overall, it’s probably when you get that sense that they don’t believe they can get it done, and I’m not ready to say that. Like I said, I look at almost every game — Ottawa, even Montreal, until the third goal — and we came out pretty good. It’s just that things aren’t going your way, and now we’ve got to fight through it. Too bad, because things were going our way early. So it’s another one of those tests, like I’ve always talked about. Them, as young players, getting better as hockey players, there’s the part of becoming mentally tough. This is another test for them.”
Question: We’ve talked, in the past couple years, about young teams that have success one season and then dip the following season. St. Louis last year, for instance. Does that start to come into play here?
LOMBARDI: “Well, I’ve said this before. This started last year, when they put the expectations on themselves in January. Now, the expectations have really risen, and you come out 12-3 and the expectations go up another notch. But I don’t care. Like I said, it’s all a part of building mental toughness. I believe it’s in them. It’s no different than learning to protect the puck better. They’ve got to learn mental toughness. They’re not going to learn it without adversity. When things are going your way, like early in the year, that’s easy. Now they’ll find out how tough they are, and I believe they’re going to get through it.”
Question: Is that simply on each individual player? Or do team leaders have extra responsibility there? Coaches?
LOMBARDI: “No. Every player. Every player has got his own challenge, within the team. But that’s on every player. If they’re going to win anything that matters, that’s the way it has to be. Every player has got to be accountable, first to himself, looking at himself in the mirror. Then he’s got to be accountable to his teammates, and it ends there. If you’ve got that, you’ll be fine. More than fine.”
Question: Terry has used seven guys in that first-line left-wing spot. Two of them have been rookies and the current guy is playing on his off wing. At what point do you need to look at that and address it from outside?
LOMBARDI: “That was the other area we looked at in the summer. The emergence of the young players — and I still maintain what I said — is the hallmark of this team. It’s about the best young players getting better, and your core starting to develop and becoming winners. That’s No. 1, and we know who those young players are. Then you’ve got your veterans, in terms of their fit and their character. So we addressed that this summer, but now they’re out of the lineup. The other hole you had was the Parse hole, the skill player. Once we found out that Parse was going to be out for four months, we’ve been looking. That guy [Parse], with that skill set, we wanted to give him a long look. We were able to fill the Mitchell and Ponikarovsky holes, so we wanted to say, `OK, let’s give this kid a good, long look, because he’s got the skill set that’s necessary to be a pro.’ Then he goes out early, right from day one of training camp. The kids in the minors, we tried Loktionov there, and God bless him… We’ve been looking.
“But we also went through that period with Parse, where it was, `Is he going to play?’ Since he had the surgery, it’s fair to say we have been looking to fill that hole. All of those holes, ironically, are ones that we felt we had filled in the summer. Now they’re all out of the lineup. So, on the other hand, it’s telling me that those guys are really good fits. Because we were doing well when they were in the lineup. We got through it without Doughty for a while. Now, if you look at it, all of the holes we cited, during the summer, as being important, are all open again. Then when happens? Just what you said. Now you’re playing a 19-year-old, a 20-year-old. King was in the East Coast league. God bless him, but this time last year he was in the East Coast league. Those kids have done a good job. Even last night, with Clifford and Lewie, that’s kind of a higher level for them than we thought. But for the most part, they’re doing a good job. But they’re still in that stage, where they’re finding their way in the league. To pin it on them, that’s not the way you want to go.”
Question: Are you concerned about the play of Doughty and Johnson?
LOMBARDI: “You know what? If this was 15 years ago, I would be, but I’ve just seen it too much. It’s one thing for guys to play in the league, and it’s one thing for them to have success, and now, going to that next level, to become a top player, it’s the hardest. I’ve seen it with so many young players. You’ve got to believe that, deep down, they’re good people and they’re competitive people and they’re going to figure it out. It’s a tough position to play. It’s a lot harder for a player to have had success, and then push it to the next level and really be a top dog, than it is, mentally, to make the league. There is enormous responsibility on them. The other guy [Mitchell] being out, it hurts the fit. But yeah, we’re counting on them. So if you’re asking me if I’m nervous, no. Because I’ve seen this too many times before with young players. What you have to come back to is, do you believe in them as people, first of all? And then do you believe in them as players? There’s no question that I believe in both of them. They’re too good of players, and they’ll figure it out.
“Don’t forget, the learning curve is not only physical, it’s mental. There are lifestyle changes that they go through. You see this in the NBA all the time. And they’ll get through it. That stuff that they’ve done, it doesn’t go away. But they’ve got to learn, like a lot of pros, to be consistent. When things aren’t going your way, don’t try to do too much. Now, on the other hand, I kind of like the fact that they take responsibility, but you’ve still got to play within yourself and not force things. Again, that’s a part of growth. Stay with it, stay with it, pick your spots. You don’t learn that overnight, particularly in that position. So, no, I’m not concerned about them at all. I think, probably, part of it is that I’ve seen the other side. That’s how Chris Pronger gets traded. Chris Chelios gets traded. You think, `Why is this happening?’ and you think, `Oh, I’ve got to get nervous.’ No. I’ve seen it too many times. Al MacInnis, the struggles he went through in Calgary before he won the Norris Trophy. Ray Bourque. They all went through it. Now, I’d like them to get through it faster…”
Great interview rich…. It had been awhile since we’ve heard from DL.
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badGoltending Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 2:44 pm
@lafan13,
Great interview indeed… but… nothing New!
Same stuff our offense is going to be streaky all year long.
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tmp32 Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 9:59 pm
@badGoltending, Streaky, boy are you being generous. This team isn’t talented enough to be streaky.
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So we will continue to curse the team after every game, but dont worry! Thanks Deano!
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Same ole BS by Dean Lombardi. The guy is a builder like Pat Burns and will never succeed.
FYI, Dean your internal players cannot get it done. They will never be better just look at Dustin Clown.
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Bill M. Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 2:36 pm
@Steve,
1) Everybody on here was screaming that DL needed to be looking for a Left Winger. He just said he is. So how exactly is that the same ol’ BS? Sure he spent a lot of time defending his own guys. If you don’t do that, then you are giving up on all of our players and you are rebuilding from scratch. I don’t know about you, but that’s a painful wait and I don’t think we are quite ready to give up on all of these guys, so he’s got to defend them. But he did say he was looking for help.
2) Dustin “Clown” is on pace for 36 goals and 54 points. That’s not bad, in fact I believe that would be a career year for him. So much for that argument.
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lv is the way Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 2:46 pm
@Bill M., 36 goals in my book is a great year if you ask me, yes it’s not 50 but hey at least he is trying to say the least. If that person thinks he could do better by all means get rear end out on the ice, then we can all call you a clown.
DL is trying that’s a good sign, painful wait, couldn’t say that any better.
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Manchester Connection Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 6:12 pm
@Bill M., Pat Burns won a cup with the Devils, so that line about Burns was wrong.
Plus all a GM can do is put the pieces together and hope they click. Sometimes it does and sometimes it doesn’t.
I am sure DL would love a number of great vets, but they are all under contract with other teams and it is just a little too early to start trading what you just built.
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Cry Baby Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 2:37 pm
@Steve, What on earth is your point?
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mcsorleyfan Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 2:38 pm
@Steve, move to anaheim. Really.
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backchecker Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 2:49 pm
@Steve, DL has a history of no cups
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ADub87 Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 3:10 pm
@Steve, And did you seriously just insult Pat Burns the day after his funeral? He was won of the NHL’s all time greats and will soon be in the HHOF.
Have a little respect.
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Jim In CM Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 3:23 pm
@ADub87,
Exactly…A Stanley Cup, 3 time coach of the year winner…….That seems like a pretty successful coach to me….Unlike Steve, Pat Burns was a winner…
jmo
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nykingfan Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 4:14 pm
@ADub87,
probably the same guy who broke into Burns wife’s car the day of the funeral. Sick puppy
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KingMe20 Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 3:12 pm
@Steve,
You mean Pat Burns, the guy who won the Stanley Cup with New Jersey? I’ll take that.
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Dan H. Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 3:56 pm
@KingMe20,
Seems like just yesterday Kings fans were sending donuts to his hotel when the Leafs were in town in 93.
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zulov Reply:
December 1st, 2010 at 3:38 am
@Dan H.,
Melrose taunting Burns with a hot dog during that series was my fave. What a classic run that was…
Never to be seen again… not with this team….
nykingfan Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 4:12 pm
@Steve,
Dustin Clown?
Dude, just go away
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tmp32 Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 10:01 pm
@Steve, Say it loud Steve. Our talent level is no where near competitive levels. If I hear one more time that Parse was/is the answer, I’m gonna puke.
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5buckcolonnadeticket Reply:
December 1st, 2010 at 11:18 am
@tmp32,
go ahead and puke, then. Parse was killing it last year with the measly opportunity he got, and he looked pretty good during the measly time he got this year, while injured.
It would be great if they had more depth, but the team is undeniably hurt by his injury.
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I agree…thanks for tracking him down and asking the questions we all want answered.
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I can’t disagree with DL here. He makes solid points. The pressures we put on young players these days is pretyt ridiculous. i mean look at how many people are already calling Hickey a bust at age 21. or Tuebert, the same. It’s just not fair. These guys are allowed to have nights off. JJ and Drew…yea I’ll be the first to tell you holy crap THEY SUCK right now. BUT, bigger picture is we know they don’t really suck…and they are just having a bad stretch. Doughty has to get in shape, Johnson has to play smarter…these are things that can be corrected.
And i totally agree….I think people are really not realizing just how good Mitchell, Ponikarovsky…and shit even Parse…made this team. With Parse on the 1st line that is the BEST our 1st line has looked all season. And when all of them were in the lineup together, that is the best our TEAM has looked all season.
Not time to throw up our hands and panic yet. Just a hiccup with an young team. If it happens year after year that’s something. But this, meh i’ll worry if we are in 11th in March.
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mcsorleyfan Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 2:51 pm
@Jay, and that was GIMPY Parse! I can’t wait to see the kid play healthy with a full set of matched tires under his chassis. The guy’s got wheels; that “experiment” has shown the best promise of the 7 we’ve seen thus far. Now, having undergone a labral tear repair (I mentioned it regarding Greene’s recent play) it’s not fun. The joint won’t feel “right” for a long time; but I do look forward to seeing Parse return. I’d love to see him prove the doubters wrong.
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tmp32 Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 10:03 pm
@mcsorleyfan, Boy that Parse. He’s the missing piece. Boy I can’t wait to get him back so we can print the playoff tickets.
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CupRun2011 Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 3:21 pm
@Jay, I’m in agreement with you. We lose 7 of 8 now throw the panic switch! Let’s trade JJ, our prospects aren’t working out…the sky is falling!
When we were 12-3, we got all the “bounces”, now at 1-7, they are getting all the bounces. If we were getting blown out 6-0 every night, yeah, now you’ve got to make a move, but we’ve been “in” most games…
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tmp32 Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 10:06 pm
@CupRun2011, No we’re not getting blown out, but in the sametoken, WE SCORE NO GOALS !! Heart and potential don’t get you to the cup, talent does. Our boys play hard, but they are a mix of 4th liners that DL hopes overacheive. I’m tired of waiting. Aren’t you..?
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puck73 Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 4:40 pm
@Jay, Thank you for a refreshing blast of common sense.. I will say it again until I am blue in the face…Most 18 year olds are not ready to play with grown men in the NHL until between the ages of 24 and 27, I have seen this scenario play out many times!
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Stuart Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 9:37 pm
@Jay, I hope you meant to say “off nights” and not “nights off”…
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ToughD Reply:
December 1st, 2010 at 1:06 am
@Jay, I too would like to see what a healthy Parse can do before making a trade for 1st line winger. Actually think a more pressing need is dman. Just don’t trust anyone except Doughty, Mitchell and Scuderi, especially in crunch time. The right move here could help our PP too. But yeah, even the return of Poni and Mitchell is not going to solve our 1st line scoring or PP problems. Just wish we get to see our full strength team before making knee-jerk reactions.
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How about asking DL what he thinks about Murray’s style of play? No creativity whatsoever. Dump…chase….grind….play along the boards….stick to the outside. Get a new friggin’ coach.
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54FIGHTING Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 3:30 pm
@Adam,
I agree. It will be interesting around here when we go 0-3 or 1-2 in our next 3 games.
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jbinder79 Reply:
December 1st, 2010 at 2:04 pm
@Adam,
and can someone please explain the coaches choice of goaltending and line combinations. Play Quick against the Islanders, who suck, and the play the backup against a divison rival SJ who is much stronger than NY. Then constantly change lines so players don’t get a chance to develop as a unit. And don’t have a solid top line, instead keeping having “try outs” on left wing with the line that’s supposed to be scoring the most. I just don’t get it.
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I think they should try sitting Handzus. We have a bunch of kids that can give the third line center a shot and they may produce forcing other teams to pay attention to a third line. I know he does a lot in the special teams but his lack of speed is killing the kids on his line. Keep him in when they need size but sit him when you skate against a fast team. A little production from that line can open up the game for the first two lines.
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johnjuan Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 4:29 pm
@Ford,
Unless he is in front of the net or in a shootout he seems kinda useless to me too.
I would play him on the 4th line & PP.
Our stye of play may not suit him though.
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xeropoint Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 4:51 pm
@johnjuan,
Are you guys kidding me? Sit Handzus? Why do so many people expect him to be something he has never been?
Handzus is a complimetary player, and a damn good one too. Plays in all situations, great penalty killer, very smart positionally and chips in offensively.
The guy is as honest and hardworking as they come.
Now if you expect him to beat Selanne in a foot race, or outscore Kopitar then that’s on you.
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Luuuuuuuuuuc! Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 5:20 pm
@xeropoint,
Ditto here. Zeus is DEFINITELY not the problem. The guy gets most of the tough assignments, and does his job pretty darn well. On the defensive side, not getting noticed means your doing your job correctly.
Stuart Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 9:39 pm
@xeropoint, What ignorant people do not see about this game is that there are so many intangibles that do not show up on the scoresheet.
I remember thee age-old proverb “tis better to remain quiet and let people think you a fool than to speak and have them know!”
ToughD Reply:
December 1st, 2010 at 12:42 am
@Ford, wow. Sit the mighty Zeus? How bout just the fact when you are facing a little adversity is when you want to lean on your veteran players, especially ones who are doing their jobs. One of our trademarks last year was our composure and discipline no matter how many goals we were trailing. I think during this slide there was only 1 game when we lost that, not bad considering the losses of Poni and Mitchell made an already young team younger. Let’s not hit the panic button just yet.
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Tullskull Reply:
December 1st, 2010 at 11:04 am
@Ford, As I recall, Zeus poke checked the puck away from Selanne. I will simply ask you if you can recall Zeus ever getting beat. I can’t. I watch him closely as he is my favorite player.
Obviously he is not quick but he is able to compensate by excellent positioning and that does not mean he can’t skate fast. He can. Remember he is pretty tall and that always leads to players looking slower that they are.
My main criticism is he is a little to “finessey” with his passing. Considering the Kings are a far below average passing team I will take Zeus’s good but too soft passes any day.
When comparing the Kings’ passing to recently played teams like Chicago and Montreal, the Kings looked like a peewee A team. Pretty embarrassing, actually.
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johnjuan Reply:
December 1st, 2010 at 3:43 pm
@Tullskull,
No it was Scuderi that poke checked Selanne and at you other Zeusers I said I would like Him on the 4th line not sitting and play the PP.
I like him in front of the net but Murray plays the 3rd man high routine so we dont see Zeus down low as often as I would like.
We need play makers then zeus might be a luxury we could appreciate more.
He just aint that quick. doesn’t mean I hate him.
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tullskull Reply:
December 1st, 2010 at 6:47 pm
@johnjuan, that was a different play. I am talking about the play when Selanne was gaining on the puck and Zeus positioned his big slow butt perfectly and gained possession.
If you don’t appreciate Zeus then we simply have different opinions of what a shutdown center should accomplish.
You call him a luxury and I call him a pillar.
Rich, thank you for going to the source. thank you for this forum. and just thank you. i didnt see the comments where posters’ were getting on you, but i saw a little of the backlash and its even more evidence to your worth that the next day we have this, the head cheese interview with the Qs on the LW and our D. thank you.
now, if i may:
IF KOPITAR BURIES THE GOAL MOUTH SHOT IN DYING MINUTES:
JJ doesnt try and make a play by carrying the puck thru the blueline, making the egregious turnover resulting in the Blake goal. in all likelihood, the game goes into overtime, and i think that everybody here, with what this team has shown, would like our chances from that point ESPECIALLY if it goes to a shootout.
we would still be debating/discussing/arguing the fact that it would be 1 goal, perhaps 2 if scored in OT, was scored in the game and the offense is very stagnate. we would still be berating JJ for his turnover with the weak backhand pass that resulted in the 2 on 1 where Scuds saved his bacon earlier in the game, but not killing him to the extreme we are currently, because it was only 1 BRUTAL turnover that happened and not the 2nd one (remember, this is IF Kop scored). we would still be getting on DD for him being fat (Jim Rome background: FAT!) and out of shape, as i’ve read some -not all- of the comments. accurate statements?
i not defending him, because he HAS to be more smart about what he does w/ the puck when he finds trouble, BUT, was JJ not trying to make something happen when he carried the puck across the blueline? wasnt this apart of the DD magic from last year? final 3-5 mintues of a game down by one, that was what DD did last year, carried the puck in, and likely thru the red line and around the net, MAKING A PLAY. obviously, JJ did not accomplish that, and again, made the terrible turnover that CANNOT happen, but part of me is sayin ‘he went down swinging, tryin to make something happen’ and i think that has gotten lost in all of this.
speaking of DD, last year all we heard about on the telecasts was Jim Fox saying ‘Drew came into the year wanting to improve on his shot… Drew changed the curve on his blade to make his shot better… Drew and his shot, Drew and his shot, etc…’ i get that other defenses are putting more pressure on our point which doesnt allow DD and JJ the terrain they once had, but DD had that opp. to blast it on that late PP we had. he was even w/ the dot and tried to stickhandle thru bodies. outta shape, maybe. fat (FAT!), kinda. but definitely not the same mind-set as last year, and until that comes back, it will be more of the same. i want to hear more of Jim Fox telling me about Drew’s stick blade.
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Jay GoLAKings Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 2:42 pm
@jayhay,
Have you noticed recently that every time Drew takes a shot at the goal its not even close? His shot is about 5 feet above the cross bar.
He needs to put some time in his outside shots.
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KingMe20 Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 3:15 pm
@Jay GoLAKings,
Actually, I’ve noticed his shot getting blocked a lot lately. His windup is a little too slow and deliberate. Reminds me a bit of the problem Rob Blake had early in his career before he figured out that wristers from the point also work well.
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Nitrohockey Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 2:45 pm
@jayhay, All good points and well said We’re quick to jump on DD and JJ and want them traded. I remember not so long ago the Kings had a similar situation with a young defenseman. Instead of patience, the fans jumped all over him and he was traded to Dallas, and he killed us for years after that. Anyone remember Darryl Sydor? As frustrating as it is to watch, we gotta let them play through this and become better, smarter athletes. Right now, alot of bonehead plays are the result of gripping the stick and trying to do too much. I’m taking a breath and waiting for Thursday.
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MARTY Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 4:24 pm
@Nitrohockey, BEST TO TAKE TWO BREATHS, DL IS TRYING TO HIDE THE FACK THAT WE ONLY HAVE BOTTOM SIX FORWARDS HERE AND IN MANCHESTER AND ONLY ONE TOP TWO DEFENCEMAN ALL OTHERS ARE 6-7. HIS DRAFT PICKS SEEM TO BE ALL SECOND TIER PLAYERS, THE ONES HE DRAFTS ARE ALWAYS PROJECTS.
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Nitrohockey Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 4:40 pm
@MARTY, The Caps Lock button is to your left, sir. Go ahead and give it a press, it’ll be fine. You’re right, all we have is bottom six forwards and 6-7 Defensemen. That’s why when we talk trade, names like Kopitar, Simmonds, Brown, JJ, and the like are the first names thrown around by every GM we deal with. Every team out there is so stocked with Grade A talent, that they want a few of our scrubs to even things out. Thanks for helping me see that!
tmp32 Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 10:10 pm
@MARTY, Say ot Loud…
Michael_DD8 Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 2:51 pm
@jayhay,
For your drew statement, He had lots of room in the slot to walk it in, and if he were to just step into it and fire, there was atleast 7 people infront of the net, and no lane. Some traffic is good, but Drew knew it wasnt getting through. Ice level is alot different then the camera angle.
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jayhay Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 2:58 pm
@Michael_DD8,
ok, but stickhandle into that traffic? 6X4. Shot mentality. i thought it was a poor decision to stickhandle into the heavy traffic. he was 18 feet out with room in front of him. put it on net.
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Devilmachine Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 6:29 pm
@jayhay, AMEN! DD tried to stick handle threw 3 dudes, they all stepped up. get it to the net and go for the rebound, plus you had at least 2 other kings down low looking for the rebound.
54FIGHTING Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 3:29 pm
@jayhay,
If’s don’t mean crap.
If our aircraft carriers were in Pearl on Dec 7, 1941 we wouldn’t be talking about hockey right now. IF.
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Sancho Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 4:50 pm
@54FIGHTING, Was it over when the Germans bombed Pearl Harbor?
Cut~N~Paste this link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V8lT1o0sDwI
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jayhay Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 4:52 pm
@54FIGHTING,
IF people didnt go way overboard on their assessments, as in 54FIGHTING’s notion that a new coach may be in order if we go 0-3 or 1-2 in our next games(see above),i wouldnt have to show examples as to how its not that bad, as to how close it was to a completely different situation. IF.
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Shakes Reply:
December 1st, 2010 at 6:02 am
@54FIGHTING,
most. bizarre. comeback. of. all. time.
i dunno why but it made me chuckle
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those were some great questions rich! good work!
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Thank you soo much for this much needed interview Rich… The words of DL have calmed my much agitated/ frustrated nerves back to a reasonable realm. That being said… Let’s pull it together boys and start playing as a team again. This slump is most likely taking a toll on the players but I have faith in a strong turnaround sooner than later. GKG!
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How about a new coach who has never worked for the Flyers or Sharks. That is why are organization will never grow. We need blood from the Red Wing or Blackhawk Org.
CHARACTER DOES NOT WIN YOU GAMES OR THE STANLEY CUP.
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Bill M. Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 2:44 pm
@Steve, “CHARACTER DOES NOT WIN YOU GAMES OR THE STANLEY CUP.”
What sick, twisted world do you live in. Of course it does. That’s what it’s all about.
Every player in the NHL has skill that you and I can only dream of. It’s only a matter of skill up to a certain point, and then it’s a matter of WILL. The character to battle through the tough times, and fight for the extra inch.
Jonathan Toews is an incredible talent, but he hasn’t reached his scoring potential yet. Kane and Sharp were the Hawks big scorers. Does that mean that Toews was useless? No. Go ask a Blackhawk. They’ll tell you that Toews is the CHARACTER of that team, that he is the leader and the heart of that team, and every single blackhawk will tell you that they don’t get a cup without Johnathan Toews.
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Stop the Puck Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 2:46 pm
@Bill M.,
so where are our kane and toews.
where is our malkin
where is our datsyuk
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johnjuan Reply:
December 1st, 2010 at 3:46 pm
@Stop the Puck,
Good point.
Nitrohockey Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 2:51 pm
@Steve, Try telling that to teams like the 1980 US Olympic hockey team. They beat a Soviet team who dismantled a team of NHL All Stars 6-1. All that talent, but no character to come together as a team and do what it takes to win. Yet, a team of lesser talented college kids manages to beat them. It’s character. It’s a room of guys willing to go out every game and fight for their teamates, to do whatever it takes to win! If talent alone mattered, guys like Kovalchuk and Ovechkin would have multiple Stanley Cups. To this day, they have ZERO.
[Reply]
tmp32 Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 10:16 pm
@Nitrohockey, do you think there’s a reason that call that occurrence a Miracle. Give me two 50 goal scorers and a bunch of guys in their last year of a contract and you take your character guys and we’ll see who wins.
[Reply]
Lanny McDonald's 'Stache Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 3:13 pm
@Steve,
Blackhawk organization?
You have a really short memory, or you (more likely) are a troll that likes making outrageous comments on this blog.
Great interview Rich!! So much for those whiners that claim you can’t ask the hard-hitting questions…
[Reply]
Michael J. Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 4:09 pm
@Steve, Red Wing organization??? Tried that will Barry Melrose. Worked well the first year, then ruined the franchise for the next ten!
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Jack the Lad Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 4:22 pm
@Steve, Are you Anthony?
[Reply]
Shakes Reply:
December 1st, 2010 at 6:09 am
@Jack the Lad,
Bingo.
If you ignore him it will go away. If you ignore him it will go away.
[Reply]
Bailey Fan Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 6:21 pm
@Steve, If talent was all that mattered, we would have slid when we lost Doughty, but we still won games. Now we’re without the character, experience, and leadership Mitchell brings and we have 1 win in 8 games.
[Reply]
Yes, the team is still young and learning and all that, but I’m glad to hear they are ‘looking’ at getting some skill at LW, cause we are SORELY lacking there. We have assets down at Man, so use some of them!
I feel bad for Kopi, it’s like he’s the professional in ‘Skating With The Stars’ and he must put up with the ‘wing of the week’ partners and try to make them look good.
[Reply]
s-love-king Reply:
December 1st, 2010 at 5:39 am
@bbb7, Nice!I like it!
Dec.1st 2010
LA Kings 23 13 10 0 26 63:57 +6 H8-2-0 A5-8-0
Colorado 24 13 9 2 28 85:74 +11 H7-4-1 A6-5-1
Same no.of wins, 2 home games less and Colarodo is the best?!
[Reply]
sounds like a ” were ahead of schedule” speech. not that hell disclose anything in his interviews but come on. “well fight through it”? look harder for a winger and dont draft d-men by the score this year. i think left wing might be a priority now, along with sniper-type forwards. use your assets deano, nows the time to reward the boys.
[Reply]
backchecker Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 2:37 pm
@rexmundi,
PERFECTLY SAID YOUR MY GM
BUT DONT FORGET DL MOTTON BUILD FROM DEFENSE OUT
SO HENCE NO SCORERS
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Dustin Clown? Are you kidding me? He has been one of the most productive guys and he gets a ton of praise around the league from the best players as being a great captain. I love how a guy can be praised as a great player and leader by the games best players and talent scouts but sum bum on his couch thinks he’s a clown. I am always shocked at the lack of knowledge some of these fans have that post on here. Its a shame because it makes all Kings fan look horrible and not knowledgeable.
[Reply]
Jason Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 2:52 pm
@CJBKingsfan,
The guy who wrote “Dustin Clown” is not worth reading.
[Reply]
illegalstick33 Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 3:50 pm
@CJBKingsfan, Dustin has held his own this year but when your CAPTAIN fails to show up until the THIRD period of a rivalry game you know he’s gonna catch some heat!!
[Reply]
xeropoint Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 5:00 pm
@CJBKingsfan,
Don’t think I’ve heard or read any such comments from the games’ “best”. Link?
I don’t think he’s a clown, but there are and always have been glaring problems with his game which has NOTHING to do with goals or points.
He is not the player management has painted him to be. He’s not a 40 goal guy, as Terry Murray said.
Don’t get me wrong, I like the guy just fine. It just seems like he is being miscast by the coaches in an inverted Frolov kind of way.
[Reply]
Cue the end of the slump. Bank on it!
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KingMe20 Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 3:17 pm
@scootty,
I like where your head is, kid.
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It was great timing for this interview. I have a lot of faith in DL, and particularly that his comments ARE NOT BS. I think the doubters should take stock of how much Deano knows about the game, and how much they do not.
It’s a long season, and this stretch was bound to come. I’ve still got crutches left over from last season for the losers breaking their ankles jumping off the bandwagon. This site will be a lot more fun without their stupidity and negativity.
[Reply]
Bill M. Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 2:47 pm
@What’s the frequency, Kenneth?, Yeah. We are not elite yet. we ARE a good young team on the rise. Such teams are bound to have setbacks. I’d rather we have ours in November than in March, or god forbid, April.
[Reply]
johnjuan Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 5:23 pm
@What’s the frequency, Kenneth?,
Speak for yourself.
This guy has had many picks and failed to get this team what it needs (often laughable). The criticism this guy gets is sometimes richly deserved.
JJ and DD were obvious picks. Stoll and Green were good pick ups. The rest have been average to complete busts(Cloutier?) I was disappointed at all the negativity thrown at Frolov last year but DL and TM instigated it after a slow start. Is that stupidity and ignorance the site can do without too? What makes DL so sacred that no one else can critic the team?
Personally, I like the different voices on here. It makes it more fun.
[Reply]
xeropoint Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 6:08 pm
@johnjuan,
Agree with your comment about having different voices.
To be fair though, I believe the frustration on What’s the frequency, Kenneth?’s part is the lack of constructive criticism.
It’s easy to say things in hindsight. Especially about Lombardi. Every GM has hits and misses, but they don’t have the luxury of time, that we do. Clearly the man has a plan and a vision he adheres to. Whether or not one approves or disapproves of his methods/results is not an issue.
It’s all about using critical thinking when posing an argument. THAT is something sorely lacking here, at times. And THAT can be just as frustrating as a losing streak.
[Reply]
What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 7:06 pm
@johnjuan, I thought I was speaking for myself (and I’ll ignore that those amount to fighting words on a message system, which typically lead to flame wars), but I find it humorous that some people post as though they could do a better job.
I have personally criticized the Cloutier deal, as well as the Crawford hire that probably led to it. I’m still not convinced Jack Johnson is going to work out, either. However, some people act as though all his good moves were common sense, requiring no moves to set them up as even possible, while panning others. I don’t see how DL fails to get credit for, above all other things, doing things the RIGHT WAY for a change.
@xeropoint, Yeah, that’s what usually drives me to comment as above, in addition to hyperbole. The sky is not falling, and DL is obviously, as you’ve eluded to, following a sensible plan that no one before him has had the combination of discipline, vision and authorization to implement. I’m for sticking with it considerably longer than a 6- or 8-game struggle. As you’ve also eluded to, hindsight is 20-20, and a common activity of spectators who have neither the pedigree nor accumulated knowledge to criticize using the common shotgun approach.
[Reply]
johnjuan Reply:
December 1st, 2010 at 5:20 pm
@What’s the frequency, Kenneth?,
I remember the cloutier talk. I was right there with you.
mcsorleyfan Reply:
December 1st, 2010 at 1:34 am
@johnjuan, JJ wasn’t a pick. He was drafted by Carolina, and went unsigned. His rights went to Los Angeles in a trade for Tim Gleason and Eric Belanger.
[Reply]
johnjuan Reply:
December 1st, 2010 at 3:57 pm
@mcsorleyfan,
Your right, I forgot that.
I like JJ but Gleason and Belanger were (are)great players.
Would you have made that trade in hindsight?
in five years he caqn not find us a left winger, whether in the organization or from out? C’mon.
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jayhay Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 2:44 pm
@tougie, there is due diligence here.
i’m not defending him, but…
Ryan Smyth, Poni are LW that he found each of the last 2 years. not to mention the greatest FA left winger in FA history snubbed us after courting him all summer.
now, he’s not completely off the hook. hindsight might say MPS may be more beneficial to us now than Schenn. Schenn, who is exactly the DL guy that DL has constantly tried to bring in.
perhaps having a balance of guys in the locker room w/ high-end scoring talent with guys that have the character may offset our constant search for scoring.
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xeropoint Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 6:11 pm
@jayhay,
I think there are roughly 30 teams all looking for a balance of high end scoring talent and character.
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What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 7:13 pm
@xeropoint, Right again!
johnjuan Reply:
December 1st, 2010 at 3:59 pm
@jayhay,
I think Ryan Smyth was a hail mary at 6 mil a year when we got him.
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ABSOLUTELY RIDICULOUS
Any corportation any oragnization
We do not want excuses we want results !!!
How can he get away with all the IFS
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i dont think its the Coach fault how can u show players if they choose not to listen to them and go and try stupid plays like JJ and DD are doing they should be bunch and watch real players that makes good plays and learn from their stupid mistake they keep doing DD supposed to be a best D he a joke
[Reply]
So Scott Parse became the answer when we failed in our pursuit of Kovalchuk? Really???
[Reply]
xeropoint Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 6:14 pm
@rick,
Never been a proponent for Kovulchuk… but yeah, I scratch my head when they talk about the “skill set” of Parse.
Is he lights out in practice or something?
[Reply]
Way to dodge the questions Dean. For many Kings fans those answers may be ok, but for those who actually care where this team goes its BS.
[Reply]
DLB Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 3:11 pm
@Jimbo, I understand if you have a problem, but I actually care too.
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johnjuan Reply:
December 1st, 2010 at 4:00 pm
@Jimbo,
Concur.
[Reply]
RICH
I have not been your biggest fan and i know you have deleted my comments but i commend you and take my hat off for this great interview of DL and his hot seat
You scooped Helene Nice interview i say put it on the wires !!!
[Reply]
launch Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 2:55 pm
@backchecker,
so curious…..what is your beef with Rich???
the man brings us more information about the Kings than most can keep up with….how could you possibly have a problem with that?
I would delete you too, not a fan of Mr. Hammond, shame on you!!!
[Reply]
backchecker Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 3:06 pm
@launch,
Yes I agree with you without a doubt the best information about the kings Is that his only job and responsibilty ? Bob Miller is an announcer for the kings is that his only responsibilty to announce ?
Hopefully you understand my point
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Lanny McDonald's 'Stache Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 3:14 pm
@backchecker,
Nobody understands your “point”. Go away.
launch Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 3:19 pm
@backchecker,
I do not….
What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 7:16 pm
@backchecker, I’m with Lanny and launch. I don’t understand your point.
My critique of Rich has been pretty blunt. He does a great job of all he does that he should be doing. I think he needs an intern to moderate the comments (this absolves him of both the time-killing effort and the need to be the “bad” guy when moderating.) That is all.
backchecker Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 3:49 pm
@P90X, LOL YEAH YEAH YEAH LOVE THOSE DUCKS YEAH YEAH YEAH
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Bailey Fan Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 6:10 pm
@P90X, I’ve been thinking the same thing. He even started his own blog titled “Backcheck’s Blog”. I’ve seen that guy’s BS on the OCR site and he can NOT give a single good word for anything related to the Kings. You should check out his pregame post from yesterday’s game. Pretty pathetic.
Than again, if “backchecker” is NOT “backcheck”, then I apologize. Falsely accusing someone of being a Ducks fan is a terrible thing.
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Have the Kings traded for Steve heinze oe Randy Robitaille yet?
[Reply]
rexmundi Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 2:51 pm
@Lucky, havent you heard the bill guerin rumors?
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illegalstick33 Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 3:57 pm
@rexmundi, I heard it was Shawn McEachern coming our way. He has speed!
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puck73 Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 4:45 pm
@illegalstick33, LOL…Brad Jones had speed to!
Thanks for the interview Rich.
While it’s important to note the merit in a young team fighting through adversity, to pin a lot of those losses on luck or bad calls or this and that is simply negating the fact that our defense has been down right horrible (what’s with all the lazy defense and bad penalties and insane amount of giveaways?) . Our power play continues to be abonomal. Our first line is such a joke that now our second line is being targeted by the opposing team’s shutdown guys. And what is with the 1st line LW experiment? 7 players already…? My God! Is Fukufuji next? DL – I’m sorry but I think this young team proved last season that we are ahead of the rebuild and expectations have increased dramatically. The team expects more from each other along with the fans. Our 1st line has been atrocious when we were winning AND now when we are losing. Quit the excuses and make a trade for a LW to compliment Kopie. Do you really think Kopie’s contract is justified with his level of play this season? Do something, don’t talk and make excuses for the way we’ve played.
[Reply]
backchecker Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 2:50 pm
@Chaz, TOUCHE TOUCHE READ MY BLOG ABOVE !!
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launch Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 3:03 pm
@Chaz, I laughed at the Fuki thing…I get your frustration about the D
but I do not understand how you can say our first line was “atrocious when we were winning”??
If you think the first line was so bad then why do you want help for Kopi? with that type of thinking one would assume you think it’s a good idea to trade such a player….the high cap hit and all.
he is after all one third of this “atrocious” line you speak of. I just don’t get it
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xeropoint Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 6:18 pm
@launch,
Aside from sporadic shifts to start a game, or late in the 3rd, when its too late, the 1st line has been pretty bad.
I love Kopitar and think he will get to the next level but there is no doubt in my mind he is struggling to get there.
[Reply]
johnjuan Reply:
December 1st, 2010 at 4:07 pm
@xeropoint,
He just needs help. DL has to pull the trigger. We have been way under the salary cap for two years, just get a rental if nothing else.
Mike in CO Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 3:12 pm
@Chaz, So, when this team was winning, were you on here saying the same thing or were you praising and saying “when the first line get it going, watch out?
This is the yougest team in the league, or close to it. The players need to relax and play their individual games and not try to do it all by themselves. You can see they are pressing.
Go Kings!
[Reply]
Thank you Rich.
Thank you Dean.
[Reply]
Are we sure Doughty is fully recovered from his injury? Some of his issues seem like mental slowness as opposed to physical. Having guys blow by him and the time he was trying to get back and basically tripped over his own feet? Maybe he needs to sit a fee month games?
[Reply]
One of your best interviews Rich. Thanks for asking some of those questions… even though Lombardi never gives you a breath for a follow-up!
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Great Riverview Rich! DL reassures my faith. DL still better be looking more diligently. That whole first line is ineffective right now, just because of that one spot, no rookie is gonna cut it..
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Thank God DL is our GM and not 90% of the posters on this site. You just don’t have a clue how hockey works and are looking for the quick fix once again. Hasn’t the past 40 years of the Kings being ran that way made you realize that’s NOT the way to do it? Really?
[Reply]
Nitrohockey Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 2:56 pm
@tantrum4, Amen!!! We have alot of new fans, and fans with horribly short memories. They forget the years of blow it up for the hear and now, just to watch it come and go. Do they really expect DL to tell the world that yes, he’s actively looking for a LW and is getting desperate??? Yeah, that won’t throw blood to the sharks and make getting one alot pricier and more difficult!
[Reply]
Stagger Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 3:37 pm
@Nitrohockey,
I think the problem is more long memories than short. Those of us who have been long-time fans have seen this same scenario repeated over and over; long losing streaks that ruin seasons.
Not saying that this is what’s happening now, but in most of my years following the Kings, a streak like this would mean doom for the rest of the year. I think that’s why a typical, long-time Kings fan will tend to panic early. We’ve seen it before.
It’s human nature to assume (consciously or not) that when something happens (a losing streak) that the result of said thing will be the same (ruined season) as most of the the other times said thing happened.
Again, I’m not trying to be negative and not saying that this will happen, but I and most long time Kings fans, are conditioned to assume it will.
Fight that urge people. This team IS better than most of their recent predecessors.
[Reply]
Nitrohockey Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 4:52 pm
@Stagger, No worries, I totally understand. I’ve watched many a season circle the drain after a losing streak. And I know that many times in the past when that happened, the panic button was pressed and players were traded to try and stop the bleeding. I’m fighting the urge, and hoping DL does too by waiting it out as he stated and letting the players figure it out. To shake up things now, I feel, would give a vote of no confidence to the coach and the players, and possibly further damage all that has been accomplished so far.
johnjuan Reply:
December 1st, 2010 at 4:13 pm
@Nitrohockey,
As if they don’t already know it.
Gaborik wanted to come to this team and DL passed.
Time to act.
[Reply]
Lanny McDonald's 'Stache Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 3:17 pm
@tantrum4,
I largely stopped commenting on this blog precisely because of the ridiculous, inflammatory, un-knowledgeable “fans” who think that everyone wants to read their rancid attacks on the Kings players and organization after every loss… yet when the Kings are winning, they’re flying the banner high… it’s just not worth the discourse with 75% of the people who come on here, especially after a loss. Regardless, I check the site about 20 times a day to keep up with Rich’s tireless work.
[Reply]
nykingfan Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 4:17 pm
@Lanny McDonald’s ‘Stache,
It’s pretty sad. They bring nothing constructive to the discussion.
[Reply]
launch Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 3:25 pm
@tantrum4,
it’s nice to know that there are some people that can contribute to Rich’s hard work…I agree that it’s been a long time since the Kings have had a well run organization, and I welcome with open arms everything that DL and TM are doing to put a competitive team on the ice.
it’s amazing…some of the gabage I read on this blog….I will never wish it gone though.
[Reply]
What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 7:19 pm
@tantrum4,
Amen!
[Reply]
i cant take these excuses anymore, its really sad.
the Kings are young, we didnt get a bounce, a 20 goal scorer is injured Blah Blah Blah. for the person who said there is too much pressure on young players, are you kidding me? once you start cashing big checks, its part of the deal. these players have had pressure since they were kids, if you cant produce you go end of story. if Hickey or Tuebert were anything special, they would be here now, some stil think Moller is a Prospect Yikes!!!! look at Colorado, that is a team loaded with good young talent. and they dumped RS on DL i wonder why.
[Reply]
Rene Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 3:00 pm
@KingsfaninWNY,
Good point on Colorado. Colorado is good because Sacco does not accept whiners and loafers. Look at the turnaround with Liles.
I wonder how the team feels about TM. Boyle said that he was confused about his role before he was traded. Molson has done well even though he’s on a crappy team. Is TM good at communicating with the offensive prospects? I think the Kings will be fine but I’m just curious.
[Reply]
nykingfan Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 4:56 pm
@Rene,
Boyle?
Guess what role he plays on the Rangers? The same role that TM thought he should be playing.
He plays using his body now..something he wouldn’t do with the Kings. He uses his size to go thru opponents instead of trying to go around them. He finally realized what his role in the NHL is..the same role TM wanted him to embrace.
Sometimes it takes getting shipped out of an organization before the light finally goes on.
[Reply]
nykingfan Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 4:23 pm
@KingsfaninWNY,
Didn’t they also “dump” Brad Richardson on us?
I’m a little confused on how you can give up on kids 22 years old as “has beens” or “never will be’s”
At what point do you decide that a kid can no longer be a prospect?
We can scour the nhl landscape and I can guarantee you we’ll find a boat load of players who didn’t become nhl players until they’re mid twenties and went on to have great careers.
Don’t just paint them as “non Prospects” because they didn’t give a quick fix. Let them develop at their own pace and wait to see the finished product. You’ll be surprised!
[Reply]
xeropoint Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 6:20 pm
@nykingfan,
100% agree. Losing sucks, but seriously take off the blinders, people.
[Reply]
grega11 Reply:
December 1st, 2010 at 2:47 am
@KingsfaninWNY,
regarding hickey or teubert
datsyuk was drafted 1998 at age 20. 2003/04 season was his first really “good” season at age 25, almost ppg… i believe detroit RW are happy now, that they were patient then
and i realize that maybe they won`t pan out and that datsyuk is special, but to throw them under a bus after 2 years. i wouldn`t yet
[Reply]
The team clearly needs some sort of spark, Quicks GAA is still under 2 so he has been solid still. Zeiler isnt the type of spark the teams needs, imo get Schenn back into the line up for a game and see how hungry he is. I really do hope a trade is being worked on, cause our top line is never a true top line.
[Reply]
DL says the same things all the time. Nothing new here. But what gets me the most is how he keeps saying “the right guy” for 5 years now. Yet he has gone after many top named players since being here and has 0 to show for it. So it cracks me up how he keeps using that term when “the right guy” doesn’t seem to want to play for us.
So now we hear talks of him looking at 3rd line wings and will pawning them off as 1st line star scorers. *cough* Fleischmann *cough* and Wheeler and Ryder no thanks.
DL did a GREAT and AMAZING job on the rebuild process no question. But he is NOT the GM who can take this team to the next level. He can’t get the big names for one and he can’t close on good deals. He seems to think that he shouldn’t have to give much to receive a lot.
Anyways like I just was saying, I rather see him now maybe as a scout for us and bring in a GM who has a great rapport with nhl players and can close the deals that are needed. We knew about our LW hole from last year yet nothing got done about it. But yeah lets keep loading rookies on a top scoring line when our system doesn’t have any really future top 6 players except for Schenn.
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Bill M. Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 3:17 pm
@palffyfan, “our system doesn’t have any really future top 6 players except for Schenn.”
Really? Loktionov looked pretty good down the middle. Holloway and Kozun both look promising. Kozun has a real martin st louis feel to his game, and I think he will be a dangerous top six sniper within a year or two.
We also just drafted Jordan Weal, who looks like another Kozun type. Toffoli is another Center who is doing well. We have enough depth at center and defense to trade for a winger without giving up too much.
[Reply]
johnjuan Reply:
December 1st, 2010 at 4:20 pm
@palffyfan,
Your right. Look at how he treated Cammi and Frolov. He might be a little thin skinned.
(cheap too though that can be a virtue)
I admit I found the thought of having Kovy in a Kings uni very fun but I was glad he didn’t spend all that money on him.
Gaborik he could have had though and blew it.
[Reply]
RICH
TELL ME WHEN YOU HAVE HAD SUCH A REACTION TO A STORY
HERE OR DAILY NEWS well done well done
Very impressive !!!!
[Reply]
Most interesting (fun?) is that Dean acknowledged that he is actively looking for a left winger to replace Parse. This should be a fun topic to speculate on. Is he trying to get a young guy that some team may be ready to give up on? Filatov is a favorite in this category. Does he want a short-term veteran until Parse is healthy? (suggestions, anyone?) Would he take a salary dump? Ryder or Strumn from Boston? Is there even a chance he would land a big name?
[Reply]
palffyfan Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 2:57 pm
@Purple Ghost,
Ryder or Strum? See those aren’t top line scorers. No thanks. People like Semin are. Our overall top 6 is horrid compared to actual teams who compete for the cup. Smyth is getting older and likely will get hurt at some point. Brown is doing good but he is not a 1st line type player, Stoll? Great on faceoffs, has a good shot, but his arthritis won’t help and we need someone with more skill for that 2nd line center (Schenn in time hopefully).
Then Kopitar who is our star center has crap for his LW. Been through 7 players and a few rookies. That is unacceptable at this time now. What is the point of all these assets if we don’t start using them to get that star player we still need on the wing?
[Reply]
Rene Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 3:03 pm
@palffyfan,
Good point about the prospects. I think we are seeing that DL’s rep is not the best around the league with the players. It is what it is.
[Reply]
DLB Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 5:09 pm
@Purple Ghost, I’d go for Penner in Edmonton. I think he’s currently underrated. Some Oilers bloggers who are microstats-oriented and highly critical of the team in general actually like him.
Superstar players just aren’t moved very often. For example, the Caps aren’t trading Alexander Semin to anybody. And hey, maybe teams like NJ are finding out that big-name signings aren’t always the answer?
[Reply]
xeropoint Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 6:26 pm
@DLB,
Yes. Exactly. IF Semin were to be traded, it would only be at the deadline, as Washington really has no pressing need to trade him now. I don’t think he gets moved either.
Wingers are nice, but the last piece of a puzzle. The bigger, more important pieces on this team are struggling and until they turn things around, it won’t matter WHO is on your left or right.
[Reply]
What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 7:33 pm
@Purple Ghost, More accurately, he’s resigned himself to the reality that Parse won’t be back and healthy this season, so Parse will not be the answer, for now, and he wants an answer. There is no GM that will say “now, we have this guy that’s useless, and we intend to trade him” even if it’s true (and I’m pretty sure it isn’t.)
[Reply]
What I find interesting is that Dean was quick to point out (in other previous interviews)Kopitar’s training deficiencies and how he needed to step up the conditioning another notch to be an elite player, yet he has no mention of or criticism of Doughty’s poor conditioning and mediocre play (compared to what his true potential really is).
[Reply]
Stagger Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 3:43 pm
@Miller29,
Good point. I was wondering the same thing. It’s probably just the fact that different types of motivation work for different types of players.
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Some guys just called into Scott Laughlin on the NHL powerplay. He asked about the kings slump right now , and if we will still make the team.
Ofcourse Scotty said he still thinks we will win the pacific, which i think we will too. He also said from what he knew, we were very much in on Flesh, just couldnt get it done, which is okay. He still thinks we will make a move here soon.
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Michael_DD8 Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 3:00 pm
@Michael_DD8,
*make the playoffs…
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jayhay Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 3:08 pm
@Michael_DD8,
the only guy we could give up that WASH was looking for would be Greene. i dont think we could absorb that hole right now on the ice, not to mention what he means in the locker room. not for a guy that has been a healthy scratch recently and who’s contract is done June 30th.
DD2 would have fit their wants, but he has shown who he this year. he’s not worth giving up on for what Fleischmann is.
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@Rich Hammond, I know covering the Kings has it’s ups and downs, and this sin’t an UP period. Thanks for hanging in there and dealing with all of the negativity the Great Frustrated are experiencing again. As a long suffering Kings fan, this isn’t unfamiliar turf, and I’m sure it’s not for you either, but I just wanted to say Thanks for keeping on. When good things start to happen again, and we know they will, we’ll get it here first because of your efforts and dedication. For all you do.. well, I’ll buy you one if the opportunity ever presents itself.
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It’s time to play the “be positive”card…when will dean pull out the “time for a challenge” card? Den can bec frank at times, but other times, he just feels like a shrewd politician
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Bill M. Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 3:21 pm
@Brett butler, How is that not a perfect description of any GM in any sport in any country on any planet of any universe?
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Thank goodness DL is the Kings GM and not some of you clowns! Don’t just read what Rich writes…listen to what DL is trying to say!
This team was crap 5 years ago and the 10 before. DL had absolutely nothing to work with when he arrived and had to do everything through the draft. He’s rebuilt this team into something respectable. The pieces are in place for a cup contender, something I haven’t been able to say since Gretzky era.
Its up to the players now to make it to the next level. Bringing in ONE player is not going to turn this thing around or instantly make us a SC contender…that sh_t only happens in baseball.
The young guys have to go through adversity like this in order to get better. DL is correct when he says DD and JJ will have a much harder time making it to the next level than making it to the NHL…we are all witnessing that right now! I believe both these guys have “IT” and a bunch of other guys on this team have it too.
Be patient, this is the youngest team in the NHL…what did you expect? 30 years of watching GM’s make the same mistake over and over again. I’ve seen too many good YOUNG players get traded in knee jerk reactions to a losing streak like this only to come back and haunt us.
DL…stick to the plan. As for those who are jumping off bridges over a losing streak…we don’t need you. If you want to see what bad trades and impatience does, head south to Anaheim…that’s your kind of team and the one you should be cheering for…not the Kings!
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tantrum4 Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 3:40 pm
@Barry’s Mullet,
Beautiful.
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Cry Baby Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 4:06 pm
@tantrum4, Wow…a post that is based on common sense. Very refreshing!!!!
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Michael J. Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 4:26 pm
@Barry’s Mullet, Poetry…
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nykingfan Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 4:27 pm
@Barry’s Mullet,
Way to go!
Amazing how quickly some people forgot what it was like being a Kings fan with absolutely no hope and no direction.
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TinaBeana Reply:
December 1st, 2010 at 1:48 am
@nykingfan, the dark ages. never forget.
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puck73 Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 4:51 pm
@Barry’s Mullet, Outstanding.
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johnjuan Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 6:43 pm
@Barry’s Mullet,
Ha!
We have gone through it since the mid 90′s The fact is we do need help as many have said for quite some time. The main players we have were here before DL (nothing to work with?). We all want Poni and Mitchel back I’m sure but, the fact is this team still needs more skill up front and if we don’t get it you will face another rebuild before we ever win the cup (if ever). This is the age of free agency and the teams do not stay together like they used to in the past.
People have talked about our depth but I don’t think we really have a lot hence the constant line changes. At least he is talking about getting a LW now. Parse came up last year at the tender age of what 26? He filled in pretty well but I don’t think I would have been counting on him to be the final piece of the puzzle.
The bottom line is the kings need to turn it around soon or we will out of the running in a tough conference and DL will be out of time.
Personally I would like to see the Kings change the structure to a greater attack mentality but that is the coachs problem. To much 3rd man high and not enough man in the middle with the puck. Attack with 4.
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mcsorleyfan Reply:
December 1st, 2010 at 1:53 am
@johnjuan, Once again… check your facts; you’re incorrect. Dean Lombardi came to Los Angeles in April of 2006. In fact, the ONLY REMAINING PLAYER from the 2005-2006 season is Dustin Brown. The main players we have here were NOT here before DL. If you’re going to spout off with bad information, try checking your “facts” first. Don’t invent “facts” to support your opinions; too many people around here know their hockey too well.
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johnjuan Reply:
December 1st, 2010 at 4:37 pm
@mcsorleyfan,
Feel free to correct me though.
johnjuan Reply:
December 1st, 2010 at 4:58 pm
@mcsorleyfan,
2005 11 pick. I checked just for you!
johnjuan Reply:
December 1st, 2010 at 5:24 pm
@mcsorleyfan,
Quick 2005 and Kopitar. Sorry for the omission
mcsorleyfan Reply:
December 1st, 2010 at 10:58 pm
@johnjuan, those two weren’t on the Kings roster that year. That’s how I was defining “here”… They were in the system; I think Kopi was still in Sweden at the time. The thing is, check your facts first, or the rest of your arguement gets dismissed. I disagree with your position about DL, but I can respect your arguement much easier if the foundation supporting it is structurally sound.
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hats off to you, rich. i don’t subscribe to the “sit tight” mentality TM and now DL seem to be following, but thank you for sharing this!
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The most people recognize only recognizable like a giveaway that leads to the oppornent’s goal. They can’t see what was behind the play or how it came to the situation like that.
Our boys are fighting through under the pressure that is absolutely bigger than the last season. They have to be more responsible. They have to make a right decision each time. Don’t act like you have never made mistakes in your life. Give them a break already.
Dean is the guy who recognizes the talents that this team needs and is very patient for their development. Making the competitive team from within isn’t a easy task. But he already proved that he is capable to do it last season or did he not? He has wider and longer vision than us and that is why he is the GM of the professional sports team.
Thank you for the great interview, Rich. You just made my day.
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I also thank goodness DL is the GM. We’ve always had GMs that were as fickel and silly as most of these posts about firing the coach and making whole sale changes upon one slump where you have 3 huge pieces of your team injured.
I stand behind DL and TM all the way.
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puck73 Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 4:53 pm
@KC23, Easy for you to say, you were sitting in the Anaheim City Council suite last night sir! Who do you think you are, Royalty for gods sake?
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What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 7:43 pm
@KC23, The way some of these people talk, you’d think they’re complaining about Sam McMaster!
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Great interview Rich! I think a lot of fans (including myself) have a tendancy to get really focused on the present slump. But DL seems to have a more long term perspective that is refreshing.
DL was hired to rebuild this team, and that kind of process is long-term. It doesn’t happen overnight. It was really exciting when the Kings made the playoffs last year, but, I think DL’s point is that the team is still in development. Still developing young players. And those young players are going to struggle from time to time. That’s just a part of becoming a better player and team. DL is agnologing that we are in a hard time right now, but, he also seems to think we’re on the right path.
This interview has helped to widen my perspective a bit, and helped me to remember to consider the long-term plan.
Of course, I might slit my wrists if we lose against Florida on Thursday. Haha.
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aeg cares about the KINGS
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Great interview, Rich. Seems like it is a challenge to get info out of DL sometimes.
DL has done a great job turning around this team and organization. Nevertheless, I still have serious doubts if he – and ownership – have what it takes to get us to the next level. We went into this offseason knowing that there were some important holes to fill at forward. We didn’t get it done – our group of forwards simply does not compare with the better teams in the league. The seemingly endless process of putting together a high quality “first” line speaks volumes about ongoing failures to make this team a true contender.
I respect what DL has done – but as a long suffering fan of this team, I desperately want to see more. The “they’re just kids” excuse does not fly forever. DL – don’t do anything rash, don’t make trades just to make trades, and don’t blow up what you have put together – but DO admit that the current roster is not going to take us to the promised land, and honor the tremendous fan base of this team by doing what is necessary to get us there. You got more work to do.
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Vahe Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 4:34 pm
@rick, Well said
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johnjuan Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 6:48 pm
@rick,
Totally agree.
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The only thing I have a problem with is D.L. kept saying “these young guys put high expectations on themselves” WELL what expectations do you have for this team D.L.?? Do u wanna be a hang around team that goes out of the playoffs early every year?? Ok no problem. Then keep the team the way it is. Don’t make any changes. Stay the course!! If U wanna bring a CUP to LA then u had better make some moves because if this team is this fragile with PONI and MITCHELL out of the lineup then whats gonna happen if KOPI or BROWN or one of our “TOP SIX” guys get hurt??
We need more Depth NO DOUBT. Not just young guys waiting to make a name in the league but some LEGIT vets who can SCORE. It all comes down to D.L. and HIS expectations for the team. NOT the players expectations. MIDDLE of the road??? Or ELITE??? Make the call SIR!!!
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xeropoint Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 8:11 pm
@illegalstick33,
That strategy *might* work back in the 90′s.
I understand some people want something done quickly but realistically what?
What “legit” veterans who can score are available and at what price?
When was the last time any team brought in several blockbuster deals and completely revamped a line-up mid season and NOT have it blow up in their face (if anything as absurd as that ever happened)?
The ownness on the teams success is on the team itself at this point. If this same group can go 12-3 to start the season (with their top players as passengers along for the ride) it certainly can do it again.
It’s fine to want something and it’s certainly understandable to be frustrated but offer up some plausible scenarios and reasons. Calling for anyones head or demanding to blow it all up is the LAST thing the Kings need.
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What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 8:14 pm
@xeropoint, once again, great points.
It’s “onus” though. Sorry. I found out the same way.
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xeropoint Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 9:28 pm
@What’s the frequency, Kenneth?,
Oops, thx
Sometimes trying to sound smart backfires!
What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
December 1st, 2010 at 1:02 am
Oh well. Better to make the mistake once (as I once did) and get corrected, then to make the mistake over and over again.
Great interview Rich. I think DL is doing what is best for the Kings, as do many on your blog…
For the rest of those out there who can do a much better job, how about this? Since DL can’t do his job, why don’t all the other GM’s out there simply pick up the phone and make the deal for that 40 goal scorer themselves? Preferably a LW, OK? Once one of you work that deal just simply contact DL, or contact Rich and he can pass along the details of your deal.
Since most teams are looking to get rid of top-flight players it shouldn’t be very much trouble at all. I’m sure there are teams looking to dump talent, it happens all the time.
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I realized that actually Jonathan Quick has been probably the best player so far on the Kings season. Goaltending has been Solid, but Quick has been the glue atleast so far.
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Barry's Mullet Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 4:47 pm
@DaKingBaby!!,
How many times in the last 20 years could we say goaltending is NOT the reason why we are losing games…how refreshing is that!
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TinaBeana Reply:
December 1st, 2010 at 1:53 am
@Barry’s Mullet, so refreshing it feels awesome. SO glad we have Quick.
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nothing like a little adversity to make people run for cover. Glad it’s just the some of the people on here instead of the Kings organization.
DL’s a smart guy…he realizes that this stretch of trouble for JJ and Dd is the exception and not the rule.
We’ve all seen them at their best and it looks a hell of a lot different than what we’ve seen over the past couple of weeks. I think they’ll both be better fr the adversity they’re going thru now. As DL said, the best of the best have gone thru it and come out better. Why not these 2?
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I have been watching the Kings since the days of Rogie Vacho, Butch Goring, the Triple Crown Line and the disappointment of them losing to Montreal in the finals and blaming it on a call over a illegal stick. To go from 12-3 to losing game after game is unreal.
Stop making excuses. If they are good enough to play in the NHL they need to have their head in every game and get the job done, that is what they are paid to do. If you don’t do your job you get fired. This is your job guys, get it done. Your fans deserve to see the cup raised in LA as a matter of fact we the fans deserve to skate around and raise the cup for the loyalty we have shown this team and organization.
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I am finally speechless
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Same old story but no concrete answers. All he does is cover his ass and murray’s. Do something soon or aeg should look at a new coach and new gm. not impressed with the interview at all.
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As long AEG owns the team it will be always about money, and this kind of BS by DL : “I do not worry…” He sent two best rookies to minors in order not to pay their salaries figuring out that Kings were winning anyway. That was where turn around for worse had happened. Players understood that they would not get any help. Everyone blames JJ – look at how many min he plays per game. He simply can’t handle it.
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What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 7:41 pm
@Alberto, It blows my mind when people come on here and pretend that AEG is stingy. I’m not sure what planet those people live on. DL has pointed out multiple times that he manages the cap, and he has specifically kept well beneath the cap to sign the players who are going to use that cap space when they resign, and to retaliate against any team that tries to steal them when they become RFAs (he’s discouraging other GMs from simply trying to create cap trouble for him.)
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xeropoint Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 8:32 pm
@What’s the frequency, Kenneth?,
Exactly. I think a lot of this mindset stems from the whole “DL is a cheapskate” mentality and the “failed” signing of Kovulchuk. Not pulling the trigger on his contract demands was one of the smartest moves he has ever made in both his tenures as a GM.
And yes, as you pointed out, he has clearly stated all of your points himself and as far as I can remember, has always done exactly what he said he would do.
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tmurrayhater Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 10:28 pm
i strongly disagree, as long as AEG is in charge and fans sellout games nothing will change and we will never win a cup. just look at their investment in sorry ass beckham for galaxy. They still have not won a championship with him in the sorry ass league. I should know since i have been Kings fan for about 25 years and starting to feel like a Cubs fan.
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What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
December 1st, 2010 at 1:03 am
Then again you have “hater” in your nic.
johnjuan Reply:
December 1st, 2010 at 6:18 pm
@What’s the frequency, Kenneth?,
I read that Anshultz had a problem with the IRS, maybe one of the real estate deals who knows? It made me wonder if it could have had some impact since they seem to have had a good cap space situation. Clearly though they made a significant offer for Kovi so he carries the purse for sure.He took Zus with an injury problem and Williams (We already talked about Cloutier).
Why did he pass on Gaborik?
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Awesome to see this ! Took the words right out oft mouth ! Being a parent it’s patience , understanding , support , believing , adjusting & did I mention patience ? Dean is a great guy obviously ! God bless the kings organization !
Now let’s kick some panther butt & clip those red wings !
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I remember last season, going through the slump in the late winter months, we were thankful that it wasn’t in November or December, and the season was usually “over” by then.
Now I find myself thankful this slump is in November, because I know this team is better than it played the last couple of weeks, and there will be plenty of time for the team to right the ship and make the playoffs–be it 1st in conference, 1st in division, or further down, because frankly, only a few points separate everyone, and they’ve already shown they can play at the highest level. They have the whole middle of the season to work up to that level in such a way that it’s sustainable in the playoffs.
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xeropoint Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 8:38 pm
@What’s the frequency, Kenneth?,
Absolutely, again. Even during this slide, the most encouraging thought to me is this: Even when they were 12-3, they STILL weren’t playing up to their potential.
Once this group of early 20 year olds settle into their game again and start bringing it to the next level, the wins should come in bunches.
Some of the guys might need some tough love right now but they sure as hell don’t need to be sent packing for quick fixes or punished for failing to become elite overnight.
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Good interview Rich.
I am one screaming for a top level left wing so I will give Deano credit for being up front and saying he is looking. Let’s hope we get what need and also hope for Poni and Willie to get healthy.
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Good interview. Dean said and implied quite a bit. Since I speak fluent Lombardi, I did a translation of the interview. Click on the link if you are interested.
http://lakingsnews.com/2010/11/30/translation-of-hammonds-interview-with-dean-lombardi/
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What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 8:30 pm
@Bobby Scribe, This plug for your site is much more tasteful than the previous.
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I waited until today to comment on the game last night. In mho i thought we played a decent game, other than two stupid mistakes which cost us the game and a lack of “killer” touch.
I wouldn’t mind so much if it wasn’t the Mighty Sucks we lost to.We actually outplayed them in most areas.
However, I’m tired of seeing three forwards behind the net (from which it’s almost impossible to score) and nobody in the “slot” like most other teams seem to be able to accomplish.
And talk about our “system”, every team in the league has obviously studied our system and easily counteracts it.
I feel like opposing defenders are tweeting their friends while playing us saying things like ” Ahh it’s only the Kings, one of them will be skating up the boards any minute now, oh hold on, (CRUNCH) ok we got the puck back now, what were we tweeting about?
I mean let’s face it, we either have one guy going up the boards while everybody changes on the fly, or we have everybody behind their net while our defense changes, only to be caught in odd man rushes! How about surprising somebody and cutting to the middle once in a while, you never know, we might get a shot on net!!
Don’t get me wrong I love this team and haven’t lost faith in them yet, but juggling lines doesn’t fool anybody, only stops players getting used to each other. It sometimes seems like they are trying too hard. Getting too close to the goal and not being able to get a shot away, or in the case of DD and JJ taking a fraction too long to get a shot off. Sorry boys!
Like this kid Martinez. Sorry this is so long, just gutted about losing to thee Sucks!!! Go Kings!
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xeropoint Reply:
November 30th, 2010 at 9:31 pm
@bulldog13lak,
Waiting to comment after a loss and especially after a string of losses is a very, very smart idea.
See everyone? This is how you vent properly!
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bulldoglak13 Reply:
December 1st, 2010 at 1:12 pm
@xeropoint, Thanks for the props. I wasn’t in a right frame of mind after the loss.Just think a little tweaking and attitude adjustment is needed to get back on track.
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Great interview and again Dean nails it. I understand the pain of being a Kings fan, but Dean has put the team and organization on the right track and everything is coming into play. I get sick and tired of some of the complaints like we are supposed to go out and dominate and win the cup. Those that expect this obviously are not athletes or ever played a team sport. So much has to align and Dean has done a great job. We have to remember as we are getting better so are some of the other teams. They are not going to sit back and watch the Kings win. Many are doing the same thing in their organizations. As the Kings organization does, I believe and trust Dean to continue to do the right things to make the team better.
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Great interview…..I think this is a young team that is capable of accomplishing more than last year. A Stanley Cup? I certainly hope so!!! Are there a piece or two missing? Probably. I don’t think trading DD, or JJ is the answer. Neither is getting rid of TM. Lets get healthy and get it going again……I like the guy, but does it ever seem like JJ doesn’t really care either way? Sometimes I wonder if he really givesa damn. Is it just me? Go Kings
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Rich, Thanks for the interview. I liked hearing DL’s perspective on things. It was painful looking thru the many negative blog comments after the loss. DL feels this is another stage to build mental toughness toward our cup quest. Perhaps once they work thru it and we get our injured players back and a LW scorer, we can be back to our winning ways. We are not that far, though sometimes during this slump it feels like the other team is a powerhouse team that has a lot more skilled scorers which can skate circles around us. I want to see our skill back! and more LW skill! [I had such high hopes for Parsely.]
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Great interview. Love the job you’re doing Hammond. Just starting reading the posts and enjoy the back and forth of diehard fans. Some of you are just so dang eloquent!
I have a 20-year old son who is just an average good kid. These young men are still moving from adolesence to young adulthood, facing tremendous personal & emotional growth.
Love the way DL says “God bless him” – not edited out.
Looking forward to seeing the 12/23 game live – especially my favorite player to watch this year – Smyth, God bless him!
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Johnson needs to take a good look at himself. Doughty is a stud an will continue to be. These two guys are responsible for the next month and I hope they take it way more seriously then I do.
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My bad yall I meant to say Pat Quinn not Burns.
Some of you just do not understand Dean Lombardi will never land a superstar because of his Kim Jung Il negotiation tactics.
DL is a Shark/Flyer/Oakland A at heart.
The man never put the Sharks over instead he grabbed Heart and character (aka Grinders. I give him props for drafting Marleau..
San Jose let him go for several reasons that is because of lack of success and he always HAD A SPECIAL PLACE IN HIS HEART FOR HIS GRINDERS.
Remember how Marc Crawford was in love with Dan Cloutier play????
GM’s probably love messing with Dean’s head. Once messed with Dean probably calls it a day runs home to his wife.
Lomardi is a builder. Hopefully that builder will go away and the reigns of the GM will go to someone who does not lack balls to pull the trigger on a prominent player.
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Remember… it’s like he said.
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thank you rich. that was great interview
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Coyotes have been bankrupt for two years and they’re ahead of kings. Lombardi keeps repeating himself in interview. I think he’s worried. I know I am. Watching games it just seems like there’s a lack of talent. Quick is good, but what will losing do to him? Still can’t believe one of Lombardi’s first acquisitions as GM was acquiring traitor Blake. One and out last year and management markets team as Cup contender. Not even top 8 right now. Lombardi needs to admit there are significant problems and that he will address them. But he tries to spin us.
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I wanted to wait till the day after to post my comments. I had to let all the fans vent after Dean’s interview. Thanks for takeing the time Dean to answer some of our concerns. Rich you did a great job asking the right qustions. It really made me click when Dean talked about holes. The LW hole is the biggest hole we got right now. Keep Parse. He got to shake the injury bug and fill that hole. I also think that Richardson should get a shot at the top line. This guy has been a hard worker since comeing over from the Aves. My call got through on NHL Power Play yesterday.They had nothing but good words for the Kings and Dean.I do belive the Kings will win the Pacific,just a bump in the road for the KIngs
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Defensive coaching, youth or perhaps just a lack of talent? I really don’t understand the commitment to DD and JJ. They both appear to be so nonchalant most of the time. If they are as talented as the organization is making them out to be then somebody really needs to wake these two guys up. I am starting to question my shelling out $250.00 per game to see the lazy blue line play of these guys every night. Remember that you work for me…NOW WAKE UP OUT THERE!
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RICH,
Two props go out here. One for you in tracking Dean down and convincing him to answer some questions, secondly for Dean in answering your questions. Dean didn’t have to do that. And the reason that so many people are attracted to your blog, Rich, is because you DO go out and get this interview.
Does it matter so much exactly what you ask or what Dean answers? No, the important piece is that it gets done, showing that both you and Dean hear all of the panic stricken fans (with good reason seeing as how the team has lost 7 out of 8 games) out here. Not so much giving answers Dean may not be able to talk about, but just giving answers and talking about things, period.
I appreciate your do diligence and your responsible journalism, Rich. Well done to both you and Dean.
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Rich,
Have you ever asked Dean if he checks in on the blog?
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