It’s been an up-and-down road trip for Kings rookie Andrei Loktionov. He started it on left wing, where he never looked entirely comfortable, then seemed to elevate his game in certain areas when moved back to center for the Washington game. Loktionov had one goal and two assists in three games back at center, but today, Loktionov skated in a fourth-line role in practice, and Terry Murray indicated that Loktionov would likely be a healthy scratch for tomorrow’s game against the New York Islanders. Why? Murray explained that there were parts of Loktionov’s game last night against the New York Rangers that caused concern…
MURRAY: “Lokti, I thought the game got a little heavy for him there at times. I’m just seeing an NHL level of play, right now, starting to expose a young player. The games are big, they’re intense, they’re close. Everything really matters. Every play is critical, those 1-on-1s, those 3-on-3 — whether it’s in your D-zone or the offensive zone — there are situations right now that are happening a little too fast. In the middle of the ice, though, he’s good. He’s getting back, tracking back. He is very strong on his stick. He did recover some pucks last night, what I call stealing the puck from behind.
“But in other areas, there’s just some other stuff that is happening that is not what I want to see right now. So, it’s just coming too fast for him, maybe. It’s a long road trip, intense play. Everything is just exposing him in some situations that are kind of a constant for me. That was some of the drills we did today, to bring a focus and attention to it, but I’m going to back away probably, tomorrow, and get a more experienced player in that situation.”
Not to bang against Martinez, but he got exposed quite a few times in last nights game.
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Corey Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 12:58 pm
@Colorado King Fan, Totally agree… but you dont see martinez getting scratched for any of his mistakes ever… Dislike martinez… Loktionov is sold!!
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Colorado King Fan Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:08 pm
@Corey, I like Martinez. I think he brings a lot to the game. He’s a good 5-6 d-man and may even grow to a 3-4, but he got exposed really bad last night.
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Jason4Kings Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:36 pm
@Colorado King Fan,
Martinez is doing well overall. But then again, everyone needs an accountant.
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EJ Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 4:52 pm
@Colorado King Fan, several veterans — Smyth, Kopitar, Brown, Scuderi — made horrendous decisions in the d-zone against the Rangers, but do they sit?
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THEROCKNROLL80S Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 6:10 pm
@EJ, Murray has his favorites. He’s like that. His motto is, “if something works, change it.” They were winning without Richardson in the lineup so he was put back in and they lost. They were winning with Loki in the lineup so he’ll take him out. You think I’m kidding. Watch and see. Still think this coach is a joke.
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Tmurrayhater Reply:
February 19th, 2011 at 12:32 am
murray will sit out loktionov but put in useless westgarth, he is an idiot. Agree with your comment.
USHA#17 Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 6:50 pm
@EJ,
They looked so tired 5hat I bet they wished they could sit.
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TM giving a straight answer and making sense?!
There must be a shortage of warm socks in hell!
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Doughty99 Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 12:52 pm
@Token,
“Everything is just exposing him in some situations that are kind of a constant for me.”
Yep. That’s crystal clear.
Hopefully TM is merely giving a young player a chance to work on his game in practice for a week straight, while also avoiding one of the gooniest teams in the NHL.
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Choralone Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:47 pm
@Doughty99, Makes sense to me – he’s been exposed consistently in certain situations.
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Bkrs-Bud Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 12:57 pm
@Token, LMOA
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Bkrs-Bud Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 12:57 pm
@Bkrs-Bud, oops LMAO
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Jason4Kings Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:37 pm
@Bkrs-Bud,
Thanks for the correction, i was about to call a teenager for clarification.:)
wait till loki gets even more comfortable and find his stride with the right wingers… and when he adds alittle size
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budsmoka Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 12:45 pm
@budsmoka, he’ll be a mix of dats and zetterberg
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yes we’re at the point right now where a few bad mistakes could cost us a playoff spot. better to go with experience i suppose
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Just a thought…..Trade bait? Would you keep Lokti or Schenn if given the choice??
I know it’s a reach, but I think Lokti has been playing well and I do agree with some of what TM has mentioned, but it still seems a bit out of place. Healthy scratch instead of a fourth line role to keep him playing?
2 points Saturday boys. Re-Energize and get back to it. Stomp the Isles and don’t look back.
GKG !!
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DesertKing Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 12:48 pm
@SplattDaddy,
I was thinking that when I mentioned it in the last thread. I like Lokti and what he brings, but if DL is thinking of making a move, and we have an abundance of good centers, then someone like Lokti is expendable. You cannot trade an injured player, and the press box is definitely safer than being on the ice with the Isles.
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Bkrs-Bud Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:10 pm
@DesertKing, Say it isn’t so.
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Michael J. Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:55 pm
@Bkrs-Bud,
Don’t worry… It isn’t so… Lokti stays with the Kings for a long time.
Player-X Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 2:57 pm
@Bkrs-Bud, I agree, no trade. The sit-down is warranted. Yes, he has scored some points, but they were mostly cleaning up others’ hard work, yet I don’t think even that is the reason. The reason for sitting him is the missed reads on D-zone coverage, nearly total ineffectiveness on any board play in either zone, and as well he is not making smart plays when he is pressured. He made a few very dangerous “try to do too much” passes last game, when he should have just taken the safe way out by either clearing the zone or dumping it deep. I am not saying he can’t learn, or won’t be able to make plays, but it just seems too crucial a time and too much of a defensive-oriented coach. I would like to see him on the 4th line next time Westgarth sits, if Sturm isn’t back yet, either.
Quisp Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:56 pm
@DesertKing,
Loktionov is the best center prospect we have. Then Schenn. Then who? Trading him would be insane.
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jet Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 2:37 pm
@Quisp, Hot Weals?
Chris P. Bacon Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 2:45 pm
@Quisp,
I chuckled at this bit, so elaborate, please.
Is Andrei Loktionov as good as you think he is? What areas does Lok trump over Brayden Schenn and what do you project Lok’s point totals to be?
wavesinair Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 3:21 pm
@Quisp, Hypothetical – You can only have one: Who do you choose? Schenn or Lokti. I have to take Schenn.
Quisp Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 3:48 pm
@jet
Yes.
@Chris P. B.
Well, the cop-out (yet true) answer is that Loktionov is older and more experienced than Schenn. My actual feeling is that they are different types of players; Schenn being a two-way forward, a hitter, a fairly “complete” well-rounded player, and a leader; Loktionov is more creative, a better passer. They both have great instincts. Schenn has the size advantage. Loktionov the speed advantage.
Is he as good as I think he is? Obviously, I can’t answer that. Because I think he’s as good as I think he is good as I think he is repeat as needed.
Projected point-totals? I have no idea. Datsyuky.
@wavesinair
kobayashi maru
@player x
“Yes, he has scored some points, but they were mostly cleaning up others’ hard work…”
Respectfully, that’s completely wrong. Loktionov made the play that sprung Greene that led to Loktionov’s goal. Loktionov also made the skate-pass to Williams on the Williams goal. The rebound he put in off the Clifford shot a couple of games ago? Ask yourself how he got there in the first place. And then reflect on the several dozen times our top-six players have put that rebound right into the goalie’s logo.
I also disagree with your assessment of his defensive zone play, but whatever.
Osaka Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 4:15 pm
@Quisp, Insane? Trading Loktionov would be a very wise move. Your not going to play both Loktionov and Schenn next year, that would be insane. That would be a huge step backwards for the Kings. Maybe Ottawa will go with inexperience at C2 and C3 but the Kings are pass that. I know your high on Lokti but be realistic. It is a long shot he will be an NHL regular for years to come, much more lickly to be another Pavel Rosa. Schenn is a blue chip prospect.
wavesinair Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 4:45 pm
@Quisp, I forgot to tell you (since it’s my game) that if you don’t choose, I choose for you. You choose Schenn.
Make it so number one.
Player-X Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 4:45 pm
@Quisp, @Quisp,
I am not wrong, necessarily, just because I disagree with you. And you are not necessarily right, either. You would sound much less lofty if you just said you disagreed. But whatever. Sounded disrespectful.
“Loktionov made the play that sprung Greene that led to Loktionov’s goal.” I saw that as Lokti making a desperation swing with his stick to free the puck, necessary because the guy was gonna skate around him. Lokti hit the puck but I would prefer he was matching speed and angle instead of reaching. It was a nice finish on that goal, but as an F3 he was low and taking a risk. Risk-reward, sure, it worked out, but with a D-man behind the net and another player in the crease, Lokti came down low for an F3.
“Loktionov also made the skate-pass to Williams on the Williams goal.” Jim Fox was not sure it was intentional, nor am I. Apparently you are.
“The rebound he put in off the Clifford shot a couple of games ago?” Yes, he got there. Yes, he finished. Have other guys missed a similar shot? Do I care? Is it relevant? It would be like bringing up the loose puck in the crease where the guy grabbed Lokti’s stick and got away with a penalty…How many times have other guys been stronger on the puck and buried it? Both are hypothetical, anyway, and pointless. My point was Lokti shot in a rebound after Clifford made the play, which is what happened. Clifford did some work, Lokti reaped some reward, with a good shot.
As far as my assessment of his D-zone play, I am only pointing out what is obvious: he does get knocked off the puck on the boards, usually and often. He has missed moe than just a few reads on back-check and picking up guys on entry. He is weak in man-on-man situations in the middle of the Kings zone when defending. I have also not seen many “wizard” passes to open guys for slam-dunk goals, but that is a team-wide failing, so I don’t blame Lokti solely. You disagree with my defensive assessment, as you say. I guess you should ask yourself why Murray is saying and doing exactly what he would do if I were right, while you claim Murray is saying something he doesn’t mean and doing something he doesn’t intend to maintain doing. Occam’s razor, simplest is most likely, right?
Chris P. Bacon Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 5:12 pm
@Quisp,
I was expecting a complete breakdown instead of “older and experienced”. The funny thing is Brayden Schenn has a wealth of international and big game experience to rule it in his favor. Schenn will also completely bypass the AHL, you can quote me on that. In his short stint as a 19yo, scored a 1.0PPG pace playing from the bottom six. If Manchester is the team he’s playing for next season, it’s not unrealistic to expect a 1.3-1.4 scoring pace.
The passing and creativity is in Brayden Schenn’s favor in terms of NHL style of play. The amount of points Schenn has compiled over the last 4 years speaks for itself. The ability to make the “5ft pass”, in the dirty areas is how to effectively produce in the NHL, those same areas Schenn has made a living off for years. Loktionov’s size and strength limitations becomes a real issue here, as he will need space to be effective. Puck handling and physical play in the trenches is undeniably in Schenn’s favor.
Shot power is roughly the same. Shot accuracy favor’s Schenn. Loktionov has never displayed shooting accuracy at any level including junior and more recently the AHL (measly 8 goals on 100 shots). Loktionov’s recent NHL goals were a result of being in front of the net for a Kyle Clifford rebound and a Matt Greene domination clinic, all areas Brayden Schenn will be proficient at in the NHL.
Hockey sense and defensive play are even. Size can be a deciding factor again in this department. Loktionov may have the quickness to deflect any negative.
Intangibles go to Brayden Schenn. Overall level of hockey tips the scale in Schenn’s favor too.
If Loktionov is Datsyuk, then Schenn is Crosby.
Quisp Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 6:03 pm
@Chris PB
You could be right. I am frequently wrong about these things.
@Osaka
“Insane? Trading Loktionov would be a very wise move. Your not going to play both Loktionov and Schenn next year, that would be insane. That would be a huge step backwards for the Kings. Maybe Ottawa will go with inexperience at C2 and C3 but the Kings are pass that. I know your high on Lokti but be realistic. It is a long shot he will be an NHL regular for years to come, much more lickly to be another Pavel Rosa. Schenn is a blue chip prospect.”
Kopitar/Loktionov/Schenn/Lewis down the middle in two years. If you think that’s insane, you’re entitled to your opinion. However, this time last year I was the one who said Clifford and Muzzin would make the team in 2010-11, and that was supposedly insane. Not so much, it turns out.
It’s a long-shot Loktionov will become an NHL regular? Only in the sense that every prospect is a long-shot. I’m comfortable saying he will be an NHL regular. It’s easy to scratch your chin and say maybe not nobody knows….
As far as Pavel Rosa goes, Loktionov should be passing Rosa’s NHL career goal output sometime next week.
@Playerx
You have an ax to grind, as you have demonstrated the last two or three times we have interacted. What I said was that your characterization of Loktionov’s play was wrong. Yes, feel free to add in the implied “in my opinion.” However, it would probably be more persuasive (to me, in my opinion) if you would cite some specific example of a missed defensive assignment, rather than bolstering your assertions with “what Jim FOx said” and what’s “obvious.”
I think it’s telling that you think Loktionov kicked the puck to Williams by accident, sprung Greene through a pathetic desperation sweep-check that is actually evidence of his defensive weakness, lucked out when he pinched too low and happened to score instead of giving up an odd-man rush due to his poor “read”, and — what else, oh yeah — reaped the reward of Clifford’s hard work by selfishly putting home an easy rebound that — if you ask me, in my opinion — had it been Kopitar or Brown, or rather, had either of those guys finished any of their similar chances this year…the Kings would have about 90 points already.
Hasn’t made any goal-costing defensive errors. Is much less likely to give the puck away than any of our top six forwards. Lead the team in G/60 before last night. But sure, I’m being disrespectful.
Osaka Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 7:59 pm
@Quisp, Yeah I think your right, Lokti should pass Rosa very soon in goals. I hope your right about Lokti being a real deal, I am pulling for him big time. I really do like the kid but I like Schenn more. I do not want to see Lokti, Schenn, and Lewis down the middle for the Kings next year since that would be way too young. I think more like Scotty Bowman and prefer veterans. I agree with TM that Loti had some problems the other night and this isn’t the time of year for a rookie to learn the NHL game. He has put up some points and helped the Kings with some wins on the road trip, but I still see how he could hurt more than help down the stretch. I know this sounds so crazy to a lot of people. Prove me wrong Lokti!
wavesinair Reply:
February 19th, 2011 at 10:08 am
At the next suite night, I want Quisp to first, quit making excuses and get his ass there, and second, bring a dry-erase hockey board, laptop, power-point presentation and a bunch of papers with stats on them so we can look busy. Then, between periods, we set up our board room and go through all all points on the agenda. It’ll be the fan think tank. Of course we stay there all night arguing while the cleaning crew occasionally looks up at us, shaking their heads. Then we triumphantly present our findings to Lombardi.
Seriously though, setting aside the personal stuff, I think you both have correct assessments depending on whose eyes it’s viewed through. If you’re seeing is like all-defense-all-the-time Murray, X’s views are more accurate, if you’re a fan of not being so tight-fisted about defense (like me) then Q’s views are more accurate.
Murray’s main point was speed, which I think everyone basically forgot or didn’t read. “A little too fast,” and “coming too fast.” I think it’s obvious that TM is saying, while Lokti is scoring and hasn’t been the cause of any goals against, he is on the verge of being a liability. Of course, Q (as well as many of us) would argue that you don’t bench someone based on what *might* happen (unlike that idiot Poni). Whereas X would argue the mistakes Lokti is making are obviously an accident waiting to happen and need to be corrected.
The other thing TM made clear was the grueling nature of the trip, which means to me, he thinks Lokti is getting tired and worn down. A combination of him getting a little slower while the pace of the games are remaining constant, which still goes to the idea of “an accident waiting to happen.” So Lokti’s getting a rest…and maybe an extended rest from the NHL.
I’m sure I’m missing something here, but I want to believe I’m onto something…
Dave Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:00 pm
@SplattDaddy, no reason to trade Loktionov. he’s cheap and he’s skilled. i don’t see Handzus coming back next year and i’d rather see DL move Stoll than Lotionov.
we are set for years with Kopitar-Schenn-Loktionov-Lewis up the middle. DL shouldn’t mess with that.
we are also set on D for a couple more years with Doughty-Mitchell-Scuderi-Johnson-Greene-Martinez and with Voynov, Hickey, Muzzin and others coming.
if i’m DL i look at moving Teubert, possibly one of the other d-men in Manchester and picks to try and get an upgrade on the wing. if not, Handzus has looked fine on Kopi’s wing and ride out this season with him and with Sturm and Parse coming back TM can play the hot hand on the wings.
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fsd1 Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:01 pm
@Dave, yes!
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Bkrs-Bud Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:12 pm
@Dave, I like the way your thinking.
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MadMatt Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:59 pm
@Bkrs-Bud, I’m curious why we are all so excited about Parse. When was the last time that he played? Was he doing something significant prior to his injury? ….or is this another Hickey situation.
Osaka Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 4:20 pm
@Dave, You just made an AHL team. Three centers with no experience? Never happend. Trade Lokti! He is expendable. Stoll is a much much much better player and very valuable.
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Quisp Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 6:13 pm
@Osaka,
Stoll will be gone by a year from now at the latest.
Osaka Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 7:37 pm
@Osaka, I was never a Stoll fan but I overcame bias against him and can see his value and versatility. He can be trusted in every situation on the ice at anytime of the game. I hope he is around at least one more year to help Schenn. Stoll can play either C2 or C3 depending on Schenn. Zues will be gone so we need a little more experience up the middle.
Quisp Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 10:14 pm
@Osaka,
Stoll is definitely valuable, I agree. I think you’re right that Stoll sticking around (for at least most of) next year is the most likely scenario.
goldielocks Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:01 pm
@SplattDaddy, I had an impression that Richardson could be a trade bait with some scouts in MSG but Lokti could be the one also.
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kris Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:34 pm
@goldielocks, forbert is another one to watch
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gcheng Reply:
February 19th, 2011 at 6:37 am
@kris,
i agree. richardson is playing to showcase his skills for a trade
Quisp Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:44 pm
@SplattDaddy,
Since Loktionov and Schenn will be C2 and C3 for hopefully the next 10 years, I think the correct answer is, we get to keep both.
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Michael J. Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:56 pm
@Quisp,
“Good answer”
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mrbrett7 Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:54 pm
@SplattDaddy, If I had to pick, Lokti, and it’s not even close.
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DetroitSons1952 Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 4:26 pm
@SplattDaddy, Personally, I’d keep Loktionov, I’ve not seen him loaf once or get outskated. Very, very shifty with the puck. Now please don’t tell me what Schenn did in the World Jrs. I watched and was not happy with his style of play.
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Chris P. Bacon Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 8:59 pm
@DetroitSons1952,
That’s funny considering he was injured and had to sit out an extra two weeks to recover his shoulder. Now that he’s healthy go watch junior hockey before making an negative assumption on Brayden Schenn. Not happy with his style of play? Yeah, Mike Richards sure sucks, right. He’s only the best Flyer forward..pfft!
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gcheng Reply:
February 19th, 2011 at 6:41 am
@Chris P. Bacon,
i really dont understand some fans mentality. no need to TALK DOWN Schenn just because you like Lokti. They are exactly the same fans who would TALK DOWN either Quick or Bernier if they like one and not the other. Remember guys, they are all in the Kings organization. We want them all to do well. And if we by any chance want to trade one for other assets, the more VALUABLE they are, the more we can fetch.
So guys, please stay positive with your comments. We want one to be better because he is better not because he SUCK LESS.
Were the other games whereat he scored goals, had assists and was drawing praise any less “heavy”? Were those not “NHL” games? Murray’s entire coaching philosophy and execution of ideas is hyperreactionary. He is either seeking lightning in a bottle or a full internal implosion of the lines. He doesn’t coach. He doesn’t teach. He is a drama queen. To scratch Lotki after his performance on this road trip and after he excelled when being moved from wing to center (which this very coach misplaced him in) is borderline sabotage.
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fsd1 Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 12:47 pm
@Bobby Scribe, yet here we are, a point or 2 out of first, I knew it wouldn’t be long before the fire TM chant started up again? He doesn’t coach, he doesn’t teach? LMAO at those statements and generally you make sense but not on this one. oh, and love the sabotage, Im sure TM is doing this so the Flyers have a better chance right?
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Bobby Scribe Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:29 pm
@fsd1, You are being a bit silly. His decisions are counter intuitive. You bench a productive player who has been productive in hard games because he didn’t have a great game in one game? That is bad coaching. I give TM full props on what he has done with our defense. I sing his praises. On offense, quite bluntly, he’s incompetent.
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Bill M. Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 2:13 pm
@Bobby Scribe, TM’s statements imply no one bad performance, but that he sees a pattern of weak spots developing, despite the fact that Lokti has displayed serious potential in some areas.
Plenty of players are useless to a team trying to actually win cups, because even though they excel at one important thing, like scoring goals, they are seriously weak in other areas.
If Thomas Kaberle scores three points for you in one game, but he’s a -2 because he was constantly blowing coverages, do you really want that guy on the ice? TM’s own words implied that he wasn’t just benching the guy, he was giving him some things to work on and taking him off the ice until those areas improve. Sounds quite a bit like “teaching” to me.
Corey Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:01 pm
@Bobby Scribe, THANK YOU BOBBY!!! Totally agree, Loktionov has been playing GREAT!.. Terry Murray is an idiot. Martinez messes up all the time, and has not missed a game since he joined our team.. Trevor Lewis is Useless.. Lets make sure we scratch loktionv.
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Jason4Kings Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:45 pm
@Corey, I agree with three of four of your assertions here. If i say which ones i’ll get yelled at.
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Michael J. Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 2:01 pm
@Corey,
Disagree with your opinion of Lewis. Noone on the Kings gets back quicker or moves the puck from deep in the zone out across the blue line more effectively. Lewis plays a big part in the King’s low GAA.
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wavesinair Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:17 pm
@Bobby Scribe, Hmmm, could the “hyperreactionary” and “drama queen” lines perhaps be a little, teensy-weensy, bit of a projection?! Funny s%$t.
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Bobby Scribe Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:30 pm
@wavesinair, Damn, you’re on to me. Hey, everyone made fun of Jim Carey but look how successful he has been
…and you’re on to talk.
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wavesinair Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 3:00 pm
All righty then!
Bobby Ventura – Puck Detective
Quisp Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:48 pm
@Bobby Scribe,
When I saw that AL was going to be a healthy scratch, my head just about exploded. Then I realized all that’s going on is that TM expects a nasty game against the Islanders, and he’s dressing all his muscle. Period. If the Islanders were goony AND excellent, it might be a different story. But they suck. Not that they are incapable of winning. But they suck, and I think TM is just trying to get out of Dodge with a win and no injuries.
All his “Loktionov got exposed” talk is ridiculous in context. The context being, he plays we win and until last night he was leading the entire team except Williams in scoring over the last 5 games.
It’s always a good idea to think about what Murray might actually be doing, rather than what he’s saying he’s doing. Ask Jason Labarbera.
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Jason4Kings Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:57 pm
@Quisp, What you say makes sense, but takes some faith. I’m halfway there with you,it beats being mad. The thing is though, Loki is quick and young and looks to be made of rubber to me. He gets knocked over alot but he’s up and away pretty quick. If we’re worried about them gooning it up i’d worry more about Williams, Martinez, Lewis.
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wavesinair Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 3:02 pm
@Quisp, My guess?
DL simply told TM that AL is going back to NH.
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Quisp Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 3:52 pm
@wavesinair,
Yeah, but I don’t think he is. (I’m probably wrong. But **** it.)
Bobby Scribe Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 7:07 pm
@Quisp, Perhaps. Either that or he is nuts. I like your theory so I am running with it. Will avoid further head explosions. I do wonder why he would not just say that. “we are sitting lokti because we expect a very physical game. He has played well. This move is not indicative of his play on the ice. It’s simply the reality of the game ahead.”
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mcsorleyfan Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 10:59 pm
@Quisp, Once again, I will take the opportunity to save typing and say “Yeah, what Quisp said.”
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Player-X Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 3:03 pm
@Bobby Scribe, Wrote this just up the page a bit, but it fits here too…The sit-down is warranted. Yes, he has scored some points, but they were mostly cleaning up others’ hard work, yet I don’t think even that is the reason. The reason for sitting him is the missed reads on D-zone coverage, nearly total ineffectiveness on any board play in either zone, and as well he is not making smart plays when he is pressured. He made a few very dangerous “try to do too much” passes last game, when he should have just taken the safe way out by either clearing the zone or dumping it deep. I am not saying he can’t learn, or won’t be able to make plays, but it just seems too crucial a time and too much of a defensive-oriented coach. I would like to see him on the 4th line next time Westgarth sits, if Sturm isn’t back yet, either. Also, Lokti playing better than he had been was welcome, but I think he needs to be ebtter still. There is more thaan just scoring, especially on a Murray team.
And as well, your post could also be seen as hyper-reactionary, too. Murray has a system, and a style of play, that he prefers. It got us into the playoffs, it is keeping us close now when we have major players not scoring regularly and are missing a top 6 player still, too.
Some think Murray stifles the offense, but it is much more realistic to say that he compensates for the lack of it.
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Bobby Scribe Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 7:10 pm
@Player-X, What missed reads? If you are referring to the third, the entire team was struggling and lokti is not an island to himself. When his line mates don’t play well on a shift, everyone looks off. Did he have some glaring turnover that I missed? Some giveaway that led to a goal?
[Reply]
USHA#17 Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 7:26 pm
@Player-X,
Wow, heavy. The Kid has played very well. I will not judge the sit decision but this is a tired team and a younger, smaller player like Loktionov may be out of gas.
I disagree with your characterization. Not to take sides but I have to point out the key most salient point (in my opinion) of the earlier exchange:
“Ask yourself how he got there in the first place.”
You don’t have to play to know what playing in a hockey is about…making your own luck.
On Brown’s first goal the goalie shaded himself to his right. Why? Because Loktionov was streaking down the slot with out the puck. Loktionov made that goal happen.
Yes, he gets pushed around on the defensive boards but none the less he is on the puck. Compare this to another (unnamed) veteran King center who never appears in the defensive end. ‘Nuff said
[Reply]
DetroitSons1952 Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 4:27 pm
@Bobby Scribe, Well look at what they did to Brian Boyle and Moulson.
[Reply]
Osaka Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 5:52 pm
@Bobby Scribe Dude! Now who is the drama queen.
[Reply]
Right, because Lokti was the only player who was ‘exposed’ a bit last night. The number of players exposed last night goes much deeper than just Lotki. Like Kopi. And JJ. and Doughty. And Bernier. Heck, the whole ‘first line’. Etc. Having a talented offensive player sit in favor of an experienced grinder, given our inability to, ya know, score goals, is at this point in the season, insane.
If we make the playoffs, it may well be in spite of TM’s coaching.
[Reply]
BringBackTheShieldJersey Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:31 pm
@Ziggy, and wasn’t the 2nd line on the ice for two goals against? That’s some “exposure”.
[Reply]
Quisp Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:49 pm
@Ziggy,
Loktionov wasn’t on the ice for any goals-against, as far as I can recall.
[Reply]
DetroitSons1952 Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 4:28 pm
@Ziggy, Don’t forget …….. and because of Quick.
[Reply]
TA Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 6:10 pm
@Ziggy, Totally agree,
Lokti is one of the few Kings with skill and creativity. I thought he’s shown some improvement on the boards, and if TM was really worried about the Isles dirty play than why not have him center between Cliffird and Poni?
TM back at it again
[Reply]
I really liked that Cliffy-Lokti-Brownie line. If anyone tries to mess with our little spark plug, they’re gonna have some muscle to deal with. I hope that lines comes back v. Quacks.
[Reply]
Belexes Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:03 pm
@Doughty99,
Agree with this. I am anxiously awaiting the first time Lokti gets some type of questionable shot, so that Cliffy can lay down the law.
[Reply]
Do He learn be watching or playing?? Lokti needs to play!
[Reply]
kyle Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:01 pm
@Peter32, he do learn by watching as well as playing. This is a sit down, watch from above, and learn a bit situation. Ask any professional– there are times when seeing what develops off the ice/court/field is helpful. I would agree with you that sitting down for 10 games straight wouldn’t help a player like Lokti, but that isn’t what TM is doing here.
[Reply]
THEROCKNROLL80S Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 6:50 pm
@Peter32, you are right. Loki needs to play!
[Reply]
Personally rather than second guess TM since I can’t believe that any of us really know the game better than him, I’d prefer to take on board that ‘in his vision’ he has a very good sense of what needs to be done.
He may not express it like Hemingway, but then again he’d be going to bullfights instead of being an nhl coach.
I’m not surprised, and I think all of us like Lokti very much.
Come on….. he’s 19 years old. Learning curves do exist, unless you’re name is Wayne Gretzky or Mario Lemieux or a few other rarities.
[Reply]
number 6 Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:00 pm
@number 6,
grammar…. unless your name is ..
Anyway, I agree with Ziggy above that for sure Doughty and maybe JJ and Kopi were all exposed last night.
It’s been a long road trip and back to backs there. They certainly aren’t perfect but kudos for at least finding a way to battle all the way thru this trip.
[Reply]
SJ picked up Ian White from Carolina…so sharks,quacks keep boosting themselves up in the last week or so…in other breaking news Kings traded future considerations for past considerations! Yes!! Finally!! We can consider our need for a top 6 lol
[Reply]
src Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:37 pm
@Dude,
Yes, however there is an abundance of top 4 D men available. Top 6 Wingers are scarse and everyone knows this. Supply and demand. Top 6 wingers will cost the house, wife and kids. So unless it is the right match, I would expect DL to stand pat until the summer.
[Reply]
Gerard Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 2:17 pm
@src,
I’ll trade my wife and house for a top 6 winger.
[Reply]
AZ King Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 6:08 pm
@Gerard,
I’ll trade your wife and house for a top 6 winger too.
RLane420 Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 2:32 pm
@src, Stand pat untill summer where he will stand pat untill the trade deadline where he will stand pat.
[Reply]
Having seen 3 of the past 4 games in person I will say “BOOOOOO TM”. Lokti was just fine during those games. Stop being so critical of the kid. Hell DD gave the puck away twice last night. Let Lokti get the experience. Let all the kids get the experience. WE’RE WINNING!!!! You want to sit someone please sit Poni. That guy plays like he is in a daze or something. Your messing with the chemistry TM. You better hope these changes don’t result in a loss and let down tomorrow. Pretty bad way to end a successful long roadtrip. (The Ducks aren’t really a road game since within an hour drive of home). BOO TM!!!!!!!!!!!!
[Reply]
BringBackTheShieldJersey Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:35 pm
@Carolina Kings Fan, Doughty was lackadaisical in his coverage after a face-off loss, got beat to the net, allowed the guy to control the puck, and it cost us a goal. TM is pretty inconsistent in his criticisms and punishments.
[Reply]
VanKingsFan Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:37 pm
@Carolina Kings Fan, Good call guys. Bench Doughty and keep Loktionov. Watch 50 hours of game tape and see if you have the same opinions of Loki (my proposed nickname, like the god… get it)
[Reply]
I must be missing something because this makes absolutely no sense. I think we all understand the points TM is trying to make in reference to Lokti’s last game or two. He is clearly very young and overmatched at times during a tight checking and defensive game. I agree with that completely. I even agree with scratching him for a game and adding a guy to the lineup who helps solidify what is lacking in Lokti’s game right now. Having Lokti take a step back to watch a game or two can be very beneficial in the development of a young players game. However, what does TM do to add experience and a more defensive minded presense in the lineup? He adds Westgarth to the lineup! Westgarth on a good day could not carry Lokti’s or any other players jock strap. Westgarth is there to stir things up and fight (if you can call it that). Westgarth offers nothing other than that. He is a poor skater, makes more poor decisions with the puck more often than not and offers no more defensive stability or experience than myself if I were to be inserted into the lineup tomorrow night. This just makes absolutely no sense whatsoever. If he wants to add a Harrold or Drewiske “type” on that fourth line (although i am not in favor of this move either) fine. At least they understand the game, have more “experience” and play defensive minded hockey. But to say you want a more experienced player in the lineup and then add add someone like Westgarth is ridiculous at best. Not to mention Lokti has been one of the hotter players on the score sheet of late. Something the Kings could definitely use on most nights.
[Reply]
Oz Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:27 pm
@SDKingsfan, Totally agree. Westgarth only brings his fists as experience.
[Reply]
Dave's a Killer Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:37 pm
@SDKingsfan, Lokti is not being “replaced” by Westie -who is on the fourth line wing. Zeus is moving back to center and Richardson moves into Zeus’s spot on the first line. TM is playing the more experienced players on the top three lines.
[Reply]
Dominick Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 2:21 pm
@Dave’s a Killer,
He’s moving Zues back, before he tires him out again. Richardson is more effective than Lokti on the left, and your right Westy has nothing to do with Lokti sitting. Lokti wouldn’t be much of a factor on the 4rth line playing 5 minutes of smashmouth hockey. Kind of wonder if Westy is.
[Reply]
Those who can’t, teach. Those who REALLY can’t, bitch and moan on blogs. Enough already. DL and TM have more than proven their credentials.
[Reply]
Winger23 Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:30 pm
@Kaiser Soze, What exactly have they proven? How many cups do they have? The offense is STILL struggling and he takes out one of the only creative forward this team has. But hey, we are just sitting here on a blog so what do we know.
[Reply]
Kaiser Soze Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:43 pm
@Winger23,
1) How many coaches have a ring as a coach? The absence of a ring doesn’t mean you’re a terrible coach.
2) Offense comes and goes during a season. San Jose (the team that DL built), who I feel have plenty of firepower, has the same number of goals this year as we do. The same goes for Washington.
3) Coaching hockey isn’t the same as coaching a fantasy league. TM was good enough to be hired as a coach, have a little faith.
[Reply]
Winger23 Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:56 pm
@Kaiser Soze, You said that TM was proven. What exactly has he proven?
You can compare offensive stats across the boards. Yes we are even with San Jose in total goals. Is that some kind of accomplishment? Thornton isn’t having his usual year, thier scoring is DOWN. And I assure you, watch thier games and thier offense produces a ton more scoring chances than this dump and chase team does.
Who said anything about a fantasy league? I want the team to field the best possible lineup giving them a chance to win. Taking out a source of offense, in which the team is already lacking in that department, is mind boggling. I’m not asking that the kid gets put into the game for defensive draws in the 3rd period, but there is a severe talent drop off with lotki not in the lineup.
Michael J. Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 2:07 pm
@Winger23,
If we look at the numbers, both TM and DL have more wins than all of us who come on here and bitch and moan. If any of us could coach we would be doing so right now.
C’mon TM and DL don’t yell most of the guys here telling them how many fries to put in that funny shaped box.
[Reply]
neil Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 5:57 pm
@Michael J., they also have more losses then all of us….
Bobby Scribe Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:34 pm
@Kaiser Soze, The obedient allegiance to master and protocol without questioning its means and end is the mark of a slave. You can borrow that…I just came up with it. You want to tow the company line and not ask questions or express concern, that is your prerogative. If that is what you seek, what are you even doing here?
[Reply]
Jason4Kings Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:40 pm
@Bobby Scribe,
Dude, you’re like a jedi. Love it.
[Reply]
Token Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:42 pm
@Bobby Scribe, As you wish Dominus.
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Kaiser Soze Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:53 pm
@Bobby Scribe,
In the Army, you follow orders, that doesn’t make you a slave… In any case, I just get tired of hearing the same old “off with his head” everytime he changes lines. Don’t get me wrong, I think Lokti should center the 2nd line with Clifford and Brown, but we’ve earned points in 11 straight, with all different line combos. Makes me wonder what the players would think if they read all this. And I agree with Jason4Kings – we should start calling you jedi Scribe
[Reply]
HockeyNerd Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:55 pm
@Bobby Scribe, So we’re only allowed to post IF we want to complain about DL and TM? It is the barrage of negative posts every time TM opens his mouth or makes a decision that is getting REAL tiresome here. Of course you have that right for the fifth, hundredth, even 5678th time. But *somebody* needs to point out that he just MIGHT know some things we don’t and that is why some players don’t play or only play in certain situations. If he benches DD (which BTW some people here have actually suggested) I’ll start worrying. But a player who has a lot of learning to do and probably wouldn’t be here at all if not for injuries? Hardly proof the guy’s a bad coach……
[Reply]
Choralone Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:58 pm
@Bobby Scribe, I think there’s a difference between having faith in someone and “obedience” and slavery… I also think there’s a difference between questioning TM’s decisions and asserting that he’s an idiot and doesn’t know anything about coaching…
[Reply]
HockeyNerd Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:59 pm
@Choralone, Thank you!!!!!!!!!!!!
Osaka Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 6:06 pm
@Choralone, Amen!
Bobby Scribe Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 7:22 pm
@Choralone, I have faith in TM as a defensive coach who has done well with this team’s defense. When it has faltered, he has gotten it back on track. He did it without constantly shuffling the pairings. He did it without otherwise arbitrary means. I believe that is because he knows his craft on defense. On offense, it’s the exact opposite. Random changes, by his own admission a system built around a two dimensional process, I have written about this enough and if you have read those articles then there is no need to restate it. The point is, I am not critical of him just to do it anymore than I praise him for the hell of it. This lokti move is random and his explanation is bizarre given lokti’s play. You disagree, ok. I await a single incident from last night’s game where lokti was exposed or anything he did led to a goal or scoring chance for NY.
USHA#17 Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 7:38 pm
@Bobby Scribe, Would you care for a cuppa?
[Reply]
IMO, if Lokti is not going to be playing in the top 9, there’s no reason to dress him (though he SHOULD be). Lokti was just fine centering the 3rd line and Zues is better on the 4th with limited minutes and more energy for the PK’s where he excels….
Look at the Kings record this year while Lokti is dressed and playing vs. when he’s not. Then take a look at Westgarths.
Hopefully the kings will be able to score more than 2 goals against the isles, going to need some lucky bounces for sure.
[Reply]
VanKingsFan Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:38 pm
@Winger23, what are the records?
[Reply]
Winger23 Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:50 pm
@VanKingsFan, Someone over at HFBoards posted them, I’m trying to find them, but basically, very good with Lokti dresed, not so much when Westgarth is (not turning this into westgarth debate, he has his value at times against certain teams).
[Reply]
Michael J. Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 2:12 pm
@Winger23,
If you’re going to make a statement like that, please have the numbers and sources to back it up. It makes your statement a lot more credible. Otherwise it is merely an opinion…
Token Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:44 pm
@Winger23, Don’t worry, we have Green, the hot scoring smashing machine!
[Reply]
Quisp Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 3:58 pm
@Winger23,
You’re right. The HF boards people are quoting my post. Kings are 13-3-3 with Loktionov in the line-up. Westgarth, as of five games ago, was 16-19-1. I forget how many games he’s dressed out of the last five. Here’s the link to my post, which was 10 days ago:
http://www.jewelsfromthecrown.com/2011/2/8/1982554/kings-win-percentage-by-player
[Reply]
lafan13 Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 8:42 pm
@Quisp, another interesting tidbit…. check out the numbers when poni is in the lineup….
He seems to be pretty effective out there helping us win games. Why do 99% of the king fans assume we wont resign him???
[Reply]
Osaka Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 9:18 pm
@lafan13, Because he has been a healthy scratch and he is a $3,000,000 4th line player for the Kings. He would have to take a big pay cut. What this does point out though is a stat like that doesn’t really mean anything.
In life, it’s never worth your time to look back and regret your mistakes, and sulk over them. Instead, it’s best to always look forward, learn from those mistakes, and apply them to make your future better.
But, I think it’s worth pointing out, that in 2003, the Kings selected Dustin Brown 13th overall. 4 picks later, New Jersey selected Zach Parise 17th overall (oops), and 2 picks later, Anaheim took Ryan Getzlaf 19th overall (whooooops).
In that SAME draft, later in the 1st Round, Vancouver took Ryan Kesler (Hart Trophy candidate) 23rd overall, one pick later Philadelphia selected Mike Richards 24th overall.
The Kings happened to have a THREE 1st Round Picks in that draft, with which they then chose Brian Boyle 26th overall, and then Jeff Tambellini 27th overall. Who did Anaheim select ONE PICK after that, at 28th overall? Some guy named Corey Perry.
WHOOOOOOOOOOPS.
(For the record, Dallas took Loui Eriksson early in the 2nd Round).
[Reply]
Token Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:48 pm
@Scot, Hey buddy, I have a big cut on my head; can you pass the salt so I can rub it in? I read on a blog that it stops the bleeding.
[Reply]
Scot Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:53 pm
@Token, & VanKingsFan,
Thanks for making me feel like a loser guys.
Didn’t you read my opening paragraph? I don’t care about that draft either, it’s just funny to point out! Have a sense of humor! :]
So serious on this blog sometimes.
[Reply]
Jason4Kings Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 2:03 pm
@Scot,
Oh, it’s cool. I liked your post. Amazing. I get beat up here too.:)
VanKingsFan Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 1:48 pm
@Scot, for your next post can you point out each and every draft pick that might have been better than who the Kings drafted!! Please include each year and each round.
While your at it you could do the Exact Same Essay on Every team in the friggin league!
Please also include the Excellent draft picks the Kings have made and all of the “oops” moments for the teams who missed out on them.
[Reply]
HockeyNerd Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 2:17 pm
@VanKingsFan, Exactly. Scot, I know in your case you were just having a little fun, but I think a LOT of you need to read the post above. There are too many people here who think pointing to a player we traded, or could have signed, or could have drafted somehow PROVES DL isn’t a good GM. It proves nothing. Every GM in EVERY sport has let talent go at one time or another……..
[Reply]
mcsorleyfan Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 11:13 pm
@HockeyNerd, yeah, well, the administration from 2003 isn’t even around anymore; DL wasn’t here yet.
Michael J. Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 2:15 pm
@Scot,
Feel free to root for those teams if you want to…
[Reply]
Scot Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 2:26 pm
@ Everyone,
Too many people on here personally attack people for their posts. Not everyone has as much knowledge as you might have. Rich has a rule to be respectful in your posts and replies. That rule gets broken far too often, it’s almost not worth posting anything. If someone posts something that is rather unknowledgeable, respectfully disagree if you wish, plead your case why if you wish, but be respectful all the way through.
A respectful response to my initial post, if you don’t like it, would be something like,
“Wow, yeah, tough draft, but like you said Scot, not good to look backwards. Those were some misses, but hopefully we can draft better from here on out.”
I’m trying my best to be more respectful than I have with everyone, so should you.
[Reply]
Jason4Kings Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 2:34 pm
@Scot,
Excellent post Scot. It’s a rather ugly day around here. Write what you want to, some people like to read it. There were a couple things in your draft post i didn’t realize, so it was informative too.
Michael J. Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 2:35 pm
@Scot,
Sometimes, at least for me, when posters only post negative comments it makes me wonder if they might be trollers. You might be better served if you sprinkled in a little something positive…
If you want to look at the all-time greatest draft blunder it has to be Montreal in 1980 when they took Doug Wickenheiser #1 ahead of Denis Savard #2 (Chicago).
Scot Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 2:43 pm
@Jason4Kings,
Thanks Jason, I was just looking through drafts too and saw it this morning, so it was informative to me too, and thought it would be fun to share.
@Michael J.,
I will work on that, and post more positive Kings information, because we know there is plenty of it. My apologies if you were annoyed by my negative post, which it was. And yes, Montreal certainly whiffed on that one.
To try and offset my negative post, the Kings stole Anze Kopitar at #11 overall in 2005, after teams had already selected Benoit Pouliot, Gilbet Brule, and Jack Skille. (All basically busts)
Michael J. Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 2:51 pm
@Scot,
Trust me, I don’t need to be reminded about the King’s draft history. Duncanson, DeGray, Redmond, Thompson, Toprowski (sp?), and many other gems :}
DetroitSons1952 Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 4:50 pm
@Scot, talk about a OOOooooooppps, how about Portland taking Sam Bowie instead of the guy who was taken 2nd or 3rd in the first round I think, you know, old what’shis name??????? Ummmmmm Mike jordanian or something like that. Now that was an oooooopppps.
HBFan Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 2:59 pm
@Scot, That is a great supporting argument of why Dave Taylor had no business being a GM.
[Reply]
Osaka Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 5:40 pm
@Scot, That was a deep draft! It just goes to show that the draft is not an exact science. If you isolate any team and look at their draft picks over the years it is the same story. That being said, it is tough because the Ducks hit a homerun that year.
[Reply]
Scot Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 5:43 pm
@Osaka,
They sure did. They did this past year as well, getting Cam Fowler LATE in the 1st Round.
[Reply]
Tons of trsdes going down all day today and what have we done……
Really though, I know we’re looking to fill a specific hole and that it doesn’t just ‘Happen’, but my new fear is our track record of not closing the ‘Big’ deal. I also get that DL is methodical and that he does not want to break up the ‘Core’, but I thought that is why he stockpiled draft picks and prospects for in the first place! It was so when we needed that last piece, we could pay in picks and prospects and not hure the developed core of the team. This is the last piece we need and it is taking forever.
Then I’m worried we’ll get a RW like Hemsky and trade Simmonds to do it, which I think in the long run would be a mistake. Simmonds is going to be a special player for a while. Maybe not skilled like Hemsky, but certainly not injury prone like Hemsky. Regardless of the history Ales has with Smyth and Stoll, I think it would be a step back.
Either get us a LW pump up Scott Parse full of ‘Vitamins’ and turn him into Superman.
[Reply]
HockeyNerd Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 2:08 pm
@Cynic, Your post says it all. You are frustrated that we haven’t made the “big deal”, then you proceed to give reasons we shouldn’t do it.
Do you still all think it’s that easy?
[Reply]
Michael J. Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 2:52 pm
@Cynic,
No, we don’t want the Kings trading for either old or injured Oilers. Been there, done that…
[Reply]
Player-X Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 3:15 pm
@Cynic, I don’t know if it’s true, but I have trouble ignoring a possible parallel between Lombardi not “pulling the trigger” on any trades, even small ones, and the Kings notorious tendency to also not “pull the trigger” when they are wide open for a shot on net. Or, to put it another way, when the guy calling the shots off the ice doesn’t take any shots, the team does the same thing on the ice.
[Reply]
Quisp Reply:
February 19th, 2011 at 8:50 am
@Player-X,
Your two observations/interpretations:
1) You believe Lombardi has “trouble” making trades, presumably due to some mental or emotional issue.
2) You believe the Kings have trouble shooting the puck when they are (I think this is what you’re saying) in a position to take a high-percentage shot, again, presumably due to some mental or emotional issue.
And your conclusion:
3) The Kings have trouble shooting in high-percentage situations because they perceive that Lombardi is psychologically unable to improve the team via trade. Alternatively, the Kings players can’t finish because Lombardi unconsciously selected them because they can’t finish because he himself can’t finish.
Didn’t you invoke Occam’s Razor (if incorrectly) at some point in this thread?
[Reply]
DetroitSons1952 Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 4:51 pm
@Cynic, Shhhhhhhh, DL’s thinking about it …………. maybe.
[Reply]
Coach Murray played what 10 years in the league and has coached forever. I think Coach Murray cares about his players and shows it in little ways, like playing Westgarth against certain teams. That way someone else doesn’t have to step up and fight some dude who outweighs him by 50 lbs. Even though other players are more skilled, sometimes one needs back up.
The Rangers brought a very physical games last night. Maybe when Murray says “exposed” he partly means Lokti’s relative lack of size and strength compared to the some of the NHL brutes. And of course people generally hit full size around 25 or so, so Lokti will surely grow wider if not stronger, especially if he continues to work at it. Even if the kid has guts, which he seems to have, I’m sure Murrary doesn’t want to see a repeat of last year’s shoulder separaton. This russian kid played well and with more sxperience he’ll probably play better. But against the bigger guys he has to dance around them when sometimes you need to play through them, or make them play through you. For the latter you must have sufficient size and strength.
[Reply]
Loktionov should be playing against the Islanders… that’s a team he’d expose… they’re not “heavy.” LOL…
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The kids aren’t going anywhere. Deano doesn’t do business that way.
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I hate how Murray and Lombardi treat their players! Loki is so awesome!!!
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Loki is a gem and Murray and Lombardi are treating him like dirt! They did the same thing Moeller! They score and get sent down or scrathed! What a bunch of bs!!!!!!
[Reply]
Seems a bit harsh. Lokti has been playing great i thought, him being exposed and what not is a result of being young. Just as others mentioned, Martinez gets exposed as well. You learn best by playing in those “tough” situations. Hopefully he is back in after.
[Reply]
Sounds like they’re getting ready to send Lok back down. Lame to put that in the media on the kid.
[Reply]
Jason4Kings Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 4:33 pm
@KC23, I agree. Lame to do it, lame to talk about it to the media.
[Reply]
Trade Lokti and a pick to Dallas for Brad Richards. I might be crazy but I think Kopitar would be an awesome wing playing with Richards. Kopitar is not a set up guy and his size on the wing would be like Rick Nash. He wouldn’t have the D responsibilities and would have one of the best set up men in the game feeding him the puck. It is crazy, just a thought, but could be scary good…..
[Reply]
Harty Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 4:40 pm
@Osaka, I agree trade Lokti as he will end up in the KHL anyway. He will not sustain the NHL, trust me.
[Reply]
Quisp Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 6:18 pm
@Osaka,
Right, Loktionov is expendable and yet somehow is going to get us Brad Richards. Oh, yeah, Loktionov AND A PICK.
@HArty
(oh, never mind.)
[Reply]
HockeyNerd Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 6:37 pm
@Quisp, Yeah, Dallas is just DYING to give us Brad Richards for practically nothing!!!!! C’mon DL, what’s your problem????
[Reply]
Osaka Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 7:23 pm
@HockeyNerd, Richards will be an UFA this summer, only reason he “could” be a target and only if Dallas keeps losing. Kaberle was just traded for a prospect, a 1st, and a conditional 2nd round pick. Last season Kovalchuk was traded for a 1st and tree prospects. OK throw in another prospect or pick, but it is not that crazy.
Osaka Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 7:13 pm
@Quisp, Richards will be an UFA, the only reason they would consider moving him. I think Lokti and a #1 pick for a rental is not crazy. I didn’t say Lokti has no value, I said he is expendable. He is an asset that would serve the Kings well in a package for a proven scorer.
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USHA#17 Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 7:41 pm
@Osaka, Do you know for a fact that Richards would resign? And do so at and affordable price?
Would you really trade Loktionov for a brief appearance in the 1st round?
Osaka Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 8:07 pm
@Osaka, I would assume he would not resign, or we couldn’t afford him without moving a big contract. I wouldn’t make the trade for a brief appearance in the first round, of course not. I make the trade because I think it would put the Kings in possition to win the cup. I make the trade because I think the Kings would be that good with his dynamic playmaking.
KC23 Reply:
February 18th, 2011 at 9:07 pm
@Osaka, Probably pretty safe to say Loktionov is not for sale. If he is, TM has a funny way of marketing him.
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wow, i suspected murray would do this.. Did the same with schenn… Lokti has been playing great and hes putting up more points than many of the veterans right now.. He had some nice D plays and pick pocketed that one guy up the middle… I watch the new players extra careful and i think sometimes the coaches make stuff up…
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Marco Sturm: “Coach, I’m ready to return.”
Coach: “Give me a couple of games so I can gently break the news to the kid that he’s going back down.”
Marco Sturm: “We can just leave him here. Manchester is a lot closer to here than LA to Manchester.”
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Its getting to the point where im losing all faith in TM to develop young forwards
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