Some notes from yesterday’s game…
– The Kings got a game-winning goal from Michal Handzus with 20.8 seconds remaining as they beat the Dallas Stars 3-2 on Sunday afternoon at American Airlines Center.
– The Kings improved to 7-2-1 in their last 10 games and 10-1-3 in their last 14 road games.
– The Kings now lead the season series against Dallas, 3-1-1, with an April 2 game at Staples Center remaining.
– The Kings went 1-for-3 on the power play and 3-for-3 on the penalty kill. The Kings are 20-for-20 on the penalty kill in their last six games and have killed 21 consecutive opponents’ power plays.
– The Kings outshot the Stars 30-23, including 12-6 in the third period.
– The Kings improved to 19-14-3 on the road, 30-10-2 when scoring first, 18-3-2 when leading after the first period, 22-0-1 when leading after the second period and 19-8-5 in one-goal games. The Kings are 32-7-2 when they score three or more goals and 31-6-2 when they allow two or fewer goals.
– Jonathan Quick stopped 21 of 23 shots and became the first goalie in Kings history to record 30 wins in back-to-back seasons. Quick has a 30-17-2 record this season. Quick has allowed two or fewer goals in three consecutive starts.
– Michal Handzus scored the game-winning goal, his 10th goal of the season and his second game-winning goal of the season.
– Drew Doughty scored a power-play goal, his 11th goal of the season and his fifth power-play goal of the season.
– Dustin Penner scored a goal. Penner has recorded at least one point in five consecutive games, and has two goals and three assists in six games with the Kings.
– Alexei Ponikarovsky had two assists, including one on the power play, for his second multi-point game of the season and his first multi-assist game of the season.
– Jarret Stoll a power-play assist. Stoll has four power-play points in his last eight games.
– Anze Kopitar had one assist. Kopitar played in his 324th consecutive game, which tied the Kings franchise record set by Marcel Dionne from 1978-82. Kopitar’s streak started in March 2007. Kopitar has recorded at least one point in nine of his last 10 games and has seven goals and eight assists in his last 10 games.
– Justin Williams had one assist. Williams has recorded at least one assist in five consecutive games and has two goals and six assists in his last five games.
– Wayne Simmonds had one assist, his 13th of the season.
– Dustin Brown played in his 500th career NHL game and became the 18th player to play at least 500 games for the Kings.
– Jack Johnson and Willie Mitchell each recorded a team-high four shots on goal. Jarret Stoll was credited with a team-high seven hits. Mitchell and Michal Handzus each were credited with a team-high four blocked shots.
– Drew Doughty played a team-high 26 minutes, 39 seconds. Anze Kopitar led all forwards in ice time at 23:01.
– The Kings won 28 of 53 faceoffs (53 percent). Anze Kopitar won 13 of 21 draws (62 percent).
Exciting Game. Good for Poni. Good for Zues. Thise poor guys have taken a lot of crap recently from the people here. But they are pro’s. They try hard. They succeeded!
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Real 7 Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 11:16 am
@Howe 9, Big Poni 27…..loved the pic after assisting Zeus on the winning goal….
he has to feel more a part of the team after recent success….
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CupRun2011 Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 1:53 pm
@Howe 9, It’s great to see these guys (Zeus, Poni, Simmer) get that goal…at one time or another, they have all been in TM’s doghouse. Now we just need to get that second line and JJ scoring!
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that our Quick and happy that u broke a history record for the Kings History
Keep up the hard work Quick 
very happy about Kings Victory last game
Now i hope they keep this winning streak alive still
Lets get a win tomorrow game
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jmsalsa Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 9:58 am
@KingsFanFTW,
“Jonathan Quick stopped 21 of 23 shots and became the first goalie in Kings history to record 30 wins in back-to-back seasons. Quick has a 30-17-2 record this season. Quick has allowed two or fewer goals in three consecutive starts.”
can we stop debating who’s the #1 goalie now?
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Token Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 10:32 am
@jmsalsa, Absolutely! We have two #1 goalies and are darn proud of them. Doesn’t matter one bit which goalie starts, we get elite play from either.
This is settled! Jonathan is the #1 goal tender on any given night.
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Stuart Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 10:32 am
@Token, I can deal with that!!! LOL
KingsFanFTW Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 10:41 am
@Token, yup either way they both Jonathans in the net
Shotongoal Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 10:36 am
@jmsalsa, I don’ think there is a debate as to who is #1. But can some stop forgetting what happened late last year and understand that it’s a good thing to have a back up goalie who can carry some of the weight? As the Kings found out last year, Quick can’t play every game and be effective. With Bernier, there is not a need for Quick to play every game, and Bernier pretty much gives the team a chance to win when he’s in there. That’s all a team can ask of their #2 goalie.
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KingsFanFTW Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 10:40 am
@jmsalsa, i have nothing about whos number one Goalie not even debating who is it
Just saying congratulation to Quick that all nothing to do with whos number one
he sooo happen to play yesterday game thats all
and i dont really care who number one Goalie is as long as they can get the job done
what i see it Bernier is great goaltender and Quick is a great Goaltender they both been good to the Kings
Bernier most like 80% playing tomorrow game and thats good he deserve it been great only letting in 2 or 1 too nothing wrong with two goalies playing i just didnt feel comfortable whos in net into Bernier proven he can fight as hard as Quick now that great
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Capt Jam Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 10:43 am
@jmsalsa,
It’s pretty close.
In March, Quick has 1.67 GAA with a .943 save percentage, while Bernier is 2.00 with a .926 save percentage. It would seem that the goalie rotation is (a) working and (b) getting Quick a little extra rest to extend his stamina for the playoffs.
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Bill M. Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 11:46 am
@Capt Jam, Johnson has been more solid defensively. Doughty is starting look a bit like Doughty again. Martinez is looking like a monster in his own right. We might be among the best checking lines in the league, our superstar center is turning into one of the best two-way players in the league, and we now have TWO (!) great goaltenders, both of them getting hot, and well-rested at the same time down the stretch.
I REALLY, REALLY would hate to be the team that has to try and score goals on the LA Kings in the playoffs.
Shakes Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 10:07 am
@KingsFanFTW,
whoa. lots of emoticons. lots. of. emoticons.
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KingsFanFTW Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 10:35 am
@Shakes, yea sorry i do that
i try to stop but to me its impossible
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So many positive stats to sift through here, and yet one that jumped out to me was Kopitar’s 62% on draws yesterday. This is the one part of his game that still has a ways to go, so to see him well above 50% is really encouraging!
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mrbrett7 Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 9:58 am
@puddle, Agreed…you can tell he has worked very hard on this part of his game.
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kevin Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 9:58 am
@puddle, The one that really got me was 2 D with the team high shots on goal I can see JJ but Willy thats not something I would think to see from him but thats good keep getting the puck on net and good things will happen.
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Is Martinez on a short leash? My understanding is he blew his coverage on Richard’s goal and basically got benched. What’s up with that? It seems he’s been playing tough and his +/- the last 10 games or so has been pretty good. Perhaps there is more to the story but I’m curious as to how they have been handling him lately. Oh well, the King’s are winning so it is hard to question Murray to tough but…
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KingsFanFTW Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 9:47 am
@clubaclub, they bench him??
He almost had the puck when he dive just a bit off
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nykingfan Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 9:49 am
@clubaclub,
But what?
I didn’t notice Martinez not getting back on the ice, but you may very well be correct.
if so, he’s a rookie. Can we really afford to have “rookie mistakes” at this time of the year?
A rookie will always be benched over a mistake at critical moments of games and depending on what part of the season you’re at. They are more prone to being exposed than a veteran player. Both make mistakes, but usually there’s a different reason for it.
that’s why vets don’t get benched for one mistake, unless it’s a hustle issue..(Frolov)
Every possession is crucial at this point in the season. The time for “learning” has past.
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DesertKing Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 9:59 am
@nykingfan,
I believe Martinez is the King’s player you see diving to try and intercept the pass with Richards already way behind him. If it was him, it was a blown cover, but for the most part, the kid plays pretty solid “D” and his contribution onoffense has been a plus.
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nykingfan Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 11:21 am
@DesertKing,
I thought that was Doughty diving for the puck…The feed of the game was scrambled thoughout. Great job Center Ice or Cablevision..cost me a goal both ways.
mrbrett7 Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 10:20 am
@nykingfan, The “blow” on the play was by Smyth and Stoll not getting the puck deep while the defense was making a change. This immediately puts Martinez out of position due to making the LONG change (playing the far defense as well).
Blaming Martinez on this one isn’t correct.
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Token Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 10:36 am
@mrbrett7, Bingo! Plus there was a second defenseman back there that got beat.
It was a high-risk/high-reward play by Dalas that paid off.
Shotongoal Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 10:39 am
@mrbrett7, exactly!!!
Bluecoconuts Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 11:05 am
@mrbrett7, Scuderi was more the one who got beat, if you wanna say that, which I don’t. Martinez dove for it, Scideri didn’t get back in time. It happens really, not really any d-mans fault, they were making a change.
nykingfan Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 11:23 am
@mrbrett7,
That wasn’t my intention to blame Martinez. As I said above..I thought it was Doughty diving for the puck, that’s how bad the recpetion for the game was.
I was just commenting on the reason why rookies get benched so quickly as opposed to the veterans.
I honestly never noticed that Martinez had been benched.
Michal Handzus scored the game-winning goal, his 10th goal of the season.
– Drew Doughty scored a power-play goal and his second game-winning goal of the season.
How can Zues & Doughty both get the game winner? @_@
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puddle Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 9:45 am
@YuriM, Ha, that’s true. And if my memory serves me right, Doughty’s goal wouldn’t have even been the game winner had the game remained at 2-1. That honor would have gone to Penner.
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nykingfan Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 9:49 am
@YuriM,
Only in Gary Bettman’s NHL.
How else can a shootout win come back to haunt you?
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Belexes Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 9:51 am
@YuriM,
“How can Zues & Doughty both get the game winner?”
I’m pretty sure that Westgarth was to blame for the mix up./sarcasm
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Stuart Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 10:17 am
@YuriM, Did Rich fix an error, because it doesnt say that anywhere up there…
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AWESOME WIN YESTERDAY!!! and i would like to say thank you to Phoenix for beating down the Ducks =D 13 more games left in the season phewwwww I wish the playoffs started today so that i wouldnt have to watch the ducks play and hope they lose lol
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NOW IMPRESSED Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 10:10 am
@kennynakamoto, I think it would be even sweeter if the Ducks made the playoffs and the Kings swept them in the first round.
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kennynakamoto Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 11:10 am
@NOW IMPRESSED, yah it would be sweet to do that, but if we lose to them then ohh man talk about trash talking…….. we already see and hear the stanley cup one all the time, then they already beat the sharks, and if they take us out…. ohhh man will we here it =/
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KC23 Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 10:20 am
@kennynakamoto, For the standing’s sake, it would of been better had the Ducks won.
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Spidey35 Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 10:48 am
@KC23,
Not really. I can understand your thinking, but you want to keep the teams below you, below you. As long as we are in the playoff seed, keep everyone else below you
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kennynakamoto Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 11:08 am
@Spidey35, yup exactly why i wanted the yotes to win, and plus i dont want the ducks to make the playoffs, they have the offense to go far, and i dont want to deal with ducks fans over here in anaheim =D
kennynakamoto Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 11:11 am
@KC23, just like what spidey said keep the people under us, the less teams in the race the better chances we have of staying in the playoffs, plus i dont want anaheim in the playoffs i love seeing their rinks empty and all the ducks fans quiet
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What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 11:16 am
@KC23, According to SportsClubStats, it was about the same.
http://www.sportsclubstats.com/NHL/Western/Pacific/Kings.html
Crap…doesn’t say it now, but it was a .1 gain if either team won in regulation and something like a .2 loss if either team won in OT or by SO.
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Not much was mentioned about the play of Westgarth yesterday.
he had a really strong game. Probably the best he’s looked as a King.
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Belexes Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 9:54 am
@nykingfan,
He’s playin well, and the last 2 games with him in the lineup have been big wins.
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mrbrett7 Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 9:59 am
@nykingfan, I thought he played quite well.
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KingzzFan Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 10:08 am
@nykingfan,
I’ must disagree, he had only 3:05 of ice time. I made it a point to watch him, he looked like he was just trying not to make a mistake. Useless on the bench for that game. And again with him on the roster it limited Lewis to 8:29 and Clifford to 7:36 of ice time who both had great games and created chances. Yes we did win, but in this stretch we need to roll 4 lines or our boys will burn out… Just my opinion…
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mrbrett7 Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 10:21 am
@KingzzFan, This I agree with. I do feel he played well, when on the ice, however, having a guy on the bench who is only going to play a few minutes a game, and NOT have a dance partner on the other side doesn’t make much sense to me.
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Capt Jam Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 10:45 am
@KingzzFan,
I also must disagree with you, as I feel Westie excelled at high-fiving and scooting down the bench as the line shifts hit. It’s the intangibles that really matter at this time of the year.
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Chongo Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 10:57 am
@Capt Jam, lol
BrokeKingsFan Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 11:13 am
@Capt Jam, LOL, that was great!
SDGolfer Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 10:52 am
@KingzzFan, Barch only had 2:19 of icetime for Dallas and they are in the same race as us. there is a need for Westgarth.
If people would look at his role objectively, then there wouldn’t be “disappointment” in what he brings.
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KC23 Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 10:21 am
@nykingfan, Actually a few of us mentioned it in a previous thread. Even me who and I’m anything but a Westgarth fan. Made the first good non-fighting hit I’ve seen all year from him and actually improved his play along the boards a LOT.
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KingzzFan Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 10:34 am
@KC23,
I agree, and I am a Westgarth fan, have his Jersey and all. It’s good that he is improving his play, but honestly, is this the time where we need him out there trying to improve his play with 3-4 min of ice time? Richie in the press box, he brings speed and the ability to put up points, 27 points last year and 17 this season. Can play the PK if needed and eat up some ice time so others don’t have to double shift. I know I’m beating a dead horse here, but look at the standings, we need to have our best every night. Let the other guys adjust to who we put on the ice. It would be nice to have 4 lines that could be a threat out there.
Again just my opinion, I love where we are and we are so close, in a division where a loss could put us out of the post season. If you had to make the line call would you really dress Westy? Just asking…
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BrokeKingsFan Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 10:29 am
@nykingfan, @Belexes, @ mrbrett7
I would say that Westy played “alright” compared to what we have seen previously this year but i would not go as far to say he played well. He was not a liability the past couple games and i will give him credit for that but we still are a more dynamic team with him on the bench and Ritchie on the 4th line. I have never been and will never be a Westy fan until he can show that he actually has some hockey skills and is more valuable than just being a sack of meat and bones out there to fight the other teams Enforcer (which by the way doesnt happen as much as it should IMO). At this point we need to be looking for guys to have “good” games not for a guy to pick up his game and just play “well” and not be a liability. You can go with the protection of the teammate argument but I have not seen that as being the case this year, thats what he is there for per TM or whomever but i havnt seen it really discourage anyone from playing a tough hard game and taking runs on our guys. Once again Westy didnt have bad games but he needs to pick it up even more so IMO.
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nykingfan Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 11:29 am
@BrokeKingsFan,
wait a second…his job on the 4th line is to keep the pucks deep in the opponents territory, take the body, and show energy.
Which one of those things did he fail to do?
If you say he played “alright”, than that’s all Lewis and Clifford did as well.
That’s just not the case.
They did exactly what a 4th line is supposed to do. Nothing more, nothing less.
Anything more would include a goal..Whether it’s Richardson, or Westy, they haven’t produced many goals.
Less would be giving up a goal, or taking a bad penalty.
What they did was textbook 4th line play when they got out there.
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BrokeKingsFan Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 1:20 pm
@nykingfan, Like i said his past few games were once again “alright” and the points you make while valid do not change my opinion on that. I would say that these past few games were the only time Westy has done said things and I have given him credit for that, but he is still a Liability IMO and makes the game that much tougher (no pun intended) for the teamates that have to double shift because he is in ther lineup. B-Rad does all those things better than Westy IMO and also brings speed, something we dont have alot of and the possibilty of goals. Its a no brainer IMO but Im no Hockey coach so my opinion doesnt mean much but thats how i feel. Just for the record something more would be more than 3 minutes of ice time, just sayin…….
Paul G Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 10:43 am
@nykingfan, At least he’s not as bad as Ivanans
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Michael J. Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 10:54 am
@nykingfan,
I’m neither a Westgarth detractor nor a supporter, so here is my two cents…
Althought Richie provides much more in the way of talent, speed, forechecking, and defensively there might be some intangibles that bear some consideration. A couple of days ago on this blog TM was quoted saying something like “they guys feel more secure when Westie is in the lineup…” I think that he also said that the coaching staff talks it over and that the well-being (safety) of the other players comes into play when they make their decision on Westgarth.
I have not played an organized sport as an adult, therefore I have no idea what it is really like to step on that ice with several large, strong men looking to put a hurt on me. I can understand that having someone like KW watching out for me might allow me a little more freedom to make plays, rather than having to be concerned about the next cheapshot coming my way.
There is more to the game than just +/- and goals and assists…
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justlu Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 11:14 am
@Michael J.,
Just to add to your comment the other night Jim Fox said that TM usually runs it by the players also whether or not they think Westgarth is needed in the lineup. So if the coaches and the players feel like he needs to be in the lineup who are we as fans to question them ?
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Michael J. Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 11:49 am
@justlu,
Since 99% of us have never played junior level hockey or above, where fighting is allowed, I think that most of us have no real authority or knowledge to make a valid opinion to argue the roster decisions of an NHL coach.
Also, If Cliffy and Simmer think that having Westie in the lineup is a good idea, who are we to argue. It’s not me or you that might have to drop the gloves on any given day.
fsd1 Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 11:50 am
@justlu, I doubt it very much that TM asks players opinions as to whether Westie is needed.
justlu Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 12:21 pm
@fsd1,
I”m only repeating what Jim Fox said during a telecast recently. I figure he knows more than the typical fan.
KC23 Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 11:30 am
@Michael J., Those same thoughts ran though my head as well when I read what you are talking about. Probably comes under the heading, walk in another mans shoes (skates) before critizing. If it we’re my career on the line, I might have a whole different take on Westgarth. I think I’ll put an end to my complaining about it.
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Michael J. Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 11:43 am
@KC23,
Yah. When I was 17 I got in a small fender-bender (not my fault). The other guy (an adult) was pissed and wanted a piece of me. Then, my 6″ 2″ Afro-American friend stepped out of my car and the guy totally backed off. Terry (my friend) was my “enforcer” that night.
It is good to hear all around the league that the Kings are one of the toughest teams to play against. It really puts a smile on my face that hockey experts, and other people’s fans respect this organization that much! One thing that does concern though is this…-13, that number belongs to 24 year old Jack Johnson. On a team where no other defensemen in the lineup is lower then a plus 3, Jack Johnsons -13 is disgaceful and unacceptable. Did I expect him to be a plus 10 or above guy yet? NO! But I didnt expect this either! This guy is still a work in progress, but he had better start getting his act together or with all the prospects that are developing and coming thru the system like Hickey, Voynov, Deslauriers, and Muzzin, this guy could be become expendable in the next season or two.
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Can anyone advise what our W-L record is reference games where we socred a PP goal? Just curious since it appears that the coaching staff may have finally implemented some changes that are improving it, a definite plus as we fight for playoff position and then finally the playoffs themselves.
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Bluecoconuts Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 11:10 am
@DesertKing, We’re underrated when Doughty scores, I think. Not sure about PP goals. I think it’s around 24-10
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hi fellow king fans:
i’m going to say it again, because it makes me feel better, but i don’t see any New Look powerplay. same story of primarly staying in the same locations, making it easy for the defense to see ahead what we are going to do, and block multiple shots, when we finally feel the pressure to shoot.
if you look for comparison Dallas’ PP, they made, over and over again small passes, thru and around an isolated defender, and it caused all kinds of movement. i just believe we have enough skill to be more creative. i realize we don’t have a PP quarterback, maybe next year with Schenn, or loki, or Parese, etc., but i see no difference.
anyone see a major difference in the New look?
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puck73 Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 10:16 am
@D B COOPER, the powerplay has improved a little bit, but not that much. Hopefully next year it will be better with some different players, I agree.
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Jimmy-T Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 10:16 am
@D B COOPER,
Umm, yeah….they are actually scoring on it!
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Stuart Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 10:20 am
@D B COOPER, not a major difference, but what I see differently is the passing down low and through the middle. Before, the passing was all one-diretional, from low to high, now I see passes going through the middle to the other side, I actually saw AK take two steps towards the middle from the 0.5wall. Little changes in mentality, I think.
What I really enjoyed in the last game was the clip of AK’s last hatty… I noticed that two of the goals where hard moves to the net!!! Why has he gone away from that is what I want to know!!!
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D B COOPER Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 12:56 pm
@Stuart, OK, got it; saw that abit, thx
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KingzzFan Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 10:23 am
@D B COOPER,
I have noticed a few subtle changes. first: D1 comes with speed and chases down his own dump pass into the zone. This has been very effective for entering the zone and gaining control. Ive also noticed more roving freedom for the D, they seem to be moving down low more often thus making it a bit harder for the PK unit to be as aggressive as they probably want. Then the one time touch passing. They seem to be moving the puck more where they would hold and look for the seem pass or shot.
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D B COOPER Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 12:58 pm
@KingzzFan, OK, OK, yeah, i saw that too. i guess i still compare us to Like Skilled teams, not vancouver or detroit, but surely, Dallas, although they have a PP quarterback in Richards. we miss that that of quick, deceptive player, currently.
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KC23 Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 10:24 am
@D B COOPER, Yep, I saw it, but in the later failed PP we went back to the old system it appeared. Either the half boards position or the weak side point position are now going deep to the weak side instead of standing there with their thumb … well, you get the idea.
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D B COOPER Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 12:59 pm
@KC23, alright, i saw abit of that; just not consistant, thx
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Shotongoal Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 10:43 am
@D B COOPER, I thought the PP looked pretty crappy again yesterday…..especially in the 3rd period. It has looked a little better at times over the last few games, but yesterday it was pretty much same old same old. Doughty’s goal was just a seeing eye shot, lucky for the Kings!!
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D B COOPER Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 1:03 pm
@Shotongoal, that’s what i saw; since we STILL had trouble setting it up, although i do see what other responders have mentioned on this. i JUST HATE the shots being blocked, and you can see sooooooo clearly why they are. the defender is not moved, faked, out of posititon, but right in front of the shot. UGH!!!
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fsd1 Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 10:50 am
@D B COOPER, the biggest difference is all the positions are interchangeable and players are moving.
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bbb7 Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 11:01 am
@D B COOPER, I liked the way the #1 unit moved, looked to probe, tried going cross-ice, changed positions. It will take a little time for the players to get comfortable with the new-found freedoms. The #2 unit was pretty much playing the same-old-same-old (the only time the #2 unit has looked good was when JW was on it) and especially Handzus shouldnt be on any PP unit. Suddenly Smyth has been demoted off the PP and, to me, that’s the one time I actually DO want him to play. Put him 4th regular line and 2nd unit PP.
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D B COOPER Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 1:01 pm
@bbb7, I have to agree with alot you said; i am disappointed in the 5 on 5 Ryan, and you’re right, the PP, IF we can set it up, is perfect for his tactical skill down at the net. he’s been just about the best for 10yrs at that location. something is wrong with his game 5 on 5.
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Unrelated to the thread but –
Thank you to the Kings and all the guys who play this game who give me some shred of peace during such a chaotic time in the world.
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KingzzFan Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 10:37 am
@Scaught,
Amen Brother…
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pr0cess Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 10:38 am
@Scaught, Indeed let all hope they can stop the meldown that is now underway in japan…
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What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 11:24 am
@Scaught, Agreed…
My thoughts continue to be with Japan as the news seems to continue to be as bad as I originally expected. I have family there (all OK) and the shear helplessness of a sophisticated population is entirely humbling. Something on that magnitude can and will happen to all great societies. Let’s hope we’re as prepared as possible, when it’s our turn, and for today, let’s be as gracious as possible.
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KC23 Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 11:33 am
@Scaught, Amen. Worst natural diaster in my life time by far. Looked like a Hollywood movie.
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Scaught Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 12:45 pm
@KC23, Right up there with 2004 in Thailand.
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I just want to give a little applause for Kopi playing his 324th consecutive game. For such a good two way forward to show that kind of durability night in and night out is truly impressive. I wonder how many games he was dinged up and maybe could have sat out, but chose to play anyway. That is professionalism. He comes to work every night. Thank you Kopi for your dedication and heart! Now let’s finish off this road trip with a big win against the Preds!!!
GO KINGS GO!!!
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KC23 Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 11:34 am
@KingsFan in OC, Yes, that is quite a great accomplishment, especially playing at such a high level and being the target of goons from time to time.
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FANTASTIC!!! This is the only word that belongs here
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Wow I can’t believe that even with goaltenders like Vachon, Lessard, Potvin, and Cloutier (just kidding on that last one) this is the first time we’ve had a goalie with back-to-back 30 win seasons.
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bbb7 Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 11:04 am
@RabidZiggy, The problem for the old timers was there were ties, so the team actually only ended up with perhaps 60 ‘decisions’ per year . Win totals by modern goalies are deceptive.
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Dave's a Killer Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 11:28 am
@RabidZiggy, Here are Rogie’s stats. Notice the ties!
SEASON GP MIN W L T GA SO GAA SA Sv% G A PIM
1977-78 70 4107 29 27 13 196 4 2,86 0 1 2
1976-77 68 4059 33 23 12 184 8 2,72 0 0 0
1975-76 51 3060 26 20 5 160 5 3,14 0 0 0
1974-75 54 3239 27 14 13 121 6 2,24 0 1 2
1973-74 65 3751 28 26 10 175 5 2,80 0 0 0
1972-73 53 3120 22 20 10 148 4 2,85 0 1 2
1971-72 28 1586 6 18 3 107 0 4,05 0 0 6
If only half the ties could have been converted to wins by shoot-out..well, you can see the results
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KC23 Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 11:37 am
@Dave’s a Killer, Yep, Rogie is still the best goalie the King’s have ever had without question. Absolute east coast bias crime that he is not in the hall of fame.
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KC23 Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 11:36 am
@RabidZiggy, Yeah, all win records broken these days should have an asteris by it. Definately apple and oranges to compare. Quick record is still extremely impressive, but it’s not a clean record by any means.
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Yahoo Sports always has some great action shots, like Kopi sliding & Poni in Lehtonen’s face…
http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/games/2011031309/photos;_ylt=AulbzA.5KbayHwoK.yAEESwrvLYF?slug=ap-f8141af2ddbe416f8f3563df30c58a28#photoViewer=urn%3Anewsml%3Asports.yahoo%2Cap%3A20050301%3Anhl%2Cphoto%2Cap-472551278e7c4870a61cc74bcefa0212%3A1
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San Jose at Chigaco on Versus today, 5:00
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Capt Jam Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 11:16 am
@Real 7,
Game of the night for Kings fans, definitely. Both teams are slumping going into this one. SJ has lost of 3 of 4 (all at home) and CHI has lost 3 in a row (all of which were on the road agsinst the SE Division – go figure). Looks like I’ll be a Hawks fan tonight.
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KingsFanFTW Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 11:20 am
@Real 7, i would want Blackhawks to loose but then again i would want them to win cause then we can catch up for first in our Division either way its a win win to me Sharks win ok we catch up later as long as we stay in 4th place
if the Blackhawks wins then we win be one point away on taking the 1st place of our Division
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wavesinair Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 11:26 am
@Real 7,
Just don’t want a three point game. Which, of course, is exactly what will happen.
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KC23 Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 11:40 am
@wavesinair, That’s my take as well. You just know its a 3 pt game. My head wants Chicago to win, but I’m so sick of the Black Hawk hype. It’s way over the top.
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Deke'r Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 3:33 pm
@wavesinair, As long as the win is from a shootout so when a tie occurs that win won’t count.
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I am with you, No 3 point game..
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It has been my observation that since returning from his last injury PONI has really stepped it up. He has much more jump and has been much more aggressive and more involved in the play especially lately. I also think it took a few games but Penner has figured it out a bit now as a King. Definitely the right time for these guys to get it going! Go Kings Go…..!!
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KC23 Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 11:41 am
@Boxtime17, Yeah, and both left wingers. What was our weakest position is now looking pretty darn good.
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boxtime17 Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 2:26 pm
@KC23,
Good point!
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Michael J. Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 11:54 am
@Boxtime17,
After last night’s game Zeus commented about how Poni has been injured twice and that now he is healthy and contributing. I don’t think that we understand injuries, yet alone the difference between being recovered enough to return to the lineup and being completely “healthy.”
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boxtime17 Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 2:27 pm
@Michael J.,
I agree. Many times a player isn’t fully recovered from an injury and then goes elswhere gets healthy and does much better!
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Deke'r Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 3:37 pm
@Michael J., It is hard to understand if you’ve never played competitive sports.
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I hope the coaching staff is particularly mindful of the current energy situation of the team. They’ve been operating at nearly peak performance for over a month now, and there’s another month left of the season. Clearly, the race is so tight that faltering at all will be troublesome. Yet, never has it been so important to get proper rest, even in these exciting days, and be doubly aware of nutrition and health maintenance.
Most teams that have to “gun it” down the stretch to make the playoffs don’t do too well in the playoffs, so it’s really important to keep the team on an even level, not getting too high with the highs, or too low with the lows. Being fourth in the standings sounds great, and they’ve made us all proud, but the blunt reality is they’re only three points ahead of 9th place in conference with 13 games to play, so discipline continues to be imperative.
After tomorrow night’s game, they come back home, to a potential trap game, against St. Louis, of all teams. Sure would be nice for dedicated fans in LA to meet them when they return. There’s only one more “long” roadie left this season, to Western Canada, so we really are coming down the stretch.
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KC23 Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 11:43 am
@What’s the frequency, Kenneth?, Yeah, the Blues seem to always bite us in the rear. This will be the first time they’ve seen us with Penner though and he makes a big difference imho. Poni playing at a MUCH higher level as well.
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Kings Fan Vancouver, WA Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 11:51 am
@What’s the frequency, Kenneth?,Good idea about meeting them when they get home. I will be going to the game on the 31st in Canuckville so I will cheer them on loudly for everyone in LA and all over.
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bbb7 Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 12:04 pm
@What’s the frequency, Kenneth?, Excellent points. I also think the coaches need to think about resting some of the veterans – Smyth and Zus in particular – because if they aren’t able to contribute in the playoffs it will be a tough sled. I think Richie is a great sub for either and we wouldnt lose much on the days they rest. (In fact, I suspect his presence could jump start the 2nd line.) And for the reasons you cited I’m especially glad TM is going with a goalie rotation during this stretch and not listening to calls for playing Quick every game.
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What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 12:44 pm
@bbb7, Yeah, I was thinking of that earlier in the season. Guys like Smyth and Zeus really do need a game or two off down the stretch, if/where at all possible. The same probably goes for a defenseman or two.
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Westy played well yesterday. He doesn’t take bad penalties like Ivan’s did. He skates way better than Ivans ever will. He fights only when necessary. I think this kid will only improve over time.
Until they eliminate fighting in the NHL, you need a heavyweight on your team…someone who will deter others from taking liberties with your star players.
Poni…do you resign this guy for less money or move on to someone playing down in Manchester.
If you resign Poni…where does Parse play next season?
Zeus….do you resign this guy for less money?
If you reign Zeus…where does Schenn play next season?
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jammer06 Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 12:17 pm
@Barry’s Mullet,
Lots of this depends on the playoff run both here and in Manch. Lets just hope both are extensive so we have a good problem.
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KingsFanFTW Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 12:18 pm
@Barry’s Mullet, most likely we going to let Poni and Zues go but u never know yet
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Going back a couple weeks to the Penner trade…all the “experts” were saying that DL gave up too much. So Penner is averaging a little less than a point a game, has revitalized Kopi’s season and has made our #1 line a #1 line. Penner sure looked like a sniper on that 2nd goal and just missed one a minute later. So what DL gave up in that trade was a solid prospect in Teubert, a mid-to low 1st round pick and a conditional 3rd round. We see in 3 – 5 years if Oilers got the better of this deal!
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What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
March 14th, 2011 at 2:45 pm
@CupRun2011, To be fair, I remember there were a number of talking heads who thought it was the right move for the Kings.
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