Oscar Moller is on his way to Los Angeles to replace Justin Williams, who is expected to miss the rest of the season with a dislocated shoulder. The Kings feel that Moller’s style of play most closely matches Williams’, but it remains to be seen exactly where Moller will play. Today in practice, Kevin Westgarth is filling in as Williams’ replacement. More from practice to come…
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Westgarth is filling in for Williams?? Hurry up Oscar!!!
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Your kidding. OMG, add Penner, lose Willaims. This is truly demoralizing. Someone give me a reason to feel okay about this please!
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HESPERIA STH Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 11:50 am
@Weasel, Viking blood is on the way. Maybe Saskatoon gets uset in the playoffs thus freeing Schenn.
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Bill M. Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 11:51 am
@Weasel, A reason to feel okay about this would be if Oscar Moller comes up and turns into the player we all thought we was going to be.
Seriously – he’s been on fire in manchester. maybe he’s ready to stick. If he can grab this chance and put up some numbers…
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HESPERIA STH Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 11:56 am
@Bill M., Moller hsd 3 points in 4 games last time he was up.
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Bill M. Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:16 pm
@HESPERIA STH, Exactly. He’s showing signs of being ready. He’ll be getting an extended look playing on a top scoring line with two big, powerful, 30 goal scoring forwards, including (hopefully quite a bit) of playoff time. It will be good experience for him, and probably, it’s the best chance he’ll ever get to establish himself and stick in the NHL.
jet Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 11:52 am
@Weasel, KC is coming back?
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GOKINGSGO Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 11:57 am
@Weasel, To be honest I liked what Simmonds brought to that top line last night. Williams is too passive with the puck, we need someone who will take it to the net. Sad to lose a talented guy like williams, but offensivly and defensively simmonds is a very capable back up. Never know adding a pure scorer like Moler with Clifford and lewis on that 4th line could be productive. Lets see still like the, idea of Poni-Zeus and Richie, and 2nd line of Smyth-stoll-Brown. I wouldnt be suprised to see Brown on both 2nd and 3rd lines to see what line is gunna gel. Really bummed but I dont feel like we lose anything with Williams going down, I think we have enough horses in the stable to be just fine. P.S. See some of the Turnonvers williams made last night go the other way a couple times, we will benifit from Penner-Kopi-Simmonds straight ahead. Penner isnt a good enough skater to consistantly work with Williams on that high skill over passing manner in which he plays. Simmonds and Penner straight ahead style will force kopi to get the puck to the net, hopefully he gets the memo to shoot it.
WE WILL BE FINE!
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jet Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:04 pm
@GOKINGSGO, I thought lilWilly and Penner had some great passing together. It looked like it was coming together.
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GOKINGSGO Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:14 pm
@jet, we need scoring not passing. Kopi was the one linking the two. Looking at the scoring play and is 1st assist usually went to Kopi, with penner scoring . Williams was usually seccond assist. Williams has only had two goals since Penners arrival. One on a tip in from a Penner shot, and another one from Penner. Penners goals came from Kopitar and Richie iwht first assists. Williams only had a seccond assist on one of them. Easily replaced.
jet Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:39 pm
@GOKINGSGO, good passing leads to scoring
GOKINGSGO Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:05 pm
@GOKINGSGO, Ok Moler on the top line is ok too. He will get the puck to the net, penner will drive. Kopi is going to have to shoot to create his own offense, hes gunna have trouble getting the puck. Simmonds makes more sense on the top line. Put Moler on the 2nd or 4th lines.
Personal opinion of lines Feel free to comment
penner-kopi-simmonds
smyth-stoll-brown/richie
poni-zeus-brown/richie
Cliffor-lewis-moler/richie/westgarth
REally people i think we will be ok, just gotta make sure that Moler is NEVER on the ice against the other teams top line. He’s too small to consistantly win those board battles.
[Reply]
Dave Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:10 pm
@GOKINGSGO, no reason to bring up Moller to play him on the 4th line. the only reason he’d come is to play a top 6 roll. there are much better bottom six players the Kings could call up if they were looking for that.
Capt Jam Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 3:39 pm
@GOKINGSGO,
As soon as you plan on “Kopi shooting to create his own offense” your plan is out the window. Shooting is Kopi’s last resort. There’s a reason why he has twice as many assists as goals.
bbb7 Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:33 pm
@GOKINGSGO, I agree, I liked Simmer on the top line when he’s flipped the switch and thought offensively, like back when he scored the two goals against Minnesota. He has skills but he doesnt play head-up when on a cycling line; playing with Kopi he can try more give-and-go and slipping into a shooting sweet spot after dishing off.
IF Simmer is freed to think/play more creatively it wont hurt as much to have lost JW, altho he has been 50% of our skilled offensive forwards.
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kfan Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 5:42 pm
@GOKINGSGO, Right on… I had the exact same line combo’s in my head last night…. Great called on your thought.. GO KINGS!
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jet Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:02 pm
@Weasel, Ducks are 8-2 in the last 10 without Hiller
I’ll keep trying until you smile.
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jet Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:10 pm
@Weasel, OM has the second highest +/- of any player in Manchester who has been in at least one half of the games.
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FemaleFan#1 Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:26 pm
@Weasel, Placing so much responsibility on one player is too stressful! We’ve had numerous injuries this year where every freaked and assumed that it would mean downfall for our team. The bottom line is that when they play as a team, they win as a team. Moller is looking solid in Manchester. Is he a first line player?… We’ll see
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bbb7 Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:35 pm
@FemaleFan#1, Agree with the sentiment, but I cant agree the Kings have really had numerous injuries… this has been the first season in a while where they’ve been lucky (till now) about few injuries to key players.
[Reply]
jet Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:37 pm
@bbb7, but they have a much bigger team this year, thus less injuries
FemaleFan#1 Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 4:52 pm
@bbb7, Not arguing that this is an injury of a higher caliber being that Williams is one of our leaders in points. Be we’ve had Doughty out, Poni out, Sturm and Mitchell out, Simmonds missed a few… And there WAS talk surrounding those injuries about how they would negatively effect the team. Just sayin that Moller is looking solid in Mancester and he was successful the short run in had with the Kings this season. Not discounting Williams value to this team… just sayin
jet Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:28 pm
@Weasel, when Oscar was first with the Kings he was one of our best PP guys. One area that still has room for improvement.
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USHA#17 Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 1:13 pm
@Weasel,
Vancouver lost Malhotra for the year.
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Weasel Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 1:56 pm
@USHA#17,
Okay, strangely this does make me feel better. And I do like Moller he just seems to get overpowered sometimes……
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Deke'r Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 2:16 pm
@USHA#17, Now that makes me smile!
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Another freak injury…
Life can be so unfair!
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wavesinair Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 11:57 am
@BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy,
I can’t believe he’s hurt seriously again. Williams is my 2nd favorite player on the team. But seriously. Can there be any doubt that he is injury prone? It’s so demoralizing. And it happens soon after he signs a new contract. I was surprised DL pulled the trigger on that deal. I know he’ll fight back, as he always does, but man, this couldn’t have come at a worse time. I mean he was finally getting back up to top speed after breaking his ankle and now this. Just like last year, he was getting into a groove after an injury and then wham! The guy is snake bit. Unreal.
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number 6 Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:44 pm
@wavesinair,
and @Bako
I don’t wanna say ‘I told you so’ and I’m not going to…. I wanna keep positive for JW but That is why I didn’t like the trade when it was made. Would I rather have POS? I think you can all answer that question, but I really didn’t like JW’s injury history, and now two more w the Kings in just over a year. One major and … we don’t know about this one yet but doesn’t sound good at all.
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BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 2:02 pm
@number 6,
The Razzberry I’ve just given you is so wet and disgusting you don’t even want to know!
Just for that, may he get back and only score ONE goal, just to make you eat these words1
KC23 Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 5:01 pm
@number 6, Shrugs. Sounds like a simple seperated shoulder. I really don’t see that as that big a deal. This is nothing like a blown out knee, this is just stuff that happens to hockey players from time to time. No biggy.
DLB Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 1:19 pm
@wavesinair, I will go ahead and disagree with you. It’s not the same injury over and over, and he’s taken bigger hits than that. It’s bad luck.
[Reply]
wavesinair Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 1:26 pm
@DLB,
Yeah, I can see it both ways. It really depends on how you define “injury prone.” I define is as “tendency,” whereas it can also be defined as a particular weakness in a player, i.e. bad knees. And it’s not just bad luck, it’s horrific luck.
tornado12 Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:05 pm
@BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy, what do you think? 6-8 weeks? he must have done some labral damage? humeral head fx? Encouraging that JW has shown to be good healer in past and works extremely hard, so if anyone can come back sooner than expected, JW can. Though last year coming back early didnt help!
[Reply]
BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:36 pm
@tornado12,
Posterior dislocations are particularly nasty. The labrum is likely torn; MRI has to be done with results to confirm, but the dislocation is not physiological at all (meaning the humeral head does not just naturally go behind the scapula, it must be forced into that position). The injury was typical, and shows just how unlucky Williams was. He needed to be relatively flat on the boards and relaxed when the blow on the front of the shoulder hit him (otherwise there would be more of a superficial contusion, without dislocation).
Getting the shoulder back into the socket wasn’t fun, I’m sure. That relocation may have caused even more unintentional damage, chip or avulsion fracture. Sad…
The only thing is the injury probably won’t hurt his performance next year. He went through an entire season without a serious leg or hip injury, and that is fantastic.
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Jonesy Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:12 pm
@BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy, Very bad for Williams. He is done for year. Hopefully we can get his name on the cup since he did so well for us this year
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sstephen17 Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:19 pm
@Jonesy, I like Williams a lot too. I’m not going to say he’s injury prone because it seems to happen on freak plays and now it’s a different type of injury (shoulder instead of leg). I’m happy for him that he signed that contract because this latest injury probably would have lowered his value to a lot of teams.
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RobSD Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 2:42 pm
@sstephen17,
Being injury prone, basically means you get hurt often. He get’s hurt often. The type of play it happens on is insignificant. He is injury prone.
Everyones worse nightmare, Westie on the top line. Reminds me of the dark days when Ivanans was on the same line as Kopi & Brown.
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We’ve scored 2 goals in the last 3 games and now Williams our 2nd best offensive player is out for the season. But, don’t worry guys, Kevin Westgarth is filling is as Williams replacement.
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Sebastian Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 11:54 am
@NOW IMPRESSED, not really….its Moller bud, read the article before you post.
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bbb7 Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:38 pm
@Sebastian, You missed the ‘/begin sarcasm’ before NOW’s post. He knows Westy isnt going to be on the #1 line (or even #2 or #3). But we’re all concerned about our offense becoming even less ‘potent’.
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NOW IMPRESSED Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:53 pm
@Sebastian, I did read the article and “Kevin Westgarth is filling is as Williams replacement” is a direct quote from the article.
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number 6 Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:44 pm
@NOW IMPRESSED,
Is he out for the season?
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nykingfan Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:45 pm
@NOW IMPRESSED,
Westy’s an avaiable body for practice
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Now that is a big line
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“Today in practice, Kevin Westgarth is filling in as Williams’ replacement.”
I predict peoples head will explode with this statement.
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Blurker Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:03 pm
@SDGolfer, Done.
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DBB Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:03 pm
@SDGolfer,
Yes. And their names are Anze and Dustin.
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Anjin Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:09 pm
@SDGolfer, well, Westie is about the only forward who hasn’t played on that line this year.
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KingsFanFTW Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 1:50 pm
@Anjin, LOL now he gets a chance
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Steve Jensen Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:10 pm
@SDGolfer,
Westgarth is only there as a “fill-in” so that the other lines stay in tack. The proverbial “warm body”. You know, just like those folks at the oscars who fill seats during the breaks. KW will not skate on the first line.
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bmova Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:18 pm
@Steve Jensen, Don’t be surprised if he actually does; it’s TM after all. Didn’t Dwight King also skate on the first line???
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jayhay Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 1:30 pm
@bmova, That Dwight King expieriment may have been the worst since the Fukiwhateva thing they did in net
Token Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:27 pm
@Steve Jensen, I wouldn’t mind if Westy slams Douglas Murray a few times from the first line spot. Could open allot of ice.
Westy probably can’t sustain third line minutes let alone first line, but would be fun in TM plugged him in there a shift or two just to punish the SJ D.
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Cry Baby Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:29 pm
@Steve Jensen, After practice TM said “I like adding some toughness to the top line and that they showed some good chemistry in practice together. Westy has been playing great and has earned this opportunity”.
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Cry Baby Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:29 pm
Ahhhhh, Just kidding….those where my words!
KingsFanFTW Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 1:51 pm
@Cry Baby, LOL yea maybe he score his first goal in the NHL LOL
KC23 Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 5:03 pm
@SDGolfer, Me thinks Rich is having some fun at our expense. Which is pretty funny when you think about it.
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Does “rest of the season” mean rest of the regular season or regular season and playoffs too?
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Bill M. Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 11:52 am
@Eddie G., usually does, yes.
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BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 11:52 am
@Eddie G.,
The latter.
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Sebastian Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 11:53 am
@Eddie G., unless the kings make it to the finals, maybe that will give willy time to get back huh?
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CUP4LA Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 11:54 am
@Eddie G., Rest of the season usually includes the playoffs.
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DBking Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 11:55 am
@Eddie G., If it’s a shoulder then It’s presumably a 6 month plus injury
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PP Anybody? Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:04 pm
@Eddie G., Dislocated shoulder means OUT FOR MONTHS. Hopefully, he will be back in time for camp next season.
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Paul G Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:40 pm
@Eddie G., does anyone realize that Brayden Schenn played throughout the WJC WITH a Grade A separated shoulder and still put up those points?
I love Justin but that is what separates warriors from players…
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HockeyNerd Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:43 pm
@Paul G, Let’s please, for ONCE ON THESE BLOGS FOR CRYING OUT LOUD not make a rush to judgment. We don’t yet know the details of the injury yet.
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Paul G Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:51 pm
@HockeyNerd, Schenn had the worst kind of separation…so we don’t even have to look at the details bcuz Justins might be the same or even a bit better
What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:57 pm
@Paul G, See above, where Bako talks about how bad the injury probably is.
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HockeyNerd Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 1:11 pm
@Paul G, “So we don’t have to look at the details bcuz Justins MIGHT BE…..”
You said it yourself there.
Whether or not (and how much) JW plays through this is less about how much pain he is in and more WHETHER OR NOT there is a strong chance he will cause things to get WORSE by playing.
Once again, let’s not rush to judge him……
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KC23 Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 5:03 pm
@Eddie G., Nobody knows, even the doctors. Just gonna have to wait and see.
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I’m encouraged. The default back to Browpitar didn’t happen. Moller on the top line over Simmonds makes a lot of sense for the 2nd and 3rd lines. It will be interesting to see what Moller has to offer at the NHL Level this time considering all the comments about how the team has gotten better so that’s why he can’t crack it.
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SHOOT! kings go most of the season without any serious injuries and now lose. unbelievable.
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“Today in practice, Kevin Westgarth is filling in as Williams’ replacement.”
Good God.
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Dominick Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 11:58 am
@puddle,
Shhhh! he’s detering.
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puddle Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:03 pm
@Dominick, LOL, good one
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KingsFan in OC Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:00 pm
@puddle, All the orange traffic cones must have already been in use at TSC.
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gralx Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:14 pm
@KingsFan in OC, Now come on…. “Pylon” was my nickname for Ivanans. Westy is at least a little more mobile and can at least get in position to throw a check now and again.
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KingsFan in OC Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:55 pm
@gralx, Good point…bowling pin maybe? I mean, they knock into each other from time to time, right?
loskingpride Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 2:07 pm
@gralx,Westy’s 2:39 TOI will get him that hat trick sooner or later!
Jay Go LA Kings Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:02 pm
@puddle, It just means TM is keeping all the other lines together. Moller will play on top line.
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puddle Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:03 pm
@Jay Go LA Kings, Yeah, I know. The sentence itself though is hard to read without laughing or crying.
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ColoKingFan Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:27 pm
@puddle, or throwing up.
I don’t know what’s more discouraging; that JW is out, or that KW is replacing him…
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KC23 Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 5:05 pm
@bmova, Trust me, KW is not replacing him. Just a body to fill in for todays practise. Soon as Moller gets here KW will be back to 4th line or the press box.
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Penner and Kopi should have it easy today. With Westy there, their practice should last 5 ninutes and some change.
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KingsFanFTW Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 1:52 pm
@Dominick, LMAO
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I hope Moller can fill the hole…this is a pretty big loss. If we actually had a healthy Williams last season we could have potentially beaten Vancouver.
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Relax people. Makes sense that Moller gets his shot on the first line. Westie there is just to have a body and keep the other lines the same.
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HockeyNerd Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:48 pm
@Oz, THANK YOU!!!!!!
People need to READ.
“Today IN PRACTICE”………
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NOW IMPRESSED Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:58 pm
@HockeyNerd, Come on you guys. Everyone knows that Westgarth is not the real replacement. They’re just trying to have some fun with some really bad news.
[Reply]
HockeyNerd Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 1:02 pm
@NOW IMPRESSED, With all the TM bashing that goes on here, I think some people are quite capable of believing that TM would actually put him on the 1st line.
Bkrs-Bud Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 1:15 pm
@HockeyNerd, Take a deep breath and relax.
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HockeyNerd Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 1:25 pm
@Bkrs-Bud, OK, lol
I’m glad that Westgarth took that spot today because Moller isn’t here yet – that likely means Clifford skated with the fourth line and Westgarth was the warm body filling in for Moller.
I sure TM goes with Moller on the top line replacing Williams – it really is the best fit. Penner needs to step up his game – he was not good at all last night.
It’s horrible luck for Williams and in no way can this be spun as anything but a negative for the Kings. But teams have injuries and let’s hope that Moller steps in and plays well. It wouldn’t be the first time a young offensive player is given a chance to make a big impact and they come through in the stretch run/playoffs. Hopefully TM will give Moller a few games to get it going.
This team isn’t going anywhere unless the power play gets going and Moller was very good on the PP during his last call up.
Time to shine Oscar – here’s your chance to be a bona fide NHLer and lock up a spot on the roster for next year.
[Reply]
PP Anybody? Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:07 pm
@Dave, Moller is still a rookie in TM’s eyes, and small, so he will be on a very short leash. My guess is any defensive mistake or turnover, and he’s playing 5 minutes a game with Westgarth on the 4th line.
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What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 1:02 pm
@Dave, Yup, the success the Kings have down the stretch and in the postseason will depend on how well the Kings make lemonade with the lemons they’ve been given. I don’t know how likely it is, but it’s possible that the change-up will give the Kings some new life on offense (probably at the expense of some defense, as I recall was the case the last time Moller was in the lineup.)
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What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 1:53 pm
Actually, I was probably thinking of Loktionov, WRT the defense.
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Deke'r Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 2:42 pm
@What’s the frequency, Kenneth?, Don’t kmow if the D can handle anymore expense, Calgary had far more quality scoring chances than we did and without JQ playing well we would have been done early.
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Westgarth practicing as Williams replacement??? That’s gotta be a misprint.
[Reply]
number 6 Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:12 pm
@Hat trick,
Hat, can you imagine if Westy got the Hat in practice, no, even four and so TM decided to put him on the 1st line vs. SJ and he pots two including the game winner. Wow.
[Reply]
MR King Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:35 pm
@number 6, History will be made.
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number 6 Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:58 pm
@MR King,
Priceless
Hat trick Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:54 pm
@number 6, Lol I’d say someone throw some water on me cuz I must be dreaming.
[Reply]
number 6 Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:59 pm
@Hat trick,
Remember, I think Dave Schultz may have scored a goal or two in the SC Finals when Philly won vs. Buffalo.
Deke'r Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 2:45 pm
@number 6, Sounds like a great movie script! You could call it “The Mighty Kings”.
[Reply]
mrbrett7 Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:23 pm
@Hat trick, It’s because Moller hasn’t arrived yet…relax.
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Hat trick Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:56 pm
@mrbrett7, it’s counter productive to me. Should practice someone who is similar to Moller not a complete opposite.
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Dude that SUCKS!!! What a time to get injured like that.
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Guys don’t forget, this team was built from the goaltender out. Quick is among the best in the NHL, our defense is ranked in the top 5, and our offense is built around timely goal scoring. Are we going to light the lamp like Vanny? No, but defense wins championships and we can still win with this club.
[Reply]
MR King Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:35 pm
@David, Good optimism, I like it.
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What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 1:04 pm
@David, I like the optimism too…the only shortcoming is that while the Kings offense was up with Moller in the lineup last time, the defense slipped a bit.
[Reply]
That blows…let’s see what O.M. will do.
[Reply]
That blows…let’s see what O.M. will do.
[Reply]
Regehr must pay.
[Reply]
BobKnob Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:40 pm
@Scaught,
For what, a routine check?
[Reply]
Scaught Reply:
March 23rd, 2011 at 7:59 am
@BobKnob, Clean check or no, the Kings better show they haven’t forgotten. Perhaps with an equally legal harsg check that is equally unnecessary.
[Reply]
Don’t mean to change the subject but Lubomir Vishnovsky should win Norris this year. Playing on a lame Duck team and leading the NHL D-men in points.
[Reply]
mrbrett7 Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:24 pm
@Jonesy, He should be considered, but just scoring alot doesn’t make you a great defensemen…signed Mike Green.
[Reply]
fsd1 Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:30 pm
@Jonesy, seriously? LMFAO
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launch Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:38 pm
@Jonesy, you must be listening to Brian Hayward…what a joke!
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HockeyNerd Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:53 pm
@Jonesy, Those point totals are misleading. IF JJ or DD were playing alongside the forwards Anaheim has every night, they would be doing the same or better…..
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NOW IMPRESSED Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 1:57 pm
@Jonesy, I agree, and his +/-, hits, and blocked shots are all better than the next two guys including Nic Linstrom.
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I feel bad for Willy, worked real hard in the off season and was(is) one of our best players. Good luck, look forward to seeing you again next year. Welcome back OM, prove to the coaching staff that you belong here. Good luck in the playoffs. Go Kings!
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What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 1:06 pm
@SKF, Really tough for him spending the postseason on IR and the offseason rehabbing.
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I am not sure he is gone for the playoffs. If its a dislocation they can pop it back in and let the swelling go down, a little cortisone might just see him through.
Wishful thinking?
Maybe.
I am kinda happy to see Moller back up though not at Williams expense.
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On a postive note, Moller did have some success last year scoring goals on the power play. It can’t get any worse.
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Kinda bummed but what’s done is done. It’s now in the past and I’m not gonna dwell on it. When OM comes up to the big team from time to time he seems to spark the guys because he plays with an intensity that is close to Richie’s style of play. Best wishes and get well quick JW!
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On a side note, this is why I thought Schenn should have been in Manchester instead of juniors
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mrbrett7 Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:24 pm
@David, On the other side of that…he couldn’t be. He’s not old enough.
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Bill M. Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:25 pm
@David, They wouldn’y have put schenn on the wing anyway. If Lotki was available they might have preferred that, but Moller is a good choice. He leads the Monarchs in scoring.
In the past there were concerns that he wasn’t developing as planned, that maybe he would bust. But this year he wound up in the AHL based less on his own play, and more on the resurgence of Williams. Since Williams is done for the year, it makes sense to give the kid his shot. Besides, he’s been showing signs of being ready, so a 9 game stretch run and a (hopefully long) playoff run will give him good experience and a great opportunity to showcase. If he wants to stick, he needs to light it up and help the top line take us deep in the playoffs.
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OttoKing Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:30 pm
@David, Not something we get to choose. I’m sure all invoved would agree with you though.
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loskingpride Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 2:12 pm
@David, If only the doctors could have postponed his mother’s labor a few months. Darn.
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Life goes on. Williams will be missed, but let’s not get carried away here. He’s not an impact player, although he’s played very well and has arguably been one of the best Kings this season.
Simmonds should play on the 1st, brown 2nd, and Richardson 3rd. There is no need for Oscar Moller at this point; maybe Zeiler or Clune instead, so they can replace Westgarth on the days he’s not dressed…
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Josie Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:25 pm
@Eric,
Clune is hurt. They are holding him out of games hoping he’ll be able to make it back for the Calder playoffs.
Good for Oscar to be called up, but if he’s not back to Manch for playoffs then the ‘narchs won’t make it past the 1st round…I know, the NHL is the big show. But, was hoping to see the farm team do deep in the playoffs.
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Dan H. Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:29 pm
@Eric,
I stopped reading at Williams not an impact player. He’s been the best player all year besides Quick.
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fsd1 Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:31 pm
@Dan H., agree
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Dave Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:32 pm
@Eric, not an impact player? he is second on the team in scoring. what exactly is an impact player then?
the only reason Moller gets the call is to play top 6. this team needs to score more and replacing our #2 point scorer with Zeiler or Clune will not get it done.
the best way to keep the lines going as they have been without any significant drop off is to bring Moller in to play with Kopitar and Penner. he plays a lot of minutes in Manchester, plays the power play and is used to being a scoring forward. hopefully he can pull a Giroux and shine getting an opportunity to play with all-star calibre players.
there is no place for Westgarth in the playoffs – the games are intense and you are playing every other day. Westgarth can’t be relied on to play 8-10 minutes a night which will tax the other players the get double shifted. give Moller a chance and see how he does. he should be sufficiently motivated – not only does he get a shot to play first line minutes but he can solidify his place in the top 6 next year with a good showing.
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Eric Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:41 pm
@Dave,
I think Brown and Simmonds have earned the right to play on the first line.
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Eric Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:44 pm
@Dave,
I forgot to mention… By calling up Zeiler/Clune, you’re not substituting them for Williams. Rather, you’re substituting Williams for either Brown or Simmonds, which IMO, are very capable of playing alongside Kopitar and Penner. Richardson is an ideal third liner, so he could fill in and play with Ponikarvoski and Handzus. That leaves the fourth line with:
Clifford – Lewis – Westgarth/Zeiler/Clune.
I understand that Westgarth won’t get any playoff time, and that’s why Zeiler or Clune would fit in extremely well IMO.
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HockeyNerd Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:56 pm
@Eric, Richardson is NOT an ideal third liner. That line’s primary job is to keep the opposition off the score sheet. Richardson has one of the worst +/- stats on the team….
HockeyNerd Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:58 pm
@Eric, Also, I fail to see the logic here: you have a team of 10 grinders and 2 skill/speed guys, you lose one of the skill/speed guys, and you should replace him with yet another grinder?
What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 1:09 pm
@Eric, Not an “impact” player? Dude’s got 22 goals and 35 assists. That puts him at around the highest “impact” on the team.
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Eric Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 2:04 pm
@What’s the frequency, Kenneth?,
IMO, Quick is the only impact player on this team. Kopitar at times looks like an impact player, but disappears. You need to score a lot more goals/points then 22 and 35 to be an impact player…
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I would consider Brad Richardson to get more ice time. He has speed and experience. I thought he did well last year but had his ice time reduced this year. Would try either Simmonds or Richardson on first line.
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What is up with the spate of key injuries to playoff teams? Sharp in Chicago, Malhotra in Vancouver, Hiller in Anaheim, now Williams. Not to mention Ovechkin is taking time off for minor injuries.
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Dave's a Killer Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 1:58 pm
@sstephen17, The Penguins seem to be doing okay and they lost Crosby AND Malkin. It’s a team game
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I believe my previous statement said it all.
&#@!
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Bill M. Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:27 pm
@mrbrett7, Can I get pronunciation for that???
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mrbrett7 Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:33 pm
@Bill M., You trying to get me banned?
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nykingfan Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:59 pm
@mrbrett7,
yup I second that!
Damn…He and Kopi were our best forwards most games.
I love the way JW plays the game.
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This is terrible news! JW was playing great, one of the only consistant forwards all year.
Look at what happen to the 2nd line after he was removed!!!
He is our 2nd most skilled forward and has playoff experience and a cup winner in FL. He well be MISSED! We better keep playing great defense and get excellent goaltending for the rest of the year as this team has been having trouble scoring lately, and now we just lost our 2nd best forward for the year. Hopefully OM can step up.
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Rich:
What’s the deal with Bud Halloway? He leads Monarchs in points, why has he yet to make it up to the bigs? Seems like he deserves the chance? We’ve seen King, Kozun and Moller, but not sure I’ve ever seen Halloway in the NHL?? Thoughts?
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mrbrett7 Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:34 pm
@dcaps55, When was Kozun called up? Where was I? Leading your AHL team in scoring doesn’t really mean much.
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Dave Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:35 pm
@dcaps55, i just think they went with Moller because he’s the most similar player to Williams and he knows the system. i think Holloway gets a good look next year with the departure of Handzus and Poni and possibly Richie and Westgarth.
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Kinger Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 1:49 pm
@dcaps55, Kozun hasn’t been called up. I believe Holloway is a LW. Moller can play RW and he’s a similar type of player as Williams. Also, Moller is the only one that has extensive previous NHL experience. He knows the guys and should fit right in.
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Token Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 1:54 pm
@dcaps55, I think Hex believes his defensive game is not yet ready and for a guy that projects into the 3rd or 4th line, the defensive grind is imperative on this team. Once his +- goes up, he will get the call.
He will likely go a similar route as Lewis; get seasoned in the minors then pleasantly surprise when brought up.
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I am devastated….all was going quite well….AHHHH…well…let’s hope for cinderella playoffs.
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fingers Crossed Check.
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Bill M. Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 1:02 pm
@Hockeyfanb4Gretzky, Somebody cross checked your fingers? Man that’s brutal.
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Get well soon JW!!!
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Rich,
Williams missing the season: Is that everything, including the playoffs?
Everybody else,
I was really looking forward to see how the Kings would do in the playoffs with their current roster. With Williams out, it doesn’t look good.
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Williams out for the rest of the season, including playoffs? Any info would be great.
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Freaking Regehr!
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number 6 Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:45 pm
@friarking,
Yeah, not great huh? Is he out for the season? That’s what people seem to be saying. Sounds like we don’t know yet.
But whatever it is it certainly doesn’t sound good.
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We will miss the China Doll in our lineup for sure,but i have been screaming to bring up Moller for month’s now. He brings what we lack and that is speed.When they sent him back down i think he was playing great and we had a win streak going.Westgarth is a waste of space, a likeable guy, but the days of goons are over. We need a body that can skate on the fourth line, and maybe even score a goal or two.Ryan Smyth also needs to retire, the wrap around isn’t working dude and that is all he has in his playbook.He skates like he is in mud and gets stripped of the puck on the reg.Let’s bear down boys and score some goals for crying out loud…..Go Kings Go!
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fsd1 Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:54 pm
@King without a crown, China Doll? I would bet ifyou ever got hit in any of the ways williams had been hurt you probably would take years to recover! Screaming is such a waste of energy but I’m sure TM heard you and FINALLY made the decision to bring OM back up, and the days of the goons in hockey is not over until all the goons are off the ice and Ryan brings much more to this club than just his wraparound.
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nykingfan Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 1:01 pm
@King without a crown,
China Doll?
Dude plays tough every single night. He gets hurt because he’s always involved in the play and just has some lousy luck. But he’s far from a China Doll.
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What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 1:14 pm
@King without a crown, That’s not called for. Justin Williams is a gamer, and deserves more respect.
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twnclick Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 1:38 pm
@King without a crown, Ryan has brought a lot to this team. One is work ethic. Even on an off day he works his butt off and battles hard on the boards. That type of hard work from a veteran is going to inspire the rookies. Since the addition of Ryan and Scud. this team is grown into more confident team. Williams is a big loss but loosing ryan or anyone else may have a bigger effect.We have to do what all the other teams do win a player goes down. Find a way to win and get other people to step up.
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AAAAAGGGGGHHH!!! Major BUMMER! He was having such a great year…
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Hope you have a full and speedy recovery, Justin. You were a big part of the success of our team this year. Make no mistake.
Hope Oscar can fill your shoes some.
GKG!
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i think we should bring Sandy Mogar back to fill the first line hole
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Capt Jam Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 3:34 pm
@DannyBizzler,
Wow! There’s a name you don’t hear/read every year.
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puck73 Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 3:44 pm
@DannyBizzler, Dont forget about Keith Crowder.
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Let’s all think positively, and hope Moller is ready. I guess it’s now important to get him comfortable with the speed of the playoff stretch so he’s ready to compete at full tilt.
What a tough break for Williams! He’s had such a great season!
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mrbrett7 Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:53 pm
@What’s the frequency, Kenneth?, I’m not as worried about the speed as I am the physical play along the boards.
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Capt Jam Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 3:34 pm
@mrbrett7,
Agreed. That’s one of the first things that comes to mind with Moller: not strong enough on the puck in those battles that are crucial to the Kings offensive plan.
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ColoKingFan Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:54 pm
@What’s the frequency, Kenneth?, As meaningful as these games are it should be a pretty good preview of playoff hockey.
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vplaza Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 3:43 pm
@What’s the frequency, Kenneth?,
Williams was definitely having a good season, but looking at his career, he’s only played 82 games twice. Had he played a few more games, he would have had his third best season as far as games played in a season.
I just feel bad for him because he could be a really really good forward if he could just avoid the injuries. All I can say is get well soon, JW. Your scoring will be missed by this team.
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all i can say about williams is fricken chuck norris……………….
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mrbrett7 Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 12:53 pm
@lvkingaholic, Hey…can he play 1st line RW?
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Bill M. Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 1:03 pm
@mrbrett7, No, but his beard can.
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Bob Bobson Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 1:09 pm
@Bill M., His beard can play all 3 forward positions, the 2 defense positions and the goalie.
friarking Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 1:57 pm
@Bill M.& Bob B. Haha, what about Mikus? Would they just play a complete game with each other?
off the subject but Quick is nhl second star
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Mike C Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 1:00 pm
@twnclick,
As well he should be…..the Kings are .500 since coming back home and have been outscored 7-2 in 3 games. Quick is that reason or we might just be 0-3.
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For those wanting revenge on Regehr, Calgary’s chances of making the playoffs are growing slimmer. I have a feeling we won’t see the guy until next season. It was a hard hit, but not amazingly dirty. At least not Cooke dirty.
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puck73 Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 3:51 pm
@Mike C, Agreed. I dont think anyone will confuse Regeher with the likes of..Cooke, Kasparitis, Karpa, Muni, Marchment, Gilmour, Ulf Sammuelson, Geoff Courtnall..etc etc
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wow that’s great the kings stagnant offense just got worse. oscar moller really? give schenn a chance to come up and move another center into a wing role, our power play is a freakin joke, heres a thought get into open areas and move, dont just stand still and hold onto the puck.
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Tough break, very tough break…..Get well soon Willy!
Welcome back Oscar!
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Hello Oscar. Goodbye Playoff hopes. Nice to have someone like Boyle or Purcell around to step in. Oops. But who needs depth? Williams was the third most valuable guy this year, after Quick and Kopitar. I can’t see them beating anyone now. Sad.
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SG Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 1:26 pm
@Arthur, dont loose hope!!
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HockeyNerd Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 1:31 pm
@Arthur, Which stocks are going up in the next few weeks?
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HockeyNerd Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 1:44 pm
@Arthur, Oh, and as far as Boyle and Purcell, will you just GET OVER IT ALREADY for cryin’ out loud? EVERY GM of EVERY sport has let talent walk at some point and if those are the best examples you have it just shows how good DL really is……..
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Dave's a Killer Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 2:04 pm
@HockeyNerd, Amen!
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Smyth-Moller-Brown???
Or
Moller-Stoll-Simmonds??
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wavesinair Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 1:28 pm
@Dude,
Center position is set. They don’t want him to be a center anyway. I think it’s fairly obvious he’ll be on the right wing.
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Nooo was at the game and was hopeing willams didnt hurt his wrist but out for the season with a shoulder injury bad timeing comeon Oscar we need you to step it up gain the zone and score!!
GO KINGS!!!!
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It has to be more than a dislocated shoulder IMO
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Where is Mikus when you need him? Bring back JM. He can play all 3 forward positions(at once).
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Just like Lewis at the beginning of this season, I believe this is Moller’s final shot. He does well here and he’ll have a spot on the team.
Happy about this callup and I wish him the best.
Really bummed about Willie though. He was having a great season!
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Rub up against your linemates, Westy! Maybe you’ll get some communicable talent! I mean, it works with chicken pox…
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Seems to me this is an idication that Moller will be plugged into the first line. Westgarth is plugged in there at practice so that all the other lines can practice with each other intact.
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I see this turn of events as being the exact kick in the pants the offense needs; what may just do the trick to reinstill the ‘foxhole’ mindset that the Kings slip into on the road and slip out of when they get back home. Scoring by committee returns again on Thursday.
We’re not dead yet!
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WHY NOT BRING UP SCHENN?! The guy is dominating, mature, seems to thrive under pressure, and he’s spent nearly two full seasons in the minors after being drafted. I understand the idea of slowly cultivating his confidence, but the way to really improve is to play at the highest level. He has excelled at every level, he can’t possibly be as psychologically fragile as we are to assume.
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HockeyNerd Reply:
March 22nd, 2011 at 5:27 pm
@liamchop, Schenn cannot be brought up until his Juniors season is COMPLETELY finished
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liamchop Reply:
March 23rd, 2011 at 1:36 pm
@HockeyNerd, Aha!, thanks
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Westgarth is good player. I hope the Kings give Moeller first line minutes and do not send him down lines. He needs to find chemistry and play obviously.
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i think moller brings a lot of the same skills to the team as williams.. they are both small speedsters with good hands.. I hope moller gets a shot to shine.. the scoring is lacking so i hope murray plays him with the top line to add a little spark
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Here’s wishing that Saskatoon gets eliminated and BSchenn becomes available to the Kings. Be great to see a Clifford-Schenn-Moller line, I just know they’d click!!!
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