For those wondering, this is essentially how the Kings’ forwards skated in the third period yesterday, after Anze Kopitar left the game…
Penner-Handzus-Moller
Smyth-Lewis-Brown
Ponikarovsky-Stoll-Simmonds
Clifford-Richardson-(double-shifted winger)
What will the Kings do now? We’ll see, tomorrow morning in practice, what the lines look like. For now — and this can change at any moment, based on the whims of the people making the decisions — I don’t believe the Kings will be calling up any healthy bodies from Manchester. As I mentioned the last time Brayden Schenn’s name came up, there exists a slim possibility that the Kings could bring him up, but only in a narrow, injury-related emergency-recall situation (the exact details of which I’m not 100-percent certain). As of now, Schenn cannot be called up. That leaves Kevin Westgarth as a healthy body, along with Peter Harrold and Davis Drewiske.
What’s your plan? Any recommendations?
Is drinking a plan?
[Reply]
rich Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:22 am
@David, i belive it is
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LBlocal Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 1:07 pm
I’m ready and waiting for the call from the big Club. Skates sharpened, sticks taped, and the bag packed.
In the meantime, I’ll be drinking… The Kool-Aid. gKg!
[Reply]
JackC Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 8:25 am
I’m ready too… putting on the foil as we speak!
rogiesbackup Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 7:15 pm
@rich, ATTN FANS!!!
The only person I feel sorry for is Anze Kopitar himself. I feel for him because I know he loves the game, is a competitor and would just love to bring the cup to L.A.
I don’t feel sorry for the kings because frankly, I feel this team is a very deep team. I would NOT be surprise if this L.A. team brings the cup home this year with or without Kopitar/Williams(no offense guys). Look what the Lakers did last year without Bynum, the Penguins without Crosby, Miracle on Manchester team DID NOT have Gretzky; how about the 74-75 Kings that racked over hundred points prior to the Marcel Dionne era. Think you guys get the point. We can talk about the Orrs, Lafluers, Lemieuxs 24-7 but the fact remains that this is a team effort and sometimes how “the puck” bounces, its worse then a ball, can determine the outcome. Remember NFL’s “Rollie Pollie play?
Tom Murray and the coaching staff has got this team playing a really contolled system in which it almost seems requires very little effort to be in the game. With the exception of 3 or 4 games, the team always played a very systematic and discipline game. It’s obvious to me that this team IS stanley cup material! Look back at the season in which they played the best teams, they beat them or was beaten by 1 goal! That’s all the Nucks and Pens can give? Bring IT ON!!!!!
Look down the roster and you might not find a 40-50 goal scorer, not yet at least, but most of the team has demonstrated sniping capabilities. Now here lies the problem for the opposition. Who the heck do they focus on? Oppositions says, “watch out for Doughty Jackson on the point, BUT wait, now we have to worry about Mitchy how bout Marty?” Nah, this team grinds you down a the while the snipers are waiting for their chance. Who’s gonna score, who knows!
Hardly the end of the Playoffs guys and certainly the run for the final play-off spot!!
Think and feel positve guys. Why not, it’s truely a good team.
[Reply]
longbeachyo Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 9:04 pm
@rogiesbackup, Very good points here. This team is a very well rounded team. Chances can come for anyone on any line because the defense is SOLID. However, there is one area that this team needs drastic improvement. The POWER PLAY!!! When is the last time they scored on a set play while on the power play??? Don’t get me wrong, the guys are skilled and can score on broken plays. But when you start playing the good teams deep in the playoffs those “broken plays” and “bouncing pucks” tend to not happen as often. Unless these guys start learning how to enter the zone and pass with precision while on the man advantage I don’t see them getting past the 1st, maybe 2nd round. They NEED to stop reacting while on the power play and start anticipating! Look at the top power play teams in the league… they are always one step ahead of the opposition. They anticipate the defense, they don’t react…
If the Kings can somehow manage to fix the power play (and fire Kompon) they can easily be a Stanley Cup contender!
Harrison Merkin Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 9:12 pm
@rogiesbackup, Who’s Tom?
Harrison Merkin Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 9:14 pm
@rogiesbackup, Who’s Jackson?
A_Cup_Before_I_Die Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 1:09 am
@rogiesbackup, So what all that really says to me is, we need a miracle..
JGSmall Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 11:11 am
@Harrison,
Forget it, he’s rolling
luc20rules Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 8:07 pm
@rogiesbackup, I agree with your points, but Gretzky was playing against us it was Daryl Evans, Foxy, Luc and Taylor that were hero’s of the Miracle on Manchester. Sorry if I forgot anyone, but I know Gretzky was healthy and the Beast that was Cup Winner favorite Edmonton was a real major favorite. I your defense I believe that is the trade that made Gretzky feel a trip to LA may bring eventual Cup(s).
rogiesbackup Reply:
March 29th, 2011 at 10:03 am
Longbeachyo,
Yah, I’ve already discussed the team’s power play or the lack thereof several weeks ago. I had said in a nutshell, that the team lacked movement and was too predictable. Seems they are getting a little more movement, though. J.Johnson / doughty now considered “rovers.”
@luc20rules yup exactly my point Gretzky IS a superstar yet the Oilers where defeated by an “underdog team” like the Kings. My point is that a cup can be POSSIBLE even WITHOUT the likes of a Gretzky, because hockey IS a team effort. The “heroes” you mentioned are correct, BUT they’re NOT perennial goal scorer yet they overcame a cast that was NOTHING but goal scorers. I’m saying fans here say season is over with Kopi, but time and time again, good teams(like the Kings seem to be) rise to the occasion and persevere.
Diablito93 Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:33 am
@David, I already started that one.
[Reply]
number 6 Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:40 am
@David,
David, sorry, but that was too great. I mean, I’m smiling and as I had a Hard Drive pack it in on Thursday, and then Kopi yesterday, that says something.
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Heavy G Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:45 am
@David, It is always a plan.
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Moondoggie Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 12:15 pm
@David, Poo-poo happens…..
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m_and_m Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 12:50 pm
@David, That’s been my plan all season.
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Miller29 Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 1:00 pm
@m_and_m, All Season??? How about for the last 40+ years!!
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JackC Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 9:53 am
@Miller29, +1
Ed Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 1:05 pm
Well well well now that Kopi’s down it looks like it’s NOW time for Penner to STOP with the TEAM’s worst body language, on and off the ice. It’s time for Penner to compete like a champion and make the Kings and Kings fans feel good about giving up our draft in 2011 for him.
We NEED Penner. If Penner is injured and hiding it, step aside and let someone else produce for the team until you heal.
It is time for him to get on board NOW. It is time for him to stop big league-ing the Kings, stop feeling sorry for himself for his poor performance, and it is time for him to model his on-ice effort to that of our captain, Dustin Brown.
There will be more hope team wide and Staples wide if we see Dustin Penner play like a true-power forward. One who wreaks havoc all over the ice. One who the opponent KNOWS can potentially upset their Stanley Cup hopes unless they devote lots of attention to him. He will open up more ice for our puck movers and play makers. His efforts will translate into points for him and wins for the Kings.
It is NOW time Mr. Penner to play to your size, your ability and to play like a man that demonstrates a fierce desire to compete. Other Kings will follow and appreciate. The Staples faithful will embrace you and you will energize us for our Stanley Cup run. This team can win. This team can be verrrry difficult to play against. This team, with your extraordinary effort CAN make a serious run through the playoffs.
The Staples faithful will help you and your teammates. We will not boo. We will support you guys in ernest. Our house will be electric and we will energize you guys. I was not present at the STL game. I would not have boo’d. I would have assumed Terry Murray would have given that 2 period performance a proper assessment in the locker room.
Thank you to ALL of the Kings who put forth an outstanding effort. I see you guys every shift working hard and competing like champions.
Best to our Kings!
Ed
(long time season seat holder)
[Reply]
Osaka Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 4:44 pm
@Ed, Do you and Penner have some history? Dude.
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holly Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 7:03 pm
@Osaka, If this were a country song, I’d say Penner stole his wife. Or maybe his dog. Possibly both.
ike Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 5:38 pm
@Ed, Penner was never Cam Neely. Don’t expect him to morph into him now.
And whats with the rant?
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Harty Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 4:44 am
@Ed, I respect your opinion Ed, I agree with the Penner situation, he has played worst in each game he plays. Its time to ramp it up Dustin. A big man like you should be out there distroying people not skating around with eggs in your pants. Break a few, you may like them scrammbled!!!!
I hate to say this, however I said so at the time of the trade.
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Jamer Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 1:58 pm
@David, Try praying for another “miracle on Manchester”………….
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Dominick Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 2:38 pm
@David, It was the plan regardless.
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ringo Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 4:01 pm
@David, pennar/stoll/moller
smitty/zeus/brown
poni/lewis/simmonds
clifford/cliche/richardson
/elkins/
unless schenn comes aboard that will change thigs a bit.
[Reply]
ringo Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 4:03 pm
@ringo, elkins would be the choice of the other center stupid computer
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9nichols9 Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 10:29 pm
@ringo, Looks good, I say go with it. Speed, Grit and the true desire to win.
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PRMan Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 6:00 am
@ringo, We could really use Sturm over Drewiske right about now. Who cares if Edmonton would have taken him on waivers.
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jet Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 9:25 am
@PRMan, In Sturm’s first dozen games with the caps he had 0 goals and 2 assists. Is this the person who would have saved the season?
luc20rules Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 8:27 pm
@ringo, I like the thought as posted ealier this weekend, Cliche and Elkins help on faceoffs and on D, but after thinking about it Harold can do that and fill in on D if an injury happens there. I would bring up King or Holloway both have shown they are solid both ways this year at Manchester King has size, D, and Scoring touch at LW, Holloway has speed, soft hands, grit to go to the scoring spots, and showed clutch playoff game elevation in last years AHL with 9 game winning goals and 11 overall in the 2010 AHL playoffs. Given the choice it would be Holloway as he has shown the development asked and has bought in to the system that is the same at Manchester as it is in LA.
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rontheking Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 4:13 pm
@David,
I think it is a plan–and a good one at that–but only if it is instituted in a serious and rigorous manner….
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jeff Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 10:05 pm
@David, god help and a prey we need a scorer
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luc20rules Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 8:16 pm
@David, Yes, it is, but at $8+ a pop at Staples I will stop at one, just enjoy the game. The playoffs will be a grind, but with the large bodies, great D and goaltending I for one am not ready to pack it in. I suspect the Kings still got a shot. My hope is that Kopi and Williams don’t come back until they are ready to help. Willie with all his good intentions probably came back a week or 2 early last year we need atleast 95%, especially when we are asking everyone to contribute 100% effort every night. Lets not leave anything on the ice and bring home the cup if at all possible. This is still a fight until we are eliminated.
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I saw bring up a goal scorer i.e. Brandon Kozun. He adds speed and untapped goal scoring potential that has yet to be proven in the NHL. Moved him to the wing on the second line and PP.
We cannot afford to bring up Elkins. We need speed. The opposition has can no longer focus on Kopitar being the focal point of the offense.
The element of surprise is our game.
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kb Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 12:40 pm
@steve, im with you anything that put pucks in the net.
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jeff Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 10:07 pm
@kb, you know its going to need a scorer we will win for kopitar so he will get a chance to play in finales
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roadtripper Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 1:01 pm
@steve, AGREED!!! SPEED SPEED SPEED…
Seriously why not? Give it a shot, DL.
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holly Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 7:10 pm
@steve, Elkins has been invisible, so I don’t foresee him being the call (which Rich did kind of indicate wouldn’t happen). Cliche is injured. Azevedo will get an instant knock because of his size, despite being fast and playing way outside of his size.
Kozun needs more time to develop. Everything is there, he just hasn’t put it together yet. King or Holloway are the big point producers right now in Manchester.
But lets be honest, at this point the devil you know is better than the devil you don’t. You don’t know how any of these guys is going to react put into this situation and whether they’ll be able to maintain which is crucial coming into playoffs. Best to go with the guy you know is going to be able to center a 4th line solidly (because moving centers up makes more sense than pulling one of Manch’s guys in and hoping for the best), has speed and plays aggressively. You won’t get many points out of him but he probably also won’t collapse under the pressure. All in all, Zeiler is the guy most likely to fit the bill IMO. I’ve spent a lot of time complaining about him in years past, but he’s really stepped up this year and begun to play a game that at least resembles having control.
[Reply]
dayle91/08 Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 12:59 am
@holly,you dont bring up a holloway or kozun to play 4th line….thats dumb they will get knocked around to much they have to much goal scoring to put 4th i put them on 2nd line. if they call up king he is a big boy he can handle the 4th i.e hits but i like him with ws but thats alot of size to go with pinner
[Reply]
holly Reply:
March 29th, 2011 at 1:14 pm
@dayle91/08, Hence my statement that if someone was coming up from Manchester it would be Zeiler (the devil you know) over everyone else (the devil you don’t).
Harty Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 4:46 am
@holly, I watched Justin Azevedo throughout his entire Junior career. He would be way out of his league in the NHL.
What works in the minors doesn’t necessarily work in the pro’s.
[Reply]
holly Reply:
March 29th, 2011 at 1:19 pm
@Harty, Having watched Azevedo and acknowledging his short comings (pun intended) I still feel that he should get a look at some point. However, I also beyond acknowledge that this is not the time for that look. He is one of the most consistent players on the Monarchs an the only way to figure out if he would be able to translate is to see if he could keep up. Essentially, his size is his only major detriment. However, there have been players who have been able to over come it.
I fully agree with you that skill doesn’t necessarily translate, but there are players who clearly will never make the NHL, players who might given the opportunity and the drive, and players who are all but certain. Some of the players in the middle may rise to the occasion, some may not and some who seem to be a certainty may bottom out.
dayle91/08 Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 12:51 am
@steve, ya i like kozun skill set fursure ive been saying all along the dude knows how to put the puck in the net dangles all day we need some showtime,the kid can bring it! this is LA after all.
[Reply]
Bring up Cliche.
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Simarosa Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 1:54 pm
@Mckully,
Word around Manchester is that he’s injured and out for the season.
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holly Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 7:11 pm
@Simarosa, Thumb out possibly until the end of the regular season.
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/sepaku?
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friarking Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:45 am
@BadFishToo, lol
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soyokaze Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 2:36 pm
@BadFishToo,
You mean: “seppuku”
[Reply]
mcsorleyfan Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 12:08 am
@BadFishToo, meh, we got the “point”…um.. N/M
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Is Loktionov still injured?
[Reply]
Darren Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:11 am
@Kingswin, Yes.
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FemaleFan#1 Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 12:32 pm
@Darren That’s too bad. He would take a little of the sting away
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You da man rich! Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 1:36 pm
@Kingswin, I knew that one would come back to bite us! Our collective cheeks are now sore and bleeding…
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LicoriceBiscuit Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 2:18 pm
@Kingswin,
Yeah, he is done for the season as well.
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Peter Herald
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Dominick Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 2:46 pm
@LA KING BOBchi, Agreed. That’s what he’s their for (technically for defensive depth, but now we need a forward).
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i thought i heard scott parse is sksting with the team?? how far away is he??
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wavesinair Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:21 am
@richie rich, far.
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Harry Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:31 am
@richie rich,
Plus Parse is not a center.
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King John Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:52 am
@Harry, But Richardson can be a center, so too bad Parse is not ready. We thought we didn’t need him because he’d be back in March, but now that we could use him, he’s still not ready.
[Reply]
Dominick Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 2:48 pm
@Harry, We have enough depth at center to try to make do, but that leaves a hole at the wings.
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I’m scared for our boys. No recalls? Wow.
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Uhhh go back in time , my plan
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I’d like to see the Kings call up Cliche, but if they won’t be bringing anyone up from Manch, I’d give Harrold a shot at the fourth-line right wing. We’re going to have to rely on our defense and goaltending to win games (which we’ve been doing all year anyway), and I’d rather have Harrold, who is defensively responsible, than Westgarth, who, let’s face it, is a liability. He can’t score, PLUS he’s been responsible for some pretty boneheaded plays this year that cost us goals and games. Fighting goes down significantly in the playoffs, so the one thing Westgarth can actually do will be a nonfactor.
I’m still really bummed about Kopi, but after almost 24 hours to think about it, we can still do this if we rely on our strengths: D and goaltending. Why change what has made us successful so far?
Bottom line, GO KINGS!
[Reply]
NJKingsFan Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:14 am
@Gabby, Cliche is hurt. Rumor is he had thumb surgery but no conformation of that. He hasn’t played here in a week.
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Nikki Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:16 am
@Gabby, Cliche is out for the season with a thumb injury.
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wavesinair Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:27 am
@Gabby,
1. Cliche is hurt and is week to week with an upper body injury. I read on the Manchester Facebook page that he had thumb surgery and he’s out for the season.
2. While agree with your conclusion about Westgarth not being the answer, I don’t think you can name a game (let alone more than one) where he’s been the cause for a loss.
[Reply]
Gabby Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:38 am
@wavesinair,
Sucks about Cliche. I didn’t know that. Thanks for the update.
As for Westgarth, the game that comes to mind is the Phoenix game in which Hanzal “scored” with the high stick. After the lengthy delay during the b.s. review, Westgarth committed a turnover that led to an odd-man rush, and the Coyotes scored. It was less than a minute after the official time of the first “goal.” (I have to use quotes because I’m still so pissed that it counted.) Anyway, the Kings, who were already in shock after getting screwed over by Toronto and the refs, never recovered after Westgarth’s blunder and lost the game 2-0.
You can argue that Murray’s to blame for putting the fourth line out there after the first “goal” when the first shift after a tally is so important. And believe me, I don’t understand the decision either. And yes, I know everyone makes mistakes, and you can’t hold one guy responsible for the loss. However, Westgarth plays 3-5 minutes a game, NEVER scores, and is certainly not out there for his defensive play. His margin for error is much smaller, so he better make every second he’s out there count for the better. Therefore, every time he makes a mistake, it’s that much more significant because someone else has to pick up the slack. You know he’s not going to be out there with a minute left trying to tie up a game with the goalie pulled.
I’m not trying to bash Westie; just stating the facts.
[Reply]
wavesinair Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 12:20 pm
@Gabby,
Not to belabor the point… I agree that “you can’t hold one guy responsible for the loss,” yet that’s exactly what you did in your first post with Westgarth… “he’s been responsible for some pretty boneheaded plays this year that cost us goals and games.”
I think Ivanans was a far great liability than Westgarth. And I think Westy did a great job in proving it this year. So good for him, but yeah, keep him on the bench. Better yet, get rid of enforcers all together.
Dominick Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 2:55 pm
@wavesinair, I totally agree with #2, but if Westy does play, he’ll play more than his usual 5 minutes, and be expected to actually play. He hasn’t been the cause of any of the losses in any of the games he’s played in, but he hasn’t contributed much to help as far as solid forchecking either.
Considering what we just loss, addition by subtraction is way off there.
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fuzzerson Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 12:01 pm
@Gabby, Silver lining ….. in the playoffs teams try to shut down the top guy/line, since it will be scoring by committee, it could be teams wont be able to game plan around shuting any one line down.
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bleedblueking Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 8:20 pm
@fuzzerson, the problem with that is, just kopitar’s prescence on the ice made coaches game plan around him so all the top defenders and shut down offensive lines would be on the ice when kopitar is on the ice. now, our second and third lines will likely not get the same opportunities they did before, our best centerman is now stoll whose line i think will now see the most pottent defensive lines from here on out, we need penner and stoll to pick up their games temendously and hopefully brownie keeps up the recent surge that hes on
[Reply]
Best to get Harry to lace em up. Have Richie go to center and move Lewis up to the third line and maybe bump Stoll to the first line. I don’t think TM will use Lewis and Moller on the same line because having that much speed basically goes against everything the Kings do.
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Eggplant Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:08 pm
@TradedForAPick, It also seemed to me that Smyth and Lewis were developing a decent chemistry in the last parts of the Avs game (see their 2 goals and 1 near-goal). Also, Stolly’s been our #1 faceoff guy, would make sense to bump him up to the 1st line. I’m with you on everything you said there. So, the lineup would be something along these lines:
Penner-Stoll-Moller
Smyth-Lewis-Brown
Ponikarovsky-Handzus-Simmonds
Clifford-Richardson-Westgarth/Harrold
That’s not too bad. Could use some help in the 4th line, definitely, but… That’s not too bad.
[Reply]
take the body on both ends of the ice.
adopt a boring d first nashville approach.
believe in quick.
hope a sloppy goal or two is enough.
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wavesinair Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:28 am
@nickdoh,
Nashville should adopt a boring d first LA approach.
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nickdoh Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 12:15 pm
@wavesinair, yeahhhh, that…
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FemaleFan#1 Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 12:40 pm
@nickdoh, I am the first to back Quick’s ability, but think back to this time last season. We did a lot of relying on his the latter part of last season and by the time we met Vancouver in the first round, he was super tired. I’m surprised that he’s been at goal so much lately. We need him now more than ever and I cringe thinking that he just won’t have 100% to give us in the playoffs.
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Drewiske in, JJ to forward for a couple of games.
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Jared Dichter Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:15 am
@MMF, that would be interesting to see and i think its a pretty good idea. but it is a big change for him at the end of the year.
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jonsey Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:19 am
@MMF, Might be fun to see Johnson with no defensive responisibility……..oh wait.
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Beast88 Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 1:32 pm
@jonsey, lol!
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soyokaze Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 2:39 pm
@jonsey, That was GOLD!
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KC23 Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 3:21 pm
@jonsey, Hehee. Actually, I agree 100%. Least it would give him an excuse for bad reads.
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Jstin Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:19 am
@MMF, They way he plays defense that might not be a bad idea… I bet he wouldn’t mind it either.
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Duckbasher Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:43 am
@MMF – I agree. I’ve discussed this with my son (an ex WHL’er) many times in the past. And we agree that TM should at least consider JJ or DD playing forward. They are the most dangerous players (offensively) on the ice in many situations for the Kings. They way they skate and pass I think it’s not a far fetched idea. Like Ryan Smyth and TM have touted… “opportunity”. GO KINGS!
[Reply]
Pili Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 2:17 pm
@Duckbasher, Funny I was thinking the same thing last night as I pondered the options with Anze out. I thought I was alone with such a preposterous notion, especially since I had just finished a martini.
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Kings x Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 3:31 pm
@Duckbasher, DD doesn’t really seem to know what to do when he carries the puck in past te blue line with speed. He doesn’t attack the net or have a set play/pass in mind. He usually ends up fizzing out in the corner then dumps it. I would be interested to see JJ.
[Reply]
Cowboy Bill Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:49 am
@MMF, interesting thought! I have told my two sons as we watch every Kings game on TV that Doughty would make a terrific forward because of his skating, stick-handling and passing, and strength on the puck. That said, it would be interesting to see Jack Johnson up front, too.
Good to see Trevor “Huey and the News” Lewis light the lamp yesterday. Hard worker and highly skilled – now if he can score us some goals, he just might be part of the answer.
My vote, however, would go to calling up Schenn if it is possible under the emergency or injury allowed recalls. I really think he’s going to be a star for a long time!
[Reply]
dahack11 Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 12:00 pm
@MMF, That’sbeen my thought too. JJ at center. He has offensive talent & can skate. We have more depth on defense anyways & no real scoring center (outside of Schenn & Lokitionov) on the farm.
[Reply]
HockeyNerd Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 1:30 pm
@MMF, Was listening to Nick Nixon yesterday. Someone called in suggesting that. He (Nick) said JJ is needed badly exactly where he is and that TM wouldn’t even be considering that as an option…..
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Kenny44 Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 3:10 pm
@MMF, That’s the option that puts our best current players on the ice. It really could work – JJ already looks pretty good playing “rover” on the PP lately. And there is precedent for it – Harrold. Although I doubt DL and TM would be willing to sacrifice JJ’s development as a d-man during crunch time.
[Reply]
ike Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 5:40 pm
@MMF, How about put Bernier at center and JJ on wing. Luc and Fox can come out of retirement too while you are at it.
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In the Net Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 6:06 pm
@ike, Ya no kidding. These posters know so much, the Kings should fire TM and hire all the critics on this list and let them coach by committee.
[Reply]
I say stick Harrold in there in the 4th line. He’s at least somewhat of a scoring threat as compared to Drewiske or Westgarth and probably the best 2 way player in that healthy group…
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Dominick Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 3:09 pm
@SaveByCechmanek, Agreed. If they don’t call up a player that is how it should be.
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KC23 Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 3:24 pm
@SaveByCechmanek, That is what will probably happen, but I like the JJ to forward idea better.
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I will looking forward to hearing what constitutes an emergency situation…this sure feels like one. C’mon lewis, Smyth, and Poni… step up!! Great finish by Smyth & Lewis in period 3.
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Puck2DaHead Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:15 am
@madmatt, I’ve been rooting for Lewis ever since the Vegas game. Man, out of that whole team that showed up in the preseason matchup, Lewis single-handedly killed off almost a minute and a half on one single possession of PK. He is probably our best defensive forward now that Kopi is down.
Go LEWIS!!
[Reply]
wavesinair Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:43 am
@madmatt,
Someone mentioned that one emergency situation already occurred last season in November ’09 when Schenn played that one game in Vancouver.
The situation occurs when there’s an injury (Stoll and Loktionov in that scenario) but the team doesn’t have time to call up a player from the minors in time for the next game.
In that situation, the Kings were playing back-to-back against the Oilers and Canucks. Stoll was injured and Lokti took his place in the Oilers game. That’s when Lokti hurt his shoulder (the first time).
So the Kings were down a center for the game that night against Canucks and that’s when Lombardi brought in Schenn for that one game on a tryout basis.
Of course, this could all be completely wrong as it pertains to the “vary narrow” emergency recall circumstances.
[Reply]
John Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 12:51 pm
@wavesinair,
This can be an emergency situation just for DL where he say’s “screw it” and burns a year on Schenn’s contract, no? Didn’t we do that with Jack? Seems it would be a GREAT experience for Schenn to get a taste of the playoffs!
[Reply]
wavesinair Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 12:59 pm
@John,
Regardless of whether or not it’s realistic, I do believe Schenn is more ready than he has ever been to step into the NHL.
In fact, I think it’s obvious that from his domination this year in Junior and his being the clear-cut number one prospect, he has nothing left to learn down there, or even in the AHL.
I also think, from reading quotes by him, that he would absolutely relish the opportunity. If there is a way, I hope it happens.
Mind you that he wouldn’t replace Kopi. And I wouldn’t expect him to dominate. But I do think it would be great experience for him going into next season.
John Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 1:16 pm
@John,
Yeah, totally, just play him at 4th line center with the least pressure. Stoll-Handzus-Lewis-Schenn is pretty damn formidable down the middle!
loskingpride Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 2:56 pm
@madmatt, I can’t remember where I read it but in order to the Kings to be able to call up Schenn on an emergency at this time is if another roster player is injured. *knock on wood*
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 3:26 pm
@madmatt, I am also wonder what this “emergency” call up is defined as. I read somewhere it had to do with 3 critical injuries. Parse, Williams and Kopitar sure fits that bill except that Parse is not a centerman. Perhaps it has to be all the same position?
[Reply]
Now is really the time for Smyth to start scoring, Stoll to take leadership, and Brown to continue being our workhorse. All the other pieces are in place: Simmonds, Zeus, Poni, Lewis, all of our Defense, and JQ. We really need Smyth and Stoll back to early-season-par.
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1st I’d like to see Stoll as the 1st line center. I think that will be a good fit and maybe get him to produce a little more which we obviously need, especially out of him and and Zues and everyone else.
Secondly, I wouldn’t mind having Schenn come up, but we all know there are more options down in Manchester that can come up and provide a hard 60 minute effort through out the remaining 7 games and hopefully the first few rounds of the playoffs. Harrold isn’t a terrible choice it just seems that sometimes when he plays his head isn’t always in it fully.
then again I’m not Terry Murry.
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kingsfanftw Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 1:17 pm
@Jared Dichter, if stoll is getting the 1st line center i lost all hope.
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Jared Dichter Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 2:39 pm
@kingsfanftw, why is that?? he has proven he can score goals. And believe me the loss of Kopitar is not the end of the world. One man does not make or break a team. The Kings are a strong young team who have shown resilience and I believe are able to succeed with or with out Kopitar. Its gonna take everyone to put together solid 60 minute efforts night in and night out through out the remaining 7 games and all rounds of the playoffs. I BELIEVE IN THE LOS ANGELES KINGS ANS EVERYONE ELSE SHOULD TOO!!!
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Holloway
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jonsey Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:20 am
@corey, Best choice, but we are short on VETERANS. Paul Kariya? jk
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Token Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:20 am
@corey, I second that. If experience is a determining factor, Clune and Zeiler have big league games behind them and can work the fourth line just fine.
My overall favorite: George Bud Holloway III.
[Reply]
BubbaDel Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:25 am
@Token, agree…its time to see what Bud can do for a while
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Continue to double-shift a winger and leave Westgarth in the press box.
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i think they can go three ways…
1. play westgarth
2. play harrold
3. call someone up
to me, this team needs more offense and depth. westgarth is an option but he only plays 3-5 minutes a night which will tax the top forwards who already will be playing more than usual without Kopitar. it makes sense to spread out the minutes when you lose two of your top minute guys. playing westgarth will do the opposite so i don’t think westgarth makes any sense.
harrold can play the fourth line LW as well and is probably the safest play. he can play 8-10 minutes on the fourth line, is defensively responsible and can even play the point on the power play if needed. i like that option better than westgarth.
personally, i would call someone up. i know Manchester is getting ready for the playoffs as well and it would hurt them to lose someone, but i’m pretty sure that junior guys will start showing up there so maybe they can handle losing someone. three guys that come to mind are Holloway, King and Kozun. King played a few games previously with the Kings and knows the system to an extent. he’s a big body and can play in the top 9. i’d like to see Holloway play. he proved last year he is a big game player and he’s had a great year. i’d love to see him get a chance. Kozun is a long shot but he’s an offensive player and this team could use some more offense.
i think they will go with Westgarth but i think Harrold is a better choice although i’d rather see a kid get a chance.
[Reply]
Punt. It can’t get any worse, right?
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wavesinair Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:44 am
@Meg Jarrell,
It can always get worse!
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EWWWWWWW that 1st line is slower than a Curling team on ice….switch Stoll and Handzus and keep Lewis on the 2nd line
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jonsey Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:21 am
@Paul G, Never play Smyth and Handzus together again.
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Kings x Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 3:33 pm
@jonsey, I call it the dirt line. They are all slower than…
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Dave' a Killer Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 1:25 pm
@Paul G, I agree. Lewis looked pretty good up there. He seemed to bring out more from Smythe
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KC23 Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 3:38 pm
@Paul G, Lewis’s offense numbers are … well, they’re offensive, but he has played only 2 periods with offensively skilled wingers this year and that was Sunday against the Avs. A goal and an assist. Not a bad start. We might see the maturation of a young center’s scoring ability in the NHL. Most of the year the only time Lewis played with quality players is on the PK and Lewis has certainly held his own in that department.
Lewis on that 2nd line will be interesting as both Brown and Lewis have plenty of speed.
[Reply]
Cliche is done for the season. Radio broadcast Friday night said he didn’t make the trip to Norfolk. Don’t know what the injury is.
My preference would be to have the Kings use the guys currently sitting around than to call someone up from Manchester. Our playoff chances are dim already without Moller, let alone calling up Holloway or King.
[Reply]
Whatever happened to Corey Elkins?
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wavesinair Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:51 am
@Not So Quick,
He’s actually my first choice for a replacement center. He’s playing center in Manchester. He has 18 goals and 24 assists in 72 games this season.
But the more I think about it, the more I believe Richie will be the 4th center and Lombardi will call up a winger.
The big question is, does management believe that anyone in Manchester (or possibly elsewhere) is ready to make an impact at the NHL level.
In other words, is any player so on fire that they think they can step in and seize the moment?
Maybe someone watching Monarchs games regularly can weigh in…
[Reply]
Why not put Moller at Center (his natural position), second or third line and give Stoll a chance to center the top line.
Penner-Stoll-Simmonds
Smyth-Moller-Brown
Poni-Zeus-Richie
Cliffy-Lewis-Whiskey
[Reply]
lafan13 Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:22 am
@Jeremy, i could be wrong, but i thought moller’s natural position is right wing.
[Reply]
Harry Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:34 am
@lafan13, Moller is a natural Center.
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jonsey Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:23 am
@Jeremy, I thought Whiskey was Williams?
Smyth Stoll Penner
Moller Handzus Brown
Ponikarovsky Lewis Simmonds
Clifford Richardson Harrold
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MARTY Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 7:29 pm
@jonsey, i like that combo, now wiskey for all.
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LAPD line Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 10:49 pm
@jonsey,
Moller Stoll Penner
Poni Handzus Simmonds
Smyth Lewis Brown
Clifford Richardson Harrold
Top 3 lines would be 1a, 1b, 1c until a line earned the extra minutes. I think Smyth and Lewis seemed to be developing something there.
Best choice to me is bring up Schenn if possible… I couldn’t care less about burning that first year of contract… if things go as expected we will sign him long-term well before his UFA year. In that case put Schenn in Lewis’s spot. move Lewis into Richie’s spot, and Richie replaces Harold on the wing.
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Paul G Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:23 am
@Jeremy, Trust me on this
Penner-Stoll-Simmonds
Ponikarovksy-Lewis-Moller
Smyth-Handzus-Brown
Clifford-Richardson-Harold
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jonsey Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:25 am
@Paul G, Why are Brown Smyth and Handzus playing as a THIRD line?
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Cheezypoofs Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 12:22 pm
@Paul G,
You are the first to make a decent line up. Stoll on 1C is a bit rough, but I understand why you chose him.
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Luuc Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:28 am
@Jeremy,
Second that. Moller and Stoll can rotate based on effectiveness. Switch Whiskey with Harrold. More versatile in that role.
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Jeremy Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 3:11 pm
@Luuc, I agree with you. I forgot about Harrold.
@Jonsey Whiskey is Drewiske
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jonsey Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 9:05 pm
@Jeremy, My bad. But Drewiske might not be a good choice for F positions. I’m not doctor, but I think he is a stay at home D man.
Tell Luc to get outta the office and lace ‘em up!
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Mikey J. Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 12:19 pm
@9thround2hof09, Hey Teemu is still playing, what year did the Jets leave Winnipeg? Bring em in LW 2nd Line.
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TerryCrisp'sTie Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 3:22 pm
Cheer’s to that!
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Mikus!!!!
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I agree with others, play Harry on the fourth line, at least against Edm. to see how it works.
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It is going to be okay, it is the will of the Hockey Gods to show the other players that they too are LA Kings!
LET’S GO KINGS!!!!!!
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Duckbasher Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:53 am
@blckbsct, This is where the “TEAM” shows what they’re made of.
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Hey Rich,
can u ask Murray if he is considering moving Johnson up as a forward?
(he’ll be better i bet, he play offense and struggles with d anyway)
And then they can replace him by moving up Martinez and putting Drewiske in Alec’s old spot
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Raitis Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:41 am
@Paul G,
No. No. No. Eh, no.
Johnson will never move up to forward he’s too valuable on D.
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Paul G Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:45 am
@Raitis, -16 or whatever he is, seems to be soooo valuable on D…..move him up Byfuglien
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Raitis Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:53 am
@Paul G,
+\- is a useless stat. Johnson is a big part of the D why take him out when the kings major focus is Def.?
Duckbasher Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:56 am
@Raitis, I respectfully disagree. He’s an incredible skater and play maker. He just signed a long-term contract is dedicated to this team. I say ask him. And if he wants to… DO IT!
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Raitis Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 12:35 pm
@Duckbasher, JJ is 1 of your top 4 D. This won’t happen. People have said it for awhile now.
Paul G Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:48 am
@Paul G, So itll be
Johnson-Stoll-Brown
Smyth-Lewis-Moller
Penner-Handzus-Simmonds
Clifford-Richardson-Ponikarovksy
Mitchell-Doughty
Martinez-Scuderi
Drewiske-Greene
1st line will work
2nd has chemistry
3rd player have to wake up
4th line…better than Westgarth
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John Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 12:56 pm
@Paul G,
WHY would you start an experiment with 7 games left in the regular season?
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Paul G Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 4:02 pm
@John, oh I forgot…ur intelligence has reminded me that we should leave the lines how they are and play Kopitar……
WAKE UP WE CANT SCORE AND KOPI IS HURT….changes r necessary
mash-ola Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 2:28 pm
@Paul G, Were you the guy who called Kings Talk yesterday with suggesting that they move JJ up to forward? (To which Daryl Evans promptly replied (negative buzzer noise) eeeeeeeeeeeeehhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!). Although at times it seems JJ would make a great forward, now is not the time to go crazy with experimentations. Johnson’s asset is puck rushing, so that’s where he shoud stay, in my opinion.
Losing Kopitar hurts, but there’s no reason to panic and go crazy with position/line shuffling. They’re pros, and even though they have lost two great players, there are still 22+ still ready to battle, so let’s give them a chance and see what they can do.
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Paul G Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 4:00 pm
@mash-ola, No and JJ is terrible defensively….I’ll take Randy Jones and Mike Green on a PK before Johnson
wavesinair Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:54 am
@Paul G,
There is little to no chance that JJ will be a forward, and little just left town.
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Nitrohockey Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 6:13 pm
@wavesinair, I agree. No to the McSorely experiment revisited. JJ stays on Defense. We shift our lines around, and everyone on the team needs to reach down and find another level. Improvise, adapt, overcome and BELIEVE!!!
[Reply]
Next season, we should boycott any afternoon game that is “squeezed” between basketball games on Friday and Saturday nights. Get the crappers and their loser owner outta here.
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Steve W Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 12:14 am
@empty netter, You mean the Lakers? lol!
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Empty Netter Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 12:28 pm
@Steve W,
clippers…….they HAVE to play on saturdays, since the lakers have most fridays / sundays.
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Steve W Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 6:43 pm
@Empty Netter, I know- I just hate the Lakers and wish Kobe was out for the season! Also the Clippers should move to Anaheim, and the Sacramento Kings should move to Kansas City!
This will sound crazy, but remember Brown played center for team USA last year:
Penner-Zeus-Moller
Smyth-Brown-Poni
Clifford-Stoll-Simmer
Richie-Lewis-Harrold
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Paul G Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:45 am
@2hitnik, and what place did they come in? Oh yeah
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Raitis Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 2:47 pm
@Paul G,
I’m not saying they should do this but they lost to CANADA. Not embarrassing in anyway.
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Paul G Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 8:41 pm
@Raitis, damn right! I’m Canadian
Raitis Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 9:19 pm
@Paul G,
Canada was expected to win. Didn’t pull an upset
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King John Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:57 am
@2hitnik, The Kings have many centers in the system, two of whom on the current roster play wings: Moller and Richardson. We don’t need Brown at center.
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Mikey J. Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 12:57 pm
@King John, “a little” sorry I’ve been following this morning’s plan.
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Cheezypoofs Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 4:05 pm
@2hitnik,
Kesler centered Ryan and Brown for the olympics. Brown may have centered once or twice, but he was on RW for the most part.
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Penner-Stoll-Moller
Smyth-Lewis-Brown
Poni-Handzus-Simmonds
Clifford-Richardson-Harold/Westgarth
Smyth and Lewis showed good chemistry yesterday in the 3.period.
I think Handzus is too slow together with Penner. Penner and Stoll played together in Edm.
[Reply]
tornado12 Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 1:11 pm
@Peter32, I think this is exactly what we will see to start the next game!
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IceGuy Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 1:41 pm
@Peter32,
I actually like what you propose for the lines.
I’m a big believer in Harry on the 4th line.
My only question would be – what are Lewis’s numbers on face offs?
Other than that (and keeping Westy in the press box) this could work.
My other suggestion from earlier is to split JJ and DD on the Power Play, and make them both “rovers”.
[Reply]
Duckhunter Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 3:18 pm
@Peter32, like and think these will be the lines…I’ve seen alot of proposed lines with Zeus and Penner together and agree toooooo sloooooow. I think that TM will try Harry for a couple of games…if doesn’t work I think we’ll see a call up Clune or Zeiler(not great choices…but they have the most experience)….doubt we’ll go into the playoffs with Westy as a permanent choice on the wing (game or 2 here or there).
I know we’ll get to the playoffs…and who know what can happen….1 hot goalie and a collective team effort and the Cup could be in LA.
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Kings x Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 3:38 pm
@Peter32, Good lines. I think we can scratch wragarth from here on out
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I’m still in shock but on the other hand I actually like the new lines. Just add Harold on the 4th and that would be simply the best we have at the moment.
Hopfully we make the play off brake through and that we survive the 1st round. As well I believe in quick recovery of our two best forwards!!! Praying for miracle to get Kopi and JW back sooner than expected!!!
GKG
[Reply]
Is Richard Clune available?
[Reply]
GOKINGSGO Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:36 am
@Rainman, Clune and Cliche are both out with injuries
[Reply]
I just posted this on the last thread, but it’s more relevant here…
Too bad for Penner: He has lost both of his linemates in a week.
It’s interesting that Smyth and Lewis clicked. Maybe they should play together
Lately also Brown and Handzus seem to like to play together.
I hope Westgarth isn’t the player replacing Kopi. I want to see someone else.
I think I would switch Brown and Moller on the lines.
Possible top 3 lines for now?:
Penner – Handzus – Brown
Smyth – Lewis – Moller
Poni – Stoll – Simmonds
I would normally put Stoll on line 2, but I liked Smyth & Lewis together.
Actually line 3 can also be like a line 2.
[Reply]
LomitaKingsFan Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 12:01 pm
@King John, Hmm, I kinda like these lines. To round it out use a 4th line of:
Clifford – Richardson – Harrold
Not the biggest line, but I have a feeling they can still put pressure in the offensive zone like they have been lately.
[Reply]
Mikey J. Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 12:54 pm
@King John, That could be a winning hand right there. Yes indeed. My depression just cleared at little. Thanks!
[Reply]
@Jeremy, the 4th line u have looks more like the drink i had this AM when i woke up with a hang over after drinking my sorrows away as soon as i got home from the game yesterday!…. Oh and i just wanted to say how much i hate 1pm games!…
[Reply]
There was one good thing that I think came out of this. The chemistry with Smyth and Lewis. They looked like they’d been playing together all year. Put them together and might give us a little extra offense.
[Reply]
Time for a callup for LA born Kozun!
[Reply]
wavesinair Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:57 am
@Raitis,
I love this idea. If there’s any chance management believes he’s even remotely ready, I’d love it. On the other hand, I’ve been pushing for Holloway to get a shot for a long time. I’d be happy to see either one.
[Reply]
Raitis Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 12:40 pm
@wavesinair, Bud has had 2 solid seasons I wouldn’t mind seeing him up here, one of the two should get a shot, even if it’s only the fourth line. Makes it a pretty fast line. Clifford/richie/(kozun/holloway)
[Reply]
tornado12 Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 1:14 pm
@wavesinair, unfortunately i dont think DL is gonna call anyone up! Unless another injury or if the team goes on a losing streak (which I think is unlikely)
[Reply]
kingkrazy Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 12:23 pm
@Raitis, I think we could use some one like Kozun with all that speed he has to back up the D. He’s been tearing it up in the A lately s well.
[Reply]
Raitis Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 12:43 pm
@kingkrazy, Especially for a rookie. Great shot and has a lot of speed
[Reply]
I don’t know how we should line up the centers, but keep Zues and Brown together, as well as Smyth and Lewis.
[Reply]
King John Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:49 am
@Mikey J., Yeah, that’s what I have above.
[Reply]
I think moving up DD or JJ to forward couldn’t be a bad experiment for the Edmonton game on Tuesday. Both are offensive minded and we have depth at D. Try it, couldn’t hurt!
[Reply]
wavesinair Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:59 am
@KingT,
Where do you guys come up with this stuff? Has there been even an inkling of indication that this is remotely possible by anyone in the organization? It’s not going to happen.
[Reply]
KingT Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 12:06 pm
@wavesinair, All I’m saying, is for playing a team like Edmonton, it would be a good experiment. Better than bringing back up Harold on offense, (terrible) which is probably all they’re gonna do anyway.
[Reply]
wavesinair Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 12:22 pm
@KingT,
Stranger things have happened, I’ll grant you that. I just don’t see how this is even remotely in the cards. It flies in the face of everything the Kings have indicated they are trying to do with the young d-men.
John Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 1:02 pm
@KingT,
Why do you want to mess around with two points that we’re going to have to fight for??
Michael J. Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 1:52 pm
@KingT,
NO! Insert harry, keep D as usual and beat Edmonton. The Kings need these two points desperately.
Besides, moving eithe DD or JJ up will never happen. They are gifted and skilled defensemen-they play on the back end for a reason-they are really good at it.
kingsfanftw Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 12:55 pm
@wavesinair, Dustin Byfuglien has been moved between forward and defense quite a lot, and excelled in both positions. its not a crazy suggestion.
[Reply]
raitis Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 3:04 pm
@kingsfanftw,
Actually DB’s natural position was always D.
its not like he learned an amazing defense outlook in the summer.
It would be cool if they could do in the nhl like they do in the English Premiership. You can loan out a player from one team to another team. I mean we could maybe be loaned Parise for the playoffs (?) or, let’s see, who else is out there? How bout more reasonable expectations….. how bout Stephen Weiss from the Panthers. Don’t know if it would work with Matt Duchesne as he’s in the western division.
I know this is a silly thread…. but it Is true that they do loans in the Premiership.
[Reply]
Kings x Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 3:41 pm
@number 6, Go back to football. Chelsea blue is going to take it !!!!
[Reply]
Paul M. Hedberg Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 6:21 pm
@number 6, Aston Villa all the waaay…I know,I know stuggling badly this season.They’re usually up on the table fairly decent.Injuries I guess.
[Reply]
As a coach myself, it’s called deal with adversity. Do the best you can with what you have and the boys are gonna all have to STEP IT UP
[Reply]
Parse can finally come back from being hurt.
[Reply]
What about Bud Halloway. He would be great for clutch situations and can be a big boost for our club.
[Reply]
wavesinair Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 12:00 pm
@ryanzlakings,
He’s first on my list. He was money in last year’s playoffs and he’s having another great season. Seems to me he’s due for a shot.
The problem is, I have no idea what management thinks of his game. He could simply be a career AHLer as far as they are concerned.
[Reply]
GOKINGSGO Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 12:54 pm
@wavesinair, I think the person being called I would most likely be a extra body or rotating 4th liner, while using the guys we got now who are fully capable to step up their individual games and come together as a winning team. so i don’t see why management would take top guys Holloway, Azzy from a winner AHL team getting ready for playoffs where they are projected to go deep. that includes King.
I think if anyone gets the call to be a filler, it will be someone like Zeiler, has NHL experience and wouldn’t like a gaping hole in Manchester. Its a little late in the season and due to current circumstances to be experimenting on AHL rookie Kozun snipe show or not.
[Reply]
wavesinair Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 1:12 pm
@GOKINGSGO,
The only problem is scoring. And while I do think our guys will try to step up, there is no reason to expect them to replace those goals.
You said: “so i don’t see why management would take top guys Holloway, Azzy from a winner AHL team getting ready for playoffs”
Uh, “management” just took manchester’s best offensive player, Moller, last week.
If you think about it, if what you said held true, Oscar wouldn’t have been called up when JW, a top six, went down.
So I’m just following precedent here. Another top six goes down, we bring in a guy from the minors who has top six potential.
Makes sense to me. Made sense to Lombardi last week.
The bottom line is, is anyone else ready?
I don’t know the answer to this. But I do know that if DL thinks it can help the Kings NOW, he’ll do it. The Monarchs playoff hopes are not the priority. Their entire existence is for one main purpose, to develop players for the NHL.
In other words, better them than us.
cliche…
[Reply]
wavesinair Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 12:01 pm
@lak67,
injured…
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is there anyone we can grab from the Swedish elite League or KHL? Ok,,,I guess we would have done that a long time ago if there was someone worth plucking…So my vote is Harrold,,or King from Manchester.
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Eggplant Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:25 pm
@Ravens, Maxim Afinogenov!
[Reply]
Off topic, I’m thankful we didn’t lose Cliffy.. I could see why everybody was worried when he was out of the line up.
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Penner-Zeus-Brown
Smyth- Stoll -Poni
Clifford-Lewis-Simmer
Richie-Moller-Harrold
I thought Moller was a Center in Manchester anyway…
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Jordan Weal? His juniors team didn’t make the tourney, and he can score.
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Is it too late for us to trade for Richards now? :p
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I don’t think it’s going to be as bad as evryone thinks for a couple reasons:
1. Don’t get me worng as I am one of the biggest Kopi fans out here but, the difference in talent between NHL players is very small. If your in the NHL you can play the game peroid.
2. The Kings are Defense first. I realive that Kopi was a prt of that but our core is still in tact and one of the best if not the best in the league. Put Quick or Bernier behind that and we’ll be ok.
3. DL has preached putting the right players in the room. I believe he’s done just that. These guys will rise above.
I have to believe this as a very long time King fan or I might as well pack it in for the year.
[Reply]
kinginsaltlake Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 12:25 pm
@Lvhatrick, I agree
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kingsfanftw Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 12:46 pm
@Lvhatrick, first off the difference in talent between NHL players is very very big. look at kopi 1st line center then stoll who played more than half the year as the 2nd line center. big difference in talent, big difference in play style, big difference in vision. sure every player in the NHL can put it under the crossbar from the top of the paint but its the talent under pressure that is measured and thats we’re losing. second the ducks were held out of the playoffs last year when they lost ryan getzlaf. the stars lost brad richardson and went from 4th to 9th. so i have to disagree, losing your 1st line center is as bad as everyone thinks.
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kingsfanftw Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 12:47 pm
@kingsfanftw, edit: brad richards not richardson, that ones ours haha
[Reply]
Shotongoal Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 8:14 pm
@Lvhatrick, wish I could share the optimism with you, but not on this one. This is a HUGE loss, 10 times bigger loss than JW. Hope for the best though.
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I wouldn’t mind seeing what Doughty or Johnson could do as a forward. I think we’re more capable of succesfully shuffling defensemen around than forwards because Drewiskie and Harold have shown that they are more than capable of filling in and Martinez has proven that he belongs in the NHL. Also, having a Doughty or a Johnson up front would put a star back up into an offensive position.
[Reply]
Duckbasher Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 3:56 pm
@koufax, – I agree whole heartedly that it’s an option. Kings mgmt has to see what every Kings fan has witnessed over the past couple of seasons. JJ and DD are incredibly skilled/talented hockey players. They are two of the best puck handlers and skaters on the ice. Both are proven scorers. They know the system and their linemates. Martinez is undoubtedly playing great D and contributing in every way. And Whisky or Harrold can fill in the missing spot. I don’t think it’s a crazy notion at all. Who knows, maybe one of them turns out to be that “sniper” we’ve been looking for?
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Resign Gretzky…..
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dahack11 Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 12:09 pm
@dahack11, or Dionne…..
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how about dwight king?
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GOKINGSGO Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 7:00 pm
@tbj, if and when they decide that not bringing someone up is just lazy and stupid i think dwight king will be a pretty solid candidate, he has some experience already, can score goals, and his size alone brings a lot, god hes huge !
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The more I think about it, the more it makes sense that we are set at the center position.
No one from outside the current lineup will be better than Richardson. So it’s clear to me that he will be the 4th center for the duration.
That leaves scoring as the main problem. There are a number of options from Manchester:
Holloway: 26 goals
King: 24 goals
Kozun: 21 goals
Elkins: 18 goals
Those are your choices for firepower. Which one is ready to step into the fire, I have no idea.
Holloway deserves a shot. LA born Kozun would be a great story. King has been here and played on the first line. Elkins is more defensive-minded but can score too.
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kinginsaltlake Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 12:18 pm
@wavesinair, Holloway would be my pick. By the looks of things were going with the guys we got. I think we’ll be ok. Guess we won’t know till next game. This season has been one we will never forget. Madness I tell ya, Madness!!!!!
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wavesinair Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 12:27 pm
@kinginsaltlake,
Despite Rich’s post indicating, it makes sense to find some offense now and get that person in the mix. Or at least try. It boarders on incompetence not to at least give someone a chance to show what they can do. It’s very obvious that the guys listed above are far more offensive than anyone we currently have sitting on the bench.
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kingkrazy Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 12:34 pm
@wavesinair, we have enough centers and left wingers. Holloway and king play on the left … right? My vote is for the California Kid.
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wavesinair Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 12:43 pm
@kingkrazy,
I’m all for the King debut of Kozun the Kalifornia Kid if they think he’s ready. Yeah, Hollow and King are Lefties, but no biggie there. Poni plays right wing so it’s an easy fix.
The key is who management think is ready, if anyone.
The other option, which I didn’t think of, is putting Penner at center. I read that he has played center in the past, but I don’t know when or if he actually did.
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Kings x Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 3:41 pm
@wavesinair,
[Reply]
Well, now what you ask? Simple….
Win.
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kinginsaltlake Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 12:15 pm
@Cynic, We can always count on you Cynic. Logic I tell you, Logic.
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wavesinair Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 12:47 pm
@Cynic,
I might be the first to admit this, but it occurred to me that I would actually be bummed if the Kings won the Stanley Cup without Kopitar in the lineup.
Crazy huh?
Of course, I would gladly be bummed!
But does anyone else feel the same way? Bittersweet I suppose.
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John Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 1:08 pm
@wavesinair,
Bittersweet for sure!!!
And a borderline miracle if it happens
That’s actually an interesting question: has anybody won Lord Stanley’s Cup without their best player?
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Paul M. Hedberg Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 2:18 pm
@John, 1950 Detroit.Howe hurt early in playoffs,Wings went on to win Cup.Playing NYR in SCF helped.2 games had to be played in TOR cuz circus was at MSG.8 wins won the Cup back then…200% harder to win it now.If u mean recently though(modern era)can’t think of anytime off hand.
wavesinair Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 2:25 pm
@John,
1950, now that’s digging deep! (and doesn’t bode well for our chances).
FiG17 Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 10:39 pm
@wavesinair,
Hopefully, if we do get that far… Kopi will be back by then.
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variable Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 2:41 pm
@Cynic,
what else is there left for us to do…?
exactly, my man…just win…
(and thankfully, that sentiment is not coming from an aging, irrelevant owner clad in a sickly-colored jumpsuit, donning old black and white zenith tv lenses and a gold-covered extension cord around his goose neck…)
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Steve W Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 12:24 am
@variable, And competes with Hef for college girls
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After 24 hours I feel better. I don’t want to hear anymore let’s call up X there is no one to call up. We just have to have faith in our boys
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This is off topic—- Does this quote make sense, ” Offside= Called when any attacking player precedes the puck across the defending team’s blue line. Both skates must cross the blue line ahead of the puck. A friend went to an Echl game and got a list of rules befor the game.
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Paul M. Hedberg Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 2:38 pm
@kinginsaltlake, what would make sense is “puck must preceed both skates across the line”.Which isn’t even true cuz a skate in contact w/line is sometimes considered ONSIDE.
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HawKings Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 10:37 pm
@kinginsaltlake, that is exactly what offsides is
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I think the lines look good as-is. The only hole is the 4th line RW and I think Harrold should get that spot. Westy is a liability on D and the fighting will continue to decrease as we approach the playoffs. Drewiske is inconsistent and has been known to take unnecessary penalties. There is no need to call up anyone from Manchester when you have 3 healthy bodies who already know the system, the players, and the chemistry. Harrold is more responsible on defense than Westy and Drewiske combined and he’s a good all-around utility player.
Also, I love that Lewis is playing so well on that 2nd line! He has been solid all year on D, and I’m glad he is jumping on this opportunity and showing his skills. He’s got great speed and is a BEAST on the PK. Looks like his hands might finally be catching up to his skates.
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Maybe take a look at some UFA’s??? I’m not sure what/who’s still out there… Kopi’s goals are going to be hard to replace but it’s his defensive game that I’ve been watching lately. You’re not going to find someone to replace him but, if we could find someone to contribute with scoring, you’ll be halfway there.
[Reply]
kinginsaltlake Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 12:22 pm
@Jon, I really like the way Lewis plays D. He’s learned a lot from Kopi. It’s his time to step up. Good to know that a kid from Salt Lake is getting a chance to show his skill. If he can find the back of the net, Watch Out.
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any centers out there currently available on waivers?
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kinginsaltlake Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 12:24 pm
@DaveinSD, That’s it. I’m coming out of retirement. Hell I forgot i can’t skate.
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Puckn-A Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 12:34 pm
@DaveinSD, We could go for an NCAA center/winger who is past draft eligible and sign him. Certain players get better after they were overlooked during the period they were eligible to be drafted. In a sense you could get a very skilled player with a huge desire to prove the scouts were wrong?
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DaveinSD Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 4:22 pm
@Puckn-A, I have a good feeling that DL will be able to come up with something. Cuz without Kopitar it does not look good. Kpoitar did everything. He is our Datsyuk and we do not have a Zetterberg to fill for him.
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essentially i think the lines should be like this
penner-handzus-brown
smyth-lewis-moller
poni-stoll-simmonds
clifford-richardson-???
now from that i immediately look at the team defense. Smyth and Stoll, though they have collected some points lately, im still not sure where they are defensively they seem to be all over the ice not really getting involved. so thats my biggest concern involving the TeamD. as far as the lines, the team seems to have pretty good chemistry through out so id be happy seeing the lines shuffled.
Penner-Zeus-Brown is looking like theyll have to be the shutdown #1 line, this is the line who has to step up and take leadership and that is who I would trust. but they have some options still, Clifford or Simmonds could be put up with Lewis and Moller for speed. Poni and Simmonds can be put with Zeus for the big body line again. Smyth and Stoll maybe put back together. Brown with Richardson and Clifford would also add size and speed. Clifford and Simmonds also had some good chemistry earlier in the season. we have depth and i think we should and mostly likely are going to shuffle the lines constantly. our D is very systematic and i think suffling would keep the team on their feet offensively.
i think we’re going to have to call someone up from Manchester, theres no way around it unless our team is amazingly conditioned and able to be double shifted throughout playoffs. what i was thinking is maybe bring up a player to play the 4th line, not a major role, but still another body is better than double shifting. i was thinking maybe a center that way you’d have more options with richardson being a natural center as well. id say Corey Elkins or (RW)Bud Holloway, im thinking size here. theyre both atleast 6ft. 200lbs, big enough for the nhl i think, the 4th line at the least.
on another point, Moller definitely adds more depth. when we are healthy again i hope he stays and gets his shot at the NHL.
>>Hey Rich has Jack or DD ever played forward? i read somewhere on here about Harrold playing defense and JJ moving to forward. i would not mind seeing that, sounds like it would be an interesting fit. maybe even bringing in harrold to play some Dtime and giving JJ and DD a couple shifts as a forward? maybe not a serious thought for the kings but like i said sounds interesting
anywho im sure i havent said anything anyone else wasnt already thinking about but i had a lot to say. im obviously devistated by our injuries.. this was looking like our year =/ guess its time to see what were made of.
p.s. anyone else feeling terrible for Penner? gets traded from a team at the bottom of the league to a team with a playoff and cup shot, and within what 2 weeks he loses his linemates and the team lose their top 2 scorers. what a world..
[Reply]
Here’s the fix…
Rychel-Gretzky-Sandstrom
Robitaille-Kurri -Taylor
Granato-Millen-Donnely
Potvin-Conacher-Loach
lol
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C leb Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 12:30 pm
@C leb, let’s not forget pretty boy Gary Shuchuk…
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mash-ola Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 2:22 pm
@C leb, I LIKE IT! But you have to keep the Triple Crown Line together (Simmer-Dionne-Taylor!)
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C leb Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 3:49 pm
@mash-ola, Jerry Korab is available!!! And, hey look, Dan Bonar just showed up.. and my personal fave (especially in the Bob Miller pronunciation) Andre St. Laurent!! saan loraaaan..
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Paul M. Hedberg Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 6:31 pm
@C leb, Frank St.Marseille,Vic Venasky,Don Kozak…call someone up,LOL.
Steve W Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 12:28 am
@C leb, Where is Denis Tsygurov when you need him?
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C leb Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 1:30 am
@Steve W, you can’t forget Sylvain Couturier and Tim Tookey…
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Good thing penner has experience with rookies.
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1) Patch in who we’ve got; 2) Once the Kings make the playoofs, like others hv said, move Johnson to center and maybe play Harrold in the back. He’s been solid on defense, more so the Drewiske IMO. I always wondered why Johnson never tried center, since he does enjoy to roam.
Guess this King’s fan picked a bad week to stop sniffing glue.
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Someone needs to find out why we can’t bring up Schenn! If it’s financially motivated (I.e. It burns a year off his entry level contract) then I’m gonna be really pissed. Beyond that bring someone else up-Westgarth playing every night is not the answer. Need I remind everyone that the year the Ducks won the Cup Parros didn’t suit up once in the playoffs (maybe once I can’t remember) and that was a team that relied on grit, defense and goal tending….just like our current team!
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HockeyNerd Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 2:27 pm
@Tony, “but only in a narrow, injury-related emergency-recall situation … As of now, Schenn cannot be called up.”
I’ll trust BOTH Rich AND DL on that and just LET IT GO. And you should too. In any case, it’s definitely NOT financially motivated.
Additionally the Kings probably WON’T bring someone else up at this time. I agree with you on Westgarth but EITHER Drewiske or Harrold CAN play forward. And I agree with this logic. This is NOT the time to add an unknown quantity to the mix, even it is for just 5-10 minutes a night…..
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Penner-Stoll-Brown
Smyth-Moller-Simmonds
Poni-Handzus-Richardson
Clifford-Lewis-Westgarth
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I like the idea of moving JJ to center but it won’t happen.
Harrold.
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Quality steel is forged in the hottest fires with repeated blows. One might conclude the Kings are going through a similar process. A process which sounds about right for playoff hockey.
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Hand Jim Fox a pair of skates and a stick.. he’s on the pay role, right?
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Paul M. Hedberg Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 2:43 pm
@Mikey, I liked JP Kelly-Ruskowski-J.Fox line myself.
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It not unusual, for lesser known players to emerge as star in the Playoffs.
Didn’t Holloway have a few overtime game winners in the Monarch’s playoff run last year? I’d bring him up and give him a shot.
As TM has no problem shifting players between lines I like to see him try Lewis in a first line roll for a game or two. As has been noted by everyone, Lewis if very sound defensively. As someone that is lucky enough to attend a lot of game I can tell you he often gets open in the scoring area but his fourth line wingers are struggling to maintain puck control and not looking for Lewis in the slot. With stronger wingers his scoring could increase significantly.
PH has been waiting for an opportunity, you want a winger that is defensively responsible, how about our swing man?
The loss of Kopi and JW can’t be understated, but this TEAM is capable or rising to the occasion. Based on many of today’s comments, many of the fans also understand its a tall hill to climb, but they are willing to strap on their climbing boots and begin the assent.
No Chicken Little(s) allowed on this ride.
Go Kings, go!
[Reply]
This is how I would go. But obviously I’m not the coach so what do I know? I this lineup you could swap Handzus and Stoll if needed. I just see Handzus playing well right now so reward him on the second line. Either way would be cool.
Penner Brown Simmer
Smyth Handzus Moller
Poni Stoll Richardson
Clifford Lewis Harold
What do you think?
[Reply]
bbb7 Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 1:10 pm
@Blake D, I cant see Brown centering a line ever. If Moller can go to center, swap him and Brown and you might have something.
[Reply]
Blake D Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 12:55 pm
@bbb7, Thanks for the imput. I didn’t trealize he struggled that much in the middle.
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VanKingsFan Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 1:16 pm
@Blake D, Brown is no centre… that line would struggle to win faceoffs and defensively without a natural centre
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ok my opinion on this of the line is
Penner,Moller,Brown
Smyth,Handzus,Simmonds
Poni,Stoll,Richie
Clifford,Lewis,Harold
Or
Penner,Stoll,Moller
Smyth,Handzus,Brown
Poni,Richie,Simmonds
Clifford,Lewis,Harold
One of them
[Reply]
I like the line up as it was. Make a contraption that releaves any pressure on Kopitars ankle, slap a blade on it and tape it with ductape.
Seriously, the lines Murray fielded in the third period looked good.I would put Harold in with Clifford and Richardson
[Reply]
outsider Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 1:02 pm
@Jorgen, I share your opinion! It looked fine to me.
[Reply]
bbb7 Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 1:11 pm
@Jorgen, Agreed they looked fine but that was the Avs. Have to see how they fare against a real team.
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If anything happens to Penner, I’m gonna predict this will happen in 2021.
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at least we start against edmonton which will give us a lot of opportunitites to mix and match new lines
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Mikey J. Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 1:44 pm
@kingeyes, The Oiler game is gonna be big. Playing against Vancouver though will really tell us what were up against.
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When Crosby and Malkin went down, the Pens traded for James Neal who’s now won 3 SO in a row for them. My point is the Kings need to lean on Penner more than usual, isn’t that why DL traded for him in the first place?
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VanKingsFan Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 1:22 pm
@Scaught, It’s a nice idea… but Penner is not that guy. He is the complimentary piece.
To me you have to lean on “Your Guys” so to speak. We need Stoll to step up, and we need Lewis to step his scoring up. We need Doughty and Johnson to contribute, and we need Quick to be lights out. Brown has already started to step up; Poni is playing better, as is Zeus.
By the way, Neal has 4 points and 1 goal in 14 games with Pittsburgh…
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Losing Williams was tough but we brought up Moller to fill that spot. Losing Kopitar is monumental…not sure what the Kings should do…the Kings will need to rely on goaltending and defense that much more…and the forwards will all have to pitch in mightily!!!
[Reply]
How about recalling Dwight King again
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Za Vse – za Kopitarja
For All – for Kopitar
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ke0xgm7lZSs
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Lines I’d like to see,Penner Handzus Moller
Smyth Stoll Brown
CLifford Lewis Simmonds
Poni Richie Westgarth
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trip westgarth in the parking lot and call up schenn?? hshaha J/k
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I Know I will be banished for saying this. Here it goes………… Top line Penner-Stoll-Moller
What the hell it might work
[Reply]
LAK1ngs Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 12:31 am
@408kingsfan,
No that is the right call, unless they bring up Halloway to play on the first line.
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Anyone else notice Jim Fox pour out his heart for this team when Kopitar went down? I mean, he really showed how much he loves and cares for this team. He could not get off the subject of Kopitar, he felt bad for Kopi because he knows him personally, and he’s a good kid. Jim Fox was BUMMIN just like you and me yesterday. I feel so bad for Anze. He is more bummed about it than any of us fans.
[Reply]
KingsFanFTW Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 1:56 pm
@Scot, Jim Fox and Bob Miller has alot of heart for this team
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Duckbasher Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 4:12 pm
@KingsFanFTW, I could feel their concern for not only Kopitar, but also “their” team. We have the best bradcasting booth in the NHL. And I’ll fight anyone who says different. GO KINGS!
[Reply]
KingsFanFTW Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 6:41 pm
@Duckbasher, yea be nice if the Kings win a Cup before Bob Miller has to retired
dont want that to happen
KingsFanFTW Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 6:41 pm
@Duckbasher, the retiring part Stanley Cup would be nice
Paul M. Hedberg Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 2:52 pm
@Scot, they didn’t verbalize it but I know I was thinkin back 30 yrs ago when another #11 went down.
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 3:49 pm
@Paul M. Hedberg, Funny how that vision of Simmer going down sticks with ya. I remember it like it was yesterday. Looked like any other hockey play that happens a 1000 times a game, just like Kopitar’s play.
[Reply]
King John Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 5:40 pm
@Paul M. Hedberg, I was soooooo bummed when Simmer went down. It looked like the Triple Crown Line was going to be the BEST LINE POINTWISE IN HISTORY, had he played out the year. And the Kings looked good that year with Bob Berry as coach.
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The problem with [insert your favorite player from Manchester here] is that every game, every period, every shift is super important right now. TM and DL are probably not going to want to insert an unknown in that situation, even if it is for just 5 minutes a game.
Play Harrold at forward and call it a day (or hopefully a playoff).
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 3:50 pm
@HockeyNerd, Yeah, Harrold to forward, Richardson to center on the forth line. The rest the same as TM did it for the Avs game would be my guess.
[Reply]
wavesinair Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 4:04 pm
@HockeyNerd,
Ok, I did understand you correctly.
Please explain to me, according your your logic, how Oscar got called up?
Because he’s not an “unknown?” If not, define what one is please.
I define it as a player who hasn’t yet made the NHL on a regular basis but has had some experience. You know, like Oscar…or King…or Elkins…or Cliche…or Loktionov…or Clune…or Zeiler.
Assuming all of these players were healthy, according to your logic, you think Lombardi would “probably not insert an unknown” in this situation.
Other thank Rich’s report, there’s nothing to base your conclusion on. And even that, Rich said, “this can change at any moment.”
And I suspect it will.
[Reply]
i think a bigger question to ponder is management’s philosophy…
dl said that the penner move was made to “reward” the team for the season they had up until that point…i’m not saying that calling up a player will alleviate the loss of both kopi and jw…
but…
i think it does give an indication of a couple of bigger picture issues for this team…the depth of nhl-ready players in our system vs. the overall development plan for them…judging by RICH’s assessment of what the feelings of dl & co. are in the aftermath of our top two scorers going down within a six-day period, the kings seem to be coming from the perspective of not augmenting any junior’s plans…and, in retrospect, makes the penner move no longer a “reward”, but rather essential to the king’s ability to field a competitive, playoff-caliber team…
in other words, our depth as team is too top-heavy and reliant from our minors…and that’s not necessarily a bad thing next season and for years to come…but doesn’t help us now…and that’s the real reason why when you assess this team’s chances from here on out as shaky, at best, it’s because…realistically…this team was built not for this year but for the future…
[Reply]
HockeyNerd Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 2:02 pm
@variable, Interesting take but I have to disagree with almost all of it.
This team has the most depth ON THE TEAM NOW that I can ever remember as a King’s fan. Take away ANY team’s top 2 scorers, and it’s gonna hurt. We STILL have 3 other 20 goal scorers and Stoll will likely join that group.
Incidentally DL would gladly bring up Schenn and Lokti faster then you can say “Kopitar is hurt” IF he had that option. And the reason he doesn’t is more dumb luck then anything (Lokti is also injured, Schenn is on a VERY good Junior’s team). It’s not that he doesn’t WANT to.
And as far as this team’s chances being “Shaky at best….” we have Defense, we have Goaltending, and we STILL have scoring from MORE than one line. And that HAS been known to win a series here and there. Even a cup.
I for one am not going to give up on this team until the handshake parade. And more importantly, neither is ANY member of the Kings organization. And that INCLUDES DL…..
[Reply]
variable Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 2:19 pm
@HockeyNerd,
while i agree this kings team has much more depth than prior teams, it still DOESN’T in comparison to any of the western conference teams currently ahead of them with the lone exception being phoenix, who is not realistically…realistically…considered a serious contender for the cup…and my take on the whole unfortunate set of circumstances that have taken place is merely indicating what management philosophy MIGHT be in considering NOT calling up any player(s) at this time…it’s not so much an indictment of dl & co’s philosophy – no one’s calling out anyone here..
personally – sure…i will be rooting as hard as anyone else for this team to do what it set out to do at the beginning of the season with a healthy squad, regardless of who does what and who plays and who doesn’t…
but i think the design of this current team was not designed to handle catastrophe…and what sets the upper-echelon teams apart from the rest is that sole ability – to handle the worst types of adversity and still achieve yr desired goals…i’m hoping that this kings team is a quick learner and adapts accordingly to the challenges that lie ahead…
it’s not that i’m not rooting for cinderella to make the dance…i just think that this team has to do a whole lot of costuming to do before the enter the ballroom…and adding penner is looking like he has now become the gown instead of our crown…
[Reply]
HockeyNerd Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 2:36 pm
@variable, “but i think the design of this current team was not designed to handle catastrophe…and what sets the upper-echelon teams apart from the rest is that sole ability – to handle the worst types of adversity and still achieve yr desired goals…”
So what team (even make that in ANY sport) is? Like I said, take away ANYBODY’S top 2 scorers, it’s gonna hurt. In fact, the KINGS are BETTER suited to cope with this then most. Something happens to DD, you still have JJ. Something happens to Quick, you still have Bernier. And if, as here, something happens to AK and JW you still have FOUR, count-em, FOUR other 20 goal scorers.
And actually as far as handling “the worst types of adversity and still achieve yr desired goals…” the book is far from closed yet.
We will see, won’t we.
wavesinair Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 2:56 pm
@nerd,
I think you’re overplaying it a bit here. Sure we have 3 other 20 goal scorers, but we subtracted 2 of the 5. As you said, it’s gonna hurt.
Moller is doing his best Williams impression and now we need someone to come in and try to chip in some offense. No scratched player will do it.
As for other teams, the Kings are far less offensive than them. That’s why it hurts the Kings even more. We’re in the bottom 3rd in the NHL. The only other team below the Kings in a playoff position, is Nashville, who has a very similar defensive system.
So while the Kings are still in good shape defensively, and can legitimately step up for Kopi, they are in even more terrible shape offensively.
The bottom line is, our other 20 goal scorers are not going to fill the void. No one will, but I do think we need outside help.
variable Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 2:59 pm
@HOCKEYNERD Reply:
“So what team (even make that in ANY sport) is? Like I said, take away ANYBODY’S top 2 scorers, it’s gonna hurt.”
hmmm…does crosby and malkin count this year…?
how about zetterberg and datsyuk in detroit last year…?
i could bring up the yankees in baseball…celtics in basketball – there have been other examples across the board…
look…
it does happen…and it has…unfortunately…for us…
and while i agree that it’s not easy for any team…in any sport…to recover from losing its top-two scorers, it might be especially hard for this team…
however, we can both agree that we hope that this kings team leaves everything it has on the ice…there is absolutely no room for any mental or physical lapses at this point…
HockeyNerd Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 3:17 pm
@variable, You’re all missing my point entirely. NO GM in ANY sport DESIGNS a team to handle catastrophe. How can you? It’s CATASTROPHE. You hope these things DON’T happen to begin with. If and when they do you do the best you can with what you have. Did the Pens build the rest of their team based on what would happen if both Malkin and Crosby got hurt? Of course not. You’re saying The Kings are not “designed” to withstand losing their top 2 scorers. My two points remain 1) NOBODY is in ANY sport and 2) We don’t even know IF they HAVE withstood it or not yet!
wavesinair Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 3:46 pm
No actually. I see your point.
In all fairness to Cra…I mean variable, he didn’t mention “catastrophe” in his first comment. And so your point about teams not designed for this is second to the main point.
I agree with you though. I don’t think teams design for catastrophe. It was a poor choice of words IMO.
The MAIN point (or question) is: Is this team as deep as we think it is?
variable made the argument that it isn’t and you said it is.
And for reasons already stated, I agree that we aren’t also, as evidence by our low scoring ranking in the NHL.
The flip side is that our D is great. The flip side to this is Kopi was a huge part of it. So not only are we losing another huge part of the offense, we also lost a huge part of the D.
And while we can probably make up the difference on D, we can’t on O. Hence, the lack of depth.
KC23 Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 3:59 pm
@variable, The Yote’s have some serious injury problems just like the King’s. There is still a good chance we face them in the first round. That is probably our one good chance of getting past the first round. We might get past Dallas as well, but they are not likely to move up to a position where they would face the Kings in the first round.
The other interesting seniero has the King’s facing Detroit in the 2nd round. Another team with big time injury issues. Last night their starting goal tender went down again. The Kings match up well against Detroit if they are banged up and Williams will likely come back right around the 2nd round.
If somehow SJ is there for the conference final, we get Kopitar back .. hey who knows?
I can dream can’t I?
King John Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 5:48 pm
@variable, From what you guys say, it sounds like a [hockey] catastrophic EARTHQUAKE ankle break and devastating TSUNAMI has hit us, even though we built well and had SOME protective “walls” and measures in place.
wavesinair Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 2:42 pm
@variable,
Thanks for making me imagine Penner in a dress. Now I can’t get it out of my head!
I’m surprised (actually I’m not) that anyone would believe Lombardi’s “reward” remark. Please. Classic DL. Penner’s proving to be a great pick up, but one that should have been done sooner, as we all know. So the reward thing is silly in my mind.
But to your point about depth, yes, there’s no doubt that this team cannot afford these two huge losses. It’s not ready to absorb such devastation. In other word, the Kings are pretty darn deep, but not so deep you lose 2 from the top line.
As you indicated, they will be in a much better position a couple of years down the road, but not now. Holloway, at 23, seems the obvious candidate for a shot. I wish I knew what any person in the organization thinks of him, as I’m surprised he hasn’t gotten a shot yet.
[Reply]
variable Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 3:06 pm
@wavesinair,
RE – a crossing-dressing penner – yr welcome…(!)
yes…holloway would be a top choice…i’m with you on that…
and it leads me to believe that since his name hasn’t come up (knowingly/publicly) as of yet, that he really isn’t a consideration, furthering the fact that this is what we have to go with from this point out…
we have to now become the los angeles devil-kings…
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What now? What now? We stop feeling sorry for ourselves, put our heads down and back check through the middle, that’s what now!
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I’d like to point out that this team seems to only need one or two goals to win with the defensive style we play.
Our defense and goalie are outstanding.
We’re going with who we’ve got, and that’s that.
When the Kings get home, I suggest fans bring simple signs with a large “K” on it. Every goal we score, up they come. A “strike” against the opposition, and a reminder that we’ve just made up for Kopi’s loss.
All we do is win, win, win.
[Reply]
variable Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 2:03 pm
@IceGuy,
that’s exactly how we are going to have to get it done – ye ol’ lou lamoriello way…
and i also like yr rallying idea…(!)
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KC23 Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 4:03 pm
@IceGuy, Except that Kopitar is one of the best two way centers in the league. We didn’t just lose offense, we lost our best defensive forward as well. That is why TM put Zues on that line because Zues has very similar defensive skills as Kopitar. Zues has also been doing very well as a play maker as of late (just ask Brown). I like Zues on the #1 line and Lewis on the 2nd line as TM did.
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Kopi is out six to eight weeks? Can Kopitar return ??? Its quite possible, if he recovers sooner than later and the team keeps winning.
The 2010 Conference Finals started on May 16, 2010. Thats seven weeks from today.
The 2010 Stanley Cup Finals started on May 29, 2010. Thats nine weeks from today.
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 3:37 pm
@UglyinLA,
You mean we have 9 more weeks of high stress hockey games? I don’t know if I can get my stress medication prescription refilled that many times.
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 4:05 pm
@UglyinLA, Getting past the 2nd round will be the tricky part. If we get SJ or Detroit I think it possible, but Vancouver … not real likely without Kopitar and Williams at the top of their game.
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C leb Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 4:12 pm
@KC23, the 2010 playoffs ended 10 and a half months ago…
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KingsFanFTW Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 6:43 pm
@KC23, we not going to face SJ or Detroit first round we might be seeing the Coyotes
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Suggest either Peter Harrold or Drewiske. Both have had experience playing wing, but are obvious defen se first. Assuming we make playoffs, I’d make sure that last line plays tough D while eating up valuable minutes.
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Since everyone else is rolling the dice, here is my roll on the lines:
Smythe – Stoll – Brown
Penner – Handzus – Simmonds
Ponikarovsky – Moller – Lewis
Clifford – Richardson – (Westgarth/Harrold)
First off, why do anything drastic? There are three+ natural centers, so there is no need to experiment with wingers playing at center. Still and Smythe had chemistry with Justin Williams earlier in the year, and Brown has often been the top RW of the forwards, so put them all together. Handzus and Simmonds already have chemistry, and although it seems like a slow line, they are also a good grinding, defensive line. Add Penner to the mix with a tap on the shoulder that he needs to step up his game, and you have a serviceable 2nd line. The third line could interchange Moller or Lewis at center, but there is enough fight in this line to make them competitive with whatever opposition they are up against. Fourth line is, well, whatever is left to deal with. I’m not a fan of either Westgarth’s or Harrold as a forward, but what are you going to do. There are few options with regards to call-ups or signings, so just go with whatever is simplest and just go from there…
It will be an interesting month of Kings hockey to say the least…
GO KINGS GO!
[Reply]
mcg Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 2:41 pm
@mash-ola,
I like these line combos the best. I hope the powers that be read this post. I say make due with what we got. We have a good team, and I have faith in their abilities. Kopi going down is not the end of the world. It’s time to see what we’re made of.
GO KINGS GO!!!
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I vote for Kozun…. I want speed and skill…
[Reply]
FKA PakiFro Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 3:24 pm
@hip-check, ditto
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Going with the JJ suggestion as a forward….I’m going to suggest something out of the box as well.
Recall Hickey and have him play wing. Andy McDonald use to play D while he was younger, but apparently his dad made him play forward because of his size. They are both listed approximately the same size.
[Reply]
HockeyNerd Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 2:42 pm
@fridgemagnet57, We are fighting for our playoff lives, so shut that box and stay inside it. TM and DL are not going to want to insert an unknown this late in the season. And they are correct in that thinking.
[Reply]
fridgemagnet57 Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 2:48 pm
@HockeyNerd,
Very true with how DL is so conservative as well as TM. The obvious moves are safe, but I saw Rich asking for suggestions so I thought I’d throw this out there to talk about.
About inserting unknowns, well I think you’d have to consider a few things because of injuries. Moller isn’t exactly a “known” thing around here.
[Reply]
wavesinair Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 3:06 pm
@HockeyNerd,
“Out of the box” is one thing. “Unknown” vs. “known” is another thing entirely.
Certainly putting Hickey in that role is far outside the box (and probably as odd of a suggestion as I’ve seen).
But as for other options from Manchester, management knows what they’re getting as much as any management team can. So there aren’t any “unknowns” per se.
It’s a matter of giving a kid a chance to prove himself. Like they just did with Oscar…this late in the season…and they are correct in that thinking.
[Reply]
HockeyNerd Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 3:20 pm
@wavesinair, Moller has NHL experience. Hickey hasn’t played at all yet, even in his USUAL position. That’s a HUGE difference.
fridgemagnet57 Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 3:22 pm
@wavesinair,
Certainly I probably would never put JJ as a forward on my hockey team, but I don’t think this suggestion is as weird as say putting Harrold up as a forward. It actually gives Harrold a possibility of playing on the team. Is playing Harrold a “known” or “unknown?” You have a dman who is smaller and can play defense and offense, which is essentially another defenseman in case someone goes down (much like what we use Drewiske for in some cases).
I was thinking Hickey because we never see the guy and he is on a long queue of very good defensive prospects, which lowers his value. If Hickey can add something else to his role, then his stock would rise for the Kings as well as in the NHL.
This may be something I bring up now for more of a thought in future purposes.
Realistically I don’t see us doing too much and sticking to the defensive system and utilizing the guys we already have sitting on the bench, which I’m not that excited about (playing Drewiske/Harrold/Westy on wing). Or possibly calling up Elkins.
wavesinair Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 3:25 pm
Yep. In essence, that’s what I said. I was just trying to clarify the difference between sticking with what we’ve got vs. bringing in a player from the Monarchs.
variable Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 3:32 pm
@fridgemagnet57,
i think harrold is looking more and more like the man who gets the first shot…and it makes sense for many reasons, the biggest one probably being that tm trusts harry to be responsible for the 8-12 minutes he needs from him on either defense or wing…
[Reply]
Terry Murray on Kings not recalling anyone: “We’re just going to hold the course w/the players we have on our roster now.”
[Reply]
Kings win, Ducks lose Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 2:36 pm
@Kings win, Ducks lose, More Terry Murray on adjusting to losing Kopitar: “Line combinations, i’m not real sure right now. We finished off with [Handzus] there
and that’s probably where I’ll stay. I’ll move Lewis up into a more responsible role and Richardson into middle on the other line.”
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 4:09 pm
@Kings win, Ducks lose, Yeah and I think TM is probably right.
Penner-Zues-Moller
Smyth-Lewis-Brown
Simmonds-Stoll-Poni
Clifford-Richardson-Harold
That is what I expect.
[Reply]
Bkrs-Bud Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 6:14 pm
@KC23, Those lines give us our best chance to succeed.
Cheezypoofs Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 9:00 am
@KC23,
Your line combos look good. I think there will be an adjustment of how much ice time each line gets. Zeus is up in his years and will get slower with extra ice time. Lewis has speed and a great defensive game but no scoring touch. Stoll is a good 2C but not a 1C. An equal rotation of the lines should even this out. Special teams, pk Lewis will take over for Kopi, and Richardson will fill the gap for Lewis. Power play will be a work in progress.
forget what the lines will be….Now is the time for the coach to step up….make sure no feeling sorry for ourselves….keeping the spirits up and getting the boys ready for every period….LGK!!!!!
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I think you gotta play Harrold over Westgarth. Harrold, at least, brings in speed and skill over Westgarth. Now that Kopi is out of the lineup the team needs a boost offensively big time. Too bad Lokti is injured also or I’d bring him up to take over the 2nd line’s center spot. I’d change Lewis and Stoll around. Not saying that Stoll isn’t scrappy but Lewis imo has more of that working man’s ethic and alongside Simmonds and Poni that would be a better match.
Whatever they do I hope they don’t play Westgarth. Double shifting lines all night long isn’t too smart down the home stretch.
[Reply]
Might as well double shift a winger because Westgarth, Harrold and Drewiske are useless and have been all year.
I dont see any they can call up that would fill in and be decent right now so thats another reason why i say double shift
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Duct tape Loktionov and Williams together and we’ll have two good shoulders!
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Ravens Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 3:16 pm
@King Doughnuts, Ha!! funny
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BREAKING NEWS!
Kopitar’s father Matjaz told to Slovene Sport TV that he is hopfull that the injury is not so bad that it looked and that his ankle is most probably not broken, but we sholud wait to confirm it on Mondey after Anze sees the doctor again and makes the magnetic resonance.
FINGERS CROSS!!!!!!!
GKG
[Reply]
Cry Baby Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 3:21 pm
@outsider, I found some video of this…let’s hope it’s true!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xy_3C4flGoE
[Reply]
fridgemagnet57 Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 4:45 pm
@Cry Baby,
Well your credibility just went down the drain.
[Reply]
Cry Baby Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 4:53 pm
@fridgemagnet57, HAHAHA….I never had any credibility in the first place but you have to admit that was a pretty bitchin dance! I thought it was a pretty good reply to a fairly ridiculous post. Kopi is out 6 weeks with a broken ankle, FACE IT!
Cry Baby Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 9:35 am
@fridgemagnet57, Awesome…this comment comes from someone calling for Hickey called up to take Kopi’s spot. NICE!
wavesinair Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 3:32 pm
@outsider,
Not broken? OK. If that’s true, then…
1. Kopi’s dad in Slovenia can diagnose a break better than an xray machine.
or
2. We’ve been lied to by the Kings for some odd, strange reason.
I’m going to go ahead and rule out 1 and 2.
[Reply]
variable Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 3:39 pm
@wavesinair,
or 3…
matjaz is not a doctor…but he played one on slovenia t.v….
you can’t blame pops for trying to be optimistic…
but i think he’s still in shock…
and, quite honestly, after seeing that replay over and over again, if that ankle isn’t broken, then kopi is plastic man…and he will play more games than cal ripken jr. did…
[Reply]
KingsFanFTW Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 4:07 pm
@wavesinair, well u look at Simmonds leg it went weird looking turns up not broken never know
But Kopi Ankle is 80% broken or badly hurt
But u cant be all rude about hoping ok sometimes people in this blog posting all negatives saying our team sucks how bad they are that we never going to win that no Fan
Just have Hopes for this team
[Reply]
wavesinair Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 4:15 pm
@KingsFanFTW,
Love the hope! But I love realism even more.
We can’t hope his leg isn’t broken, because it is. That is a fact. Not 80% preg…I mean broken, 100%.
Now hope comes into play with the severity of the break.
I’m hoping that the MRI doesn’t reveal more damage. Unfortunately, this is totally possible.
Sorry, that’s the realistic side coming out again!
p.s. No rudeness intended. Bluntness perhaps, but not rudeness. In fact, I think it’s rude to post outrageous claims. But that’s just how I look at it.
Bingram Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 4:16 pm
@KingsFanFTW,
Seems to me this tread has much higher percentage of up beat fans facing true adversity than we usually have. It good to see for a change.
Go Kings, go!
KingsFanFTW Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 6:47 pm
@wavesinair, lol yea we all know its broken but people can hope
shh dont kill our Hope LOL
But hey i still think we got a team that will succeed to the end
[Reply]
Osaka Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 4:55 pm
@outsider, I think a break is better than a bad sprain. Anytime ligaments or tendons are involved it takes much longer to heal.
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I’d put Stoll centering with Penner and Brown on the wings. Lewis with Smyth and Poni/Zeus/Simmer
Clifford/Richardson/AND ANYONE BUT WESTGARTH!!! i still have my skates and stick if you need a 26year old 6ft 195lbs. Left handead shooting winger who hasnt skated in 3 or 4 years, but im nasty in the crease babay!!!!! call me DL..
[Reply]
Dominick Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 3:16 pm
@Dustin,
Exactly what I would have done. I think eventually we’ll see it, because Zues is a fine center, but starts to lose effectiveness if he plays more than 14 to 15 minutes a night. Kopi plays upwards of 21 to 24 a night, so eventually if Zues steps up to say 20 minutes a night, he’s going to start slowing down even more, and the Kings will eventually lose 2 centers. 1 to injury, and 1 to fatigue.
[Reply]
Dominick Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 3:24 pm
@Dustin,
Would also like to add that Stoll is better offensively, and can physically handle the extra minutes without dropping off any speed, unlike Zues who is better defensively right where he’s at.
Also Lewis can handle the extra skating, and we have to try a new center out on the 2nd line next year anyway with Lokti, and Schenn being so close to making the jump to the NHL. Let’s see what we got in Lewis.
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 4:16 pm
@Dominick, Disagree. Stoll has been weak defensively for some time now and offensively he hasn’t been great either. That is why you see Lewis as a PK regular. I like TM’s lines better.
The real question in my mind is Lewis or Stoll on the 2nd line. The reason TM went with Lewis is because he is better defensively than Stoll (by a large margin imho), the aguement starts when you compare Stoll and Lewis offensively. Stoll appears far superior offensively, but Lewis has never had a shot playing with talented wingers except for 2 periods against the Avs … which he did well.
Should be interesting.
[Reply]
variable Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 3:27 pm
@Dustin, @ Dominick:
i agree with both yr assessments…
and DUSTIN – how’s yr wrist shot inside the slot…?
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I think changing up the lines too much this late in the season is a serious risk. During those long losing streaks early in the regular season, i think TM was experimenting too with the lines too much during and in between those games compounding the problems we had. We need to allow them to play together consistently so that chemistry remains especially at this point.
I would stick with the current lines with some minor changes, especially using a more responsible active center like richie.
Smyth Stoll Brown
Penner Richie Moller
Pony Zues Simmonds
Clifford Lewis Harrold
This way the only real change is Richie in the middle (which he has played b4). He hustles and is much stronger and more experienced than either Moller or Lewis. plus he has also always lived up to expectations. Zues is too slow to and older to play on the top two lines and log all those pk minutes as well.
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Dominick Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 3:27 pm
@dk.lakings, Lewis is a better center than Richie, and better on faceoffs (not a lot but better).
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YoBro Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 4:15 pm
@Dominick, I’m with you on moving Lewie up. He has grown tremendously this season, while Richie seems to be treading water. And his speed,,, Wow! In person at the games you can really see how fast that dude is.
Go Kings
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 4:17 pm
@YoBro, Agree 100%.
also.. a little off topic but frustrating as all hell. Why in the world can’t Doughty and JJ keep the damn puck low when they shoot????? the goal of the point shot is mostly a rebound or deflection. picking the corners or shooting high seems to be the reason why doughty only has like 11 goals With low assist numbers and jj has 5 goals.
It seems like we have better luck with Willie and Martinez shooting rather than doughty or jj.
ANNOYING!!!
[Reply]
HockeyNerd Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 3:32 pm
@dk.lakings, Agree 100%. And without AK and JW, it needs to improve. NOW.
[Reply]
Clunatic-Westy-Cliffy for 4rth line, you can swap clune and clifford every shift since they are both left wingers, play them against the number 1 opposing line and start 3 scraps
[Reply]
loskingpride Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 4:45 pm
@GreyPaws, If only Clune weren’t injured.
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Bring up a center from Manchester, play him at 12 minutes a game to show what he can and cannot do.
[Reply]
THEROCKNROLL80S Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 3:52 pm
@THEROCKNROLL80S, I am talking about bringing up a Kings prospect. If they do not do that, get O’Sullivan from Minn.
[Reply]
Cry Baby Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 5:56 pm
@THEROCKNROLL80S, How would they get Sully? They trade deadline has come and gone. However, I think they can sign someone out of college, but that seems fairly unlikely.
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THEROCKNROLL80S Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 6:16 pm
@Cry Baby, Can’t they get through the waiver wire.
Kris Kontos, anyone…? remember the caps had a 4th line winger light it up in the late ’80s… John Druce? Who will be our secret hero??
[Reply]
Kings win, Ducks lose Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 4:15 pm
@C leb, Lucky butt!
[Reply]
variable Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 4:19 pm
@C leb,
everybody around since then should remember KK…
druce was a little less noteworthy compared to what kontos did that year…
c’mon trevor….!!!!
[Reply]
C leb Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 4:31 pm
@variable, yeah, but i think Druce did 2 playoff years in a row… nothing in the reg. season, but huge in the post season.. KK knocked the life out of the gretzless oilers in ’89. Awesome!!
[Reply]
C leb Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 1:52 am
@variable, after further review.. it’s Chris with a “C” Kontos and in 11 playoff games in 1989 scored 9 goals and 0 assists (sniper) what i remember most about that 1st round series is that we came back from down 3 games to 1 against the Oil!! … only to get swept be the champs from Calgary… I still hate Calgary because of that whoopin’.. MacInnis, Suter, Peplinski, MacDonald, Neiuwendyk, Otto, Gilmour, Fleury, Loob, Vernon, etc… and the ugliest goon ever, Tim Hunter.. Lord, i hated that team. thanks to Krushelniski for eliminating them the following year with the greatest chip shot ever.. I can still see Vernon falling backward trying to stop it. Hopefully more great stories to tell this year… ya gotta love this game!
[Reply]
I say we should bring up Bud Holloway. I think he deserves a look, and he seems to be quite a timely goal scorer. Holloway could be a good recall for now, but my top priority would be waiting for the junior season to end so we can bring up Toffoli, vey, and Schenn. we need to snag them when they are available. all of them are in their respective playoff races at the moment.
Those guys have been tearing up the junior leagues, so why not?
we can bring them up in the playoffs and not have to worry about “rookie” eligibility until next season for any of those three guys.
Give them a shot deano, you got nothing to lose.
anyone else agree?
[Reply]
Off topic,,I’m so hard up for Kings hockey that I’m watching Derek Forbert and the fighting and North dakota take on Denver….I hate to say this, But, I now want to trade Forbert for fellow D man Ben Blood!!! yes that right BEN BLOOD,,,just imagine that Kings jersey,,,in my head I’m already in line to buy one, maybe we could get Satan and put them on a line together. Lets see if Hextall’s soon can hook that up for us.
[Reply]
forgot to mention Jordan Weal. I think hes available.
[Reply]
Recall foxy (4 time 30 goal scorer), westie doing color w/Bob and send Drewiske & Harold back to the bar where they’ve been all season.
[Reply]
my playoff lines
top line: penner-stoll-toffoli
2nd: Schenn-Vey-brown
3rd: smyth-handzus-simmonds
4th: ponikarovsky-richardson-lewis
doughty-mitchell
martinez-johnson
greene-scuderi
quick
bernier
[Reply]
Paul M. Hedberg Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 7:01 pm
@Jason from the desert, that’s what I’d do.I would put Brown on off wing in place of Smyth though & make that the 2nd line.Zuse-Smyth together I just don’t agree with.Poni up w/kids & Smyth on 4th line.Your right though;we’re talkin playoff lines.
[Reply]
Penner-Zus-Moller
Poni-Lewis-Brown
Smyth-Stoll-Simmonds
Clifford-Richardson-Harrold
[Reply]
honestly…
who could have imagined that a fifth-place conference team with 92 points in and seven games left to play would be in such a precarious playoff path…?
we have quite the “think tank” here on this site…
so many good insights and suggestions as to what is next for this team…
we will make the playoffs…
a win at edmonton gives us 94 – and that’s getting us closer…
and that’s something that could make the transition of losing kopi seem a little more distant than present for everyone involved…
[Reply]
wavesinair Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 4:52 pm
@variable,
I loved how they responded after Kopi’s injury, then the shock, then the goal they gave up. They pulled it together and won decisively. I suspect the Kings destroy the rusty Oilers.
I don’t think it’s a precarious path however. The Kings are in a great spot with many, dare I say, variables in our favor. Exciting path, yes. Tight, yes. A little dangerous? Sure. But not precarious. Dallas, very dangerous. Calgary…ahhh, there you go…precarious!
[Reply]
variable Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 6:29 pm
@wavesinair,
i’m sticking with precarious…(because it is)…although, i do think we will make it in…
[Reply]
Paul M. Hedberg Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 7:05 pm
@variable, VAN comin off road trip when we go in there.Can’t look past EDM of course.Should be exciting.
been screaming to play JJ as a forward all freakin season.. the time.. is now. that or kozun… anything but westgarth.
[Reply]
Penner-Stoll-Moller
Smyth-Lewis-Simmonds
Poni-Zeus-Brown
Clifford-Richardson-Harrold
I thought Smyth was energized by Lewis. I want to see how they play together over a game or two. I have liked the Brown/Zeus combo recently. Stoll can provide the shot on the first line and Penner can pick up the garbage in front of the net.
[Reply]
YoBro Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 8:33 pm
@HipCheck, We have a winner!
Go Kings
[Reply]
I haven’t been on the blog since the injury, but was at the game yesterday and the only way to explain it is to say it was morose inside the arena and walking to cars after the game.
I don’t have an opinion on what they should do to replace Kopi, I was confident after the Williams injury because I felt they could replace him, even though he’s an important part, he doesn’t fill all the same roles as Kopi does. With that said I have a feeling that DL will get Schenn here ASAP and that’s what they will do for the rest of the season.
Who knows, this has been a fun, crazy, frustrating, exciting, happy season and I guess we will just have to wait to see how all this plays out. I’m not quite done having faith in this team just yet, but I have been a fan long enough to see ALL the bad things that have happened, and i thought maybe this season was going to be different. But, what a cool story if they actually pulled it together and just won this thing without their top player!!!
[Reply]
Nobody has posted the exact details on recalling Schenn. Is there any way of finding that out Rich? Thanks!
[Reply]
KingsFanFTW Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 6:50 pm
@Poorman, yea be nice to see what he can do in the big boys
[Reply]
After seeing all of the potential line combos,its pretty clear to me that we don’t have a true 1st line. What we do have are four really good 2nd lines which means dump and chase and puck control down low. If TM plays all four lines, this could be a good thing. A balanced attack is a good thing.
[Reply]
THEROCKNROLL80S Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 6:15 pm
@UglyinLA, I agree on Murray play all for lines.
[Reply]
IceGuy Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 8:16 pm
@UglyinLA,
It’s not just a good thing – it’s the only thing.
4 lines and keep going at them.
[Reply]
Seems like a narrow, injury-related emergency-recall situation to me!! Let’s see what Schenn’s got!
[Reply]
Remeber all those Devils team that were great in the 90s can someone tell their 1st line centers? I venture to believe that they werent big names. 06 Oilers went to the finals without big names and a few of their heart and soul guys should be familiar (Stoll, Greene, Smyth). These guys have as good a chance as anyone to win a cup. On the negative side you have to look at the teams who have won the cup since the lockout first line centers, Staal, Getzlaf, Datsyuk, Crosby, Toews. he arguement could be made either way…all we can do is show up and cheer at the top of our lungs, and most importatly BELIEVE! GKG!
[Reply]
LuckyNumber20 Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 5:40 pm
@LuckyNumber20, Need to learn how to spell haha
[Reply]
Frolov-Kopitar-Palfy
[Reply]
Penner-Zeus-Moller
Smyth-Lewis-Brown
Poni-Stoll-Simmonds
Clifford-Richardson-Harrold/Westgarth
[Reply]
I think I need to say it again:
Penner – Handzus – Brown
Smyth – Lewis – Moller
Poni – Stoll – Simmonds
Clifford – Richardson – Harold/Westgarth
Until and if we call up someone.
Remember,
Brown & Handzus had some chemistry together.
Smyth & Lewis had some chemistry together.
Then we’ll see where it goes.
[Reply]
Mikey J. Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 6:25 pm
@King John, That looks like a formidable line up. No questions here. A lot different than other suggestions.
[Reply]
USHA#17 Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 6:25 pm
@King John,
Penner – Stoll – Moller
Smyth – Lewis – Brown
Poni – Handzus – Simmonds
Clifford – Richardson – Harold/Zeiler
[Reply]
jason Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 12:06 am
@King John, stoll will never be a #1 line Center…especially how his +/- has dropped so drastically. The lines murray used last game should remain and just add harrold or westy to the 4th..
[Reply]
King John Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 10:00 am
@jason, I have Handzus as #1; I guess you’re replying to USHA#17.
[Reply]
For a little emotional uplift, you can look at this thread from puckdaddy as to how solid the Kings are when it comes to giving up ‘rebound’ goals against. Very impressive.
http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/blog/puck_daddy/post/Stat-Nerd-Sunday-Which-NHL-teams-are-sloppy-wit?urn=nhl-wp1203#remaining-content
[Reply]
kevin from toronto Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 6:15 pm
@number 6, Nice.
Quicker and Bernie were right at the top!
[Reply]
340 posts? Gotta say, a bit different than back in the day when there were about 20 of us posting. Great to see the interest!
[Reply]
KINGS FANS; SOMETHING ELSE TO FEEL GRATEFUL FOR. I really don’t know why this came into my mind tonight, but it might help make all of us feel a bit more grateful being Kings fans. Some were saying that the hockey gods have it in for the franchise etc? (which I don’t believe personally – thought clearly we’ve had some rough blows, not the least being Marty McSorley’s stick).
So, check this one out. I remember very well following the results at the end of the 2008-2000 season. Where the Kings were going to select depended on their result as well as the result of the Phoenix game. Phoenix won so we went into the 5th slot.
That and only that (imo) permitted us to get Brayden Schenn. Otherwise, who knows but most likely Phx grabs him or Burkie makes a trade to grab him.
Now we have him so although we’ve hit some rough spots recently, the future is still very bright.
[Reply]
number 6 Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 6:26 pm
@number 6,
sorry – the end of the 2008-2009 season, but you probably figured that out
[Reply]
Who Knows? Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 7:12 am
@number 6, You even have to give Ersberg props.. You can look at it two ways. He either gave is Doughty or took away Steven Stamkos.
[Reply]
Don’t know if this has been brought up, but then again, I didn’t take the time to read all 350 posts either.
Move Moller to Center and put Jack Johnson on the third line right wing. Johnson’s defensive play has been weak lately, so why not experiment? Insert Drewiske to fill the void on defense.
Penner-Moller-Brown
Smyth-Zus-Simmonds
Ponikarovsky-Stoll-Johnson
Clifford-Lewis-Richardson
Wacky, yes, but desperate times call for desperate measures!
[Reply]
kevin from toronto Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 6:42 pm
@salami, 5 points out of a division championship hardly counts as desperate times.
He’s never played forward in his (professional) life…
[Reply]
HockeyNerd Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 6:46 pm
@salami, Somebody called “King’s talk” yesterday and also suggested JJ up front. Nick Nixon said there was no way TM would even consider it, that JJ is too valuable and plays a lot of minutes where he is.
I agree. Your proposed line combinations would have a key member of the team playing about HALF the minutes he is now. If anything, he needs to play more, not less. I am well aware his D hasn’t been the best lately. He is just going to have to do better. As will the entire team.
This is NOT the time for experimentation. We have playoffs to make and win…..
[Reply]
Sign the Hanson brothers as our checking line. Put Bailey in as the 3rd line center. Play 6 guys per shift and explain to the referees that this is LA and the union requires it. Spray paint over the video cameras so Toronto cannot review any plays and take away more points from us. If that all fails, punt. Otherwise, figure out who to play at pratice tomorrow and then implement it in Edmonton on Tuesday. Stay positive and continue to support our Kings.
[Reply]
HockeyNerd Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 6:47 pm
@DesertKing, Best post of the day.
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 6:50 pm
@HockeyNerd,
Thanks, but will it work
[Reply]
HockeyNerd Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 7:06 pm
@DesertKing, Definitely.
I’d also put up a large sign that covers our net saying “Goal closed, use alternate route”.
Actually based on our stats I think we must have done that already
KingsFanFTW Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 6:51 pm
@DesertKing, LOL yea If it goes to review we are screwed LOL
[Reply]
jess Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 7:02 pm
@DesertKing, *tape on glasses in solidarity
[Reply]
Please keep Smyth & Lewis together…they obviously have some chemistry.
Penner/Handzus/Moller
Smyth/Lewis/Brown
Poni/Stoll/Simmonds
Clifford/Richardson/Harrold
Lets go DD, and JMFJ…time to lead this team to victory.
[Reply]
jason Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 12:12 am
@Ryno, I agree! It says a lot that within a shift or two lewis scores with smyth.. I think if lewis plays on the #2 line he will start to shine.. Plus he adds a lot of speed
[Reply]
Look, either we we go down swiftly or we step up… This team was, until the injury, expected to make a run at the cup… Now that has completely changed.. This, my fellow kings fans might be a blessing in disguise. Tuesday night in EDM a brand new hockey team will emerge. 20 men with a clearly defined goal.. Prove to the world that they can do this.. This team has counted on willy and kopi and now its just the mirror. Like I said, either we fold like a greeting card or we shock the world. Stay tuned…
[Reply]
Goring 19 Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 7:55 pm
@C leb, that’s how I feel too. It’s an “us against the world” mentality now.
[Reply]
C leb Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 8:30 pm
@Goring 19, its a component we have not seen before with this group… in 92-93 we did not have 99 until february and that team pulled together with 20 sporting the C. When 99 returned we sunk to 6th or 7th before 99 put up 40 in the greatest seven weeks of my sportsfan life! Let’s not get ahead of ourselves but kopi and willy coming back in the later rounds might screw the chemistry up… but that’s a problem we’d love to have… The entire league thinks we’re done.. this is how teams prove themselves. This bunch has come too far TO PACK IT IN WITHOUT A FIGHT!!!
[Reply]
Get Robitaille to put his skates back on and lets see how Deadmarsh is feeling these days…..Well I can dream.
[Reply]
Steveoviper Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 7:58 pm
@chuckrocks, DEEAADMARSH, man that would be great to have him back again. Perhaps we would have made it to the Play-Offs alot more than just once in the last nine years. Not perhaps, we would have.
[Reply]
Losing are two top scorers. I thought we would win a round or two. I got one thing to say we are SCREWED BIG TIME
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 7:22 pm
@dennis,
Keeping the faith, I like it.
[Reply]
C leb Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 7:23 pm
So far we’re undefeated without them… @dennis,
[Reply]
Ravens Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 8:16 pm
@dennis, All the optimism of the late Rodney Dangerfield
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 8:29 pm
@Ravens,
“Even when I’m dead, I get no respect around here.”
[Reply]
Kenny44 Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 10:33 pm
@dennis, c’mon Dennis, you can do better than that. Think Bill Paxton in Aliens
[Reply]
So unfortunate what happened to Loktionov… (Obviously Kopitar too)
Had he not been sent back down, he may not have been injured. This could have been his time!
[Reply]
make doughty a foward and get Davis Drewiske back in
[Reply]
jason Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 12:13 am
@martin, i think doughty and jack could both play forward.. I think johnson has been the less reliable D this season and harrold and drewiske has been pretty solid
[Reply]
We have solid defense and a conn smythe caliber goaltender.. Only 2 or 3 (goals for) could git er done, just sayin’
[Reply]
Anyone thought to ask Luc if he would consider coming out of retirement to help them ? He just skated at the Fantasy Camp and looked pretty good to all of us !
Mike
[Reply]
Do the Kings need a veteran presence? Or a miracle?
Why not have both with Daryl Evans!
The guy just ran the LA marathon with only a month training.
[Reply]
RICH: Can you find out if Schenn were to join the Kings later on in the playoffs, would he burn a year of his contract since he has passed the 10 game mark or the playoffs does not count toward the 10 game limit.
[Reply]
Helvetica Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 9:34 am
@gcheng, yes it would burn a tear off his ELC. Playoff games count.
[Reply]
Maybe we should get the replica jerseys from 92-93 out for the entire playoff run… Win win for all. $$ for AEG, The team thinks they’re maybe playing with the great one… the fans think they might win 3 plus rounds… I miss that chevy logo, anyone?
[Reply]
Kenny44 Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 8:44 pm
@C leb, Just might be crazy enough to work. Gretz was out for half of that season, anyway, remember? Kurri moved to center.
I love the chevron, but I prefered the silver numbers (that would ruin Bob Miller, if we brought those back now, though)
[Reply]
You know, our team wins by great goaltending and great defense. Kopi is obviously a huge part of that however, I feel we can get the job done defensevly while being opportunistic on offense like we have been all season. So hockey gods willing, the team will get through this with a lot of support from the fans. Keep the faith people.
[Reply]
Anyone notice lately that we basically have Mark Messier with a lisp for a captain?
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 8:20 pm
@C leb,
If you were missing most of your front teeth, you might lisp too.
[Reply]
C leb Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 8:41 pm
@DesertKing, watch his undisputed, he said he’s had it all his life… and I compared him to the greatest captain ever in any sport.. so there was nothing derogatory in my previous statement.
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 8:45 pm
@C leb,
Nothing derogatory taken, but now that you mentioned it, why would you mention it? How about pointing out something positive rather than direct attention to something that most poeple stygmatize? Just wondering…..
Tmik Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 8:51 pm
@C leb,
What’s not positive about being compared to Messier?
C leb Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 8:57 pm
And I hope RH noticed your slightly hidden threat… tough guy. Too much desert air maybe… @DesertKing,
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 9:01 pm
@C leb,
ok, now I understand…
C leb Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 8:53 pm
@C leb, dude chill… having a lisp is fine with me… you seem like the guy who thinks its not cool to have one. I’m quite sure DB doesen’t need you swoop in and save the day for him, but nice try… lighten up. Mike Tyson has one too… and he’ll talk your ear off.
[Reply]
C leb Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 9:01 pm
Not @ me. @ desert thing. ^^^^
[Reply]
Harrold to forward
[Reply]
I’m gonna have a major laugh when I revisit this thread after the Kings finish the season on much the same 7-1-1 roll that they’re currently on, and the majority of you start coming back to what senses you have.
Meanwhile, friends, I’ll be waiting in the foxhole.
[Reply]
Looking at the lines Rich listed, I have 3 thoughts. First, that’s probably the best set up, using the presently active players. You might switch Zus and Stoll, or argue that Moller should move to the middle and leave Richardson at wing. But I think that without Kopi and JW, our defense first attitude will go to a new extreme. So that means Zus takes up the shutdown center role again and, by default, the “first line” center spot. TM won’t trust Moller in the middle at this time.
Second, do we think Lewis is a better option as a “top 6″ forward (at this moment) than anyone we could call up? If so, any call up should be for depth on the 4th line (to fill Lewis’ spot, not Kopi’s).
Third, do we trust Richie at center and Harrold on wing enough to roll with that, or do we have a better option to call up for a 4th line role? Sounds like our center depth has taken a hit with 3 major injuries. I’m not sure Elkins is an upgrade over Richie at center. And if we’re going into total shutdown mode, Harrold may be the best option on the wing.
It’d be nice to have a third NHL-ready top 6 forward to bring up, but that may not be available anymore. There’s the way it ought to be, and there’s the way it is.
[Reply]
Can we use DD2, then move JJ to forward?
[Reply]
HockeyNerd Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 9:33 pm
@Zdfun, Can? Yes.
Should? No.
Will? Definitely not.
[Reply]
@Everybody:
1. Jack Johnson is a DEFENSEMEN, not a FORWARD.
2. Schenn cannot be called up at this time. The reason for that has nothing to do with not having confidence in him.
3. Jack Johnson is a DEFENSEMEN, not a FORWARD. He has never played forward.
4. Schenn cannot be called up at this time. The reason for that has nothing to do with EITHER not having confidence in him OR not wanting to burn a year of his contract.
5. Jack Johnson is a DEFENSEMEN, not a FORWARD. He is too valuable where he is.
6. Schenn cannot be called up at this time. The reason for that has nothing to do with EITHER not having confidence in him OR not wanting to burn a year of his contract. League rules do not allow him to be called up right now. Case closed — until his Junior season ends anyway.
7. Jack Johnson is a DEFENSEMEN, not a FORWARD. He would play about half the number of minutes he does now if used that way. That will not work.
8. DL more than likely will NOT call anybody up from Manchester. If he does, that player will play a VERY limited number of minutes IF at all. It is not a big deal either way.
9. This team will have to make and win playoffs with Defense and Goaltending. They already have all year, so it is certainly possible.
10. Several bloggers on this site have decreed this team is finished about 67,453 times already. They have been wrong EVERY SINGLE TIME. They are wrong again.
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 10:36 pm
@HockeyNerd, Rich specifically asked for what people think and they have just as much right to an opinion as anyone else.
[Reply]
HockeyNerd Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 10:44 pm
@KC23, And just where did I say otherwise?
[Reply]
What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 10:59 pm
I’m pretty sure Jack Johnson is a DEFENSEMAN, not a DEFENSEMEN.
[Reply]
HockeyNerd Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:01 pm
@What’s the frequency, Kenneth?, I stand corrected.
[Reply]
HockeyNerd Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:21 pm
@What’s the frequency, Kenneth?, Nor did I of you….
[Reply]
What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:35 pm
“You can post what you want, and I in turn will post what I want….” sounds like a rebuttal of some sort, but I guess it’s just hot air like all the shouting above.
[Reply]
HockeyNerd Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:41 pm
@What’s the frequency, Kenneth?, Do you have a point here?
[Reply]
What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 9:45 am
I made it. Your screaming was counterproductive, and that’s why you got negative responses. If you wait to post until after you’re done hyperventilating, you’ll probably do better.
‘nuf said.
[Reply]
HockeyNerd Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 10:55 am
@What’s the frequency, Kenneth?, I do not recall asking you for advice on when, whether, and what to post. I will post what I want, when I want. Deal with it…….
[Reply]
Scot Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:01 pm
@HockeyNerd,
Lol.
Is Jack Johnson a defenseman or a forward?
Also, I think we should call Schenn up.
[Reply]
Kenny44 Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 12:01 am
@HockeyNerd, I think this thread was a great idea and it certainly sparked wide interest. Rich keeps giving us a Kings fan’s dream gift here. We’re all pulling for the Kings. We’re all on the same side. We each bring a different perspective and knowledge base, but share that common rooting interest. This blog features a bunch of well informed opinions, as well as plenty of casual fan comments and some stuff that is just pure expression. I enjoy reading it all, and encourage the casual fans to participate and become more involved in the game. it’s the best sport on earth and Kings fans are some of the most dedicated you’ll find, in any sport. So let’s have more 500 comment days.
And Go Kings Go!
[Reply]
HockeyNerd Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 12:10 am
@Kenny44, “So let’s have more 500 comment days.”
Just not at the expense of yet another injury!
[Reply]
HockeyNerd Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 12:23 am
@Kenny44, Actually, another 41 comments to go. But maybe by the time you see this….
[Reply]
Wow, Kings only have 4 regulation loses in the last 28 games. Pretty darn impressive.
[Reply]
Scot Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 10:57 pm
@KC23,
Very nice! Thanks for pointing that out.
Also, it shows how competitive the Pacific Division is, that after a streak like that, the Kings are still only in 3rd place.
[Reply]
Shotongoal Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 7:51 am
@KC23, yeah but that was with Kopi……..
[Reply]
One thing bugs me; Manchester doesn’t have a game till Friday. We could fly out a player for the Oil game and have them back if it doesn’t work out before the next Manchester game.
[Reply]
Uh…Bob Berry?
Bob Pulford??
Bob Miller???
[Reply]
Can’t believe everyone has missed the obvious!
Has ANYONE noticed how Doughty has blown by all sorts of the best NHL defensemen this year?
Penner-Doughty-Moller
Smyth-Handzus-Brown
Poni-Stoll-Simmonds
Clifford/Lewis/Richardson
Mitchell-Johnson
Scuderi-Martinez
Green-Harrold/Drewiske
Give Bailey a few games off and let KW pump up the crowd
GO KINGS
[Reply]
We’re screwed.
Schenn may not make much of a difference, but needs to be brought up as soon as his JR season ends.
[Reply]
sasKing Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:00 pm
@Chuck, Schenn’s Blades just beat Prince Albert this weekend by scores of 8-1 and 5-2. The Blades are by far the best team in the WHL. If they don’t make it to the Memorial Cup, it will be a real surprise. In any event, I don’t think the Blades will be done for at least another month. By then, the Kings may not be playing anymore.
Long story short, Schenn won’t be our saviour.
[Reply]
Scot Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 11:03 pm
@sasKing,
It will be an absolute shame if we don’t see Kopitar in an NHL game again until Stockholm.
[Reply]
Penner, Stoll, Moeller
Symth, Lewis, Brown
Poni, Zues, Simmonds
Cliffy, Richie, Harrold
Scratch Westy & Wisky
thats how it will be or should be
[Reply]
HipCheck Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 8:38 am
@JMFJ#3, Agreed. Those are my line combinations. We’ll have to see what TM does though.
[Reply]
HipCheck Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 8:39 am
@HipCheck, Actually it’s CLOSE to my line combos. I’d like to see Brown stay with Zeus for awhile.
[Reply]
Time for the other guys, Penner and Pony, To pick it up. Penner had a good few games when he first came over, but has kind of been know were to be found the last few games. Pony has been playing very well of late, but we need him to at least get to that 20 gaol point he is good for. That would be great If he did. Smyth needs to step it up too and play like he was for most of the season, althouogh he played great in the last game. Keep it up. So, I think if Pony sees that he needs to put pucks in the net more than ever, and does do so, we will be ok. Put it on him TM. Penner, I think, will come around. Alot more “D” than, I’m sure, he is used too. All and all I think we will be just fine. We have a really good team. GO KINGS!!
[Reply]
I have to admit that all the hoohah above is of little interest to me right now. All I want to hear is that Kopitar does not have a career threatening injury of any kind, and will make a full recovery. Everything else is secondary – to me – at the moment.
[Reply]
HockeyNerd Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 12:14 am
@rick, I don’t think that’s in doubt — in fact there are rumors that he might even be out LESS than 6 weeks. The thing that we all want the most is a Stanley Cup…
[Reply]
BigSeeGas Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 8:34 am
@HockeyNerd, Amen!
[Reply]
IS PARSE READY?
[Reply]
HockeyNerd Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 1:14 am
@MIKE Kamins, NO HE’S NOT
[Reply]
Thank god there’s practice tomorrow so there will be a new thread. That thread will probably be filled with madness as well though so it probably makes no difference.
[Reply]
These guys have as good a chance as anyone to win a cup. Remember World Champions 2010. Czech Republic team won just with 3 guys with NHL experience (Vokoun, Jagr and Voracek). They played as a team and won against Canada (with Stamkos for example) and even against Russia with Ovechkin, Malkin, Kovalchuk and other top individuals… This is unpredictable game and team spirit could be much more stronger than staggering statistics. LA still could be NHL Black Horse, don’t you think? Get well Kopi & GKG!!!
[Reply]
Penner-Zeus-Brown
Smyth-Stoll-Moller
Poni-Lewis-Simmonds
Clifford-Richardson-Harrold
[Reply]
I was thinking before Kopi went down that the Kings could so some serious damage in the playoffs- if they made it. Lewis-Clifford-Richardson ate the lunch of Duchene-Stasny-Hejduk. 4 serviceable lines, solid defensive core, patience. That was NJ’s road to 3 Cups.
With no primary scoring left though, the rule now becomes for the rest of the regular season “2 and 2″. To get 2 points, you can’t give up more than 2 goals. The only possible gimme on the schedule is Edmonton- and that is a trap game since Calgary stole 2 pts from them in the previous game.
I think we see Harrold get some time at W again. I also wouldn’t be surprised to see a move after the regular season ends for the post-season from Manchester- if we get to the post-season that is.
I still think 97 pts gets in to the post-season, but where do the Kings find 5 pts between now and April 9 with the Filthy Fowl now on a roll?
[Reply]
stoll is not a #1 center! Especially lately.. Hes been the worst center on the kings in the last 12 games. Lewis played on the #2 line and within minutes he had a goal. At times like these you have to stick with that. Also stoll has played with most of the kings players and hasnt really shined after the start of the season. Heres the stats for the last 10 games. If stoll has a negative plus minus on the #2 and #3 lines then why do you guys think somethings going to change on the #1 line? While lewis is getting better, stoll and smyth have gotten worse. Heres some stats
stoll- 3 points, (2 of the 3 were on PP), plus/minus -7 so in 12 games hes put up 1 even strength point
handzus- 4 points, (2 of 4 on PP), plus/minus -3
lewis- 3 points, (all even strength), plus/minus +2
We have seen that brown and handzus/ lewis and smyth have good chemistry. We should keep working that.. Since lewis and Zus are used on Pk, that makes me think they are more responsible on the D side of things. I could see if stoll was putting up points but hes not.. he can still be used on the PP and shootouts. I think moller will stay on the 4th line but I think the lines should be this
penner-handzus-brown
smyth-lewis-moller
poni-stoll-simmons
cliff-rich-harrold
with these lines we have a solid D guy on each line and some proven chemistry.. If you put brown and stoll together it doesnt work at all. on the #2 line you got 2 shooters and a guy who likes to get in front of the net
[Reply]
jason Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 3:18 am
@jason, i meant i think moller will stay on the “first” line
[Reply]
King John Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 10:04 am
@jason, These are the lines I posted earlier.
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Aren’t we still paying Alyn McCauley?
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Plans? . . . Plans . . .
I’m gonna lie in a bathtub fulla hot water and quietly slash my wrists.
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The only way this team survives without Kopitar is if they’re playing as a team.
Nobody can replace him, but other guys need to step up and do their jobs.
It’s not going to be easy, but nothing ever has for this franchise.
They’re a solid, well coached team with outstanding D and goaltending. They’ll need to rely on that to go forward.
Go Kings!
[Reply]
Of course the Kings know how hard it is going to be going forward without Kopi, and because of this, I don’t think we are going to have to worry about which team is going to show up to play. They will be focused and ready to prove to us and the league that they are still in this race and be stronger because of it.
Good luck today Kopi.
[Reply]
1 word- Quick
There’s the guy that’s irreplaceable. My MVP. That’s where our focus should be, 1-0 and 2-1. Stiffle all of them boys.
Get Well Anze. Hope the boys hold the fort. Se la guerre.
GKG
[Reply]
bfarm Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 6:48 am
@anonandonanon,
AND our defense.. some people say JJ should move up and play forward. A bit of a silly thought but these are VERY silly times with kopi gone. Our defense and goaltending has carried us through the season and i hope they will in the play offs
Heres my comment about that earlier on the blog, i want to catch up with some of the people commenting now so we can discuss
@MMF,
Im sure JJ would love to play forward. I always thought so seeing how deep he seems to get himself in the offensive zone going coast to coast. As of the latter half of this year he seems to be better at staying put at the point and playing a better defensive role. Unfortunately his +/- doesnt reflect that but i still believe he’s gotten much better.
But… How can you mess with our defensive chemistry like that?? Scuderi and Johnson have been d-line mates for more than 2 years now. The kings are centered around their shut down defense and penalty killing so mixing up the d-lines is taking a big risk in my opinion.
I would keeep all the defense the same because that is the main component of this years team that is gonna take us to the finals…
as for filling the holes with the kopi catastrophe
my 2 top lines are:
Brown-Stoll-Moller
Smyth-Zues-Simmonds
maybe throw the clifford simmonds zues line back together too and put poni somewhere in the mix
[Reply]
anonandonanon Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 8:23 am
@bfarm, Stopping goals is now our best hope. That’s why I think we see Harrold, gives us even more D, pile it on. The best PK team can be better 5 on 5. Defense wins Championships.
[Reply]
Can we replace Kopi’s ankle with Westgarth’s?
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 9:00 am
@Shakes,
“Paging Dr. Frankenstein, paging Dr. Frankenstein, please report to the operating room”
[Reply]
Shakes Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 9:39 am
@DesertKing,
while we’re at it we should put Bailey’s head on the body, just because it would look funny.
[Reply]
Good luck today Anže and get well soon!
[Reply]
Just go out there, suck it up and give it everything.
Goaltending is where we need it. If Quick is on his game, then we have as good as a chance as anyone else.
[Reply]
Call me crazy, and I know many will, but here would be my lines.
Penner/Lewis/Brown
Smyth/Handzus/Moller
Ponikarovsky/Stoll/Simmonds
Harrold/Richardson/Clifford
My reasoning is, I do not want Moller and Lewis playing together. Two young forwards with too much pressure. Brown can help Penner with his defensive liabilities, and meanwhile Moller can help both Smyth and Handzus with their lack of speed issues.
[Reply]
ryanzlakings Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 8:05 am
@mrbrett7,
acutally I like those lines. But I would still like to see a call up from manchester, (Bud Halloway).
[Reply]
mrbrett7 Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 10:03 am
@ryanzlakings, Bud Halloway is not an NHL player. He may get a crack, and I do agree that I would like to see a call-up as well, but Halloway is not an NHL player, probably never will be one.
If Cliche wasn’t hurt, he would have been the callup, and if Loktionov wasn’t hurt, he too would have been a callup.
[Reply]
bbb7 Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 8:47 am
@mrbrett7, I think that works as well as any.
[Reply]
bfarm Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 9:33 am
@mrbrett7, just switch stoll and lewis and its fine
[Reply]
mrbrett7 Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 10:04 am
@bfarm, I’m not thinking in terms of #1 center, etc. Your going to see the bottom pairing skating more minutes, and the top lines skating less minutes. In other words…players are going to be playing a more even set of minutes.
[Reply]
wavesinair Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 9:41 am
@mrbrett7,
Could very easily be it. It’s as good as it gets with what we have. I’ll let you know soon enough.
Although not sure why you put Clifford on the right side. He’d be on the left for sure.
[Reply]
mrbrett7 Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 10:05 am
@wavesinair, I bet you will.
Cliffy was a mistkate on my part…I meant to put him on the left side.
[Reply]
Shakes Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 9:42 am
@mrbrett7,
i think it looks pretty solid and your point of not having two youngsters on the same line is one of the best considerations… that’s the kinda thinking that i’m sure real coaches really care about, especially at this time of the year
[Reply]
mrbrett7 Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 10:07 am
@Shakes, That was my reasoning. Lewis has been pretty solid all year, but he is still young and prone to young mistakes.
Moller, despite his best intentions, is still a kid.
Separating the kids and having them play with veterens who can (hopefully) make up for any of their shortcomings is what I would do. But, of course, I’m not the coach.
[Reply]
punt…….Iam helping to get to 500…..
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Simple. Everyone on the team needs to take their game to the next level. Will it happen? We’ll see what the team is made of as the season ends. The Vancouver game will be big, but what looms large to me are the last two games against Anaheim. If the Kings sweep those games, then I think the sky’s the limit. If they’re swept, I fear a first-round meltdown, assuming of course it isn’t the final whimper in a huge collapse.
Hey, I know most of you are probably Dodgers fans and don’t want to hear it, but the S.F. Giants weren’t the best offensive team, but wih great pitching, a great last month, timely post-season offense, and a dash of good fortune they are World Champions. Why couldn’t the Kings step up with some phenomenal goaltending, a great finish to the season, timely post-season offense from some of the other players, and a dash of luck? It’s sports. Anything can haappen. It already did to Kopitar.
GO KINGS!
[Reply]
I’d love to know how the players would choose their line ups if given the opportunity.
[Reply]
Pittsburgh found ways to win this year without Crosbey and Malkin. The Kings can too.
1st line:
Smyth, Stoll, Brown
2nd line:
Penner, Schenn, Moller
3rd line:
Poni, Zues, Simmonds
4th line:
Clifford, Lewis, Richardson
[Reply]
kinginsaltlake Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 9:04 am
@NOW IMPRESSED, Nobody but you have pointed this out. Pittsburgh is doing great without their top two players. Why? Hockey is a team sport. This is my belief. Caps keep winning and Ovey#8 is out. I watched the Pens yesterday and they play team hockey. “D” comes first and that’s what wins championships.
[Reply]
Shotongoal Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 9:21 am
@kinginsaltlake, I agree that those teams have kept winning, but those teams are just a bit more deep, talent wise, than the Kings. The Kings are built for a system and the players have played that system well. The Kings just don’t have the natural talent that those teams possess throughout the lineup. Don’t get me wrong, I love this team, and I am pretty much always positive, without being delusional, about them here, but this injury is the worst case scenario, because as you state, this team is built on defense first, and they just lost the best defensive player they have….
[Reply]
Shakes Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 9:51 am
@NOW IMPRESSED,
I think we’re just going to have to win games like we used to 2+ years ago…when we won games by pure heart, we couldn’t just show up on talent alone. What’s been interesting this year is that we’ve won games where we have talent to make up for a poor 15-20minutes here and there. Our game against Pittsburgh a few weeks back remind me of that… the Pens won because they just wanted it more, not because they had more talent.
I still think we have a talented team, but we can’t win just by showing up.
I think having our “first” game against the lowly Oilers is fortunate…although they have played us tough in the prior games
[Reply]
mrbrett7 Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 10:07 am
@NOW IMPRESSED, How many times do you need to be told this? SCHENN IS NOT AVAILABLE….
[Reply]
Dwight King. Give him another shot. He played fairly well last time he was up.
[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 8:51 am
@wonton28, Totally disagree, he was invisible…he is not ready ! Maybe next season
[Reply]
mrbrett7 Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 10:08 am
@wonton28, Yeah, um…no, he really didn’t.
[Reply]
Schenn ain’t happening. I don’t want to either. We should have used him all year or only a few games like we did. He is young and we don’t want to waste a year of a small contract.
[Reply]
NOW IMPRESSED Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 9:20 am
@jonsey, The Kings are about to enter the playoffs. Who the hell cares if a year’s contract is wasted on a few games. The Kings need to call up the best center they have. Who do you think that is??? And besides that, they would NOT beasking him to fill Kopitar’s shoes. It would be the epitome of being cheap for the Kings not to call up Schenn. That is if the rules allow it.
[Reply]
Shakes Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 9:54 am
@NOW IMPRESSED,
Plus if you want to look at things from a pure dollars and cents perspective, the cost of burning one year of Schenn’s small contract (and thus getting one year closer to having to pay him a slightly larger contract) would probably be offset by the revenues the Kings would earn by playing an extra playoff game or two this year (let alone an extra series)
[Reply]
mrbrett7 Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 10:10 am
@NOW IMPRESSED, They cannot call him up until his Junior season is done. Sorry, but please read the rules.
Furthermore, wasting a year on an ELC (Entry Level Contract) on a kid like Schenn basically means he is due for a giant raise 1 year earlier, which in turn means it’s more difficult to keep him long term.
Think long term, not just one year in which the West is so deep, the chances of making a long run aren’t that great to begin with.
[Reply]
Shotongoal Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 9:26 am
@jonsey, couldn’t disagree more! If they can recall him they absolutely should. How could you not want them to call up the best player they have in the organIzation that isn’t already on the roster? His age at this point of the season is not a factor. He has all kinds of big game experience now and has the responsibilty of being the “man” in the lineup. Albeit at the junior level, but it still is better than anyone else they have in the minors. As far as “wasting” a year on his contract? I don’t think the need for his talent to help the team in the playoffs can be called a waste.
[Reply]
As I mentioned the last time Brayden Schenn’s name came up, there exists a slim possibility that the Kings could bring him up, but only in a narrow, injury-related emergency-recall situation (the exact details of which I’m not 100-percent certain). As of now, Schenn cannot be called up.
Rich: Why can’t the Kings call up Scheen? Is this not an injury related situation?
[Reply]
mrbrett7 Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 10:10 am
@NOW IMPRESSED, No, it is not.
[Reply]
NOW IMPRESSED Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 10:23 am
@mrbrett7, Since you seem to have all the answers, why is this not an injury related situation?
[Reply]
mrbrett7 Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 10:56 am
@NOW IMPRESSED, Not saying the rule makes any sense, but…in order for it to be an injury related situation the “big” team needs to have 3 catstrophic injuries (so, Williams, Kopitar and someone else) before Schenn is even eligible, AND, the Kings don’t have time to bring anyone else up from Manchester OR Ontario.
The only reason they were able to last season was because Schenn’s team was/is playing close to Vancouver (where he played) and the Kings injury situation was such that they didn’t have time to get a replacement player into Vancouver in time, AND they were still under the cap.
Yes…I know it doesn’t make a whole lot of sense, neither does the fact that you have to be 20 years old OR no Junior team have your rights to play in the AHL. I can’t stand that rule either as a player like Schenn really has no business at all playing in Juniors this season. He should be in the AHL.
Much like Dustin Brown when he was a rookie…
Obviously if they can find a way to get Schenn up here they will do that first.
Penner-Zeus-Moller (Stoll and Zeus will take turns)
Smyth-Lewis-Brown (Lewis speed makes up for his lack of scoring touch)
Poni-Stoll-Simmonds (Solid second/third line)
Clifford-Richardson-??? (Bring up someone with speed)
I don’t want to see Harry playing wing…it was hard enough watching that experiment the last two seasons…this team has more depth now. Bring someone up who has speed and scoring potential and has a chance to crack the lineup in the next couple of years….great opportunity for someone to get some NHL experience during the playoffs.
[Reply]
Let’s hear it for all the out of state fans. Just looking over the 400 or so post and am shocked at how many “staters” there really is. Kings fans are deep in every state. These last few seasons have been awesome and rewarding, yet this drama continues. What a story it would be if the Kings continue with their winning ways. Ever since that 10 game road trip this club has overcome many obstacles. Now the mountain top seems to be a bit higher. We all hope for the best and as far as Kopi goes, we love him. Do we stop climbing? Does our dream end? Is it time to stop rooting? Fights over, throw in the towel? What are we gonna do, Fans? Tell ya what many of us are gonna do. We are going to keep showing up. These next 4 home games will be standing room only. The loudest in years. No body could of predicted that VCU would make the Final Four and nobody knows what will happen with our Kings. We can only watch. It all starts today at practice. If you are anywhere near El Segundo, go and support this club. I am going to close now, for this thread is long and I don’t believe that anyone has stuck around to read my morning post. Some have called me a nerd as of late. Why?
[Reply]
nykingfan Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 9:16 am
@kinginsaltlake,
I read it..
Love the attitude man. Don’t ever stop!
I’ve been totally depressed since the news came out, but these are our Kings. there’s not a chance in hell we can give up on them.
They’ll find a way to make the playoffs and shock the world!
[Reply]
As it’s been said, injuries are part of the game. The team simply can’t replace a Kopitar…we all know that. What the Kings should focus on now is their physical game. Hitting guys off the puck and slamming them into the boards! Let’s face it, that is what playoff hockey is. Goals are going to be hard to come by so solid “D” is what is required. I expect Downtown Dustin Brown and and Big Mean Green to keep doing what they do…but we need Westgarth, Clifford and Simmons to really turn up the physical aspects of their game. Not referring to fighting, I mean checking guys through the boards and making guys pay for buzzing around your own net. VIVA LAS KINGS!
[Reply]
kinginsaltlake Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 9:08 am
@Cous, Now that was the best post I have read this morning, with puck’s a close second. King is not ready and if we call up anyone that person should be Holloway. Even that would be a longshot.
[Reply]
Rich, nice job on HTM with Mike Ross this morning… We are glad you are our mouthpiece to the broader hockey community! Very interesting point you made on the defensive matchups possibly being hurt without our Selke candidate… Let’s hope the boys all step up & come together! They passed the first test (third period on Saturday afternoon)… Next exam, tomorrow night in Edmonton… GKG!
[Reply]
CupRun2011 Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 9:15 am
@Kings Win, Ducks Lose, Yup, Rich makes an excellent point about Kopi’s underrated defense, but just like making up his offensive numbers, the team has to collectively play a disciplined D. I think our situation is similar to Pittsburgh, with both Crosby and Malkin out. Before he was hurt, Crosby was probably having one of his best seasons, but Pittsburgh is still in the race.
Now is the time for the rest of the team to step up their game. They’ve been playing some fantastic hockey for the past 2 months, and I really liked how Lewis, Stoll, and Smyth picked up their game in the 3rd period Saturday. We need more from everyone else.
[Reply]
nykingfan Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 9:19 am
@CupRun2011,
Excellent point about the Penguins. they could have easily thrown in the towel when they lost Crosby and Malkin, but they all have bought into Bylsma’s system and are succeeding without those two. I never thought that would happen.
It gives us hope!
[Reply]
I think that these last seven regular season games and the playoffs will be very good for this young team. They will all have to elevate their play beyond what would have been expected of them if Kopi and Willy were healthy. I think that several of these guys are going to reach a level that they would not have otherwise.
I still believe that the Kings can beat Phoenix or Nashville in a first round series. To beat any other teams would probably be an upset.
[Reply]
A lot is going to be asked of Trevor Lewis now.
He’s gotten his feet wet on the 4th line, but now he’s going to be asked to play a more offensive role. I think he’ll do fine. If this was earlier in the season, he wasn’t ready. He is now.
[Reply]
Sigh. Sad thing about being a displaced Kings fan on the East Coast. You miss the news sometimes. Saw this in the paper today and well, [explictive deleted]. This might be a short playoff stay for the boys. 6 weeks is a long time in end of the season/playoff land.
[Reply]
Since Anze Kopitar has a broken ankle that means we need to change the 1st and 4th line is Kyle Clifford will replace Anze because that we can move Handzus to the 4th line with Richardson and here is the 1st and 4th line is
Penner Clifford Stoll 1st line
Handzus Moller Richardson 4th line and same line for 2nd line and 3rd line and the deal is will replace Anze to help the Kings win more and more games and the LA Kings will get the Stanley Cup if the Blackhawks will be trouble today against Red Wings if the Blackhawks lose the game over the Red Wings that means Blackhawks will be major trouble if the Red Wings win over the Blackhawks and move Ducks in the # 8 Seed if the Blackhawks lose anze said that the LA Kings will get the 1st Stanley Cup to support Anze’s injury
[Reply]
Rainman Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 11:05 am
@Adam Michel, Huh???
[Reply]
We should put jack jonson at center and bring up another defenseman . Jonson gives the puck up a lot on defense but has great hands and a good shot. He could be a defensive center and on the power play we could have jonson brown and penner with stole and doughty on defense.
I know its a wild idea but look what chacago did with byfuglin !!!!!!!!
[Reply]
He’s had his ups and downs this season, but the team needs Doughty to take it up a level. To offset some of the loss of kopitar’s offense, chances have to be generated from the d-men. aside from kopitar Doughty has the most ability to carry the puck through the neural zone and set up the offence. To a lesser extent, JJ, and even AM, will also have to create more offensive opportunities.
[Reply]
mrbrett7 Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 10:12 am
@BringBackKingston, This is a great point. Both Doughty and Johnson (and Martinez to an extent) are going to need to pitch in quite a bit.
What this also means is that we need to be prepared to see Quick get bombarded on occassion because the defense is going to be jumping into the play quite a bit.
[Reply]
KEEP THE FAITH!!!
[Reply]
pr0cess Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 9:45 am
@tellmeY, my faith is in the curse…
[Reply]
Funny thing is, in a twisted way, I’m sorta excited. For the realist, the question in my mind is “how much better can the Kings be, under pressure?” I want to see if they surprise us and close out the season strong enough to draw an opponent they can also impress us against, to make the second round. I want to see who steps up and shows us his “playoff game” (yes, I was kinda hoping that would be Williams, before he went down.) Still, most of the young players on this team should be better than ever, after this season’s experience. Frankly, they’ve showed us a hell of a lot over the last six or eight weeks, and there’s a slim chance they’re going to surprise us as much or more in the next six or eight weeks. I wouldn’t even be thinking this if it weren’t for how well they stepped up, when they had to, starting with the long road trip.
[Reply]
What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 9:55 am
One change I think might happen is that Moller might end up at his natural center position as the Kings bring up a winger. Who that winger is, I don’t know.
[Reply]
Harry Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 10:02 am
@What’s the frequency, Kenneth?, I’m thinking Clune — He has playoff experience too.
[Reply]
What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 10:12 am
@Harry, I think I’d like to see Clune in a newly valued role.
Michael J. Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 10:03 am
@What’s the frequency, Kenneth?,
Agreed. I think this is a time for everyone on the roster to take it to their own next level. This is truly a bad “break” for the Kings this season (especially Kopi), but it has a great chance of becoming something that will push them to a new level that will ultimately benefit them in the long run.
[Reply]
What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 10:15 am
@Michael J., Murray’s “interchangeable parts” strategy (the apparent reason he freely swaps line mates) is going to be tested here. You can’t make up for the missing talent, but if his philosophy kicks as much butt as he thinks it does, this team should still be able to leverage the talent that remains very efficiently, by playing the vaunted system as they have all year, while he’s continually swapped line mates.
[Reply]
Rich,
what’s the status on Scott Parse?
[Reply]
Right now… Zues is up top, Westgarth, richie, fluffy down low…
[Reply]
mrbrett7 Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 10:13 am
@wavesinair, Fluffy?
[Reply]
I like how we get to play Edmonton before we play Vancouver, its going to give us a game to test out the new lines, and then its off to pure hell!!! mostly all pacific teams =O its going to be an interesting
[Reply]
How bout using Peter Harold he can play wing and d.
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All along, I have been saying, “The Kings have been pretty much the healthiest team in the Conference this year, and have still barely performed well enough to stay in playoff position”. “Now what?” is right. That having been said, it is also clear that Murray relied on Kopi way too much (why, for example, was our third best faceoff man taking the fasceoff in the neutral zone with 14 seconds left against San Jose? Does anyone seriously think that either Stoll of Handzus allows that breakout off the faceoff to happen? If it was ‘zus, I doubt the puck ever leaves the dot. In the end, even a couple of wins for the Kings in the playoffs without Kopitar and Williams may pay huge dividends for Lewis, Simmonds, JJ, AM, and a few other Kings who–let’s face it–can produce more than they have. We probably weren’t going to with the Cup this year anyway. Let’s just see what we can do here with some second tier guys, and who develops into the Darren McCarty type that this club so desparately needs, and be thankful that manaqement isn’t talking about signing Forsberg!
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or the 4th line clifford richardson and harold
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