Anze Kopitar is scheduled to undergo surgery on his right ankle/leg on Wednesday and, almost certainly, will not be able to return to the ice this season regardless of how deep the Kings might go in the playoffs. There is ligament damage involved — torn ligaments caused by a high ankle sprain — that is causing the bulk of the problem, but Kopitar is expected to make a full recovery, according to the report released by the Kings.
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Dang that sucks, we’ll see you next year Kopi!!!!
[Reply]
socalkings Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 9:24 pm
get well, kopi
[Reply]
joe Reply:
March 29th, 2011 at 9:58 am
@socalkings, I feel so bad for the kings. I hope the kings can still go all the way in the playoffs and that #11 makes a full recovery! GO KINGS!
[Reply]
that was pretty obvious when the team announced he was undergoing an MRI today… Shame. Sad. But, these things happen. Time to (continue to) roll out the cliche’s about guys picking up the slack…
[Reply]
ughhhhh
[Reply]
Keep believing. And remember to use the hashtag #istillbelieve when tweeting. I also made a page “LA Kings ‘Still Believe’ http://www.facebook.com/pages/LA-Kings-Fans-Still-Believe/173394952712853
Repost this and tweet it people !
Go Kings Go
[Reply]
I just hope he is ready for spring training!
[Reply]
garry Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 7:54 pm
@Jeff, Spring training??
[Reply]
KindSir Reply:
March 29th, 2011 at 12:48 am
@garry, He meant Spring Cleaning, because Kopi is going to have a lot of free time on his hands :’(
[Reply]
no surprises here given what was witnessed on TV. I thought 6 weeks was very generous initially. Good Luck Kopi. Kings nation stands behind you.
PS- this wasnt our year anyways! (but by all means please prove me wrong)
[Reply]
Sigh
[Reply]
What a tough loss….Our thoughts & prayers are with Kopi…Get well soon, make a speedy recovery. Good luck!
[Reply]
puckbob Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 4:41 pm
@Moondoggie, Let’s not forget Justin Williams people. He’s a big part of this team too!
[Reply]
omar winkie Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 6:32 pm
@puckbob, Dont worrie we will see the both of them on the ice this season…I still believe we can take the cup and im sure they will be on the ice when we do.
[Reply]
I’m getting married on June 9th, 2012. Will I have to leave my bride at the altar to go to the Kings Cup parade?
[Reply]
Kingsfanone Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 4:32 pm
@Jonathan,
Bring her with. Otherwise, yes, that’s what it means.
[Reply]
Kings Fan 88 Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 6:45 pm
@Kingsfanone,
BEAUTIFUL!!!
[Reply]
Duckbasher Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 7:18 pm
@Jonathan, if she has a problem with it… you’re marrying the wrong gal. In all seriousness. congrats and bring her to the parade.
[Reply]
CB14 Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 7:21 pm
@Jonathan, Ever heard of a Honeymoon? The Kings victory parade would be a great place for a honeymoon. If she doesn’t follow sports, you could tell her everyone is their to celebrate your wedding!
[Reply]
Jonathan Quick, enter your name into NHL postseason lore….for the love of God please!!!
[Reply]
loskingpride Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 4:25 pm
@David, Something along the lines of 0 goals in 16 wins.
[Reply]
CB14 Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 4:28 pm
@loskingpride, I’m pretty sure you’re right, there’s no way he scores in the playoffs. LOL
I would much rather have 0 goals allowed in 16 wins!
[Reply]
loskingpride Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 4:47 pm
@CB14, Minor details and lack of a word.
McSwarley Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 4:48 pm
@CB14, He’s no Hextall.
Give me a reason to believe? I think im going to cry
[Reply]
Capt Jam Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 4:35 pm
@MOSH,
There’s no crying in hockey. Nor the mosh pit.
[Reply]
That stinks. But, at least he wont try to rush back and possibly re-injure himself further. We need him here for many years to come. Get well Kopi see ya next year
[Reply]
USHA#17 Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 5:17 pm
@ULVkingsfan,
Will take months to heal…and the report is not overly specific…
[Reply]
Does Kopitar get his name on the cup just for being on the ice during regular season or maybe he takes a few steps on ice with kings up by five goals in third period of finals game 4?
[Reply]
SoftDumpnChase Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 4:31 pm
@5buckcolonnadeticket, You get your name on the cup with 1 playoff final game or 41 games in the regular season…or special circumstance by the team decision.
[Reply]
AZ King Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 4:31 pm
@5buckcolonnadeticket,
It’s my understanding that teams can potition to add names to the cup.
[Reply]
redlight Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 4:37 pm
@5buckcolonnadeticket, Yes. He has enough regular season service to have his name on the Cup. No petition, nothing special. Just the number of regular season games he played makes him eligible.
[Reply]
sd Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 5:21 pm
@5buckcolonnadeticket,
He would get his name on the cup for being on the team during the regular season. It only takes 41 regular season games to qualify.
[Reply]
Darren Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 6:43 pm
@5buckcolonnadeticket, Am I missing something? What is this cup you speak of?
[Reply]
Duckbasher Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 7:20 pm
@Darren, uhhh… cup? Does it have beer in it?
[Reply]
Kingsfanone Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 10:17 pm
@Darren,
You know, large silver thing, handled by guys with white gloves, guys crying to carry it overhead…….you know.
[Reply]
Win the Kup for Kopi!
[Reply]
Kings Fan 88 Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 6:50 pm
@Rob M.,
Create the signage – KUP 4 KOPI!
[Reply]
Kingsfanone Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 10:20 pm
@Kings Fan 88,
BEAUTIFUL!!! LOL
[Reply]
You hate to see Kopitar work so hard and have one of his best seasons and to have it end this way. Hopefully this gives some of the younger guys some experience in the playoffs and perhaps some teams will underestimate us! LETS GO KINGS! No sense in losing hope so soon!
[Reply]
Oh my goodness, very upsetting, and only wish a speedy and healthy recover for Kopitar and family, and see you next year, miss you already, and our prayers are with you. Take care, get well.
[Reply]
Yeah, that’s what I expected to hear. I knew that 6 weeks was a pipe dream for sure. Get better, Kopi! The boys will be ok without you, just focus on getting that leg healthy and being ready to take the Pacific Division crown into the playoffs next year.
[Reply]
The pit in my stomach just sank a little more. Get well soon Kopi.
[Reply]
Get well soon Kopi!
[Reply]
dbargaehr Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 4:30 pm
@KH,
+1!
[Reply]
Based on the painful footage, I would have been very surprised if this was a 6-week injury. I kept hoping, but I’m not surprised now. That said, I still believe (or #istillbelieve) we can have a surprisingly exciting run in the playoffs. The Habs won the Cup in 86 with a less talented team than ours, mainly with hard work, exceptional goaltending, and strong defense.
[Reply]
Kingsfanone Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 4:36 pm
@Passemoilapuck,
And just a smidge of luck, cuz ANYTHING can happen in the playoffs.
[Reply]
Newf Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 4:43 pm
@Kingsfanone, don’t forget that patrick roy cheats
ie – lifting the net off the moorings on occasion when there’s people in front of him and the other team has the puck in their zone and is putting pressure on them. seen quite a few videos of that during playoff time.
[Reply]
Wait, Kopi got injured? When did this happen? Was this on the news? I follow this blog very closely and hadn’t noticed that. LOL Thruthfully though, Get well soon Kopi!
[Reply]
Kingstane9 Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 11:27 pm
@CB14, Where have you been?
[Reply]
Well there it is…a slap in the face with the words no Cup for you haunting my mind. Without him it’s not going to happen. He just does too much for this team and he is one of the best 2 way players in the game. A wish from me is for us to finish 8th and take on Vancouver and win the series in Game 7 up in Canada. Man that would be great!
[Reply]
One door closes and several others open.
[Reply]
CameronAC Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 4:37 pm
@Capt Jam, I like it. lets have a good post season boys.
gKg!
[Reply]
redlight Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 4:38 pm
@Capt Jam, THIS!
[Reply]
Capt Jam Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 4:43 pm
@Capt Jam,
Call me crazy (and many of you have), but now Kings’ opponents have to try and shut down, what, 19, 20 skaters actively generating offense instead of focusing on one or two lines. Most teams don’t have the personnel to do that.
I expect this team to keep rolling.
[Reply]
tim chaney Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 5:02 pm
@Capt Jam, our captain must now prove his worth and continue to lead, but even more than before. we have veterans who have been through the battle, now its time to prove our worth to the last man…
[Reply]
Slim Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 5:04 pm
@Capt Jam, Not to forget the WINDOWS of opportunity.
[Reply]
Get well Kopi. See you next season. The Kings will still do damage in the playoffs. GKG!
[Reply]
Poor Kopitar =(
That’s such a shame he had to get injured now.
[Reply]
It is hard to see kopi get injured so late in the season.I personally think that this was his best seasons and was doing very very well. I wish him luck that the surgery goes as planned and i wish him the best of a speedy healthy recovery. So he will be back even stronger and better before, ready to win it all next year. This is good for the younger players to finally step up and be a leader just like Kopi.Even though he is injured he is still a TEAM leader off the ice.
[Reply]
well we see kopi next season
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So, wait,does this mean no broken bones, or is this ligament damage in addition to the broken bone(s)?
Oh, and 5buckcolonnadeticket – I really like your thinking!
[Reply]
USHA#17 Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 5:14 pm
@SRL HB,
Sounds like no break, soft tissue damage…with is not good, either…
Let the team move forward and mature and see these guys next season for a another run. In the meanwhile never forget, once a team reaches the playoffs anything can happen…just ask Philly.
[Reply]
JackKentCooke Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 9:05 pm
@USHA#17,
a sprain with ligament damage is infinetlt worse than a broken bone. The quick sunny prediction of a “full recovery”comes from an organization that is in the business of selling tickets not dispensing medical advise. Hope they are right.
[Reply]
USHA#17 Reply:
March 29th, 2011 at 10:19 am
@JackKentCooke,
Well, time proves us right. Ligament damage, no break…not coming back this year. And, yes, infinity worse and more painful.
Kingstane9 Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 11:31 pm
@USHA#17, but the media here in Slo reported broken fibula and ligament so…
[Reply]
USHA#17 Reply:
March 29th, 2011 at 10:20 am
@Kingstane9,
Slo? As in San Luis?
Kingstane9 Reply:
March 29th, 2011 at 11:29 am
@Kingstane9, San Lorenzo, lol. Slovenia it is.
Once again Helene (not Helen) gets it right… Ya know, you never see her and Eklund at a party together…
[Reply]
LBlocal Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 4:48 pm
@Michael J., Yup! So much for credible sources, eh?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xk0s6RWRke0
gKg!
[Reply]
Bummer. I held out hope that he was going to make a speedy recover.
[Reply]
hockeysureshot Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 4:48 pm
@hockeysureshot, I’m amazed by all the positive comments about Kopitar on other teams blogs. Shows a lot about his character and how popular he is among NHL fans.
[Reply]
Slim Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 5:11 pm
@hockeysureshot, Yeah! quite surprised to see even Canucks fan showing support..
Of course they now don’t have to face him, but still, lovely to see hockey people
all over feeling our pain and showing Kopi the respect he deserves..
That’ why hockey is the BEST sport..IMHO..
[Reply]
King John Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 5:43 pm
@hockeysureshot,
Yeah, I’ve felt bad about Sydney Crosby having a concussion and being out so long. He’s one of the premier names in hockey. Hopefully all the stars can recover from their injuries for the good of the game.
[Reply]
Get healthy and be ready for next season, Kopi. I actually feel better knowing that he won’t be tempted to rush things and try to get back too soon. This season wasn’t going to be the year anyhow. Starting next season is when the Kings should become legitimate Cup contenders, and we need a healthy Kopi all season to pull it off.
[Reply]
USHA#17 Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 5:11 pm
@Space_Shot,
I tell you, for a hockey player the chances at a cup are fleeting, the years go by quick and you don’t get them back. Get well and win.
[Reply]
Get well Anze!!! See you for the Cup run in 2011-2012!
[Reply]
this breaks my heart. here’s to a successful surgery and quick recovery.
[Reply]
This breaks my heart too! Just listening to VS on the pregame converage and they were talking about the Kings losing Kopi and that we’re going to be ONE and DONE in the playoffs! I hate hearing this! I wanna prove all of these nay sayers wrong! GO KINGS GO!!!!
[Reply]
After I sustained a ankle sprained and basically tore the ligaments, the doctor told me I would have been better off if I would have broken my ankle instead. It took almost a year to walk without pain and 5 years later the ligaments on my ankle can hurt if I go on a long backpack in the mountains.
Luckily Kopitar has great PT and medical people to work on him and he can be ready for the season. I can just imagine what his ankle must feel like.
Get well fast Kopi!
[Reply]
OneTimer Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 6:03 pm
@Seattle757,
Just my 2 cwnts. No offense (because I broke my heelbone skiing last year- so I can relate to what you said … my foot isn’t, nor will ever, be the same) – but recovery for “normal” people like us is MILES away from what these Pro’s have available, and go through. They have the best of the best- from doctors to equipment to trainers to programs, and a strict regimine to guide them. It’s just not the same on MANY levels.
We have no reason to expect a full recovery!
[Reply]
Get over it. Maybe this will spark the team and some players will step up. Lucky if we see Kopi first part of next season.
[Reply]
Yesterday: Everyone knew Kopi would be back in 6 weeks.
Today: Everyone knew Kopi would be more hurt than first reported.
Classic.
Bottom line. NEVER believe an xray.
[Reply]
tornado12 Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 5:03 pm
@wavesinair, the way he went down with the twisting it was hard to believe it was just a break. that much unnatural bending and something gotta give. u dont need imaging to tell you that. Nowadays everyone wants a MRI, but just think about the basics and it makes sense.
[Reply]
wavesinair Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 5:25 pm
@tornado12,
Disagree. There is no way to know without the MRI. It’s just commentary on how yesterday seemingly everyone was so sure that the initial estimate was accurate and now today everyone is like, “I knew it. It’s so obvious.” It’s just silliness.
[Reply]
tornado12 Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 5:39 pm
@wavesinair, of course you get the MRI, but the mechanism of injury tells you that it was bad. A good physical exam finding can tell you more information sometimes than still pictures. An MRI does not give information about function. people had injuries of this nature before we had MRI’s and doctors had to rely on hitory and physical exam to come up with an accurate diagnosis. i guess my commentary is more on the state of medicine and patient expectations and reliance on technology rather than trusting their doctors. Ill admit my perspective is skewed though. But your point is well taken Sir! its just human nature to always think “i knew that” right? i agree its funny.
What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 5:33 pm
@tornado12, From my study of materials science and torsion fractures, the break itself is not likely very “clean.” I would expect an angular fracture. Ironically, that may be GOOD for long-term healing because it provides a larger surface area. I’m not a physician, though, so I’m guessing Bako has more to say about that.
[Reply]
tornado12 Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 5:58 pm
@What’s the frequency, Kenneth?, agreed. unfortunately, we didnt get a good view of the injury as kopi’s body was partialy obscuring the leg. Im not an orthopod, but generally healing time has to do with blood supply and extent of the fracture. from what i remember the distal fibula has poor blood supply, but the tibia should heal well (it is the main weight bearing bone of the lower leg so should be well vascularized). regardless, he is young and in excellent shape so his prognosis should be good! would be good to hear Bako’s take on this whole situation (though obviously he is at a disadvantage without seeing the patient or having access to any imaging)
Deke'r Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 6:22 pm
@What’s the frequency, Kenneth?, Your on the right track. I had a high ankle break sustained in a football game which splintered to the point where the Dr. wanted to use screws to keep it together, which I declined. Took about 8 months to rehabilitate but I was playing ball the next season and today the ankle is stronger than before.
suerife Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 9:03 pm
@What’s the frequency, Kenneth?,
They can use bone stimulator machines to increase the blood flow to the broken area and speed up bone healing….I have had numerous broken bones in my foot and also 2 knee replacement surgeries and have used this method….I hope Kopi has some good pain killing drugs because he has got to be in a lot of pain!!
What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 9:38 pm
I recommend mature Afghani flowers, aged to perfection and baked into the recipe of choice. Of course, he’ll need to stop taking that medicine about two months before he rejoins the pee club, so he isn’t discriminated against by the league.
What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 9:39 pm
Oh, not the red-orange flowers with the black crap in the center…the cuter ones with the shiny crystals…
Nobody knows the troubles we’ve seeeeeeeeeen, nobody knows our sorrows. JK. Kopi is the man but this team isn’t one man. This team isn’t two men. This team is good because of the cohesion. We are going to coast into the playoffs probably a number 5-7 seed because of the new tie breaker rule. Playoffs is about shut down hockey, close games and excellent goal tending. Sounds about right? I’m not even sweating it. If we pull 8th some how and have to play Vancouver, it would still be some great hockey. I really think the key is staying hot these next 7 games. If we can go 4-3, we will be money first round.
[Reply]
Bummer. Now it’s time to “win one for the Kopir!”
lol, just trying to bring light to a crappy situation.
[Reply]
rich any more news about JW., we all need some better news right now its so depressing i cant stand it.Maybe in the back end of the first round he could return?.
[Reply]
Sorry Kopi!! I’m all in for the “lets do it guys” speech but it’s not gonna happen this year guys. Time to call up some young guys and see what they can do. This is the only thing that comes to mind right now.
I close my eyes
Only for a moment and the moment’s gone
All my dreams
Pass before my eyes a curiosity
Dust in the wind
All they are is dust in the wind
Same old song
Just a drop of water in an endless sea
All we do
Crumbles to the ground though we refuse to see
Dust in the wind
All we are is dust in the wind
Fight till the end kings!!!
[Reply]
Slim Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 5:15 pm
@illegalstick33, Another one bites the dust..
[Reply]
Dave's a Killer Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 5:21 pm
@illegalstick33, I don’t think the Kings can give up as you suggest in the first part of your post and then fight till the end. Probably one or the other. I’ll go with fight till the end
[Reply]
illegalstick33 Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 5:32 pm
@Dave’s a Killer, I never said they should quit. I said they werent going to win the cup this year. It’s a great opportunity to see some young guys in action. Maybe we could work on some “DEPTH” for next season. Not wait till it’s an “EMERGENCY”
[Reply]
Dave's a Killer Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 5:52 pm
@illegalstick33, I guess I just misunderstood but “Dust in the wind” sure sounds like a eulogy. I just feel that bringing up younger players to play means sitting some veterans and I don’t believe that would give us a better chance to win. I have to agree that the team’s chances are small but I also believe that we need to put our best product on the ice.
Nitrohockey Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 8:45 pm
@illegalstick33, You’re my boy, Blue!!!!
[Reply]
ta Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 10:41 pm
@Nitrohockey, Nice… Hank The Tank
[Reply]
Heal well, Kopi. Our thoughts & prayers are with you!
[Reply]
I only care about the part where Rich says he is expected to make a full recovery. I can live with whatever happens between now and then.
[Reply]
sasKing Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 5:02 pm
@rick, Bingo.
[Reply]
Gasp . . .
This hurts the whole sport when guys like Kopi and Williams and Hamhuis and Crosby and Malkin and Ovechkin and Richards and Howard and Hiller, etc. go down.
You can try to reduce the number of concussions all you want, but you’ll still have these ugly injuries. Hockey’s a tough game. And no team is immune.
[Reply]
number 6 Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 5:05 pm
@tuan jim,
Well put. It’s sort of a pity that the timing on Kopi’s wasn’t ideal to say the least. Looks like Crosby will be ready for the playoffs, and Ovechkin was never that seriously injured to being with. They were keeping him out to let him recuperate is all. Obviously yes Malkin is out for the season. Hamhuis don’t know yet.
You’re right, it’s a heck of a tough game and not for the faint of heart.
[Reply]
USHA#17 Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 5:10 pm
@number 6,
Kopitar: Ouch! That’s gotta hurt worse then a break.
Makin: Can’t think of a more deserving player to spend the playoffs watching TV with Kovalchuk.
[Reply]
What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 5:25 pm
@USHA#17, Injuries aren’t my idea of good, clean entertainment.
Slim Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 5:19 pm
@number 6, Word has it that Ovi has”roids”.
Hurts to sit on the bench…I know…
[Reply]
I wish some bloggers would stop saying..”we will see what the Kings are made of now” So if we lose the rest of our games without two of our best players..that would refect on the rest of the team’s character??? Really?? Also after next game,lets be honest…we are the underdogs in everygame…Sadly we not only lost Kopi..but Williams too….
[Reply]
the_guv Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 5:17 pm
@neil, Agreed, I think they are referring to individuals more than the team as a whole though.
[Reply]
What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 5:49 pm
@neil, Regardless of how things turn out, we WILL learn something about this team’s character. How a team responds to adversity–no–”hopelessness,” is far more indicative of future success than how it responds to getting all the right breaks. Many people already wrote off this season, and if they were correct, this will be more positively formative than cruising through a round or two of the playoffs with every player healthy. I expect them to play with pride and poise, regardless of how many rounds that amounts to.
[Reply]
neil Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 5:56 pm
@What’s the frequency, Kenneth?, Win or Lose???? If they lose…will that show any less character??? If we dont match up with Van,S.J…etc…is that less character??? I like the team’s character and I dont think the end result of this season is going to change that….From here on out..we are the underdogs…But if we dont succeed I will still be proud of this group…
[Reply]
What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 9:40 pm
@neil, In this case, what matters is definitely how they play the game.
Godspeed, Kopi
[Reply]
WEDNESDAY MORNING: I think if many people can remember on Wednesday morning to put out in your own personal way a little positive thought, prayer, whatever speaks to you, for Kopi it would be really nice.
The energy on this blog has been Amazing. I am really proud of the Kings fans. It also says something for not just the player Kopi is but the person he is as well.
I’m gonna put a post it on my desk to remind me.
[Reply]
illegalstick33 Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 5:17 pm
@number 6, Ooooops! Don’t read my previous post! I’m just saying how I feel right now. I know Kopi is crushed and I wish him all the best!
[Reply]
feel better kopitar. take this as a learning experience and witness how much this team needs your talent. perhaps this will light a fire under you for next season.
[Reply]
As bad as we feel, imagine how awful Kopi feels. So close to the playoffs. Get well Kopi and Go Kings!
[Reply]
Slim Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 5:23 pm
@Lilly, I agree.. His whole life is geared to play at his best..
on a somewhat harmless play he is out for season..
You can bet he had a cry over this..
His family will surround him and support him..
Nothing better than that..
And us fans..
[Reply]
It’s over.
[Reply]
illegalstick33 Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 5:18 pm
@Gerard, Tru dat!!!
[Reply]
HockeyNerd Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 6:21 pm
@Gerard, Hang in there. The fat lady hasn’t sung yet…..
[Reply]
Osaka Reply:
March 29th, 2011 at 12:15 am
@HockeyNerd, No, I saw her just go to bed. I heard something but it was not singing.
[Reply]
Best wishes to J-Dub and Kopi. The Kingdom awaits your return!
[Reply]
Great job Bob Miller and Jim Fox. Kopi wasn’t anywhere near the NHL record for consecutive games played and you acted like he was going to break the record the next game for the last 2 weeks. Thanks for the jinx guys.
[Reply]
Darren Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 6:02 pm
@James J, Lmao are you serious? I sure as hell hope not
[Reply]
Deke'r Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 6:49 pm
@Darren, I guess some folks need to blame someone?
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Kingstane9 Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 11:43 pm
@James J, no it was a trap game, remember?
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The Kings appear on paper to look a lot like the ’05-’06 Oilers.
Here’s hoping Quick channels some inner Roloson.
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Tmik Reply:
March 29th, 2011 at 10:21 am
@Jonathan,
I’d prefer that quick channels his inner Quick.
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God bless, big guy.
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How do you say?
Get well soon Kopi in Slovenian…
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wavesinair Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 5:27 pm
@Slim,
You say, “Get well soon Kopi in Slovenian.” Duh!
I kid, I kid. Here you go…
Pridobite tudi kmalu Kopi!
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Slim Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 5:44 pm
@wavesinair, Pridobite tudi kmalu Kopi!
And thank you for that Mr. Kidder….
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Mana Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 11:24 pm
@Slim, nice try guys…but its čim prej okrevaj Kopi!!;)
dwd Reply:
March 29th, 2011 at 6:27 am
You only say “Pridobite tudi kmalu Kopi” if you want to land in a mental institution.
You say something like “pozdravi se čimprej Kopi”.
Kingstane9 Reply:
March 29th, 2011 at 6:47 am
@wavesinair, I bet google translated that for you, LOL. You get something like that when directly translating Slovenian sentences into English…all wrong, strange ones.
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Wishing our pal Kopi a routine surgery and a super quick recovery. Injuries are a part of this sport but that doesn’t make it any less devastating when it happens to such a good guy. C’mon guys, win it for Kopi and Williams now!
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at some point maybe Rich can post a address or something so we all can send Kopi a message….
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wavesinair Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 5:30 pm
@neil,
Send away…
http://anzeseleven.com/pcc.asp#xpath=/contact#xpathid=#lang=eng
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They say what doesn’t kill you makes your stronger. I wish the best for Kopi and Willy and their rehab. I hope that we can surprise a few teams. This will really be a test to how strong the system is and how good the “team” can play. I was impressed with the way the TEAM played the 3rd period Saturday after Kopi went down…there was sure some jump in some of the other guys that got an opportunity to play more. Good luck guys, I will always support you!
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Hang in there, Kopi, you’re still young and the Kings will be good for a long time to come. Rest up and mend 110% (cause in hockey they always do everything 110%).
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nothing special is ever easy… Does the name J.S. Giguere, mean anything? C’mon Quicker! it’s your time!
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Even if your just there on cruches, your still our hero, and can inspire your teammates.
Get well Kopi, and hope to see you sitting alongside Bob and Jim soon.
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Get well soon Anze!
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Wow. It looked SO good a few weeks ago. Now we lose our top 2 scorers and we can’t call up EITHER Schenn or Lokti to replace them. Even Parse can’t help us now.
If there are Hockey Gods, I want to know what we ever did to them……
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Deke'r Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 7:00 pm
@HockeyNerd, The Kings organization fired Cole on heresay!
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BTW has any team ever won it all without their best player? The closest I can think of is Edmonton in 90′ without Gret…. I mean Fuhr…..
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C leb Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 6:43 pm
Ranford stepped up.. And they had some guy named messier… @HockeyNerd,
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I was watching the game in Vegas in the sports book. Was digging the 2 goal lead, then I had to leave at around 7 minutes left in the 2 nd period. Kopitar was hurt around 4 minute mark. I hate to say it but I’m glad I had to leave the sports book before that injury. Because seeing that happen live wouldve sucked even more then when i saw the replay when I got home to LA. Oh man, what a freaky play, just a bit awkward and done. Sad. Felt awful like the rest of you.
Was working in Vegas, so had I seen the injury live, I wouldve been very distracted, concentration would not have been good.
Full recovery Kopitar.
Go OONGS Go!
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Fabkings Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 6:28 pm
@Fabkings, Go KINGS GO!
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anyone remember terrell owens before the super bowl 2005? same injury he wss back playing in six weeks!
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people lets all not forget the past when the new jersey devils had one the stanley cup they were missing patrick elias who was a huge PIECE to that team! The kings in my opion still have one of the best defenses and lets not forget the best part Johnathon Quick who has been a beast all year. so even if they do win the stanely cup which i feel they have a legitamit chance i dont think it will be a miracle or luck… it will be with the skills weve displayed all year… but kopi you will greatly be missed and all of kings nation will miss you this season!
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Guys (and Ladies)-
For those of us who have been long time Kings fans, let us tell the rest of you that this team WITHOUT Willie and Anze can still beat a majority of the teams in this league today. I’ll take this current team without our top two scorers over the majority of teams we’ve had the past 10 years. We have THE BEST Defensive team in the league. Our defense, especially our goaltending, gives us a chance to win EVERY SINGLE GAME we play in. Our offense for the most part has struggled all season anyway and we’re still winning a lot of games.
Put things in perspective people. A lot of mediocre teams have sucked it up and won Cups or at least made it to the finals. When you get to the playoffs, it’s all about the series, not just one game anymore. TEAMS H-A-T-E PLAYING US! Why? Because we’re big, play hard defense, have speed on the forecheck, and basically outwork the crap out of teams all damn night when we play our game. NOBODY wants to play us in the playoffs, ESPECIALLY NOW! The wounded animal theory makes us that much more dangerous and teams know it. It will be in the back of their minds when they play us and that first hit Brown makes on someone is going to mean much more than you know to the other team each game.
I’m not hyping up the team here, these are all real things about this team. I’ve heard SO many opposing coaches go on about how dangerous our team is to play and it is NOT because of scoring. We wear teams down. Coaches can only motivate so much, but when their team is tired, they can’t fix that.
We make teams tired.
MEMO TO THE TEAM: I want a Cup THIS YEAR! I don’t give a flying crap who’s out of the lineup. We have the skill and the talent to do it, as is, right now. If any one of you half-ass it from this moment forward, I will personally never let you forget it. You have the ability as a team to do this, no question, no excuses. Champions do NOT listen to the word ‘MAYBE’. For once in this team’s history, just DO what has NEVER been DONE!
Win.
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CB14 Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 9:07 pm
@Cynic, Great Post Cynic! Apparently people forgot that defense and goaltending win in the playoffs. Whatever team whose goalie gets hot is usually the team that wins the cup, and with the Johnathan’s and our defensemen we have as good a shot as any other team entering the playoffs.
I think people forget that we:
lost in 6 games last year
had leads entering the 3rd period in 2 of our losses
had a worn down goalie
had no Justin Williams (he played a couple of games but wasn’t healthy)
had no Willie Mitchell
had no Dustin Penner
had no Poni (who should play better than Fro in the playoffs due to his physical play)
had Randy Jones as our 6th defenseman
and had a team with virtually no playoff experience
And we still took Vancouver to 6 games last year. I have hope for this year!
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ta Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 10:50 pm
@CB14, So true. here’s 3 keys to that series.
1) Quick was worn out
2) Luongo save of Fro’s break away
3) F….. Randy Jones
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Cynic Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 11:26 pm
@CB14, These are great facts bolstering the point. Exactly right. We are a MUCH different than even last year’s team. Much better as well I might add…Nice work!
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KC23 Reply:
March 29th, 2011 at 6:56 am
@CB14, Best argument I’ve read so far.
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rmartin1951 Reply:
March 29th, 2011 at 8:15 am
@CB14, If the Kings can take Vancouver to six games I would be shocked. We have not made the playoffs yet and lack any kind of offensive depth in the system. The players work hard but are not offensively skilled enough to win a series unless Quick is able to have a 1.0 gaa in the playoffs.
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Mikey J. Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 9:52 pm
@Cynic, Yeah! We still a lot of grit and tactic.
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HockeyNerd Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 10:30 pm
@Cynic, Nice post but doesn’t match that screen name….
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worst news all year for me! sorry for kopi. get well soon and rehab over the summer and get ready for next year!!!!
should be fun to see who makes it up next season….. hickey, muzzin, voynov *cough*schenn*cough*
not to mention, when the heck is parse gonna be ready to play a game???
go kings go!!!!!
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At least it’s clear now. The last thing we needed was whether or not to play Kopi late in the playoffs and risk any further injury. I feel the same way about JW too.
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Just when you thought it couldn’t get worse…
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All I ask for is that our team doesn’t go quietly. Im excited to see how tight the healthy guys on the roster can bond together.
This is one of those times when every player needs to play for each other. It’s really not about the name on the back of the jersey, they may as well rip that off. It’s all about the front. If youre going to go down, go down swinging. Make it nasty for the other team, cause you know whoever it will be in the first round will be licking their chops now.
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Perhaps Toronto could review the MRI and overrule the intial call.
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HockeyNerd Reply:
March 28th, 2011 at 10:25 pm
@JackKentCooke, In our favor?
Don’t hold your breath……..
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What a blow.
But, it’s growing pains. Look at Pittsburgh’s playoff history with their current squad before winning the cup. I think it was a 2nd Round exit, then a Finals loss, and then the 3rd year is when they won. Vancouver the last few years? I think 2 consecutive 2nd Round exits, and now they look primed to win it all. Chicago before they won the Cup? I believe it was a conference finals loss and maybe one playoff appearance the season before that (maybe not), before they won the Cup.
The Kings are still clearly at the beginning of this generation of players and will have several seasons forthcoming where they will have a chance to win the Cup. It may not be this year, but it could be any of the next 5-plus years, which is something we fans haven’t been able to count on, well, ever, if you’re me. This season may be just part of the learning curve, part of the process. I hope we can go deep this year. But if not, we still have a great future. I know that sounds like a broken record, but it’s TRUE.
Come back strong, Kopi. I miss you already.
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I routing for a Chitown v Canucks 1st round.
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Get well soon Anze! I will miss watching you play. Good luck to the rest of the boys. I know you will all do your best and give it your all. It’s been a great season and I know more great games are yet to come! Go Kings Go!
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I’ve had lots of personal favorites during the years.. Players such Juha Widing (R.I.P.) .. Gene Carr,Dave Hucthison,Ken Baumgartner,Ron Duguay,Russ Courtnall,Mike Krushelnyski,Tony Granato,Adam Deadmarsh,and for my top 3 all-time favs… Glen Murray,Charlie Simmer and Anze Kopitar.. Get well Anze…. As Steve Perry and Journey sang ‘ Don’t Stop Believing!!! GO KINGS GO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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Just when the Kings were on the way to winning the Stanley Cup! Something always goes wrong….need to get the jinx off this team! First Williams now Kopi, I hope this will give that extra boost to the team where they need it to improve I wish this wasn’t the case (with the injuries) but I hope will motivate the team and make em stronger next year. I’m still not giving up hope…keep on fighting guys and make it to the playoffs, keep your heads high and win with PRIDE.Win or lose you guys still the best. Go KINGS!
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My bad, I jinxed Kopi. The other day I said at least he fractured the ankle and not sprained it because ligament damage is much worse. Sorry Kopi.
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Five reasons to still believe in the Kopitar-less LA Kings
http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/blog/puck_daddy/post/Five-reasons-to-still-believe-in-the-Kopitar-les;_ylt=Aif21MIPC3IgRDGORtoAq_h7vLYF?urn=nhl-wp1255
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Does this mean that kopi will need a full year to rehab and be a likening of himself? We were initially talking about a broken ankle now we are talking torn ligaments. Is it both or just the torn ligaments? Are we talking knee ligaments? Is this going to be a Zeus like injury where kopi is never really the same player because of the reduced mobility and speed? Say it aint so. Somebody please shed some light
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Pridobitev tudi kmalu Kopi!
There was lots of wishful thinking on this site for a quick recovery, but it just didn’t turn out that way. Be strong Kopi. You’ll be back better than ever.
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Kingstane9 Reply:
March 29th, 2011 at 7:00 am
@KFII, hehe…Pozdravi se čimprej Kopi!
or
Čimprejšnje okrevanje Kopi!
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Get well soon Kopi!!!
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JJ, WM and DD are going to have to contribute more offensive production. I think Doughty will step it up. I would actually like to see him on the powerplay as a quarterback, perhaps on the half wall. First unit-Stoll on Point with JJ, Doughty halfwall, Penner and Zues in front of net and retrieving pucks down low. 2nd unit comprises-Martinez, Brown, Moller, Lewis/Simmonds and Mitchell. I think Moller would be good on the halfwall and Mitchell and Martinez on the point with Smyth and Brown down low to retrieve pucks.
The lines are what they are. We have offensive upside on the back end. Things are going to have to open up a bit maybe a little more than Murray would like. We have 7 games to figure this out before playoffs start. Ample time. Other than Vancouver and perhaps the Ducks I like our chances as to limiting scoring opportunities by opposing teams. Obviously our creativity is gone. More emphasis needs to placed on North- South Hockey and getting pucks to the net. We’re going to win by scoring more “garbage” goals and taking advantage of our powerplay opportunities.
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How do the Kings go from a diagnosis of broken ankle to torn ligaments? I dunno…something fishy here (perhaps). At this rate, I expect Kopitar to start skating again in two weeks. (I wish)
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I’m sorry this happened to Kopi, but at least the report is he should make a full recovery and with the longer estimate for full recovery there will be no pressure on him to return before he is 100%.
Next season Kopi!
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What a bummer! He is a main driving force of the team. Hopefully the Kings team will rally around a great player, teammate, person that Kopi is. Thanks Kopi for all your hard work and energy you bring every night for the Kings. Take your time and get well. We need you back when you are a 100% better, you are a Franchise player. As a King fan I am very lucky to have someone like you representing the team.
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Good to see the boys get the W last night. I heard an ugly rumor around the Honda Center the other day that Teemu Salanne was being investigated for taking PED’s. Is there any truth to this? Hope not, because he is a class act.
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