The Kings have called up John Zeiler from Manchester, and here’s how they’re skating at the start of practice…
Smyth-Lewis-Williams
Penner-Handzus-Brown
Clifford-Richardson-Simmonds
Ponikarovsky-Moller-Westgarth
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Just about the dumbest thing I have fallen witness to this past month.
[Reply]
NoDoughty Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 1:51 pm
@Telos, Didn’t even know he was still around!
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Paul G Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 7:16 pm
@NoDoughty, i think he’s a UFA this summer too
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KH Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 1:52 pm
@Telos, Couldn’t agree more
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Oz Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:00 pm
@Telos, You said it!
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winger23 Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:05 pm
@Telos,
Unbelievable. Thanks DL and TM. I guess management really doesn’t want this team to succeed. They saw how the boys stayed with SJ last night and decided the game was too close so instead of bringing up a guy who can provide some offense they bring up a guy that can…well a guy that can fight westgarth for ice time.
There must be someone in the 2nd round DL really wants to nab with a higher pick. I give up.
[Reply]
CB14 Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:19 pm
@winger23,
This move tells me that DL had no intentions of ever bringing Schenn up. This was the perfect opportunity to do so. I’m OK with him keeping him down in Manchester because DL knows more about hockey than I do, but don’t tease Schenn and us Kings fans with all that talk yesterday “It’s not like we can’t recall him.” If you can recall him, and you only need him for 1 game anyways, where’s the problem Dean? It doesn’t effect his contract if he plays in only 1 game, so why not? Next time just say that there’s no way he comes up here this season PERIOD. Be open and honest with us Dean, and Terry Murray as well because he said “All I know is that he has been assigned to Manchester. That means he is available to us. Get down there, and hopefully he gets into some games, playing at that level and just continues with his career, and if there’s a need, we can have him available at any time.” Memo to DL and TM, There is a need.
kennynakamoto Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:06 pm
@Telos, i think he’s like 28 or something like that lol
[Reply]
wavesinair Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:06 pm
@Telos,
I remember reading something recently that said Zeiler has been player really well. I certainly don’t expect much, but apparently he’s been putting in a lot of time working on his game so maybe we’ll see a different player this time.
[Reply]
olivialuvsthekings Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:19 pm
@wavesinair, hes 28, you either have talent or you dont lol im pissed really we dont need his style of play right now
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5hole Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:30 pm
@Telos, and everyone else . . .
Why is it so hard to understand that NHL experience matters in the play-offs? SCHENN IS NOT READY, GET OVER IT! The Kings do not need MORE rookies on the roster right now. At least JZ has some NHL games under his belt and works hard on the ice. No, he’s not going to be a difference maker and will probably not even see the ice – remember, Harrold and Drewiske are also hanging around in street clothes – so stop focusing on it. We are supposed to be fans and support the club! If you want to rip everything they do, go root for the Ducks! DL and TM know a whole lot more about hockey than any of us, even if you are in denial about that. The Kings are miles from where they were just a couple of years ago, so they must be doing something right. Just need to be realistic and keep it positive. GO KINGS!
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friarking Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:39 pm
@5hole, Thank you!
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Capt Jam Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:45 pm
@5hole,
Amen.
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Slim Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:50 pm
@5hole,
What “logic” on “this” blog..
I’m astonished…
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Matt George Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 4:59 pm
@5hole,
Eh.
I think it’s okay for people to disagree with the Zeiler choice.
Not sure if we all just hug each other and pray to Dean and Terry to carry us to the promised land it’s gonna happen.
[Reply]
Forum67 Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:51 pm
@Telos,
You have to begin with the fact that there is no way that DL is calling up Schenn for the Sharks series and probably not at all, no matter how deep the Kings go into the playoffs, because not bringing him up is the appropriate BUSINESS decision, like it or not. Therefore, given that premise I thought fans would be HAPPY because this get Little Oscar, not Zeiler into the lineup. Go figure.
[Reply]
Matt George Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 5:01 pm
@Forum67,
suddenly i’m reminded why there’s a rule on this blog about not posting in all caps … feels like a screamer.
speaking of which i need to remind MYSELF to NOT DO IT!
[Reply]
1stmanback Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:56 pm
@Telos, Everyone let’s not forget how we all thought of Richie a few years ago. Zeiler at least has energy and wants to play for Us. Unlike Penner who should be a perfect fit to our style, Zeiler does NOT have Frolovitis (aka Penneritis). He is willing to do what is asked. Except score, I guess.
[Reply]
RobSD Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 4:53 pm
@Telos,
Penner played great with Westy on the 4th line. The most we have seen out of him since getting here.
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is Zeiler flying out onthat new airline? AIR DEMERS?
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NoDoughty Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 1:51 pm
@C leb, ROFLMAO!!!!!
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Sebastian Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 1:55 pm
@C leb, hahaha..someone needs to do a video of the hit with “I believe i can fly” song to it.
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C leb Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 1:57 pm
@Sebastian, “learn to fly” is playing in the clip.. and that’s the on the sharks PA.. they’re laughing at us.www.youtube.com/watch?v=_dz_16c7Tvw
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Totally expected as this is the most practical move…oh and btw, McKenzie doesn’t know anything, and should NEVER be trusted with any rumors.
[Reply]
KH Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 1:53 pm
@bmova, You didn’t think zeiler would come up and we all know that
[Reply]
bmova Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 1:56 pm
@KH, The hell with Zeiler, I meant the line combinations. He’s just there as an insurance policy.
[Reply]
KH Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:06 pm
@bmova, Oh alright my bad I thought you were saying you knew zeiler was gonna come up
zeiler…. seriously? no no no… waiving the white flag already??? its been ONE game… gahhhh. GKG
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What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 1:54 pm
@kingsfaninSB, “Waiving the white flag” would not have included calling anyone up.
[Reply]
fsd1 Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:23 pm
@What’s the frequency, Kenneth?, they just dont get it do they?
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kingsfaninSB Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 3:07 pm
@What’s the frequency, Kenneth?, good point… i just remember last time i zeiler play, was not good… at all. i doubt he will end up playing anyway, i think moller will start
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This isn’t April first Rich, so please tell me you’re joking. How is Zeiler going to help?
[Reply]
Dan H. Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 1:52 pm
@CB14, You must have beat me by a millisecond.
[Reply]
CB14 Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:05 pm
@Dan H., Great Minds think alike!
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mrbrett7 Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 1:55 pm
@CB14, He can play center, he can win faceoffs, and he can hit. Moller can’t hit nor win faceoffs, and there are no other options. Schenn may still be sleeping as he has travelled for about 2 days straight.
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Nitrohockey Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:13 pm
@mrbrett7, Also, he can put Sharks players in the box by being an agitator, if nothing else, he’s a pest and can get them off their game
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John Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 1:55 pm
@CB14,
He’s not. He’ll be in the stands.
[Reply]
Space_Shot Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:22 pm
@John,
This. Do you really think he’s being called up to play? He’s being called up because his absence will be least disruptive to Manch. He also has the most NHL experience and would be most prepared for this situation in case something happens in the next 24 hours and they need to play him. If everyone makes it through practice and the morning skate, you’ll see him in the stands wearing a suit., not on the ice in a jersey.
[Reply]
I like Lewis on the Smyth/Williams line. He’s shown that he can generate speed and has a decent offensive side.
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What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 1:54 pm
@Anjin, I do too…but he’s going to get killed on the draw.
[Reply]
KH Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:06 pm
@What’s the frequency, Kenneth?, Maybe they should just have smith take the faceoffs. He takes a lot of draws
[Reply]
bbb7 Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:30 pm
@KH, Smyth was only 4% better than Lewis on the season stats.
bbb7 Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:30 pm
@What’s the frequency, Kenneth?, Lewis was just under 40% for the season, which isnt good but isnt as awful as people here seem to make it out. And some people want Schenn to come up and yet he was 33% during his games with the Kings.
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What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 3:35 pm
@bbb7, Did he take any draws against the Sharks? They’re something like the 2nd best faceoff team in the league.
bbb7 Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 4:59 pm
@bbb7, Yesterday he WAS taken to school- won 4 lost 9.
OK Rich…April fools day is over.
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What Zeiler? :/
[Reply]
It’s been awhile since we’ve seen JZ… I hope he’s different from what I remember.
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I think it is a good move. I hope Zeiler plays instead of Moller. While he may not put up big numbers, his attitude and style of play fits the playoffs perfectly. CAN’T WAIT!!!
[Reply]
John Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 1:57 pm
@Craig,
Where’s he going to play, 4th line center???
[Reply]
Craig Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:01 pm
@John, Exactly! That line isn’t going to play too many minutes but when they are out there, Zeiler will bring toughness, energy, and get under the Sharks skin.
[Reply]
wavesinair Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:12 pm
@John, Yeah, he’s been playing center down in man.
[Reply]
John Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:58 pm
@wavesinair,
OH! My bad. How’s he in the faceoff circle? That will be the biggest issue with Stoll’s absence.
Lombardi has ZERO BALLS.
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dude Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 1:54 pm
@Wally, ZEILER BALLS? lol
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John Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 1:57 pm
@Wally,
He’s looking long term…which takes INFINITELY more balls!!!!!
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olivialuvsthekings Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:02 pm
Zeiler is only good to be a 4th liner… DL needs to take some chances here and stop making horrible choices
[Reply]
Westgarth played well enough to merit staying in, tough guy or not. Moller may not play a physical game, but A) neither does Penner and B) at least Moller is fast, so in he goes. I’m betting Zeiler is insurance in case of a freak injury during the morning skate or warmups…and, odd as this may sound, his recall also might not hurt the Monarchs’ playoff chances as much as a different callup might.
[Reply]
Not Eric Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 1:58 pm
@Mel Powell, I was also impressed by Westgarth’s skating and work ethic last night. Effort like that is definitely the difference between a goon and a NHL level grinder.
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Nitrohockey Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:18 pm
@Not Eric, he nearly had the game winner last night. I’m willing to give Westy a chance, he’s stepped his game up in the playoffs. He was a helluva lot better than Penner last night! Gotta remember, he’s a rookie. Give him time and he’ll be a good addition to the enforcer role as well as chipping in some points. All that provided he gets put out there at the right times. But that is gonna be up to TM.
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Zeiler can sit on the bench as well as anyone.
Only change, I’d make is to flip Poni and Penner. Penner needs to stay on the fourth line until he can show us that he has playoff fever. Poni deserves to move up.
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Steve Jensen Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 1:52 pm
@Steve Jensen,
Make that sit in the stands.
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jsauce23 Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:56 pm
@Steve Jensen,
I agree Poni def. deserves more playing time, but I think its too late to try and teach Penner a lesson. Just gotta stick with him.
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Zeiler? Are you KIDDING ME?
Wow…. I really thought Moller would be left on the 4th line. Zeiler is a career NHL 4th liner at his BEST, so if he brings his best, we might be OK.
If Moller starts though as they are practicing, then I just won’t understand this move at all.
Schenn is not coming up guys. Get over it. I’d be really surprised if he did. When DL commits to a concept, he usually follows through.
Zeiler….wow.
[Reply]
Dan H. Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 1:55 pm
@Cynic,
I have a friend right now that feels the way about Zeiler that I do about Westgarth. It’s kind of fun watching him flip his lid right now.
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mrbrett7 Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 1:57 pm
@Cynic, A 4th line is a 4th line. Zeiler plays a 4th line role, and knows how to play that role. Moller does not.
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Dan H. Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:04 pm
@mrbrett7,
We lost our first or second line center for the game…NOT a fourth liner career minor league grinder.
[Reply]
mrbrett7 Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:14 pm
@Dan H., People move up and you replace like parts. There is no 1st or 2nd line center currently within the organization.
Loktionov is hurt.
Cliche is hurt.
Schenn has been travelling cross country, back and forth (in two different countries mind you) for 3 days.
This is what you have AVAIALBE. Deal with it.
You don’t put a 1st or 2nd line LW or RW (Moller) at center on the 4th line. Get it? Got it? Good.
wavesinair Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:15 pm
@Cynic, I mentioned this above but I read somewhere he’s actually been playing really well.
[Reply]
Cynic Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:29 pm
@wavesinair, I get the 4th line aspect, but he usually plays wing. Westgarth will stay in because he played disciplined and pretty well and he’s physical. I can’t see replacing Westie with Zeiler. Zeiler is gonna center? Manchester has him listed as a center but most places have him as a Right wing.
Has he been centering a line all year in Manch? This move would make a little more sense then.
The benefit to all this is Lewis is going to get to center a top 2 line. I think Lewis will do REALLY well with Williams and Smyth. Maybe Lewis will get the break he deserves if he delivers tomorrow night.
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wavesinair Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:35 pm
@Cynic,
Yeah, I think he’s been playing center.
Pathetic move. How does Zeiler improve this team in the slightest? There is a reason he hasn’t stuck in the NHL. DL, boo to you sir.
[Reply]
mrbrett7 Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 1:59 pm
@Dave, It doesn’t…Schenn sat on his teams bus for 10 hours. Just flew to Manchester (6 hours or so), and now you want to fly him back for another 6 hours to play not just in the NHL, but in the NHL playoffs.
So, after travelling for 22 hours over 3 days, with a kid that you yourself have NO clue if he is any better or worse than any other option this organization currently has available to them, you think the move is pathetic?
It may not be sexy, but a guy like Zeiler can come in, bang, annoy, and cause havov, not to mention, he plays a 4th line role, is responsible defensively, and you KNOW what you are getting.
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number 6 Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:03 pm
@mrbrett7,
You always say it well. I’m not bothered or surprised that they don’t recall Schenn. I’m just surprised they recalled Zeiler, considering we already have so many grinders who aren’t lighting it up.
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Dave Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:10 pm
@number 6, Which is why I’m bothered by the move. I wasn’t advocating recalling Schenn, in fact I was in favor of him being sent to Mch in the first place, but there are better options than John I’ll contribute nothing Zeiler.
mrbrett7 Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:17 pm
@number 6, The choices were probably:
Zeiler
Halloway
Clune
Hawlloway – Obviously my opinion, but he will never be an NHL player. Even if you do bring him up, he must play top 6 minutes. So are you going to bring up a guy who you barely know, and place him in a top 6 role? No…that’s crazy.
Clune – You know what he brings to the table, however, he plays LW, and that isn’t a position of need right now.
Zeiler – You know what he brings to the table, and despite the fact that he really isn’t a center, he has played that position before IN the NHL.
Conclusion…he is the only viable option at this point in time.
Craig Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:07 pm
@mrbrett7, I could not agree with you more. Zeiler fits a 4th line playoff role.
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This is GOLD right there. #MaybeLombardiWantsToPunishTheBoardsInSJ
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Sebastian Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 1:57 pm
@4ndr3y, it makes sense, if the kings fall under too much pressure, send Zeiler out to unintentionally miss a hit and break the glass, causing the arena staff to come out and fix it… thus relieving pressure. BRILLIANT
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I knew that would get the comments flying here. Better to recall no one. Now Rich is gonna have his hands full having to screen all the comments.
Well, look at it this way…. at least they can now construct a line with a cool nickname: Westie, Zeiler and Penner or Poni…. The NGL line (no goal line)? I don’t know (gotta imagine that in the voice of a comic). Hey, look I’d love for each of em to get a goal in the same game, but realistically if you look at stats it’s…… ohhhhhhh. What A Drag (not Zeiler…. the situation). Urghh.
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Dan H. Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 1:57 pm
@number 6,
Richardson/Simmonds/Clifford have been a pretty good, actually a very good no goal line. They do everything BUT put the puck in the net.
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What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 1:57 pm
@number 6, He has other options which he has not taken advantage of…namely, lightening up.
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number 6 Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:01 pm
@What’s the frequency, Kenneth?,
who does?
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What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:02 pm
@number 6, The moderator.
Bkrs-Bud Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 3:21 pm
@number 6, We already have 2 no goal lines.
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Calling up Zeiler is purely an insurance move in case something happens to a player between now and tomorrow’s game. He has an NHL contract and is not so valuable that him sitting in the stands in San Jose will hurt the team in Manchester.
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Ric Sino Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:30 pm
@Not Eric,
Lewis is the top canidate to replace Stoll: Zeiler will be replacing Lewis.
This is not the same Zeiler that most have seen.
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Why doesn’t rich question DL’s decisions? This is ridiculous
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C leb Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:00 pm
@Billy, DL signs RH’s checks, yo..
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Dan H. Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:05 pm
@Billy,
What’s there to question? Rich is reporting what the team did. I’m sure if he gets an interview with DL later he’ll look for the logic and get answers.
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jess Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:47 pm
@Billy, Rich is a journalist, not an op-ed commentator with an opinion column.
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Penner should be in the stands selling popcorn
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Sebastian Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 1:59 pm
@dude, hahaha…”I cant believe youre a professional “hockey player” (golfer), i think you should be working at the snack bar” Bob Barker.
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RYC Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:01 pm
@dude, Seriously, how does Poni go back to the fourth line?
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Buster Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:05 pm
@dude, This would be the first popcorn vendor to operate at a loss before his first sale.
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Do we even Have four centers now? (thinking out loud)……. Lewis, Zues, Richie…. against Thornton, Couture, and Pavelski?
Hey, look at it this way…. they say adversity makes stronger. In a year or so this Kings team (or the ones who stay) are gonna be STRONG!!!! Gotta find the silver lining somewhere.
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number 6 Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:00 pm
@number 6,
I could really make this sad but probably don’t need to go any further. We don’t have a center who scored fifteen goals against theirs…. 1 w 73 pts, 1 w 32 goals, and the other….? I don’t know…. I gotta go do the laundry.
Gotta see it this way….. no Kopi, no Stoll…? No problem.
What else am I supposed to say?
[Reply]
Capt Jam Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:25 pm
@number 6,
Next year is every year’s battle cry.
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Bkrs-Bud Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 3:23 pm
@Capt Jam, When your a Kings fan,maybe that will change soon?
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This decision makes absolutely no sense. DL has already given up? BOO to DL on this announcement.
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Guys, relax. Zeiler is not going to play, the practice lines as we see them are what we will see tomorrow night. Zeiler is just an insurance policy if anything happens between now and game time. There is almost ZERO chance that he will play tomorrow.
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the choices that have been made make no sense to me? We need to play to win!!! why are we calling up someone is only good as a 4th liner? i will always cheer for the kings but my confidence going into game 2 is not good! DL is making me upset…
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Does anyone remember Zeiler blowing a kiss to a Dallas Player? I forgot who it was but it was freakin hilarious!
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My head just exploded
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maybe Williams ain’t feeling so good the morning after, just sayin’… he got ran pretty good after a whistle last night.
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i actually like the new lines. i still think the Kings will be swept by i like seeing what Lewis can do in a offensive role. the only problem is the Kings will never have the puck since they won’t be able to win a draw.
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KingsFanFTW Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:05 pm
@Dave, what swept what??
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who is John Zeiler????? LOL
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The Hockey Don Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:06 pm
@KingsFanFTW,
His name is John????lol
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KingsFanFTW Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:09 pm
@The Hockey Don, LOL i guess LMAO
We still got this Go Kings Go
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jess Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:49 pm
@KingsFanFTW,
He is the unknown hockey fill-in guy and skates around with a burlap sack on his head. When he’s not doing that, he makes a few extra bucks flippin signs for apartment rentals.
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Rich, if you are able, can you ask Dean why Zeiler over Harrold?
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Ric Sino Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:35 pm
@Tuttle,
Zeiler is a pure 4th line center. A total energy guy, who is a great instigator..
Harrold is a D man that can play F but is not going to be drawing penalties or running into people like Z.
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Maybe Zeiler was called up to take runs at Moller in practice. You got one day to teach Moller how not to get leveled on every shift Zeiler…are you up for the challenge?
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Dan H. Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:06 pm
@The Hockey Don,
Only problem is that Zeiler doesn’t hit what he’s aiming at. He destroys panes of glass. Maybe that’s what you’re referring to.
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The Hockey Don Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:09 pm
@Dan H.,
Maybe he needs bifocals???
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I think this is a good move. Zeiler will only play on the fourth line, and this is going to be a long physical series, so Zeiler is just the player to put in that situation. Zeiler brings more toughness and grit to this lineup that we will absolutely need in these upcoming games, and I remember a few games earlier in the year where he was pretty effective for a fourth liner. Hopefully he will help to counter the physicality of the Sharks and maybe put one or two in the back of the net.
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The Hockey Don Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:07 pm
@ULVkingsfan,
I agree, after all he is the closest thing the Kings have to an aggitator.
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It’s times like these I am happy the Kings have a deep farm system.
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Our lines look like I’m playing NHL ’11 and I pilfered the Kings talent over to another club. SJ will have 60 plus shot on goal tomorrow night. I hope Lewis and Handzus work on their face-offs today!!!
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Ugh. Well it’s just for one game.
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KingsFanFTW Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:11 pm
@CUP4LA, yea everyone acting like this can kill the Kings if we win tomorrow then everyone should shut up about moves like this
everyone already expect us to be gone anyways so what we do has nothing to change an impact
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Guys, Gals…
Really.
This is only for game #2–@SJ!
Win this game, you have home ice advantage; lose this game and it’s only 0-2 AND STOLL COMES BACK!
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Don’t the Kings have the option of calling up Schenn for 1 more game without risking the contractual issue?
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I would take Zeiler over Moeller
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Does anyone have zeilers numbers in Manchester? Maybe he is putting in work?
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wow these comments are ridiculous…
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Schenn is being coddled like an infant. Let him play for a game!!
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The Hockey Don Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:22 pm
@DBking,
Hope Schenn isn’t late for his 2 o’clock feeding…lol
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I’m predicting Zeiler scores the game winner.
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c4sraser Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 4:37 pm
@sstephen17, about time isaid weeks ago to bring in Zeiler
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We’re hosed.
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aside from everything that has happened. i still maintain our number one problem is the play of drew doughty!!! – seriously he cost us a goal, turned the puck over way too much. keeps shooting the puck as high as possible and took 2 horrible penalties….this guy has not been the same this year.
last year against van. jj and him were the ones carrying us!
thoughts? – btw penner is a waste of space
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Sebastian Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:21 pm
@dk.lakings, thoughts…you are absolutely right? why are doughty and johnson such a downgrade this year? i dont know.
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olivialuvsthekings Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:22 pm
@dk.lakings, doughty is a great player but as of late he is trying to do too much!! i think that doughty and simmonds cost us the game. Maybe they shouldnt be housemates anymore lol
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dk.lakings Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:26 pm
@olivialuvsthekings,
simmonds too! seriously im so sick of watching the stupid dump and chase, grinding philosophy we have, while san jose attacks us by carrying the puck in the zone!
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Bkrs-Bud Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 3:28 pm
@dk.lakings, Talent vs.Grinders.
Spanky Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:51 pm
@dk.lakings,
Risk taking is in Doughty’s DNA – it usually pays off and I am sure it will at some point in this series to the team’s advantage.
As for Penner – WTF is wrong with that guy? And how in the world is he back up to the 2nd line after that crap game he had?
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Not a big deal… He’s just here to fill a roster spot for one game. Big freakIng deal everybody!
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olivialuvsthekings Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:21 pm
@Eric, its the playoffs each game is crucial! the big deal is that this is a horrible decision
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Wow…the disrespect…I can’t believe it lol What happened to that other dude from last year that hit every thing that moved and hurt his arm in that altercation vs Vancover? What was his name??? Lets bring him up instead.
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C leb Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:25 pm
@The Hockey Don, rich clune
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The Hockey Don Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:26 pm
@C leb,
Yeah Clunatic…I kinda miss that guy and the energy he brought to the team.
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@Eric, exactly. Just a guy manchester can live without during playoff. Nothing more.
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It’s hilarious on this blog how fast people go from “In Dean we trust” to “The Kings are a pathetic organization.”
How about Lombardi actually knows what he’s doing and he has regular reports from management in Manchester and that right now, John Zeiler is the best call up for the Kings.
I mean, how can anyone believe that Dean would purposely call up a guy he didn’t think is playing well. It’s silly.
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Tmik Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:26 pm
@wavesinair, wholeheartedly agree. Bring back the fair-weather fans comment from a few months ago.
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Bkrs-Bud Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 3:30 pm
@wavesinair, You are right,but this happens after every loss.
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Guys. Schenn probably spent the last 12/24 hours just getting to manch, noe you expect him to jump on a plane and and spen another 12 getting to la to fly back to manch. Again after one game?
Get real.
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Why is everyone so surprised? DL and TM value NHL experience above all else.
The only two guys with any significant NHL games are Zeiler and Clunatic. Those are the choices. Neither is stellar but will do.
Zeiler is the correct choice.
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hockeykingsguy Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:33 pm
@Token, I think Clune would have been a better choice. He can do everything Zeiler can plus he can fight. Clune>Zeiler in my opinion.
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Pssst! Don,t tell anyone, but Westgarth is impoving seemingly every game. Mums the word though on the blog. They’llhang you for less on the blog.
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dk.lakings Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:27 pm
@KC23,
westgarth was actually better than penner last game!
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The Hockey Don Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:29 pm
@dk.lakings,
he even had a better scoring chance than Penner.
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Darrell Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:46 pm
@The Hockey Don, Yeah, I really wanted him to score there in OT to watch LGK explode.
KingsFanFTW Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:30 pm
@dk.lakings, LOL yea i know Penner looking like crap he needs to step it up cause Westy is
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swap westie for Harry please.
thank you.
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The Hockey Don Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:30 pm
@doug in sacramento,
Swap Penner for Harry Dangerfield
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KingsFanFTW Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:31 pm
@doug in sacramento, i rather have Westy than Penner put Harrold in replace of Penner
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hockeykingsguy Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:32 pm
@doug in sacramento, Yeah that’s real smart. swap Westgarth for a guy who not only can’t score, can’t hit. can’t play forward, and can’t fight.
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The Hockey Don Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:33 pm
@hockeykingsguy,
Right because Penner is doing all 3 of those things???nice
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hockeykingsguy Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:36 pm
@The Hockey Don, That was dericted at one of the many clueless westgarth haters wanting to swap Harrold for Westgarth. Had nothing to do with Penner. Maybe one of us can’t read, but I will go back and make sure his original post talked about Harrold and Westgarth.. Yup it did, nothing was mentioned of Penner in the post I responded to.
The Hockey Don Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:39 pm
@The Hockey Don,
I stand corrected, please accept my humblest appologies noble King fan and fellow Westie supporter. Boy am I glad one of us can read…
GKG
Dan H. Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:41 pm
@hockeykingsguy,
You just hit 0/3 on the things Westgarth does well. I do believe it was Clifford doing the fighting last night while westgarth was running his mouth from the bench.
Somoene asked..who would you rather have serving 5 in the box? Westgarth or clifford. Well that’s an easy answer, but Westgarth didn’t do it so Clifford did.
I love that big red dog.
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I thought only teams from Canada got Special treatment from the refs. This is crzzy…I would be ok with it if Dorkmers got suspended too. The nerve of the San Jose papers to write Dorkmers has stepped up his play. Is that what you call it when they get away with cheap shots? Someone call up Fallsberg and have him show Smith how to take one and pretend to be hurt. Why did Smith have to be so darn tuff?
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The Hockey Don Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:32 pm
@scott3343,
You mean someone call up White and have him show Smith how to take one and pretend to be hurt.
I know that was a bit of a low blow…but whatever
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Nitrohockey Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:33 pm
@scott3343, Smyth got hit in the face, what was Demers gonna hurt? His looks? Anyway, do we have any affliation with Charlestown? I’d like to call up the Hansons. lol
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Considering the chippyness that has already developed in this series, I’m actually not surprised or disappointed by the Zeiler call-up. Solid move by Deano (all things considered). Fellas, we just don’t have that many able bodies capable of stepping in at this point of the season.
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i think a lot of people are missing the point on why people are upset.. the kings players and fans need to have some confidence going into game 2 and picking Zeiler is just crazy when all he is good for is the 4th line. We need a player thats going to make a huge impact. THIS IS THE PLAYOFFS PEOPLE lol
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wavesinair Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:44 pm
@olivialuvsthekings,
“We need a player thats going to make a huge impact.”
Uh, who might that be?
There is NO ONE who would qualify under the heading “huge impact.”
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olivialuvsthekings Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:47 pm
@wavesinair,what im saying is we already have players with this type of style.. we need someone that brings something else to the table than being aggressive.. and when i say huge impact we need players that we have to step up
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SLG1013 Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:50 pm
@olivialuvsthekings, Who is this huge impact player you are referring to? Is it Schenn, who just spent the last 24 hours traveling after playing months against boys? Perhaps you’re expecting Kopitar to hobble out there with a cast on his leg? The player you want doesn’t exist in the organization. In all likelihood (as most of the sane posters on this thread have pointed out), Zeiler isn’t going to actually play, but is being called up in case something happens to one of the current roster players before the game tomorrow…
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Why not Clune? Why Zeiler? He is a major penalty just waiting to happen. Hopefully he sees no ice time.
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We just crashed the Monarchs website. Classic.
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Zeiler will never be dressed for a game.
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The Hockey Don Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:36 pm
@hockeykingsguy,
Just what we need an undressed Zeiler streaking the shark tank
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I was just thinking (I’m sorry)
With all the doom & gloom we had here before game 1, The Kings ended up playing pretty damn well.
Maybe that’s the solution.
The more negative we are, the better the team will play. I know it’s not logical, but after the calls & non-calls by the refs last night, I’m convinced logic is illogical.
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olivialuvsthekings Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:36 pm
@Cynic, I hope we play our asses off and prove people wrong… wishful thinking
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Ryan Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:52 pm
@olivialuvsthekings, I think well will. SJ is overlooking us into round 2.
That’s if you make it.
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Call up Nazim Kadri!!!
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alicia Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 4:00 pm
@PP Anybody?, Lol, i wish!
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Chris Kontos…he should be available
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When the Kings lost yesterday the complaints here were mainly about DD being too agressive and trying to make too much happen by himself, and about Simmonds trying to make an offensive play in OT that lead to the winning goal. One would expect that the proper take on the fans’ attitude is they want players who will play the system and understand the system and not stray too much from it. On the other hand, fans seem to want Schenn, who isnt at ALL steeped in the system, and likely needs many games to be comfortable in it, JUST because he seems to offer some HOPE of providing offense and creativity.
Zeiler is a good call – he knows the system and plays aggresively within it. At the moment the Kings game cant be geared towards offense, ESPECIALLY against the Sharks. Everyone play your position and tend to your job and it’ll be fine… and Zeiler will do just that as a 4th line energy guy.
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BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:44 pm
@bbb7,
Amen!
Now, pass me the Pepto-Bismol…
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bbb7 Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:54 pm
@BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy, LOL yes this means more gut-wrenching games of frustrating lack-of-skilled-guys and walking a defensive tightrope.
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Capt Jam Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:50 pm
@bbb7,
Testify!
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If nothing else this move will confuse the hell out of the Sharks.
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Manchester has too many centremen now that Schenn is added. They decided not to bring up Schenn, then decided calling Zeiler up for one game wouldn’t hurt Manchesters playoff game. The guy is just here to sit on the bench, whats everyone so upset about?
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John Zeiler’s game by game stats for this season…
http://theahl.com/stats/gamebygame.php?seasonId=34&id=1119
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Is Zeiler a C or winger? I don’t see what the fuss is. It’s a depth move. Zeiler is no Stoll, bu he wasn’t a liability when he was here and is a good spot start energry guy.
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wavesinair Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 2:50 pm
@friarking,
I’m pretty sure he’s been playing a lot of center this season but I don’t remember where I read that.
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Who is Zeiler? Didn’t he play a couple of games for us in the late 90′s?? Are we going to bring Cloutier back as well to back up Quick and save Bernier for next year? I guess there is always next year or the year after that…….
Same old Dean. BOO
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How many people here thought Westgarth would have a solid game? He did and maybe Jay-Z will too.
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Tmik Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 3:06 pm
@let’s be frank,
Realistically, Yes. He did play a solid game.
I pull for Westie, Really. I’d like to see him come into his own, cause he does try hard and battle hard.
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PETER HARROLD ! At least he has been with team all year & practicing within the system daily !!!!!!
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dk.lakings Reply:
April 15th, 2011 at 3:06 pm
@StankBloat,
thank you….harry atleast can also play D!!!!
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OF COURSE it’s Zeiler! Another guy who won’t score or get a shot on net, just like Murray likes ‘em. OF COURSE it’s not Schenn. Because, why make King fans happy? Why try to win? Why reward your supposed future start player? Why do anything creative? Just stick to the plan guys! The one that almost saw you miss the playoffs, the one that gave you the worst powerplay of any playoff team, the one where you have the worst remaining coach in the NHL today. Good job! I’ve been a King fan since 1991-92 and I have never, NEVER been closer to ditching this team as I have become this year. Because the coaching is awful, and the manager is bleeding away this teams talent, and the window – oh the very small window teams have in the cap era to win a Cup before salary constraints will lead to its disassembly – is closing fast. And THIS is the garbage we get? You know, all the fans who keep talking about next year, there might NOT be a playoff next year. Everything is so tight in the NHL. And we get… the worst period of hockey I’ve seen the Kings play in two years, and an overtime loss. Which is a LOSS, whether in overtime or not. And how about BRAD RICHARDSON and his lousy play? But he’s better than Schenn? But then, he’s BRAD RICHARDSON, Murray’s boy, who cares if he’s a minor leaguer playing in the NHL. And Penner, let him go waste a uniform, yet again. You do realize, that this team has more talent right now, than the Pittsburgh Penguins do, minus Crosby and Malkin? And yet, whey did Pittsburgh win without them, and why are they favored over Tampa? Because they have a great coaching staff, and a winning attitude. Tired of King fans, who perhaps because they always lose, get excited by overtime first round losses. So, this is my message to King fans, and perhaps the beginning of the end of my being one. I know, if they do not win a game this round, I will sign off for good.
PS And those Murray fans who say that he doesn’t have the talent to win, well then BLAME LOMBARDI ALREADY! I mean, his claim to fame was doing average with the Sharks, who got tired of losing and cleared the deck. At least they tried, when they realized this guy wasn’t going to get the job done. And if Murray is totally dependent of Quick stealing games in overtime and Kopitar carrying the team by himself, he’s not a coach, he’s a old guy wearing a suit. You do realize, King fans, that if Quick had even gone 6-4 in shootouts, not bad really, they’d have missed the playoffs!?! That he and Stoll, individually, can thank the Kings for their undeserved playoff birth? And Murray can THANK FOR HIS JOB. Tired of just the uniformed nonsense and loyalty supporting this below average coaching and management team, ruining a great collection of talent and the best uniforms in hockey today. And BTW, they play the god awfulest most boring hockey this year that I have ever seen as a Kings fan!
Arthur, the soon to not be a King Fan
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Bringing up Zeiler will give this team zzzzzzzzzzero confidence. The team and management may have already packed up there bags and have already made vacation plans.
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As long as our GM is reluctant to take off the kid gloves while handling every single prospect we have, we won’t grow, or get better. When exactly, is a good time for Brayden Schenn? Hey, I have an idea, let’s NEVER call him up, because hey, next year he might make the team, not score, and lose all his confidence. We should instead, call up guys like Moller, and John Zeiler, who flat out will never become difference making NHL players.
I think we’ve waited long enough, and Dean Lombardi’s lack of guts, and tentativeness really turns me off as a long time fan. Wake up Dean, have some faith in this team, we could win this first round.
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I personally think we got into the Sharts minds last night..
They weren’t expecting what we brought..
The way to win this series to to grind them to death
have them looking over their shoulders all game
This disrupts their style of hockey..If we continue to skate and check
them at all times they get flustered and Quick scares them IMHO..
Real proud of Kings play …We can do this..
Niemi isn’t so great either, shoot the puck ON net..
GKG
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So is this the depth in our organization that I keep hearing about?
Johnny Z really?
The kings are F’ed
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Take it easy all of you ” I think I know more than the coaches and GMs who do this for a living” It’s not about the lines and players we have it’s about showing up and doing your job. I don’t care who plays as long as they bring their A game and give it 100%( uhhum…. Penner) we can beat any team in this league!!!!
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Here’s my line up for tonite
Smyth-Lewis-Williams
a park statue-Handzus-Brown
Clifford-Richardson-Simmonds
Ponikarovsky-Moller-Westgarth
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well moller is in the line up so i cant complain, i think he can atleast keep up with the NHL but he needs to put one away. im not so much worried about the lines, but the match ups terry murray was going with last night.. i saw the westgarth line out there against the thorton line atleast 5 times and the sharks sustained pressure on them all night.
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At least zieler plays physical and will take the body. Can’t say that for some big bodied kings aka DOA Penner.
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Zeiler are you joking? Give me a break…Put moller back in.
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lewis on the #1 line makes me smile… i think all signs point to lettnig schenn come p.. i bet 1 of our centers gets hurt in the next 2 games..
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This is the equivelant to my boss asking my 3 year old nephew to work in my place if I call in sick.
Awful, AWFUL decision.
To everyone defending it.. you guys are the ones who bought season tickets over the 8 years that we didnt make the post season and was promised lie after lie from management.
once a yes man, always a yes man.. the rest of us know this decisions sucks major.
Series is over.. See you guys next year.
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