The monster series of “exit interview” quotes from Dean Lombardi and Terry Murray is complete, so how about a postseason Open Forum? One note to start… After this is done, I’ll be doing player-by-player (and coach/GM) evaluations, so any specifics about individuals are likely to be covered there, but beyond that, if there are any Kings/NHL-related questions that you’re curious about and you think I (or your fellow readers) might be able to answer, feel free to post them here and I’ll start answering soon. Thanks…
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obviously a disappointment, but last year, I flew to Manchester to catch later rounds of the AHL post-season, and had the pleasure of spending time chatting with Ron Hextall, Terry Murray and other Kings personnel. So, how do you feel the organization looks upon not being able to see Schenn, Voynov, Muzzin, Holloway, Hickey et al in further post-season games? I know it certainly helped Muzzin’s case last season to make the opening night roster having had so many organizational eyes upon him in the playoffs. Thoughts?
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Will the NHL FINALLY drop the rule that gives a point to the losing team in O.T.??
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fuzzerson Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 6:04 pm
@Robert Beck, or go to 3 pt games.
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thustable Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 6:37 pm
@Robert Beck, had the NHL been under old point system, the Kings would’ve been 36-36-10, thats pretty average, so the current system helped us get into the playoffs in the first place.
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Jonesy Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 10:03 pm
@thustable, But many other teams would have been horrible if their losses in OT were simply losses. Most teams now are above .500. How is this possible? Either they’re all near it or something is terribly wrong. Too many points to too many losers.
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Naturallawyer Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 9:12 pm
@Robert Beck, No, and this article explains why: http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/columns/story?columnist=frei_terry&id=2817346
Here’s the relevant quote:
“I think the GMs’ affinity for the status quo has more to do with this:
• The standings create misleading impressions.
• Records look far better than they really are.
• The standings make it easier to alibi, to rationalize, to argue that a team — whether bound for the postseason, on the playoff bubble, or all but certain of missing the postseason — is doing better than it actually is.
We still hear references to ‘.500 hockey,’ as if having the same number of wins as losses in the first two columns is the only standard in measuring that. It’s not. Not even close.”
See, the current format lets GMs tell their fan bases that they are “above .500″ (i.e. a winning team), even though only 8 teams in the NHL this year were below “.500.” Eight! So it’s possible to be in the bottom ten in the league and still get to tell your fans, “hey, we finished above .500.” It’s a gimmick, but it’s also good marketing. Going to a 3-point system (for every game) would be far more fair, but it would also end the teams’ ability to continue the charade. For that reason, the current system is here and it’s here to stay.
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Pesus Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 8:33 am
@Naturallawyer,
Great post, I was hoping for the 3 point system. Wont hold my breathe.
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Rich – have you received confirmation from the Kings that the sweaters worn by the team will switch to the current 3rds as the “Home” jersey and a white variant as the “Away” jersey?
I know you basically called it a “not so” secret but there has yet to be official word from the team.
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bleedblueking Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 5:41 pm
@Jonathan, that would be awesome
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Kingsfanone Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 7:01 pm
@bleedblueking,
Naw, in my opinion the 3rd jersey design has no style, has no grace, and is not much in vogue, not to mention that Madonna probably finds them boring.
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Dominick Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 7:17 pm
@Kingsfanone,
Who actually designed those jerseys? Never read anything that actually gives someone credit. And what the heck does a homeplate have to do with hockey? Maybe the next one will have a batters box, or a pitchers mound.
IceGuy Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 7:37 pm
@Kingsfanone,
Maybe Rich should start a “Dress the Kings” contest to come up with something a little more dynamic than the “Home Plate” version.
Just Another Fan Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 7:48 pm
@Kingsfanone, Isn’t the 3rd jersey design simply a shield? Like what a warrior would carry into battle along with his sword? Sorry, I like it.
bleedblueking Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 9:23 pm
@Kingsfanone, home plate? its a crest and the sweaters are way better than the 1st sweaters
Dominick Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 10:07 pm
Just Another Fan,
We already have a shield crest with criss cross hokey sticks. If we we’re ever going to put a shield crest on a 3rd jersey, that would be the one. As long as the next one isn’t like the Burger King jersey with the sash. God I hated that one. Everything else will grow on me.
kinger Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 11:35 pm
@Kingsfanone, I’d rather keep the 3rd jersey as is, unless you could somehow put some purple trim in it. Then maybe make it the regular jersey. Kings, royalty, purple. Not to mention purple is a part of the color scheme.
gr81scores Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 11:44 pm
@Kingsfanone, I don’t like the 3rd jerseys simply because we can’t seem to win a playoff game wearing them. So much for that “Back in Black” campaign. It would be nice to see some purple mixed in. Perhaps in the road whities?
kingswings Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 9:46 am
@Kingsfanone, Seems more and more teams are going to “black” jerseys, and it’s becoming overdone, IMO. The Kings are the only team in the NHL to use the royal color of purple, and it truly bothers me that they seem to be going away from that. If they MUST go to the black jerseys with the stupid homeplate crest, at least put some purple piping in. Does management use any focus groups before making significant changes like changing jerseys?
The Batman Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 10:25 pm
@bleedblueking, dude its all about the burger king guy. thats hot right there
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bleedblueking Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 7:02 am
@The Batman, hard to debate that
DBking Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 12:53 am
@Jonathan, I happen to really like the 3rd jersey. Everyone that talks hockey around the league doesn’t call us “The Kings” they call us “LA” so I like that it’s on the front of the jersey. It doesn’t need to be cute either so I like that it doesn’t have any wild designs.
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Doug Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 3:05 pm
@Jonathan, I hate the third jersey they are bad luck the kings could not win a playoff game with them. I like the third jersey from a few years back purple with the crown.
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Rich, what do you think will happen in terms of free agency: will Handzus and/or Ponikarovski be resigned, and what are the chances of the Kings signing Brad Richards?
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jonsey Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 6:57 am
@phil, I sure hope none of those happen. Richards made 7.8 million dollars this year. Handzus made 4 million dollars ever year he didn’t do enough to warrant it. Ponikarovsky was a stop gap and it did not work.
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kevin from toronto Reply:
April 30th, 2011 at 11:44 am
@jonsey, You don’t think Handzus deserved 4 million? Not every player is signed to produce points. He is one of the best defensive forwards the Kings have.
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what do you think we do with the plethora of young defenseman the kings have? do you think we make a deal for a foreward or do you think that we will find mr. right in the ufa/rfa category?
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Chris Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 10:21 pm
@the 805blunt, Personally, I think you will see several of them(mostly the prospects) traded. Obviously we can’t get rid of all of them, but DL specifically said he drafted deep on D in order to build this team from the back out and that the remainder would be used for trade purposes.
Considering we have an over abundance of D and a need for O, it makes sense that we start trading them.
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What’s the jersey plan for next year? Did any of the feedback we gave in March about jerseys make it’s way to the decision makers with the Kings?
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I think Schenn and Lokti are viable options for roster spots next year, although it creates a logjam at the center position. What they do for us is create a ton of cap room (especially with the cap # rising) if they are indeed brought up and Handzus and Poni are out. Once Doughty is taken care of there will still be ample space to make aquire a big contract.
With that said the splash can’t always come from free agency. As we all went though last summer, even if there is a sniper on the market and we have cap room there is a good chance we won’t be able to woo him to LA. The other option is coming up with a package of a few players to trade for a superstar. At some point with our overwhelming depth down the middle I think we should parlay some of our young talent into an elite scoring threat up front. I can only hope that considering how Penner worked out it doesn’t make DL gun shy on making a move. Realistically, on a Stanley Cup team, I see Penner on the 2nd or 3rd line with some greater talent taking the spots infront of him. I’m not saying rush into something or blow the thing up by any means, but we have some work to do.
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DBking Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 5:08 pm
@DBking, And the question… With that said, do you see the Kings getting involved in any blockbuster transactions this summer? Last year we had some lines in the water but couldn’t land a big fish. Will we have lines in the water again or do you feel DL is satisfied with the current progression of the team and would be unwilling to make any big movements?
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sstephen17 Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 8:59 pm
@DBking, Actually the Kings do not have a lot of cap space if you factor in the re-signing of Doughty and Simmonds. Not to mention other RFA’s like Lewis and Richardson. If Schenn makes the team, that’s another $3.1 million. Smyth’s $6+ million ca[ hit next year is what really hurts. Unless they trade him, another player like Stoll, and maybe not re-sign some of the RFA’s, I don’t see them making a serious run at Richards.
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DBking Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 12:59 am
@sstephen17, “If Schenn makes the team that’s another $3.1 million?” What? Schenn is currently signed under his entry level contract which pays him 900k per season until the end of the 12/13 season by which he because a RFA. That’s what the whole deal about not calling him up from the minors was about… we didn’t want to burn a cheap year off his contract.
With Poni and Zues out that’s 7M of room, plus the increased cap ceiling. We have cap room.
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sstephen17 Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 9:20 am
@DBking, Not sure where you are getting that 900k figure. Capgeek.com shows his cap hit as $3.1 million. Maybe he gets 900k if he doesn’t make the team. Poni and Zuz are out but Doughty will get a significant bump from his $3.5 mil, as will Simmonds whose cap hit was only about 800k this year. If Richardson and Lewis are re-signed, they will definitely go for more than 900k and 800k they made last year respectively.
Hey Rich, the question I have here is, what’s it going to take for Bernier to be given a fair shot at the #1 Goaltender. When does Dean Lombardi have to make a decision on that, since it is pretty clear Bernier is not a backup in this league. Also do you see Dean Lombardi making a move to get Richards or no? Since Richards seems like the typical forward Dean likes to acquire. Thanks Rich.
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Just Another Fan Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 7:54 pm
@BerniernextRoy, For Bernier to get a “fair shot” I think Quick will have to falter. Until Quick has a prolonged slump we will not see Bernier get many consecutive starts. I for one am a fan of both and am very happy that both are still signed for a couple more years.
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frustrated Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 9:19 pm
@Just Another Fan, thats the beauty of having two quality goaltenders.
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With the success of the Clifford-Richardson-Simmonds line in the playoffs, what are the chances of them remaining as a cohesive unit next season?
I guess what I am wondering is will Terry Murray go back to his favoring big heavy vets rather than new blood? This points straight to the Schenn/Lokti question of getting a shot I’m afraid.
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dahack11 Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 5:10 pm
@IceGuy, we all know about TM’s line switching, so I’d bet it’ll be re-united, & (UN) re-united several times…lol
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King-Me! Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 9:19 pm
@IceGuy, we should stick wit what works.. and they did!
i also gotta name for that line should we keep them together!
“THE WORKING CLASS LINE”
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Munchrat Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 5:43 am
@King-Me!, The name I like for the simmer/cliffie/richie line is “The Aristocrats”
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Player-X Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 7:02 am
@King-Me!, The Brain, the Train and the Pain
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Is there any reason why the kings are holding to kompon or are they looking into getting a different pp coach
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408KingsFan Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 9:24 pm
@Kenny, I will assume Kompon’s responsibilties for half his salary. Are you guys in?
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Kings Fan In Temecula Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 7:45 am
@408KingsFan, you got my vote
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What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 12:21 am
@Kenny, Kompon has compromising pictures of DL’s daughter?
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Hi Rich, first off thank you for all you do, I know everyone here greatly appreciates it. You are by far the best in the business and we are lucky to have you.
My question is, in game 4, when Doughty and Nichol both took coincidental roughing minors in the second period, why was it 4 on 4? My understanding of the rule is that if both penalties are coincidental, then the resuming play is still 5 on 5, such as with fighting and possibly with other penalties as well. I am not sure if this only applies specifically to fighting, but since both penalties were coincidental, shouldn’t it have applied there as well?
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uclaemt Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 5:53 pm
@ULVkingsfan, Several years ago the NHL changed the rule…if teams are even strength when the coincidental penalties are taken then I believe both teams skate short. This includes if teams are 4 vs 4 & coincidental penalties are taken you will see 3 vs 3. If there is a pp in progress and coincidental penalties are assessed then there is no change in on-ice numbers. That’s the easy explanation, after that it gets very complicated. Hope it helps
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In the Net Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 12:09 am
@uclaemt, That’s correct. They changed the coincidental minor penalty rules in the 80s so teams like Edmonton, with Wayne Gretzky, would stop taking coincidental minor penalties so they could get Gretz in a 4-on-4 setup over and over, as they tried to do every game. It was changed back some years later. Coincidental major penalties have always stayed the same.
[Reply]
Rich,
During games at home I like to watch and blog during the game. Recently I found a shot tracker that has added even more enjoyment during the games. Is there any way we could have something simular here? Also the outside boarders could use some pictures. Also, also, Are you planning a vacation during the summer? I seem to remember a camp or something you went to.
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Garrett Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 8:16 pm
@Dominick, Rich, please do not put pictures on the outside boarder. Thanks.
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Hi Rich. Another truly outstanding job on your part this season. Here’s the readership’s evaluation of you: You work tirelessly and generate amazing content. You Rock!
In my personal opinion, I thought the quote of the season was from Rob Scuderi after Game 3 when he said, “We showed a lot of immaturity in our game.” I feel like he hit the nail on the head, and those two games really may have exposed some underlying mental problems with the team, and especially with the younger players. It’s just not that hard to dump the puck in on the zone-entry and forecheck like Coach Murray asks them to. I’m just curious: in your time spent with the players and coaches, do you feel like there is a certain amount of arrogance in the younger players, or at least some resistance to Coach Murray’s system?
Thanks again for all you do Rich, and another Pulitzer-worthy year!!!
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what are the chances of acquiring another power forward and who would they be?
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1. Is there a chance of seeing one of the kids (Hickey, Camphell (RA I know), Muzzin, or Voynov) in the defensive front six next year if Martinez stays in place.
2. Are they going to give Bernier a chance to win the job outright this year and earn 55 starts. If so, would they move Quick for a first line winger if one were available?
3. Is theer any talk of the Kings trading back into the first round?
4. Please tell me the Kings have no interest in Brad Richards (to old and injury prone)
5. What do the Kings consider Martin Jones’ upside. Does he have greater upside than Bernier or Quick? I know according to DL’s plan, he will start a second year in Manchester.
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dahack11 Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 5:12 pm
@Orphios, This is my big question too……what’s the plan for Bernier specifically & all our goaltenders on the farm in general.
We are loaded there & it seems a waste to just have them not play or not be traded.
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Dave Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 7:47 pm
@dahack11, guys, Bernier is 22 and is making very little. no need to rush anything with him.
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Rich, really enjoy the blog. Could you provide any insight if the Kings/FSN plan on doing Kings Live pre game like they do now for baseball?
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Dominick Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 5:27 pm
@Tony,
The Kings used to do one before every home game. 1/2 hour long with some fluff stuff with Lappy and others. Foxie did a breakdown for both sides on key things to watch for. Now he does a 15 second “keys to the game” segment, and the fluff stuff is during the intermissions. Wish they’d go back to doing it.
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Laura Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 8:05 pm
@Dominick, ya, I remember the 1/2 pre-show..I wonder why they got rid of it..I was always a fan too!
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Kingsfanone Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 8:27 pm
@Laura,
If not enough people watch, it’s going bye bye. I also liked the show, but apparently not enough of us did watch it to justify it in the network’s mind.
I remember in the beginning/middle portion of the season the NHL was talking about implementing new rules like hybrid icing and a referee watching from an off ice perspective. Any news on those rules. Also, I very much dislike the flipping the puck out of play delay of game penalty, especially in the playoffs. It seems they could send the same message without it becoming an instant penalty like not allowing the team that sent the puck out to change lines like in an icing situation. Also, the shootout wins going against you in a tie breaker situation seemed silly. A win is a win and it seems the message they’re sending is that a win in a shootout is not equivalent to a win. Thanks for all the work you’re doing, Rich!!
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uclaemt Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 6:01 pm
@hockeygeoff247, The new rules you refer to were part of the “Development Camp” I think it was called. It’s used as an opportunity for the league to see on the ice what rule proposals might look like. I believe they also played with wider blue lines. It all goes back to the GM’s and competition commitee to evaluate and decide what they like and don’t like. Any change they think they might want in the NHL you will see used in the AHL first…like the trapezoid behind the goal. The Delay of Game penalty forces the defensive team to play responsibly in their zone…the league wants offense and this is another way to generate that, no plans to change the rule. As for the shootouts…the easier solution to that is to take away the “bonus” point. Winner gets 2 points no matter how they do it and loser gets 0
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BobKnob Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 6:25 pm
@hockeygeoff247,
If you don’t have the rule the D are just gonna flip it up out of play anytime they are scrambling. Super easy to do and really a cheap way to relieve pressure. Simply keeping the same line out isn’t punishment enough imo.
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What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 12:27 am
@BobKnob, They could have a delay of game warning for the first incident, and a minor for the second.
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Stuart Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 9:35 am
@hockeygeoff247, I’m with you! That delay of game automatice blows! This game has already been changed enough to accomodate more offense. Give the Dmen a break. That little flip and a whistle is sometimes the only out for a team. If the league penalizes that play they also call a 2 minute when a Dman ices the puck when there’s sustained pressure. Of course that’s a ridiculous idea just as flipping the puck is. ESPECIALLY when it is purely accidental (ie when there isn’t any sustained pressure going on). Dmen have been handcuffed enough.
Maybe they can adjust the rule to say that only forwards who flip the puck get penalized but not dmen, they’ll just get a faceoff deep and have to keep the same squad out.
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Rich,
Any chance there could be an advance schedule for the 2011-2012 L.A. Kings Suite games this coming season? It is difficult for some of us to make them if they are announced at the last minute…
And, can you thank EAManagement (Frank) once again for all of us? The suite game was the only one I made in person this season, and it made my year…
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BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 5:11 pm
@EASportsMgt, @Rich,
That is, EASportsMgt…
Getting senile in my old age.
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Rich – has there been any discussion about the starting the 2011-12 season overseas and any additional off-season prep this will entail? I remember hearing this had some negative effects on some of teams last year, in terms of the travel and then readjusting to the schedule back home.
Thanks for this blog – its must reading for Kings fans
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Heavy G Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 8:27 pm
@RickVegas, http://kings.nhl.com/club/page.htm?id=68872&navid=DL|LAK|home
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Hey Rich,
I was just wondering what specifically Dean Lombardi was referencing when he said, “I’m looking for much more improvement than we had this year, when we had to put him through the (strength and conditioning) test again”? Did Drew Doughty fail the strength and conditioning test his first time around during training camp?
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Raitis Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 7:28 pm
@Gretz98,
I don’t think you can fail it. I think DL is saying he wants doughty to have a big boost from the numbers he got last test.
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What are the odds of Bernier getting a chance to push Quick for playing time next season ? It seems Murray’s style is to instill confidence in his #1 by declaring Quick the #1 and playing him that way, but I think Bernier’s play warranted more games than he got into last year and if Bernier can get on a roll at any point when Quick falters do you think Bernier will be given the chance to steal away the #1 or will Murray continue to ride Quick as his #1 as long as he is the head coach of the LA kings ? If Murray continues with the strategy he has used the past couple years, do you think at any point Lombardi might step in and insist that Bernier be given more playing time to show what he can do on a consistent basis at the NHL level ?
my point: Quick is too anxious and prone to overplaying situations like in my opinion a bouncing puck in overtime of game 6 that led to Thorntons goal. Bernier’s calm style of play is exactly what an “inexperienced” team needs to calm things down in situations (like game 3). Not trying to champion Bernier over Quick, but I’m worried under Murray he might not ever get a “fair” shot. thoughts ?
[Reply]
Paul G Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 5:25 pm
@typicaljs, thats the best question so far! love to hear it answered
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ziggyfan Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 5:40 pm
@typicaljs, I would like to hear the answer too on your question too.
Rich, please give us your insight on the matter and Thank you so much for this year’s reports. We are so lucky to have you.
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bleedblueking Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 5:47 pm
@typicaljs, yes a great question I agree
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bleedblueking Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 6:52 pm
@typicaljs, my biggest fear is trading bernier and he becomes the greatest goalie in history and beats us in the stanley cup finals
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Jack the Lad Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 7:04 pm
@bleedblueking, I agree, I think Bernier has much more upside and will be the next great French Canadien goalie, I just hope he does it with the Kings. Quickie is a very talented goalie, but he does make me nervous way to often and I also feel his style is not condusive to a long N.H.L career.
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Duckhunter Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 9:40 pm
@Jack the Lad, I like the last statement…I’ve said that I think both goalies will be Stanley Cup winners, but the one thing that does worry me about Quick is his style…not talent…that athletic style has a tendency to have injuries…injuries=short career…and if your looking long term Bernier might be the one you want to keep…just on that alone….but let this play out at least another year…both are young and DL/TM will get a better look at both and hopefully make the right choice.
Kingsfanone Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 7:11 pm
@bleedblueking,
I’m just glad to hear that they are getting back to the Stanley Cup Finals again!
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john Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 7:25 pm
@typicaljs, its ridiculous to think that goal was quicks fault.
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BobKnob Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 7:43 pm
@john,
x2
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The Batman Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 7:45 pm
@john, i agree, that wasn’t overplayed at all it just bounced off a skate back to him
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typicaljs Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 12:26 am
@The Batman et al,
I didn’t mean to frame that in a way where it sounds like I really think it was quicks fault and he really played it wrong on a bounce per se, hes the reason they made it to OT in the first place(x3). But in my “expert” opinion quick is farther over to the left in that situation than Bernier normally is so in that situation Bernier is there and that rebound is fine. Not saying Bernier gets us into the playoffs this year or outplays quick or anything just yet but I was mentioning it an example the most recent play. Yes after watching him go 16-1 in the playoffs in jr and seeing him look just fine in the NHL so far I’d like to see Bernier at least be given the chance to earn the right to start in the playoffs in the next year.
And to the person below me that is what my question was about, how does Rich see TM letting it play out basically.
Duckhunter Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 9:47 pm
@john, people who want Bernier in see it that way (not realizing Bernier would have played it the same way)…just like some Quick fans didn’t want him pulled in game 3 (I agree game 3 not totally his fault but some times yanking a goalie shakes up a team or at least acts as a momentum stopper).
People need to get off the goalie situation and be satisfied that we do possess 2 of the best young goalies in the league…what a wonderful situation to be in…let it play out we have time.
[Reply]
BobKnob Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 10:58 pm
@Duckhunter,
yep. And TM’s plan worked very well this year.
Helvetica Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 11:29 am
@typicaljs, IMO, i think you are going to see Bernier more next season regardless of how Quick does. If you look back a bit, Bernier was asked to go to manchester to do well and improve his attitude. He did that. Then he was asked to come up and back up quick. He’s done that, and he’s done it well. I think this coming season, the plan will be to give him more ice time almost regardless of how he or quick perform just as part of the overall plan for his progression.
The interesting thing is that, our 2 goalies play much different games. Quick has the athletic gift while Bernier plays a very calm and technically sound game. Personally, i think Quick has the higher potential if he can calm his game down a bit, stay focused, and improve his technical play a bit. Bernier may never find the athletic ability that Quick has, but his focus and technical play may carry him farther if Quick can’t improve beyond being a very gifted athlete physically.
And thats how i expect this next season to go. Both Goalies will be battling for #1 spot. Whichever one finds there complete and consistent game first is going to be the guy by season’s end.
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We always hear and read how important faceoff wins are, yet it just seems that if a player is not good at it to begin with, he never improves.
Is this something that the Kings players just don’t practice? You would think that it behooves us to get a faceoff consultant in to coach our centers and improve this part of their game.
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bbb7 Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 6:44 pm
@Hoganmuller, Agreed! And a puck-handling coach for Quick! Make Hextall earn his money! :p
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fsd1 Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 8:10 am
@Hoganmuller, and yet stoll wins like 15 out of 17 in one playoff game, so is it really training issue? or is the luck of the draw (drop)?
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Stuart Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 9:40 am
@Hoganmuller, I’ve always heard/been under the impression that face-offs are just one of those things where you either have it or you dont. And regardless of how hard you train, the people that “have it” will winout more often than not. It’s a knack thing. Just my take.
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Hey Rich
My question: What are the plans for our two defensemen prospects Voynov and Hickey?
and will Martinez stay?
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bleedblueking Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 6:02 pm
@Paul G, I think martinez prooved he belongs
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Dave Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 7:49 pm
@Paul G, and Muzin?
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fsd1 Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 8:10 am
@Dave, Trade bait maybe?
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With the depth down the middle (Kopitar, Stoll, Lewis, Richardson, Schenn, Loktionov) do you see the Kings moving one of Lewis, Richardson, or Loktionov to the wing? It was evident of how it worked with the Sharks in Marleau, Mitchell, Wellwood, etc.
Also do you see Lombardi making a decision on goaltending with the emergence of Quick, much like Montreal, maybe dealing Bernier to Philly for Giroux or JVR?
Thanks for everything you do Rich.
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bleedblueking Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 5:49 pm
@Luke, I think that stoll and loktionov would be ideal to move to wing
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BobKnob Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 6:01 pm
@bleedblueking,
Remember Lokti didn’t really play that well on wing, he seemed out of place or lost at times. It seemed he had a lot of adjusting to do. Maybe one of the other players would feel more comfortable there? I dunno. Or he just learns the position better.
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bleedblueking Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 6:13 pm
@BobKnob, your right, lewis would be a better fit especially with simmonds and richardson but I want to see both schenn and loktionov in kings jerseys next year so id like to see it work
john Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 7:32 pm
@bleedblueking, why is it so important to see Schenn and Lokti in a Kings Uni? Can the really outperform kopi or stoll (faceoff man, leadership group, pk, pp point man) at this point? Are they good/strong enough to be bottom 6 shutdown centers? No. We should be fine letting them develope unless they show they’re ready. Trust me if one these guys was ready to be effective and produce better than our vets, dont you think DL/TM would have it done immediately? They’d be with the big club right away. It’s about improving the team, not bringing up a top prospect early just for the fans.
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IceGuy Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 8:13 pm
@john,
When Kopi went down, who did Lombardi bring up to help out?
Oscar.
When we hit the playoffs who did Lombardi call up to pad our resources, just in case?
No one.
“We’re going with what we’ve got” I believe was the quote.
The only addition was Parse, who both Murray and Lombardi seem to feel was not really ready to play. A big surprise, seeing as how he didn’t play for 5 an a half months.
The Kings seem to actually be “The Terry Murray Institute for Higher Hockey”. It’s not about winning. It’s not about points (see comments in Rich’s interviews). It’s about players figuring it out for themselves. Players playing “the right way”. It’s about players learning. As far as I can tell, that’s Murray’s “system”.
And once they’ve learned, they’re shipped off to succeed with other teams.
This summer is going to be most interesting in terms of shaping next season’s team. We’ve got over $10M wrapped up in Smyth and Penner. Anyone feel like we’re getting our money’s worth? (well, I will give Smyth props for showing up in the playoffs, as it should be I guess). Who goes? Poni? Zues? Harrold? Drewiske? Who rides the pine? What kids are Murray and Lombardi serious about getting a shot?
And how does Lombardi talk an offense minded UFA to come play in the Murray system? That’s selling ice cubes to Eskimos.
Trades? You’ve got to give in order to get. Who goes? Bernier? Martinez? Simmonds? Lewis? Stoll? Oh, and we have to save a spot for Westgarth and his 3 minutes per game.
The 2011-2012 Kings are either going to look very much like this year’s team, or very very different.
Classes start in August.
bleedblueking Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 10:21 pm
@john, we desperately need team speed, guys like stoll poni zues smyth although very effective(setting screens, faceoffs, pk) but thats not gonna cut it anymore just look at the series vs the sharts the only effective line was the richardson line why? speed
Hey rich, thanks for the work youve done this season. I was curous as to how many draft picks we have this year. Per round.
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Rich,
Great job on the blog. Thanks for everything.
In terms of personnel do you have any idea why Bud Holloway has never been given a chance and been recalled from Manchester? Will he and Voynov be invited to camp?
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When does the Kings organization believe they will make a serious run for the cup in terms of years?
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Rich, did you grow up a hockey fan? Or is it something you started doing as a sports writer and got into it then?
Do you think the Kings will make a trade for a top 6 forward? Even if it involves moving Bernier?
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@Dominick, id trade any pregame show for the privilege of watching every game though
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Dominick Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 6:05 pm
@bleedblueking,
Wouldn’t mind having both. I’d trade HD for the privileage of watching games in Canada. Can’t believe World poker tour gets priority over Kings pre-game and it isn’t even a sport.
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bleedblueking Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 6:16 pm
@Dominick, wow, sorry man that blows
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I was board today, and decided to check out 1st round drafted players. I was looking at the class of 2003. Most of you probably know that the Kings picked Dustin Brown with the 13th pick overall. Did you know who the Devils picked? That’s right, Mr. Zach Parise. It blew my mind when I saw this. What in hell was Dave Taylor thinking? Does anyone know what the talk on Parise was at the time? Why was he picked so late? Why didn’t Taylor pick him? I do thank Taylor for getting one pick right, Anze Kopitar. He turned out to be the best pick available to us at that draft (Crosby was taken by Pittsburgh lol).
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B Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 6:03 pm
@B, BTW, Parise was taken 17th overall.
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Dominick Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 6:28 pm
@B,
Parise wanted to play at the college hockey level, and was considered undersized for the NHL. Who ever drafted him had to take that into consideration. Not unlike Forbort, although Forbort has the size, he might very well play 4 years in college before even making an attempt at a professional hockey career. 1 or 2 years at the minor league level and you drafted a #1 draft pick who you won’t see for 6 years.
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thustable Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 6:39 pm
@B, hahaha, board…
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bleedblueking Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 6:45 pm
@B, one could argue that brown makes a bigger impact on the outcome of a game and who knows we might end up with both
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frustrated Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 9:29 pm
@bleedblueking, brown needs to learn to play under control. everytime he makes a hit, he ends up falling down and the other team gets the puck and goes the other way. anybody agree?
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Pesus Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 12:55 am
@frustrated,
If you have the package you might hear some announcers call him a diver, but I think he has terrible balance. Like you say, he falls down too easy.
Rich, next interview with TM or DL, please ask about Westie, next year he did not seem to have any affect on SJ. They were roughing during play and after especially in game 6. We even played well early on PP, but that didn’t deter them. The only times they weren’t taking liberties was when they trailed on the score board. I have to believe Ponikorovsky/Richardson would have given us the better chance of scoring in the series.
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Eric Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 8:40 am
@luc20rules,
Westgarth played his role wonderfully. He got in their face every chance he got, was running his mouth nonstop just to make they knew he was there. I didn’t see any serious liberties against the kings. Were we watching the same series?
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Is the NHL interested or concerned with making changes or adjustments to their video review protocol/rules?
In the first few minutes of game six of the Kings/Sharks series there was that offside call that was incorrect and took away a for sure goal for LA. In the Montreal/Boston series there was a goal scored and then taken away from Montreal because the ref couuld not see the puck. It was clearly a legal and good goal. In the Kings scenario I understand it was an incorrect offside call…little diffrent circumstances. Yet, in each case a “good goal” was virtually taken away. I look at the NFL and if a ref makes a bad call on a score they will reverse the call and validate the score. Seems the NHL needs to tweak their system a bit. The NFL continues to tweak theirs, indicating that it is defenitely a progresive part of the game…Bettman should take a page from them.
(Sorry so wordy.)
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BobKnob Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 6:34 pm
@Lead Feet,
Live with the mistakes imo. Watching a zebra put his head into a camera every 2 plays to determine if it was really offsides is not entertaining, and either way, if the whistle was blown, anything occurring after that shouldn’t count anyways. So you’re left with a slightly better faceoff spot. They could improve the way goal scoring situations are handled but I think expanding video review is a bad idea in general.
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Lead Feet Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 7:01 pm
@BobKnob, Like I said, the Kings offside call is a diffrent circumstance. And I realize the rules in that if the whistle blows the play is dead. However, I’m tired of seeing ANY game, not just Kings games, any game where a goal is a goal but due to a mistaken call its disallowed. I dont agree with you that expanding review is a bad idea. Thats exactlly what everyone said regareding the NFL’s VR. Yet they implemented, progressed, adjusted and look at how well it has worked for football. As a fan watching the game you know that if a call is incorrect they will correct it. Dont get me wrong, Im a hockey fan not a football fan. But there is defenitely room for improvement in an age where the so called “human element” is not longer necessary.
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Lead Feet Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 7:03 pm
@Lead Feet, It seems now that video review is really only used to verify a call already made as a goal. When a ref calls a play no goal but it is clearly a goal…thats the mistake I would like to see eliminated from the game.
BobKnob Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 7:50 pm
@Lead Feet,
I think video reviews are overused in the NFL, but whatever.
I think maybe they could improve review by allowing the ref to make no determination, simply send it upstairs and let them review it and make the decision. What you get sometimes is a ref who doesn’t see something but makes a call anyways, and then video review team can’t overturn it because they don’t have iron-clad proof to do so, but usually it’s pretty obvious the puck is over the line or a stick is above or below the crossbar. I dunno. It’s a tough spot for officiating. It’s a really fast game with a small little puck bouncing around lots of pads and crap, so they’re going to make mistakes.
I think perfect is the enemy of good here.
Lead Feet Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 8:18 pm
@Lead Feet, Ya, I know…its a tough game to officiate. Your idea of sending it upstairs to allow the booth to make the call is a good idea. Personally, I dont have the answer. I just know how frustrating it is to see happen. Imagine being a player and experiencing it.
Here’s to the Kings improving over the summer and getting beyond the first round next year!! Cheers!
bill donnelly Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 9:53 am
@Lead Feet, Video review will be used only for goal/no-goal situations. It will not be used for penalty calls, offsides, etc.
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Hey Rich I heard that there was talk of switching the NHL schedule to a more even distribution of games to be played between western and eastern conference teams. Something like playing western teams 4 times instead of 8 and playing the east teams twice like other sports. Any news on this? I think all of us would like to see that. And finally maybe the west would get more recognition and calls in the long run??
Thoughts?
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Hi Rich, thanks a lot for outstanding job. I really like this blog and come here several times a day to read and share my thoughts with other fans. I have a lot of questions and hopefully you will be able to answer them. I believe there will be a lot of questions about coach stuff and UFA so many of my questions are different. So, here we go.
1. During the game who else besides the coach and 2 assistant coaches are on the bench with players? What are their roles?
2. When the player is injured who is coming to him from the bench? If the injury is severe is there a doctor who comes to evaluate player on the ice? If the player requires stitches or other medical attention, where it’s done? In the locker room or there is a special medical office where they can provide first medical aid.
3. When player is injured and not coming back to the game where and by whom he is taken to? Well, when it’s really bad injury obviously he is taken to the hospital, but if injury in just not that bad, than what? If this player was not accompanied by family member what happened with his car ( if he used one to get to Staples center )
4. Can you tell us more how Bob and Jim work? Sometimes during the game they bring some info about player, is this something that they have written on the notes before the game or there is a data base which is easily accessible during the game and they can check statistics right away? During the game when Jim explains certain play he draws on the TV screen, how he does this? When they talk in front of the camera do they have a TV monitor with live picture in front of them? It will be great to see a post with videos where you will tell us some insides on Jim and Bob’s work.
5. When playoffs round is over and player line up to shake hands what they usually tell each other? Obviously the losing tem probably congratulates the wining team, but what they hear back?
6. During the game do players from the bench somehow communicate with the players on the ice? And if yes what do they tell?
Thank you
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D Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 6:58 pm
@kluka68, This might help answer #4. Kings Vision did a segment following Bob Miller’s preparation for one of the away games. His method seems old school but is pretty cool none the less. He pretty much has a folder with flash cards that contain stats/info on the King’s players as well as the opponants that he can access quickly during the broadcast. You can watch it on the LAKings website under Kings Vision. Its called “On the Road with Bob Miller – Game Preparation.” Enjoy.
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Kluka68 Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 8:21 pm
@D, Thank You !
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Rich
Awesome job as always.
When you asked Murray about Parse’s game 6, did he seem somewhat pissed about Parse not being honest with them, or did I read too much into that answer?
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Rich,
Out of the twelve home games I will be attending at Staples next season, will the Kings win one of them? Is so please let me know which one.
Thanks
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number 6 Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 6:38 pm
@408KingsFan,
That’s great 408. Oops, sorry, don’t want to get in the way of your question.
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408KingsFan Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 6:41 pm
@number 6, Just a little humor to break up the depression I’m feeling from the SJ series.
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Dominick Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 6:46 pm
@408KingsFan, It’ll be the one where you send your neighbor because of a family thing you can’t get out of. He he he.
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how long are we going to have Bob Miller??
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thustable Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 6:38 pm
@KingsFanFTW, why, are you tired of him?
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KingsFanFTW Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 7:23 pm
@thustable, because he getting old and we need to win a Stanley Cup for him
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thustable Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 7:46 pm
@KingsFanFTW, I genuinely feel bad for Bob Miller…waiting..waiting..just waiting. Wouldn’t blame him a bit if he breaks down as Cap’t Brown finally lifts the Cup. Win one for us, win one for Miller.
Stuart Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 9:46 am
@thustable, my money bets BM doesn’t break down one bit while on mic. Too professional for that. But, he’ll cry like a baby off of it.
KingsFanFTW Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 8:08 pm
@thustable, yea i know Bob Miller the man i wish when we win the Cup thathe can carry it too
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Salamano Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 9:27 pm
@KingsFanFTW,
It’ll never happen (even if…er, make that WHEN we finally win the cup), but what a great thought. It was Bob Miller that really got me interested in the Kings way back in the mid-70s. I’d listen to his call of the games on the radio, and found his work to be totally engaging. I think Hockey’s a hard enough game to broadcast over the radio, as is…but to provide a neophyte like I was such a clear vision of the action was truly remarkable. And the man’s genuine love for the sport continues to shine through to this day.
So yeah…count me in as another fan who’d love to see Bob Miller lift the Stanley Cup following the King’s 16th victory of the post-season.
bleedblueking Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 6:54 pm
@KingsFanFTW, about as long as weve had scully I hope
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KingsFanFTW Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 7:23 pm
@bleedblueking, i hope we have him for long time still didnt win a Cup
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Rich, feel like I’m beating a bit of a dead horse here, but your feelings please about the forwards with regards to speed and skill. We all know that it’s lacking, but do you think it’s important as an issue to address? Two points: one is that I noticed DL make reference to San Jose’s skill level (so at least he noticed it), but how seriously do you think management takes this issue and again your personal feelings about it.
Second point I make is that I’ve said on numerous posts; without the red line the game has changed post lockout, but I really wonder sometimes if management notices.
There have been a number of games they won where clearly everyone could see that the Kings were rather dominated but won thanks to Quick plus a well timed goal or two.
Many thanks for everything and also for your response to this question.
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Rich, do you think Doughty will not turn into another Alexei Zhitnik?
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I’ll just leave this here: http://www.quickmeme.com/BAD-NHL-GM/
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gmo Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 9:01 pm
@let’s be frank,
that was scary
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When Wayne Gretzky or any other former “star” players attend a game at Staples, do they have to buy tickets? Are they given tickets by the Kings? What goes on here?
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If the Kings ever go deep in the playoffs, round 3 or 4, do you see Bob Miller joining Nick Nickson on the radio broadcast since he can’t do TV coverage at that point in the playoffs?
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1. Did you actually see Anschutz at the last game and if so, did you request an interview? If not, why not knowing how much of a lightning rod his absence and perceived indifference is for the many fans you represent?
2. Terry Murray suggested that the season was a successful one. I disagree. Back to back 1st round exits and no second round since 2000 does not seem positive to me. What are your thoughts?
3. Lombardi said Murray will remain and Murray said his system will not change. Even though a coach should alter his system to suit his players, that does not seem possible here. Why is Murray so inflexible?
4. Why should Jamie Kompon be retained as power play coach aside from his contract?
5. Dustin Penner said he hard time learning the Kings system after coming over from the Oilers. What exactly is the Kings’ system other than dump and not chase, and how complex could the Oilers’ system have been considering they were last in the league in almost every category?
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Stuart Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 9:51 am
@drew, good #1. #2 – if it were our 4th consecutive b-2-b 1st round exits, I’d complain. Other teams in this league are real good. Even the wings lose in the 1st round sometimes. If we get bumped next year in the 1st heads will roll. #5 – I don’t think the comlpexity of EDM system is the problem. It’s just different. I can only think of how in basketball, it takes players so long to learn the triangle offense.
good post.
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How bout your personal opinion.
1) Should TM have called a time out in game 3?
2) Should TM have pulled his goalie on that 5 on 3 in game 4?
3) Best California burger, Has it changed?
4) Are you ever going to write a book?
5) Do you have other hockey pundits that you enjoy reading?
I know it’s 5, but I’m a cheater who never learned through moderation.
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Kingsfanone Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 7:28 pm
@Dominick,
Love these, Dominick!
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Mr. Hammond,
So what’s the exact deal with the uniforms next season? Has it been confirmed by the team that it’s the black alternate for the home primary next year, a white version of that for the road primary, and the current black crown home for the “new” alternate? I recall your post on it, just want to know if this is %100 the plan. And if so, any info on when they plan to reveal the new set? Thought they could have done a little better, especially for a big uniform change like this. Thanks.
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Ari Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 9:37 am
@Alex, I finally buy an authentic jersey this year and we switch
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Rich,
A couple player questions. With the skill set that Jack Johnson has, has there been any talk of moving him up to a wing? I know there was talk years ago about Phil Housley moving up to a forward and with the plethora of defensemen in they system, why not give it a shot? In keeping with his skill set, why did he “fall” from the top shooters in the shootout? Also, do you think that Alec Martinez will change his number from 53 to a more respectable number for a defenseman like #6?
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Rich, can you set something up for Frozen Fury similiar to suite night? Obviously there arent any suites at MGM but it would be cool if us fanatic bloggers (and you know who you are) could sit in the same section. Thanks
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Laura Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 8:21 pm
@408KingsFan, you would have to go through group sales is my guess…
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Two questions…Do you think the Kings will win the Stanley Cup before Bob Miller turns 100? If anyone deserves to be front and center with the Cup it’s Bob. If they have a parade in LA, then Bob should definitely be in the car with the Cup!
Secondly, I’d like to get your opinion on the subject of diving. I feel the NHL needs to take a much stronger stand on this issue and really penalize the Players who are guilty of diving.
It seems like the only time you will see a diving penalty is when there’s coincidental minor penalties. The refs will penalize one player for hooking and the other player for diving. I’ve never understood this. If a player is guilty of diving, then how can his opponent be guilty of a penalty?
Perhaps the NHL needs to start handing out five minute major penalties for diving or ten minute misconducts to rein some of these guys in.
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john Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 7:40 pm
@Rainman, if the league did that, than the Canucks would never be able to ice a full roster.
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KingsFanFTW Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 7:45 pm
@Rainman, that be nice if we win a stanley cup for Bob Miller
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BobKnob Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 8:00 pm
@Rainman,
I agree on the diving and acting issues. It’s getting close to the level of soccer now (ok, not really, but it’s still bad). Some post-game video review and fines would be great too for anything missed on ice.
I do think you can both dive and have the other guy called for hooking. I don’t see anything wrong with that. The hooking still occurs, but the diving is to get the ref to notice it.
Time to sharpen your skates Brownie, no more falling down so easily.
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Dominick Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 9:36 pm
@Rainman,
Embelishment. It does seem suspect to call both so many times in the NHL. I think it’s a cowardly move by the ref because he gives a penalty both ways and isn’t the deciding factor at the same time. If a guy trips Brownie, it shouldn’t matter how he falls after that, he was still tripped. If he’s faking to sell a clean play as a penalty, then that’s a penalty. If he’s not faking and there was a penalty, then don’t even it up and say he was faking at the same time as the offense. Cowardly act by a ref who knows he has to do something, but doesn’t want to take the heat for calling it one way or the other. So he calls both.
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BobKnob Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 11:09 pm
@Dominick,
The problem is there is a huge gray area with obstruction type penalties, where someone could have a stick on you very softly, or it gets caught on your skate momentarily, and players are selling it. It’s turning borderline penalties into sure penalties.
The problem in my mind is that the obstructed players aren’t putting forth any effort to just continue with the play and fight through it, when most of the time they could easily do so. They just give up on the play and fall down.
So perhaps refs need to crack down in the reg season a little harder on obstruction penalties so players don’t feel like they have to sell it. At the same time, punish embellishments more often.
my imo
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Chris Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 10:43 pm
@Rainman, To your question on how a penalty can be committed if the ref also calls a diving penalty, I would say that, the 2 are not mutually exclusive. As an example, lets say player A hooks player B. The ref intends to call the penalty. In addition, player B flops to the ground to embellish the hooking penalty in order to draw the call. The ref is obligated to call the diving penalty as well.
Just because a player dives does not mean the original infraction wasn’t committed. If players are not penalized for diving, they will try to draw penalties and that’s not what the game needs. It’s basically like calling an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty to a lesser degree.
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Rainman Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 8:51 am
@Chris, Your sentence above (“If players are not penalized for diving, they will try to draw penalties and that’s not what the game needs”) illustrates my dissatisfaction with diving / embellishment. I don’t feel the refs call diving penalties nearly enough. The players realize this and they try to embellish penalties even more. It’s an integrity issue and I feel the NHL needs to address this right away.
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PCloadletter Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 9:25 am
@Chris, ins’t it called “unsportmans like – diving”?
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What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 12:41 am
@Rainman, I’ve always felt they should call it according to how they see it. If it’s a dive and no penalty, call the dive only. If it’s a penalty AND the guy dived, call both penalties.
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Dominick Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 10:11 am
@What’s the frequency, Kenneth?,
all you guys make it sound like diving is running rampant in epidemic proportions. 1/2 the time the dive isn’t even there when it’s called, and the other 1/2 are questionable judgement calls by the official. If the integrity is so flawless then why do you only get diving calls when it’s an even up call? Very seldom do you ever get a diving call with no penalty the other way. That’s because 90% of diving penalties are even up calls.
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What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 3:46 pm
@Dominick, I’m of the opinion diving is rampant in the NHL, and it rarely gets called. Basically, when they “cleaned up the game” after the lockout, they didn’t address diving well enough, in my opinion.
What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 3:47 pm
@Dominick, Frankly, I’d be good with any penalty having a video review diving exception, where they either don’t call the penalty and call diving or call diving in addition–just to get it right.
What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 3:48 pm
@Dominick, …and just to be clear, it wouldn’t a “subjective” issue. It would require irrefutable visual evidence, such as a “hook” or “high stick” where there was no contact, etc.
@B, because it is a draft, and GM’s do what they can, but still cant see the futude. What round was Robitaille drafted? Why didnt he go in the top 3 overall that year? Because nobody had any clue that he was going to be a hall of fame LW.
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kevin Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 9:35 am
@john, Pavel Datsyuk was taking in the 6th round I think something like 171st overall Zetterberg was in thae later rounds as well. You can also look at players like boyle and st.luis undrafted players. The point is you dont know what your going to get you are really just taking a gamble on what you think the player will become. remember alexander daige not sure about the spelling. He was the next supestar and how did he turn out.
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Hey Rich,
Here’s a “league question”… on the NHL Network, there is a special that I believe is called “Behind the Stripes”. I think it was a halfhour long, and it spent a few days behind the scenes with Nhl and Ahl refs. The refs were mic’d. We got to hear them explain penalties to players, scold players, and even apologize to players for missing a call. I think tshe show is awesome, and would love to see it more often. Who could I e-mail my request too? The show is way too good to be a one-time thing.
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Laura Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 8:23 pm
@john, try going to their website..I remember watching that special too..it was cool..I think they also were showing some fights and you could see them pushing the net out of the way so the guys could fight and you could hear them yelling, let em fight, or get back..it was cool!
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Rich,
What were your expectations or thoughts about this blog before you got handed “the keys”, and did you expect such a response and/or following?
What were your thoughts on the response to the Suite Games?
What are your thoughts moving forward about this blog, say about expansion or tweaks you are thinking about?
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I’m curious to know some of your thoughts about sports writing in the new media.
1) Do you foresee a point in the future where most teams, from all the pro sports, travel with team writers like yourself? If so, does that mean the end of the beatwriters at local newspapers?
2) The Kings have a great group of fan-run blogs (Jewels From the Crown, Kingscast, The Royal Half etc.). Do you ever read any of them? Could you ever see a time where fan sites, because of the freedom from oversight of the team, could overtake the popularity of a team/NHL sanctioned sites in traffic and influence?
Great job this year.
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Rich or anyone who has the time to look up the stats.
TM is a defence first coach, he and others on this site keep saying D wins championships. Im not sold since the rule changes, teams like NJ with brouder and the trap are gone. So my question is how do the top 5 defensive teams do in the playoffs compared to the top 5 offensive teams the last few years? I’d say we have been the best D team in the pacific the last 2 years with nothing to show for it. The ducks had home ice with no D at all. I still think its importsnt but u have to put the puck in the net too. Not just stay close and hope for shootouts. Thanks!
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any chance of Marty McSorley and/or Wayne Gretzky taking official positions with the Kings?
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Dominick Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 8:58 pm
@ForumFan,
Would love that. Marty would be a good commentator between the benches. With his experience he could give an ice level perspective, and a recap of what’s going on with the benches. Much like a Derren Pang.
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frustrated Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 9:37 pm
@Dominick, how about making mcsorley an assistant coach. teach the kids how to play defense.
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King Alex Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 10:57 pm
@frustrated, Just don’t let him near the teams sticks! The hockey gods still punish the Kings for McSorley’s stick. LOL
Dominick Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 5:29 am
@frustrated,
I wouldn’t be opposed. I don’t know how much experience he has, but he couldn’t hurt the power play any more than Kompon. I remember an AHL coach named McSorely who was pretty good with special teams years ago, wonder if their related.
Dave's a Killer Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 10:01 am
@Dominick, McSorely did color for the Sharks one season ans, boy, talk about a homer! Even he would say “I hate to sound like a homer but…) He really was quite awful.
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deadcatbounce Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 12:52 pm
@Dominick, I think the minor league coach you’re thinking of is Chris McSorley, Marty’s brother. Just don’t get him mad at you or else he might bite off your nose.
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Rich-
During the SJ series, there were some controversial thinss that went on, from the Stoll suspension and the Demers hit on Smyth, to the “handshake” incident, to the (and I really hate to even bring this up again) the “failure” of the players to salute the fans after Game 6.
What were your thoughts on those issues?
What was you feeling as to the number and tone of the comments that these issues generated?
I am sure one point of the site is to encourage interraction between fans, but do you ever want to take the site offline for a bit when things get carried away with some comments?
Thanks again for a terrific year of providing information to us. A job very well done, and much appreciated.
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Rich one more question.
During the break we have interviews with players. How players are chosen? And by whom?
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Rich- We all really appreciate the job that you do and want to see you succeed. That in turn will make it easier for you to generate content for us to consume. I know I’ve pointed many people to your blog. Can you share how your blog has grown? I’m not sure what the exact metrics are– unique site visits, length of visit, etc, but I’m curious how you’ve improved readership from year 1 to year 2. Do events like the meet ups in the suite help your standing in the organization? We’re all cheering for you!
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Kingsfanone Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 8:48 pm
@driller1,
“We’re all cheering for you!”
When Hammer came walking into the suite, everyone stopping their conversations and getting on our knees and bowing didn’t give that away, did it?
(wait a minute, I don’t actually remember seeing him walking in, was he floating slightly above the floor? Hmmmm, let me think…..)
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you know how the Kings fan club has a booth set up in the lobby….how about a area for Kings Insiders to meet before every game..Informal…Just a common place inside to hang before and during games.Esp for those who already have tickets to the games….
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Dominick Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 9:08 pm
@neil,
Make it somewhere in the smoking area, with a special line for large beers. Oh wait….during games.
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KingTrojan Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 12:21 am
@neil, That would be awesome. Maybe someone could make some non-lame looking lapel pins or something to identify others on the concourse too. I’m sure people would chip in a couple bucks to offset the fees.
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Dominick Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 5:36 am
@KingTrojan,
Good idea. Maybe even a non-lame name tag that is easy to identify, just for insider bloggers.
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Stuart Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 9:56 am
@Dominick, or a kings hat with a patch on the side that says something “I blog therefore I am”… or “Hammonite”… something
Is the NHL considering removing Campbell as the chief disciplinarian? Why not get a former, respected former official like McCreary or Fraser to take over? At least they have credibility and experience.
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What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 12:46 am
@sstephen17, Just for that, the NHL is announcing that McGeough will be taking Campbell’s place.
Cheers.
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Rich while at one of the Kings vs Ducks games in Anaheim this year I was made aware that they have a security number you can text if you have problems with drunken or belligerent fans. Do the Kings offer such a service? If not sounds like something to consider…Rich
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kevin Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 9:40 am
@RAGoligist, MLB does this. As long as we arent like the dodgers I dont think we will need to use it.
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Question for Smyth…
Seems to run out of gas in the late part of the season…lost a lot of board battles, etc.
Injury, sick, conditioning, age?
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Hey Rich,
Are you looking for an intern?
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Rich: Which players were playing with injuries.
I have a gut feeling that is saying Wayne Simmonds has not fully recovered from the ankle or leg injury he had in the regular season game against the Sharks in San Jose from last season.
Is there a special place within Staples Center the goal horn sound comes from?
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Cortex949 Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 1:02 am
@Steve, I think I read somewhere that the goal horn is actually a real functioning train horn and there is a little button that controls it in the room where the “dj” operates from
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what jerseys do the players want to wear next year?
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7holesniper Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 10:05 pm
@7holesniper, i hope we can go with the silver and black Gretzky era jerseys
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King-Me! Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 11:23 pm
@7holesniper, i 2nd that.
id really like to see the vintage home jerseys we were this year more or just for the playoffs, that would be sweet, but that would never happen.
our 3rd jerseys are cursed and im sorry, boring..
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On the road:….Best hotel? Best restaurant? Best opposing team’s information department? Best opposing team’s media room spread? and If you HAD to work for another club (Kings no longer existed) which would it be?
Loved the blog this year Thanks.
Oh one last question is there any talk of doing the Ducks/Kings poker tournament again next year…unfortunately unable to attend this year.
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Is there a place or time to get player autographs before or after games or practice? At games I see so many people wearing signed jerseys & I would love to get my players jerseys signed!
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King-Me! Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 11:13 pm
@King Alex, hockey fest would be ur best bet. season holders, get a more personal meet the players party during the year.
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King Alex Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 11:31 pm
@King-Me!, Thanks! I have never been to hockeyfest. I have to go this year. Do the players sign for free or is there a fee? Any info you can give is greatly appreciated!
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King-Me! Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 12:12 am
@King Alex, its free, well kinda, you pay for the hockeyfest ticket.
wow, you’ve never been, you should really go this year!
i went last yr and it blew my mind.
KingTrojan Reply:
April 28th, 2011 at 11:46 pm
@King Alex, After practice you could wait until they walk out of the TSC, and get into their cars. There’s always people doing that, and only the Lakers have private parking.
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King Alex Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 12:23 am
@KingTrojan, Thanks for the tip. I’ll be sure to check this out next season!
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Dominick Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 6:12 am
@King Alex,
I had a friend who bought a few jerseys back in the silver and black days that said he mailed like 5 of them, and the Kings had them all signed and mailed back.
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My mind is drawing blanks on questions, but I know have some.
Anyways, Rich. How do the avatars work for this blog? How do some commenters have avatars and others do not? Do I need to sign up on WordPress with the same email that I type in when I comment?
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What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 12:48 am
@KingTrojan, And, I think in a related question, why do I get emails sometimes when someone responds to my posts, and not others? How do I turn this off?
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KFII Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 7:25 am
@KingTrojan, I’m using Gravatar.com but yes, WordPress.com too, just use the same email address you are using for this site.
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Rich, here’s a few about off season moves;
Do you see DL going after Brad Richards?
Do you think the Kings will re-sign Zues?
Do you see Scheen or Lotki or both with the big club next year>
DO you think the Kings will package a goalie & a defenseman in a trade
for a top forward?
Thanks again
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I was curious about Staples Center and their security. Although I personally don’t sit behind the glass of the opposing team’s penalty box, are there certain things that security discourages fans from doing while a player is in there? The only reason is that I was watching a Bruins/Canadiens game and when the visiting Canadien player was in the sin bin, a bunch of Bruins fans were waving foam fingers from their seats and although they didn’t seem to be making contact with the glass, security quickly stepped in and had them stop. Do these security policies vary from one arena to another or are they enforced throughout the league? Does this have anything to do with the Dodger Stadium incident and that Giants fan? Or do they not want a repeat of Terry O’Reilly joining the Madison Square Garden booster club? And what’s the deal then with those guys in green in Vancouver?
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Here is one I thought of a while back but forgot to ask:
We hear a lot about players contracts all the time. The length, the dollar amount, the break down year by year, and even the performance incentives, but I want to know how they actually get paid. When do they take a check home? Is it monthly? Is it a big lump sum when the contract is signed? Is it after every game? I’d imagine the performance incentives need to be paid at years end but I’d be interested in hearing about the rest.
Thanks rich!!!
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Hey Eich – This is more of a question for you. Any thoughts on posting recorded interviews with DL or TM post game etc? It would be a neat feature on the blog to be able to listen to some of this stuff rather than have to read it. Not that i don’t love reading your beautiful transcriptions. I would however love to be able to listen in on Kings info while i go about doing other things in my day. Just a thought you might consider. Thanks for everything!! Much appreciated.
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Stuart Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 9:58 am
@kb, was that question to Eich, Rich’s german cousin?
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Hi Rich,
Last couple of years at this time of the season it has been a lot of talk about aquiring a skilled goalscorer/winger for the first line. Last year Lombardi said it several times that now is the time to add a star to the group (in other words). And then came the Kovalchuk-thing. Now i have not heard any talk about this subject, at least not so obvious. Does this mean that Lombardi is settled with Penner? Is Penner the skilled winger we have talked about for years? If I rephrase my question (1), do you still think that Lombardi is searching for another high scoring winger this summer? Both Penner and Smyth have pretty high salaries. I noticed though that Lombardi mentioned something about the offense is needed to be better. So, (Question 2), do you think it is more likely that DL will go after a second line center? A real offensive center? I dont think we will land Richards, allthough I would be happy if we did. I think that if DL is going after a center it will be by trade. (Question 3). We have a real logjam at center, especially if DL aquires another one. Do you think that Kings will keep both Handzus and Stoll (even if DL does not get another center)? Handzus is UFA, but Stoll can be used in a trade. Do you think that DL would take a chance and hope that either Schenn or Loktionov will break out next season? If they dont and we have let one of Stoll or Hanzus go we are very short on centers.
Sorry for being a little long, but I think this subject are the most important this summer. Improving the offense. I hope you will give me a long and insightfull answer, and try to understand what I mean, not what I write
Afterall I am a Swede and dont know all the correct vocabulary.
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deadcatbounce Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 5:17 pm
@MacSwede, Hej from sunny Southern California. Haven’t noticed yu on the blog too much lately, but I always like your remarks. To be, at least, your English is fine and gets your point across without a problem. Wish I were in Sweden now because it’s going to be getting hot out here. You’re probably looking ahead to midsummer. I’m looking ahead to winter, or at least another hockey season starting. Geez, this one hasn’t even ended yet…
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hi rich,
in your mind would DL consider trading j.bernier in a package if it means getting a much needed forward? we can possibly go get a vet. goalie to back up JQ or perhaps zatkoff….
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jonsey Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 6:59 am
@michael, Not a chance. The market is still saturated with goaltenders. No need to trade him as his value is lower than it should be.
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Rich, if someone like Florida offer sheets Doughty for an unreasonable amount of money, what do the Kings do?
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Was anyone (besides Williams) playing through an injury during the playoffs?
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Hey Rich, how about starting a thread that could be used by us regular attendees to the games to express what we think would make the “in-game experience” better at Staples Center?
Examples:
When posting on the jumbotron who the refs and linesmen are, ADD THEIR NUMBERS ON SCREEN (David Courtney will always say… “Number Two, Kerry Fraser, et al” but the scoreboard just says KERRY FRASER…
Screw “going green” (read: GOING CHEAP) and bring back something FREE for the PAYING FANS that includes ROSTERS (i.e. player cards)
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Sebastian Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 8:30 am
@Marc Nathan, echo that….i dont always know every player on every team and i usually sit too high to read their names or recognize their face. in the past i would always look up the player number on the roster card and move on. if they want to get cheep they could at least give us regular print paper instead of card stock.
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Rich, great job as usual.
Why do we often get the opaque “lower body injury” for weeks, yet we knew the extent of the Kopitar injury almost immediately? What determines how much information they give out and do you think we can ever make any assumptions if they continue with the obsfuscation for an extended period vs. coming clean right away?
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Pesus Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 8:24 am
@goes to eleven,
They keep it vague to protect the player when he comes back to the ice, they knew kop was done for the year so there was more detail. This is my opinion, but I dont get why there was so much JW injury info released.
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Rich, a second question if you don’t mind. I know it’s easy to second guess moves (obviously) after the fact. But when I’ve seen how badly outclassed the forwards have been in last years and this years playoff series, it makes me pose a question wrt DL’s pov in constructing the team. I absolutely respect that he wanted to build from goal and the back on out.
But in the meantime A) when he wanted a defenseman in 2006 he went for Hickey. Logan Couture had been available. OK, I know that hindsight is 20-20. But then B) we have Deslauriers (juniors), Voynov, Hickey, Muzzin, Forbort in the minors. You obviously have a problem getting much for any of these assets as they’ve proven nothing at the nhl level.
Meanwhile we have perhaps a few forwards w potential in different stages of development, but again no way to know how long it will take for them to make the big club and how much they’ll contribute when they get there.
I know this isn’t a terribly clear ‘do you think’ question, but I’ve asked myself this week the following ‘wonderful that mgt has a point of view, but do they essentially lack flexibility within that point of view’
So I guess that would be my question to you. If you’ve got all these assets which is lovely, but you can’t trade them because they’ve proven nothing, yet you now have a better team, so unlikely you’re going to be drafting top five or top ten in the near future, have they sort of created a difficult situation for themselves?
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Marc Nathan Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 8:20 am
@number 6, one MINOR (actually major) correction is that Forbort is not in the minors, he is in college. BIG difference at this point.
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number 6 Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 8:47 am
@Marc Nathan,
Oops, sorry Marc…. Yeah Rich, sorry about the mess up there> I knew that but just got lost in how to form my question. Thanks again Marc.
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Hey Rich, i watched pretty much every game of the 1st round in the NHL Playoffs, every other player who left their feet on a hit was suspended. what happened with the demers hit? was it not looked at or did the stoll his overshadow it? there we’re two hits where he left his feet AND made contact with the head in the series, which neither were called for. (penalty or disciplinary action.)
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Any info available on how the Kings TV Ratings have been trending the past couple of years ? Puck Daddy had the top 5 and bottom 5 teams by TV Ratings, we were not on either list (not surprising that we are not in the top or bottom). Just like attendance, improved TV ratings puts more $ in the team’s pocket, which hopefully gives management more options.
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Rich,
I seem to remember reading somewhere that Luc is the one who designed our current 3rd jersey. Is this true?
Can you tell us how many fans are currently signed up as Insiders? And how much the fan base has grown since this forum started?
Thanks
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LBlocal Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 6:12 pm
@KFII, The uber rich ‘daddy’s girls’ of FIDM (Fashion Institute of Design/Merchandising), designed the current ‘third jersey’. If that’s not fact, then I’m a complete dope. (which is also debatable)
gKg!
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Who will win a championship first the Cubs or the Kings?
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Duckhunter Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 11:30 am
@Vahe, For some reason I’m a fan of both (talk about a life a torture)…and I say neither in my lifetime…lol….seriously I think the Kings…they have goaltending talent which wins in the NHL…Cubs pitching prospects are suspect at best until that changes they will not win on a consistent enough basis to win the World Series….Kings will compete truly for the Stanley Cup in 2 years (need that playoff experience).
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Hey Rich,
Throughout the season and especially in the playoff series I noticed players getting kicked out of the faceoff circle fairly often. What occurs when a player is asked to leave? It seems like such a minute infraction but it makes players and sometimes fans upset.
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rich,
why would upper management allow the kings to start in europe next year???dont we have a tough enough travel schedule as it is and why should we lose out on a home game?? fatique will be an issue and an excuse that will be thrown around next year….bad decision..we’ve been there already let some other teams in the east get out there aside from the rangers.
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number 6 Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 9:48 am
@michael,
do you know the alphabet? three little letters….
sorry, i’ll let rich answer
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To add to the uniform questions(s) what about something with purple & gold? The Kings need some purple at least. Black and white? Sorry… BORING. Hated the Gretzky-era unis, too.
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KFII Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 9:49 am
@Minnesota Kings Fan, I got hooked on hockey during the Gretzky-era so I have a soft spot the those sweaters, but that is the only reason. The black and white has gotten too far away from the original colors. The new 3rd jersey is also boring, (sorry Luc, if it’s true you designed it). I wonder how it’d look if it was done in purple and gold???
But I agree with you, our colors should be purple and gold. I’d rather see a new design using the purple and gold. But no gold pants…that was a bit much. LOL
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Ask Dean if he feels he improved the team from last year to this year, and how or why not.
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Hey Rich, any chance that you’ll use that instant messenger type thing during next years playoffs or during choice games? I really missed that this year.
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hi rich – you covered nearly 90 kings games this season. in your opinion, what’s the main issue with the powerplay: personnel, execution or coaching? If you were in charge, what would be your solution? thanks!
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Rich,
I have noticed that, at times, team wear their road white uniforms while at home when they are supposed to be in their dark color? This most often happens when they play someone within their division and little travel is involved. What is the NHL’s policy on this, is it something the two teams agree upon before hand? Thanks for doing such a great job.
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Not sure if this was asked already, This season local TV picked up the rest of the Kings games not being televised and some Canada games. Kings TV Ratings, were they good enough to warrant picking up games again this upcoming season? Which leads to: Do you think all the games will be televised again this season 2011-12? Will Mr. Miller and Mr. Fox be doing some away Kings vs Ducks game’s from Honda center vs. their home announcers as they did this season?
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I know there’s been a lot of opinions on the Kings third jersey, and I was wondering if you would at any point open up something to get fan submissions for jersey designs? I feel the general consensus is, “the Third jersey is good except for _______” and I think the fans have the best idea of what they’d like to see their team dressed in. I’m not saying it would have any effect on the jersey changes in the future but I think it would be interesting to see what ideas people have. I for one know that I have a crest mocked up and a jersey layout almost finished and I’m sure I’m not alone in that.
On the topic of jerseys, what is the chance that the vintage purple will turn into the third for next season? I think it’s a great design that keep the iconic purple with the team instead of the switch to complete black/white/aluminum.
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Also,
Is there any hope that the NHL will adopt a schedule so that each team plays in each city at least once per year? I know this year, for example, the Penguins, Capitals, and Canadiens (among others) didn’t make it to LA.
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Stuart Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 12:21 pm
@TioBudd, we couldn’t expect any of the beloved eastern teams to travel that much… ugh!
ps-dig the Tio in the handle! I call all of my Unc’s Tio.
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Rich-
Thanks for the opportunity to post a question.
I read this blog daily and i feel like when i read the comments most of the users are clamoring for a bigger offensive threat for the Kings. While it’s obvious to me that the Kings need more offense, what isn’t obvious to me is that the offense they seek will come with a big free agent acquisition like a Kovalchuk last year or a Richards this year. From my perspective the issue that the Kings have is based in the system they run for their offense. I feel like a lot of their offense is based on waiting for the opposition to make a mistake rather than having a system that puts the defense in a position to make a mistake. For example, our system is to have the puck deep against the boards with a supporting forward somewhere by the hash marks. As long as we can control the puck against the boards we MAY be able to tire out the defense and find an opportunity to get the puck to the F3 for a shot. Either that or send the puck to the blue line to get a shot on net that MAY produce a big rebound. I also watch the Flyers and find that their offensive system seems to create more opportunities to get the defense out of position, resulting in high percentage shooting opportunities. My questions are this, do you think that adding an offensive threat like a Kovalchuk(example from last year) or a Richards will open up the offense or do you think that we need to adjust our scheme to create more opportunity? I’m getting tired of seeing talented forwards struggle with productivity with the Kings and excel with other teams (Boyle, Moulson, Purcell), and i am concerned that we are going to see the same issue with supposedly talented offensive prospects like Parse, Penner, Schenn, Vey, Toffoli, Loktionov, etc.
Thanks for your time-
Brian
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Rich, I really do appreciate the coverage of the Kings that you provide to all of us. With Phoenix and Atlanta both being in desprate straits and there’s all kinds of talk about relocation, does it appear to you that Phoenix will really go back to Winnipeg, and if they do move this summer and Atlanta is sold to someone who wants to relocate them, where do they go then? Phoenix?
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deadcatbounce Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 11:37 am
@deadcatbounce, Seriously, though, if both teams move, is Le Colise a viable option until they can get a new building built in quebec City?
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Mr. Hammond,
With the Kings trip to Europe in the fall, will that affect preseason hockey here? Enjoy making the trip to Phoenix for the split-squad (we’ll see if that happens again) and the home and home with Anaheim. I know they may be playing in a couple of exhibitions in Europe, so will they still be playing preseason games here in the States? Other than Frozen Fury, of course.
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Rich,
where can I find a current list of 2012 FAs? I’m currious to see who may be available since that’s the year a couple of big contracts are scheduled to come off the books.
Thanks.
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deadcatbounce Reply:
April 29th, 2011 at 1:04 pm
@BringBackKingston, It’s way too early to be tracking the 2012 class of free agents, but you can see a list of current potential free agents on the tsn.ca website.
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Do you know if DL or TM or any players read this blog?
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It seems like the Kings are turning a corner depth-wise where their healthy scratches aren’t realistically fighting for playing time as much as serving as utility guys during injury stretches and practices, especially on defense. Since it’s better to play a guy in the minors than have him sit in an NHL press box, how will DL approach what appears to be a new phase? What’s your sense of how comfortable Kings management is with carrying a player like Drewiske who is scratched half the season, as opposed to letting him play in Manchester? (Harrold seems to be more of a utility guy with less upside from further development in the AHL, but his contract is now up.) If it were a perfect world with a healthy roster and the assumption that new free agent signings won’t be healthy scratches, who do you project the Kings will carry on their roster as “regular” scratches next season? Do you go out and spend the CBA minimum on certain vets that will most likely be healthy scratches, or carry and scratch younger players at the risk of them not developing as much as they might in the AHL?
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What sort of roster changes do you imagine we may see next season? Trades, rookies making the team, free agents acquired or lost.
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Rich, what is your best guess – will Bernier be moved this summer if the right offer(legit top 6 forward) comes along?
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Hammer, Summer plans… Any vacations on the horizon??
‘S.L.O. Town’ doesn’t really cut it, eh?
gKg!
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Rich, hope there’s still time for another question. In a recent post after the Kings were eliminated, you wrote, “I’ll be heading over to El Segundo shortly for the start of the Kings’ postseason interview sessions. Every player comes in for an “exit meeting” with coaches and management, and after those meetings some players are made available to the media for an interview to discuss the season.”
Does this imply that only certain players are authorized to speak to the press and, if this is the case, why?
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Do you keep up with Matthew Kredell at all? If so, how’s he doing?
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Rich,
1.) In an earlier question from Dominick you replied that you wouldn’t write a book as it would be uninteresting. No Royal Ascent? Your loyal readers would embrace it as would hockey fans around the world… 2.) Any chance for a possible Jim Fox Q&A this summer? Looking back it’s one of my favorite features… 3.) I’m sure you love what you do, however I’m curious if you’ve ever been bummed that you had to miss out on an event because of your job. As an example, the Coachella Music Festival or in the future, perhaps a Cubs playoff game (don’t worry, I knocked on wood for you)?
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I believe DL summed up the Kings’ biggest downfall this season when he said “this team seems to struggle with success.”
Whether it’s following up a long winning streak with an extended losing streak, or giving up a goal shortly after scoring one, or giving up a 4-0 lead in the playoffs, this team has shown a lack of composure at critical points in the game and season.
I think the immediate response it to attribute this to the team’s maturity. And I think that’s fair to some degree, but do you think there are any other issues involved? Is it a personnel issue? Is it a matter of putting the right players on the ice at the right time?
I know that TM believes that putting young players on the ice during critical points in the game will help them learn and become better in the long run, and hopefully it is just a matter of time before this team can become more consistent.
I guess my biggest frustration is that everyone in the organization recognizes that these breakdowns are a problem, but I’m not sure anyone has any answers. I certainly don’t. But I’d like to know your thoughts. How do the Kings get over the hump?
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Thank you for all that you do. I really enjoyed when you posted the video clips of the Kings in their locker room after a win. As a matter of fact, the song that they played after became a favorite of ours..I’d love to see more of those videos. As you mentioned in an earlier question/answer, you said you would be posting more media stuff…which I LOVED the one that was posted on Bob Millers preperation..anytype of behind the scens stuff that you can post would be very much appreciated! Keep it up the good work Rich! (and hear I thought the blog was going to go silent after the season – LOVE this!
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