DREW DOUGHTY
This season: 76 games, 11 goals, 29 points, 68 penalty minutes, 25:39 average ice time.
The good: Doughty was not a Norris Trophy finalist in 2009-10 by accident. When he is on his game, Doughty is a dynamic two-way player. His subtle moves and positioning in the defensive end often escape notice but are superior for a player who is only 21 years old. He has the ability to take over games — such as Game 2 of the series against San Jose — and after a rough start, Doughty scored nine of his 11 goals in the second half of the season. He’s a rare defenseman who can effectively play 30 minutes in a game.
The bad: The Doughty of 2009-10 was rarely seen early this season. The Kings were not happy with Doughty’s conditioning at the start of training camp, and his attempt to play his way into form was stalled by a concussion in late October that cost him six games. After significant early-season Norris Trophy buzz, Doughty had only one goal in his first 23 games, and while his mistakes with the puck were not plentiful, they were often high-profile mistakes that were atypical for Doughty.
Going forward: It wasn’t all just about conditioning and the concussion. After Doughty’s breakout sophomore season, he became a target in the NHL. Opponents went into every game knowing they would have to keep a close eye on Doughty, and he didn’t get the same space he had before, particularly on the power play. Now, the ball is back in Doughty’s court. He must re-adjust and respond to that increased attention and pressure, and the Kings will be keeping a close eye on how he starts training camp in September.
My one suggestion to DD – layoff the double doubles and cheesy poofs! Ohh yeah and no more soda too!
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Jimmy Bob Reply:
May 3rd, 2011 at 9:27 pm
@shorthanded, For sure!!! Doughty needs to kickback on the Big-Macs…I was truly disappointed in him this year, he made a lot of mistakes that didn’t just cost his team the possession of the puck but also costly goals. But He is only 21 and has a bunch of experience and composure to take in. Just hope to see more out of him next season!
GO KINGS!!!!!!!!
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For most defensemen, Doughty’s season would have been an A+. But Doughty isn’t “most defensemen.” He is a once in a decade talent. Therefore, I gave him a C. He should have been much better this season than he was… there’s just no two ways about it.
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David Reply:
May 2nd, 2011 at 6:34 pm
@puddle, +1
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dahack11 Reply:
May 2nd, 2011 at 9:07 pm
@puddle, EXACTLY…..
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pitty Reply:
May 3rd, 2011 at 8:07 am
@puddle, He finished 25th in scoring by defensemen so I don’t think A+ on any other team would be correct. Doughty is a rare talent but even with that type of talent if you are not willing to work your only going to be an average player. I really hope he starts to get it this summer if not what a waste. I gave him a C grade
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Brownkingsfan Reply:
May 3rd, 2011 at 9:36 am
@puddle, I completely agree. I also gave him a C+ based on his ability. As I said under Clifford’s post, If Drew had the work ethic of Clifford, he would have the Norris trophy. When people are seeing him (supposedly) at night clubs during the season and he has a bad game the next day, it makes me think he’s taking his talent for granted. I wish he would focus and take better care of himself. I also noticed toward the end of the season that DD (while trying to get the offense going) would get out of position quite a bit, opening the door for quite a few critical goals for the other teams. While I appreciate his offensive abilities, his primary function is defense. Perhaps the Kings can develop plays that would protect us defensively by putting someone else in Drew’s position while he takes the puck toward the net.
While some of this might have sounded a little harsh, I love DD, and I’m glad he’s a King. He is still young, and hopefully he puts the work in to continue to develop and adapt to being double-teamed. Go Kings!!!
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RAVENS Reply:
May 3rd, 2011 at 9:29 pm
@Brownkingsfan, totally agree with these assessment. He has the ability now to win the norris, but does’nt seem willing to work On his game with humilty. If it doesn’t’ come automatically then he seems to abandon the details
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garry Reply:
May 6th, 2011 at 8:56 am
@puddle, I have been concerned for sometime about his committment to his game. We all know he came in fat for an NHL hockey player, let alone a so-called star. This will be real tough for DL and DD to negotiate a contract. Probably get’s a three year deal at around 4m.
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I gave Doughty a C+ for the year. to be fair, that’s based on what i think he can do, not compared to other d-men in the league.
i agree with Rich’s assessment on Doughty. the Game 2 playoff game was by far his best game of the year. there were very few games where i remember Doughty being a difference maker. i think it was a combination of him not being ready to start the season/early season concussion plus other teams keying on him.
in the long run maybe Doughty’s poor season (by his standards) helps the Kings if DL can sign him long-term after his down year. i still believe Doughty will win multiple Norris trophies if he wants to and commits to.
i hope Doughty works like crazy in the off-season to get himself physically ready for the year. i’d also like him to watch hours of tape of Lidstrom so he can learn to make the simple plays and not try to do too much. he is so good that he doesn’t need to take chances. Game 2 was a perfect example. he doesn’t need to cheat or make bad pinches or fancy passes to produce. play smart and let your skill take over.
as a side note, i wonder if losing Hardy as his coach effected him more than we think?
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number 6 Reply:
May 2nd, 2011 at 7:14 pm
@Dave,
Dave, your thinking as on Bernier is identical to mine (not saying we’re this or that by the way, just that we seem to agree on several things).
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Rich, shouldn’t it be 29 assists not 29 points?
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MM Reply:
May 2nd, 2011 at 5:15 pm
@LAK, I second this. 29 points sounded a tad low to me. It should be 11 goals, 29 assists.
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I expect much better out of Doughty next season, I rated him a C
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KingsFanFTW Reply:
May 2nd, 2011 at 5:05 pm
@408KingsFan, yea i think him come a beast next season he going to be a big time threat
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garry Reply:
May 6th, 2011 at 8:59 am
@KingsFanFTW, He just may not have the desire in him.
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He needs to cut down on the cute plays, spinoramas, etc. and concentrate on simpler, safer, mean & potatoes stuff in his own zone and the neutral zone.
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FKA PakiFro Reply:
May 2nd, 2011 at 5:24 pm
@Choralone,
And he’s gotta check his ego at the door. One of the reasons he was so good the first two years was because he was so humble. It seemed like the success got to his head a little bit. He whined a little bit much. You could see him jawing on the ice at officials more than other players. That said, Doughty is a rare talent and is probably the most important the Kings have had since Gretzky, if not more so since he has the potential to be a lifer.
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zjames Reply:
May 2nd, 2011 at 5:30 pm
@FKA PakiFro, i agree 100% about the ego. I remmeber times this season that i was absolutely furious with doughty after a game because he lost his cool and took a stupid penalty or did something to cost the kings a win. I miss the doughty of last year. Mr cool, calm, and collected. Hopefully thats the doughty that shows up next year.
As far as the most important king since Gretz, i still have to go with kopitar on this one. The kings have lots of defensemen, they dont have anyone that could even begin to cushion the loss of kopitar
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Stuart Reply:
May 3rd, 2011 at 8:00 am
@FKA PakiFro, I’m not sold that his temper/jawing is his ego, I think he’s coming into his own as an elite player and a leader on this team. I don’t mind the nasty/chippy stuff at all, and when he lost his cool with nichols, he had a legit beef.
My concern is the turnovers and getting caught deep in the O zone when plays are being busted the other way.
I gave him B.
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FKA PakiFro Reply:
May 3rd, 2011 at 8:33 am
@Stuart,
I dont mind him jawing at players, its the officials and whining off the ice that sounded wrong to me.
He’s young, he’s still got a lot to learn, but is already years above most D-men in the league. The guy is good no doubt. He just needs a little bit of Sidney Crosby’s temperment in him.
Boy, just wait till Cliffy has an off season. DD’s evaluation for me has more to do with the league average, and what DD gave us. I still consider him too young to be grading him to his potential, because he’s still learning, and will take a step back every once in a while. No one has ever went their entire career improving on their previous year. It’s unrealistic. To think that he went from the “DD, the last player to ever wear #8 for the Kings” last year, to “If he doesn’t pull his head out, I hope the Kings get rid of him for a scorer”, is hyperbole. B!
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soyokaze Reply:
May 2nd, 2011 at 5:15 pm
@Dominick, Agreed, people forget this kid is just 21 years old. Give him some time before trying to ship his butt out already. The first two seasons were not an aberration. Doughty needs to step up that work ethic and play smarter. C+ for me, just because I know he can do better.
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Kingsfanone Reply:
May 3rd, 2011 at 6:12 pm
@Dominick,
Totally agree.
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Next season, I want Drew to have a new nickname: BUFF
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cpmc29 Reply:
May 2nd, 2011 at 8:14 pm
@IceGuy, and that stands for????
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gralx Reply:
May 5th, 2011 at 12:29 pm
@cpmc29, because he wants Drew to come back next season already “buffed out”, ripped, muscled up, in great shape….
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C+
Not a bad season on paper, but given his play last year and the expectations for this year, along with his poor commitment at the start, no way he gets a B in my book.
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I rated DD a B for this season. The slow start and concussion definately played a part in this down year likewise did his conditioning when he came into camp. Let’s all remember though, he just turned 21 and how many 21 year olds play like DD or have his God given ability? I have no question DD wants to be the best player he can be. He just needs to accept the great responsibility that comes to a player with his natural talent. I would like to see him earn the A that Kopi & Greenie wore this season. I want to see him become a leader off the ice as well as on it. The sky is the limit for DD and it is completely up to him on how great he wants to be.
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Token Reply:
May 2nd, 2011 at 6:47 pm
@King Alex, I’d agree if he was making Marinez’s salary, but not at $3.45 large.
Perspective cuts both ways
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King Alex Reply:
May 2nd, 2011 at 7:20 pm
@Token, That’s why I want to see him be more of a team player. More trust in himself & his abilities as well as his teammates. Make the smart plays & don’t try to do it all alone. It will be interesting to see what he signs for on his contract.
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NO MORE SUMMERS OFF DREW! You are a professional athlete. Your game is your business. Your success will be measured by your sacrifice. errrr…..
“B”
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Dominick Reply:
May 2nd, 2011 at 5:22 pm
@LBlocal,
“Your success will be measured by your sacrifice” I like that.
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LAPD line Reply:
May 3rd, 2011 at 8:38 am
@LBlocal, Agreed! Most of us get two weeks vacation each year. Take three Drew, and enjoy it, but then get back to work. That goes for the whole team. I hope they are planning on staying in LA and working out all summer.
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Doughty also needs to learn that he is not bigger than the team. He was easily goaded inot terrifically selfish play, epitomized by the late game penalty to Setoguchi in game 6. Earlier, Setoguchi had checked Doughty against the boards legally, but had used the back of his glove against the die of Doughty’s face on the follow thru. Yes, a cheap shot, probably a penalty even on the playoffs, but there was no call. With 5 minutes or so in the game (as I recall, I know it was late in the 3rd period), when your TEAM is facing elimination, is not the time to mete out some meaningless personal revenge on a guy that is merely skating by on the fore-check and you reach out in open ice and force the Ref to make a call. The fight with Nicholl was lesson 1, and Doughty failed it. The Setoguchi penalty is indicative of a personality trait, that I hate to say but is sadly true, that is obvious and troubling: when Doughty doesn’t take things seriously, even in an elimination game, it shows a level of immaturity in character, and no amount of skill can overcome this problem until it is eradicated.
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tornado12 Reply:
May 2nd, 2011 at 5:40 pm
@Player-X, very astute obsevation! Hockey is so great that way. You dont (for the most part)because you cant have overgrown egos like you see in other sports. Its the ultimate team sport! You need everyone on the same page or it doesnt work. He will learn this lesson! Im sure one of the boys will or already have called him on it!
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@lakingsinsider, I believe in the team–they made it to the playoffs without some key players; that in itself speaks of dedication, determination and drive…sounds like an A+ to me! Way to go Doughty.
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How could anyone vote A….seriously
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Dominick Reply:
May 2nd, 2011 at 5:40 pm
@Jay,
I thought the same thing about the F.
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Markcmann Reply:
May 2nd, 2011 at 6:19 pm
@Dominick, I rated him an ‘A’ just to offset the cornballs who gave him an ‘F’ although I would say this season he was a ‘B-’. He can be soooo much more and since he is only 21 I’m hoping next year he plays lights out! Go Kings!!!
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Helvetica Reply:
May 2nd, 2011 at 5:44 pm
@Jay, i feel the same way. I don’t see how you give anybody (let alone DD) a good grade for not coming to camp in top shape and regressing on the stats sheet from last season. C is an average grade and he fell pretty squarely into the average range in my book. He had a decent year, but nothing that deserves praise really.
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Having given straight A’s to the first three players, it pains me to give Doughty a D.
I love this guy and think the world of his abilities. But not being in shape to start the season is inexcusable, for even the lowest scrubby healthy scratch. And he was terrible before the concussion. yes, he picked it up toward the end but at least stalled in his development this year if not regressed.
Let’s hope for a return to form next season.
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He has the raw talent to be one of the greatest to play the game, but does he have the essential determination and fortitude of the greats? That is the question.
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Dominick Reply:
May 2nd, 2011 at 6:00 pm
@tornado12, Agree on the raw talent. I think questioning determination and fortitude after 1 bad season, is still a little early. I’m hoping he’ll be fine in the years to come.
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Dominick Reply:
May 2nd, 2011 at 6:04 pm
@tornado12,
Not even all that bad if you trake out the top 20 defensemen in the league. Considering there’s 100′s of defensemen in and out of the line ups, that’s pretty good still.
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tornado12 Reply:
May 2nd, 2011 at 6:15 pm
@Dominick, If you remember any of my past posts on DD, you would know im one of his strongest supporters. I believe in Doughty. Im not questioning his heart. He cares, but all the questions about conditiong speak directly to my point. There is no summer vacation like it was in school. The NHL is a year-round job just like any other.
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Dominick Reply:
May 2nd, 2011 at 6:23 pm
@tornado12, I agree with you. I think he learned a valuable lesson here. His first year he had that talk about conditioning. His next year he came in, in great shape, and was a Norris trophy candidate. This season not so good. I expect him to come in next year with something to prove. We’ve had the same issues with Kopi. I wasn’t disagreeing with you, just trying to put a positive spin on it.
Drew, just because it’s called diet coke doesn’t make it any better for you. Just saying.
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BobKnob Reply:
May 2nd, 2011 at 10:10 pm
@Whodawat,
You are waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay, waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay overestimating how bad it is for you. It ain’t making him fatter, that’s for sure.
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KING LOPEZ Reply:
May 2nd, 2011 at 10:59 pm
@Whodawat, diet coke is acually worse for you.
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mtbook Reply:
May 3rd, 2011 at 3:00 pm
@KING LOPEZ, Oh come now, maybe you could think that in the 80′s when there wasn’t sufficient research to back up it’s safety, but it’s a perfectly fine alternative. Besides, it sure beats the hell out of diabetes.
Diet Drew would go from an automatic C -> B in my book
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BobKnob Reply:
May 3rd, 2011 at 3:20 pm
@mtbook,
x2.
C+ based off expectations, role and playoff performance , one game doesn’t make a series and he was average the other 5. (Johnson was much more proactive and hungry, he wishes he had Doughty’s talent, he’d try harder to fit the Bobby Orr comparison on heart alone imo) That being said Drew switches ego for pride/heart, who knows where he could end up when mentioned amongst the greats.
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a mediocre Doughty is still better than a great Corvo… Modry… or Nathan Dempsey
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xeropoint Reply:
May 2nd, 2011 at 7:37 pm
@Marc Nathan, Lol! You can’t stress THIS^ enough!
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Dominick Reply:
May 2nd, 2011 at 8:13 pm
@Marc Nathan,
That’s why I can’t understand the harshness towards DD. Clearly not his best, but still better than the majority of the rest of the NHL.
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Michael_DD8 Reply:
May 2nd, 2011 at 8:19 pm
@Dominick,
I have always said this. Doughtys “off nights” are most others “good nights”.
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vplaza Reply:
May 5th, 2011 at 4:46 pm
@Michael_DD8,
Just so happens that he had mostly off nights this year than good nights.
Mark C. Reply:
May 2nd, 2011 at 8:43 pm
@Marc Nathan, Or Randy “turn over” Jones…
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39scars Reply:
May 2nd, 2011 at 10:59 pm
@Mark C., Jones pass won the OT game to go up 2-0.
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vplaza Reply:
May 5th, 2011 at 4:46 pm
@Marc Nathan,
Yeah, but what would you pay that mediocre DD versus the other guys you mentioned? Would he take the same salary as those guys? I think not.
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That was the hardest grade that I had to deliver to date. He had flashes of brilliance, yet was making Randy Jonesesque errors (or some other form of bad luck hitting him) out there. This was his worst season to date and I think he’ll improve on this. That’s why I gave him the C+.
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I gave him a C+ as well. It’s not just based on his mistakes, lack of offense early on or anything like that. This is not how I graded him either, but says a lot: watching Steve Stamkos play in the playoffs and Especially being interviewed, he seems far more mature and focused (in the right way) than Doughty.
Given that D is far more difficult at that age than forward, but it’s not even that. Something seems to have made him a bit complacent after the Norris nomination. If not then it’s unlikely he arrives in camp and figures he’ll play his way into shape.
What?!! Play his way into shape. Stamkos wouldn’t dream of that. And Stamkos isn’t playing 27 mins a game vs. the other teams best forward lines every night.
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number 6 Reply:
May 2nd, 2011 at 7:20 pm
@number 6,
And by the Stamkos comparison I’m referring to maturity.
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Dave Reply:
May 2nd, 2011 at 8:11 pm
@number 6, i think Stamkos faced a lot of adversity his first year and a half. he didn’t have a great rookie season and he wasn’t super the first half of his second season. but it seemed like he caught up to the game and now he seemingly is always in the right place at the right time. plus, he put on a lot of muscle so he could be around the net more. he did what he needed to do to get better.
Doughty didn’t have the same early issues as Stamkos. he had a great rookie season (should have been at least nominated for Calder) and truly was the best d-man in the league last year. now that he has faced some adversity, it’s time to see what he is made of. is he the kind of player that will rely on talent alone and be a above-average NHL d-man, or will he do what is necessary to his body and his game to become that elite player once again.
if i was in charge of Drew Doughty, i’d give him two weeks off and then start a strict regiment of eating right, working out and watching video of Nicklas LIdstrom. if Doughty can get to camp in shape and be convinced that the safe play is the best play and to worry about positioning more than anything else when he’s on the ice, he will win the Norris next year.
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SLIM Reply:
May 2nd, 2011 at 8:35 pm
@Dave,
He sure did put a lot of muscle on…
when i spoke to him in 2009 he was seriously tiny..
I was surprised at his size..I told him good on his
18 goals and he answered back “19″..It was funny at the time..
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PP Anybody? Reply:
May 3rd, 2011 at 12:47 am
@Dave, I watched a segment on Stamkos and Gary Roberts conditioning training several months ago. It’s an intense fitness and nutrition conditioning training. Gary Roberts was always one of my favorite players, and I’m glad to see him helping players like Stamkos really tap into all of their potential. I reeeeeeally hope Doughty grabs his number, and sets up some classes in the off season. Would surely be a waste of someone of Doughty’s talents, to come in and have the same type of year next year. Hope he gets his act together.
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dolly Reply:
May 3rd, 2011 at 2:52 pm
@PP Anybody?, EXACTLY what DD needs!
LAPD line Reply:
May 3rd, 2011 at 8:45 am
@Dave, The problem is, it seems like Doughty was pretty happy with his overall game. So many of his mistakes were of mental nature that should be correctable. We need a captain that is willing to get in guys faces sometimes and tell them to get their heads in the game. Obviously I don’t know if Brown is doing this or not, but I suspect not.
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RabidZiggy Reply:
May 3rd, 2011 at 9:00 am
@LAPD line, Really? Brown bashing? You may as well get on Zeus for what conditioner he uses…
Dave Reply:
May 3rd, 2011 at 9:01 am
@LAPD line, i think that is less of a captain issue and more of a coach issue. TM does it with his non-star players. it’s management that needs to tell Doughty how they want him to play. maybe they don’t want to tick him off so he signs with them? although if the Jack Johnson situation taught us anything it’s that players must like it in L.A.
Doughty is still a kid – at some point he’ll begin to think a little differently. hopefully it starts this summer.
I remember someone on LGK sayin they saw DD on the elevator heading back to his room at like 2am, the night before FF with some party girl (typical Vegas night).
Thats fine for the average 21 year old, but a professional athlete?
I expect more
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number 6 Reply:
May 2nd, 2011 at 8:05 pm
@Joshu,
Yeah, exactly. If you read my post above that’s exactly what I’m referring to. I don’t feel like he takes on board the magnitude of his responsibility to his teammates or his employer. Even when he spoke of the play where he was beat by Couture in game 1, he spoke of it in a very young way. I know he meant that he had made a mistake and wanted to make up for it….. but it wasn’t spoken with much maturity at all.
I obviously don’t blame strictly him for what happened in Game 3, and accuse me of mixing things up if you will, but when Scuderi spoke of immaturity and you consider that DD is our talisman. If anyone you’d expect him to be able to settle things down at the back at a time like that. It’s a big responsibility but he’s supposed to be a big player.
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SLIM Reply:
May 2nd, 2011 at 8:39 pm
@Joshu,
You have got to be kidding….
He’s a human being not a machine..
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Joshu Reply:
May 2nd, 2011 at 9:35 pm
@SLIM,
I mean, If i was 21 again and had that kind of money, I’d be a mess!
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CB14 Reply:
May 2nd, 2011 at 9:01 pm
@Joshu, It was a pre-season game so give the kid a break. These guys are usually up at 2am anyways, they don’t exactly work 9 to 5. He has to be at his best from 7:30 to 10:00 most nights. You’re not at your best right before bed time so they usually go to bed well after midnight and don’t have to wake up at 7 or 8 like most of us. Plus these guys don’t start practicing until 11:00am (I think), so it’s not like he needs to be well rested and ready to go at 9am like some of us.
P.S. Alot of these guys take naps in the early afternoon as well, so give the kid a break please.
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I guess Tim Thomas wasn’t going to let Quick have the best goaltending performance of the playoffs with out a fight.
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SLIM Reply:
May 2nd, 2011 at 8:25 pm
@Dominick,
Single-handiedly Won that game..
Astonishing play…I don’t like Boston…
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puck73 Reply:
May 3rd, 2011 at 9:45 am
@Dominick, Tim Thomas is still pissed because Quick is 3-0 against him in the shootout ! lol
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I gave DD a B
The expectations were for an A+++ season. He didn’t live up to those expectations, but his 2nd half was solid enough to remind us what an amazing talent we have. That 4pt game he had against SJ in the playoffs was a snapshot of his future with the Kings.
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Dominick Reply:
May 2nd, 2011 at 9:11 pm
@nykingfan,
I thought the second half was extraodinary. The first half was still good enough that we were winning. Really only 2 spots in the season where you could say anybody strait up sucked. Everywhere else we were winning. Playoffs were different because we lost Kopi, but I thought DD was solid enough for a B.
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Every time {well almost} we saw DD
on ice this year he had a BIG smile on his face..
He kissed the goalies at end of every game..
This “KID” loves the game of hockey..
We are extremely fortunate he is ours….
I gave him a “B”…also bad haircut….
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Joshu Reply:
May 2nd, 2011 at 9:38 pm
@SLIM,
Good post-
I agree, he LOVES hockey and loves the KINGS!
I do love Doughty!
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LAPD line Reply:
May 3rd, 2011 at 8:48 am
@SLIM, And don’t forget that cheesy porn-star mustache he wore part of the year. I blamed that hideous thing for one of our losing streaks….
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I gave him a C+ because I graded on a curve based on what was projected of him. Grading just on his play he gets a B+. Not a bad season but not a great one either. Lets all hope DD takes a cue from JJ conditioning wise, and JJ takes a cue from DD in regards to defensive responsibilities.
I know people complain that DD and WS living together (and alledged excessive partying) is a reason for their sub-par year, and they may have something there, but how do you explain the differences in their physical fitness. I’m not saying DD is out of shape or fat, far from it, just that WS is completly ripped while DD just isn’t. If these 2 guys do everything together because they live in the same house, how do you explain the differences in their physical attributes?
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Randy Jones to Teddy Purcell to Lecavalier = OT GOAL.
Nice to see ex-KINGS in the playoffs
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CB14 Reply:
May 2nd, 2011 at 9:07 pm
@KingsOfComedy, People (not singling out you) have been bagging on TM and DL all year for all the ex-Kings performing well this year, but I don’t believe anyone on this site, or in the world, wanted Randy (Pass the puck to the other team) Jones back with the Kings this year. If I’m wrong people, feel free to correct me.
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Kingsfanone Reply:
May 3rd, 2011 at 6:22 pm
@CB14,
Oh no, you are 100% correct I believe!
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Steve S. Reply:
May 2nd, 2011 at 10:11 pm
@KingsOfComedy, please, next you will tell us this is like losing Camilleri…
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I have a feeling that we will see DD back next year in tremendous shape and ready to go from day 1. I am sure his agent isn’t happy since DD lost contract value this season. I also anticipate one of the veterans, like Mitchell or Scuds or Greener setting up some type of regimen with DD for the off-season. While this year didn’t end as we had hoped, I have a really good feeling about next year.
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Just want to throw it out there, but DD is the best defenseman on the Kings. Maybe not as consistant as Mitchell, but clearly better than any defenseman we currently have anywhere in the system. So I contend that if DD sucks, then the rest are just Bantha poo doo.
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Token Reply:
May 2nd, 2011 at 10:32 pm
@Dominick, Funny that. I consider Scuds our best D-man. 99.999% reliability and durability.
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Kingsfanone Reply:
May 3rd, 2011 at 6:24 pm
@Dominick,
Nice throwing the Bantha line in there!
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By most players’ standards, he was excellent. But he is not most players. He needs to mature physically and emotionally. I hope he is up to it.
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D only because I hope he still has trade value. He cost us the Sharks series.
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puck73 Reply:
May 3rd, 2011 at 9:51 am
@39scars, Remember when the Kings traded 20 year old Larry Murphy? How did you like that trade? You, and all the people who think like you do will be crying for years if Dean develops a brain cramp and makes your wish come true.
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jet Reply:
May 3rd, 2011 at 11:02 am
@puck73, I remember, his first game back he fell down going over teh boards to take his first shift. In the second period he took Dionne into the boards hard as Marcel was trying to lean in on him going to the net.
I do understand what you are saying. We all just hope he turns out to be Larry Murphy and not Craig Redmond. Part of that answer is dedication, which only DD himself can decide.
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His rookie season was awsome. This year he heard the hype and thought he could get by on his abilities alone. When he learns he has to give 110% and work as hard as everyone else then thats when he’ll win the norris. He reminds me alot of Matt Kemp. Alot of god givin talent, great rookie season then a little sophmore slump. Kemp is on fire this year, lets hope DD come out blazing next year. I gave him a B, still very young.
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DD had a learning season were he took a step back. I think that is a good thing given the fact he wasn’t totally bad. This is a chance to look back, as a young player, and say I’m better than that and fix what was wrong. I’m a soccer player and have played at a very high level and know you need to go through bad times to get better, so I have know dought he will come out better next year. Now if he dosen’t, then we have a problem, this showes us, and the team, that he thinks he is better than everyone and dosen’t need to work as hard as the next guy and thats just not true. Everyone needs to put in the work. Another guy is DP, but we will talk about him later cuz we really could have had his “A” game. We pay to see wins and when you just don’t care enough to work then thats like spitting in , the ones that count (us the fans), faces. So I hope, for his sake, he comes out next season in tip top shape to show everyone that he is who we think he is.Prove people wrong, he should strive on that. Like JJ, On the “O” side of things he was quiet, but he picked up his smart play in his own zone. Still can get better though. And the two of them kill me when they cock back there stick all the way when they shot! Just try to put it throw. Why isn’t DD playing for Canada? That could help him. All and all, I think he will learn from this and move on.
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One more thing. I like the fact that we gave the Sharks more truble than the wings are right now. That showes me we can play with the best of them.
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Bill M. Reply:
May 3rd, 2011 at 8:34 am
@KING LOPEZ, Yeah. This team is not as weak as many want to think. Especially considering we did it without kopi, and that we have some promising firepower in the pipeline.
I think the sharks have a real chance this year by the way they’ve manhandled Detroit. I actually made the prediction after round one ended that the cup would be sharks over the lightning in six. Bold, I know, but so far so good…
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I gave doughty a C poor first half good second half i expected more during a contract year,maybe next year?
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I think doughty will get better, but I don’t think he is as good as JJ.. anyways, having the (+) symbol and not a (-) symbol gives all the players higher ratings than they should have
or I guess lower ratings if people would have done (-) instead of the lower letter. Nonetheless this rating system is flawed.. ahhaaah
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I really don’t care about the ebb and flow of DD’s performance that much. Every player goes through that.
What bugs me is the lip on this kid. When the coach and GM give you invaluable feedback on the start of your season, you should generally STFU and take that information to the bank. Instead, Dwey goes on camera and dismisses everything and disagrees. Not a good sign.
I would pretty much lay down the law with this punk; Show up for camp in anything less than top ten conditioning and your benched till you reach that goal.
You either pay this price now and get it out of the way, or you pay it every year for the next two decades.
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dolly Reply:
May 3rd, 2011 at 2:49 pm
@Token, Yeah!
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Honestly, this season for doughty probably needed to happen. Someone his age, with the success he’s had, it’s very easy to get overconfident. If he had won a Norris this year, he’d probably turn into an uncontrollable diva. Hopefully this year teaches him that even among the best, there is no room for less than 100%. if this kid works hard, he’ll retire with cups, Norris trophies, maybe a conn smythe, and a good shot at the hall of fame. If he lets it get to his head…
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Dude also needs a tan.
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jet Reply:
May 3rd, 2011 at 9:45 am
@Michael J., off topic, but a funny story. After practice, near teh end of the season, about a dozen players were playing soccer in the parking lot. It was about 85 degrees and all of them were shirtless. I have never seen so much white at one time in southern california. Anyway, I wanted to get a picture, but all I had was an old slr film camera. I framed it so that I could get as much white as possible. When I developed the picture it came out blank white as if the shutter stuck. I still saved it and show people, there is Greene, there is… as a joke. BTW, all of the guys were in single digits in body fat, a testimate to the strength coach this year.
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I think DD missed the presence of OD this season. ODs game in Kansas City served notice last season, but this season teams took liberties. DD was unable to handle it emotionally, and sometime physically. There is still some growing to do. He is going to be very good in a few years.
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puck73 Reply:
May 3rd, 2011 at 9:57 am
@jet, You win the cigar ! ding ding ding A WINNER ! EXACTLY ! Sean Odonnell was a big influence on Drew, and because OD was such a meanacing presence it allowed Drew to be himself. Also, OD created space for Drew because alot of forwards didnt want to mess with OD. Willie Mitchell is still a better defensemen then OD, but Mitchell doesnt do it with brute force like OD, he does it with speed, stickwork, body positioning, and superior talent and tecnique. OD was so feared and respected that most guys wouldnt touch Drew…Great observation JET !
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jet Reply:
May 3rd, 2011 at 11:10 am
@puck73, hey thanks, ill give you the 5 bucks for this post at the Frozen Fury.
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Dominick Reply:
May 3rd, 2011 at 10:48 am
@jet,
Much was said about OD’s calming influence last season. It was easily noticed also. I think OD’s veteran leadership in being able to put things into perspective during the game was the reason for the calming influence. Right from the beginning of the season you could see DD alowing himself to be baited into rougher play than he normally would have played, and it crept up all season long. Teams played DD closer, and tougher, and DD for the most part handled it really well, but lost control every once in a while, and could be goaded into late physical penalties in crucial times of the game.
He’ll learn, and be wiser for it. Surprised none of the other veterans didn’t see this coming. Scuds, and Mitchell especially.
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jet Reply:
May 3rd, 2011 at 11:12 am
@Dominick, agree, OD is the best phace C player in the league. Although Smyth is pretty good.
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I gave him a C+. Mostly it was for lack of effort to seriously be the best he can be which would be an A+! If he comes to camp in condition and ready to play he will earn an A.
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Rich (or anyone), is it official that Doughty was invited to the Worlds and declined? Or was he not even invited? It’s been reported both ways on various blogs.
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Needs to work on puck control while in offensive zone. Nah, he is one of those players youre glad to have on your team and i get excited ever time he breaken away.
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C. It comes down to expectations. A 20 year old athlete, after a break out near Norris winning season, and with legitimate Hall of Fame potential, comes to camp out of shape, and it showed in his play. Inexcusable. Lets hope he rededicates himself in the coming years.
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Drewbaby B for this year. He will conquer the Ice next season. He is a a great hockey player, but he is also a guy who just turned 21 and maybe enjoyed life a little TOO much this year. His head will be in it! Norris will be his!
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Drew gets a B in my book. The positives are great skating ability, great ‘ice’ vision, fairly physical, doesnt make too many mistakes, knows when to join the rush and when to stay back. Great slapshot and great QB on the power play. He needs to work on discipline, he seems to act ‘privileged’ on occasion and the other team has the ability to get under his skin. Other than having a bit more discipline when it comes to retaliation, he’s very solid all around and can only improve.
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Gary Roberts + limited partying with WS = doughty back as Norris level defensman.
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Kings x Reply:
May 4th, 2011 at 11:35 am
@Kings x, Even at the end he seemed to have lost that step or extra jump he had last year
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I Gave him B and thats being nice. Come in to the season in better shape and don’t take games off. Yes you can be the best D-man in the NHL but you have to work for it my friend.
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I like he’s effort , but he’s to small to be great defensemen . He should be moved to center because he loves to get in the shooting spree during a game . The other teams have no trouble bring in the puck on his side because he has like 3 hits for the whole season . Sorry Drew to small bro .
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Well, I guess I’m one of the few that gave him a D+. I’m basing that on a number of things. First and foremost was his apparent lack of dedication to the start of the season by coming in out of shape and thinking that it would all click. Unfortunately, it didn’t.
Also, I tried to think of how many games he actually had a meaningful positive impact on the outcome and honestly, I probably could count them on one hand. Flashes of brilliance in a season of mediocrity doesn’t cut it in my book. In fact, he probably had the same number of games where he had a largely negative impact on the outcome as Jack Johnson did, maybe more.
Finally, to those who say that an average DD is better than most of the league…sure. But this was a contract year for him. He should have shown what he could do rather than what his average game looks like. So, the thing that rubs me the wrong way is that he’s still going to get his big contract even though in his contract year, he played like an average player.
Yeah, he’s 20 years old. Yeah, he’s got raw talent. But the grade is based on what he did this year, not what he’s going to do in the future.
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Long-term deal…but nobody’s worth Brian Campbell/Duncan Keith money. That is how you gut a team.
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ToughD Reply:
May 19th, 2011 at 1:12 am
@ToughD, Also, stay away from Ronald McDonalds over the summer!
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