Smyth for Brule and draft pick

Ryan Smyth is headed back to Edmonton, in exchange for winger Gilbert Brule and a fourth-round draft pick. Interestingly enough, when news of a potential trade broke, on Monday, I talked to a member of the Oilers’ broadcast team, who suggested this as a possibility. I don’t know if he wants his name publicly mentioned, but he certainly made a nice call.

Brule, 24, is under contract for one more season, with a salary-cap hit of $1.85 million. He’s a natural center who can play right wing as well. Brule had a run of injuries this season that limited him to 41 games (with seven goals and two assists), but in 2009-10 he had 17 goals and 20 assists in 65 games. That’s been a knock on Brule, the fact that his aggressive style and relative lack of bulk — he’s listed at 5-foot-10, 180 pounds — can lead to injuries.

[NOTE: Note that neither team has officially announced a trade yet. Given Smyth's no-trade clause -- not that he wouldn't waive it for Edmonton -- and the fact that the draft is going on, we might not hear anything official quickly.]

[UPDATE: Just communicated with a Kings source in Minnesota, who said the hold-up in the Ryan Smyth trade might be resolved in about an hour (it's now 6:50 p.m.), otherwise it will have to go into tomorrow. Not trying to be purposely vague here, because I truly don't know exactly what the hold-up is. The deal is in place. In other news, the Kings announced that Mike Richards will wear No. 10. With any luck, he will wear it longer than its last three owners (Marco Sturm, Brayden Schenn and Alyn McCauley), who lasted a combined total of 35 games with it.]

[UPDATE 2: Do we have Smythgate? TSN's Bob McKenzie and Gord Miller report that the hold-up in the Ryan Smyth trade involves the conditions of the draft pick. So, we (officially) wait, possibly until the morning. Incidentally, it seems likely that Brule won't stay with the Kings. If they don't trade him, they can buy him out at a good value. Because of his age, Brule could be cut free for one-third of his salary, spread over two seasons, meaning the Kings would be on the hook for only $308,333 this season and next season (that would count against the salary cap).]

414 Comments

  1. Jack the Lad says:

    Wow, another center.

    [Reply]

    Mike Martinez Reply:

    @Jack the Lad, Brule isnt a center hes a winger

    [Reply]

    BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy Reply:

    @Mike Martinez,

    Yeah?

    http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/players/3783

    [Reply]

    Capt Jam Reply:

    @Mike Martinez,

    His NHLPA page lists Brule as a center as well.

    [Reply]

    McDonalds Reply:

    @Mike Martinez, I know that he has been playing wing at points though

    [Reply]

    LicoriceBiscuit Reply:

    @Mike Martinez, He is both, fellow Kings fan

    [Reply]

    Bluecoconuts Reply:

    @Jack the Lad, Who cares, put him in the AHL, or try him out on the wing.

    [Reply]

    JMan Reply:

    @Bluecoconuts, 7 goals last year in 41 games, so on pace for 14. Not bad. 17 the year before. I don’t think we need him in the AHL.

    [Reply]

    tothehaters Reply:

    @Jack the Lad, I ask Rich, maybe the boys are just looking at move money, centers we have, we all know that, but some of the boys can play the wing

    [Reply]

  2. Steve S. says:

    Good luck Ryan. Farewell…

    [Reply]

  3. CAmarillo says:

    Gilbert, welcome to L.A. You don’t want to pick up any hitchhikers here!

    [Reply]

    BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy Reply:

    @CAmarillo,

    A true Bono fan…

    [Reply]

    Undercover Brother Reply:

    @CAmarillo, awesome!

    [Reply]

    deadcatbounce Reply:

    @CAmarillo, Kind of sad when that’s what you’re known most for.

    [Reply]

    Jamesonafterawin Reply:

    @deadcatbounce, Ouch!

    [Reply]

  4. McDonalds says:

    He was drafted 5 spots in front of Kopitar……funny how things work out

    [Reply]

    McDonalds Reply:

    @McDonalds,

    GP G A PTS +/-

    Brule 263 38 43 81 -45 selected 6th overall in the 2005 NHL entry draft

    Kopi 393 138 220 358 -13 selected 11th overall in the 2005 NHL entry draft

    [Reply]

    Kingstane9 Reply:

    @McDonalds, no, it’s funny how things (scouting, evaluating, ratings) work before the draft. That’s all I’m gonna say about it.

    [Reply]

    Jamesonafterawin Reply:

    @McDonalds, I guess that’t why in a weak draft, it’s not a bad idea to go with the less known eurpeon players. Nothing to loss sorta.

    [Reply]

  5. Tim from the OC says:

    Thanks Smitty! Best of luck with the fam and the Oilers!

    [Reply]

  6. OC Kings Fan says:

    Way to go DL.

    [Reply]

  7. Mike Martinez says:

    wow i love this trade too

    [Reply]

  8. SafariChecker says:

    Brule has been known as kind of a fail…but I don’t know how he’s been lately. Is this a good pick up? I’m guessing we now have more cap space too?

    [Reply]

    Scarletcat Reply:

    His stats aren’t exciting.

    [Reply]

    brymaster1 Reply:

    @Scarletcat, well he hasnt made it through a full season without injury, hopefully that changes.

    [Reply]

    kings4queens Reply:

    @Scarletcat,

    Dean seems to think that conditioning is the key to good hockey. I’m not sure Brule gets a chance to play on the team, but it seems like our strength and conditioning trainers are amazing and if he gets a chance in the next few months to get stronger, I’d love to see him play. Since he got drafted above Kopi, maybe he has alot of untapped talent just waiting to be unleashed.

    [Reply]

    Bamaking Reply:

    Lately everything is a fail in edmonton.@SafariChecker,

    [Reply]

    markisonfire Reply:

    @SafariChecker, it really depends on who Dean goes out and signs with that draft space. If he can find a dynamic first or second line winger, just put Brule in the AHL. I like this deal a lot.

    [Reply]

    HockeyOnly Reply:

    @SafariChecker, He really reminds me of Alexandre Daigle in 1993
    Club League GP G A TP PIM +/- GP G A TP PIM
    1990-91 Laval-Laurentides QAAA 42 50 60 110 98 13 5 9 14
    1991-92 Victoriaville Tigres QMJHL 66 35 75 110 63
    1992-93 Victoriaville Tigres QMJHL 53 45 92 137 85 6 5 6 11
    1992-93 Canada WJC-A 7 0 6 6 27
    1993-94 Ottawa Senators NHL 84 20 31 51 40 -45
    1994-95 Victoriaville Tigres QMJHL 18 14 20 34 16
    1994-95 Canada WJC-A 7 2 8 10 4
    1994-95 Ottawa Senators NHL 47 16 21 37 14 -22
    1995-96 Ottawa Senators NHL 50 5 12 17 24 -30
    1996-97 Ottawa Senators NHL 82 26 25 51 33 -33 7 0 0 0 2
    1997-98 Ottawa Senators NHL 38 7 9 16 8 -7
    1997-98 Philadelphia Flyers NHL 37 9 17 26 6 -1 5 0 2 2 0
    1998-99 Philadelphia Flyers NHL 31 3 2 5 2 -1
    1998-99 Tampa Bay Lightning NHL 32 6 6 12 2 -12
    1999-00 New York Rangers NHL 58 8 18 26 23 -5
    1999-00 Hartford Wolf Pack AHL 16 6 13 19 4 +4
    2000-01
    2001-02
    2002-03 Pittsburgh Penguins NHL 33 4 3 7 8 -10
    2002-03 Wilkes-Barre Scranton Pens AHL 40 9 29 38 18 -10 4 0 1 1 0
    2003-04 Minnesota Wild NHL 78 20 31 51 14 -4
    2004-05 HC Forward Morges Swiss-2 2 1 1 2 0
    2005-06 Minnesota Wild NHL 46 5 23 28 12 -6
    2005-06 Manchester MonarchsAHL 16 6 8 14 4 -7 7 4 7 11 6

    Here are Brule’s stats

    2003-04 Vancouver Giants WHL 67 25 35 60 100 -2 11 4 5 9
    2004-05 Vancouver Giants WHL 70 39 48 87 169 +4 6 1 3 4 8
    2005-06 Columbus Blue Jackts NHL 7 2 2 4 0 -2
    2005-06 Vancouver Giants WHL 27 23 15 38 40 +5 18 16 14 30
    2006-07 Columbus Blue Jackts NHL 78 9 10 19 28 -21
    2007-08 Columbus Blue Jackts NHL 61 1 8 9 24 -4
    2007-08 Syracuse Crunch AHL 16 5 5 10 44 +2 13 2 3 5
    2008-09 Edmonton Oilers NHL 11 2 1 3 12 -3
    2008-09 Springfield Falcons AHL 39 13 11 24 58 -12
    2009-10 Edmonton Oilers NHL 65 17 20 37 38 -8
    But at least Daigle scored quite a few more goals, but it looks like he took a few seasons off also.

    [Reply]

  9. Marbles says:

    Brule was a Kings fan growing up. Love this kid already!

    [Reply]

  10. Jordan says:

    woooooooooo SIGN DOUGHTY NOWWWW!!!!

    [Reply]

  11. Jordan says:

    NOT CONFIRMED acording to oil GM

    [Reply]

  12. CB14 says:

    Mabye we’ll get to see Bono at a Kings game! Good job DL.

    [Reply]

  13. Puckhog says:

    Actually he is a natural right wing. Looks like he will replace Simmons on third line.

    [Reply]

  14. Vahe says:

    Gilbert “Creme” Brule..

    [Reply]

    Eric K Reply:

    @Vahe, excellent.

    [Reply]

  15. Doug E says:

    Kevin Lowe says not confirmed yet.

    [Reply]

    Koko Reply:

    @Doug E, their GM is Tambelleni.

    [Reply]

  16. Crown Royal says:

    Smyth plays hard and has been a good pro for a long time. This was necessary. The Kings get faster
    and save a lot of money. Does this open the door for DL to bring back Handzus for another year?

    [Reply]

    Alen Reply:

    @Crown Royal, Why? So they can be SLOWER again? Where would Handzus even fit in? What they need is a 2nd line LW now not another 3rd line center, we already have that. Tanguay/gagne/jokinen/cole…. or maybe we get brad richards now as well and I can take the day off for the championship parade.

    [Reply]

    Crown Royal Reply:

    @Alen,

    I agree with you. Handzus has been a good player for the Kings but has seen his better days. I made the comment because TM loves Handzus.

    Max Talbot will probably be a free agent soon. Wouldn’t mind seeing him in a Kings uniform.

    [Reply]

  17. SLIM says:

    Not only did I say we will get M.Richards month ago but
    yesterday I said we would get Brule…
    I’m Kreskin…NOT… But I did call this..

    [Reply]

    Ravens Reply:

    @SLIM, Well Cynic posted a picture of Schenn holding the Juraj Mikus jersy in another post today, but clearly you have been in possession of it for a while now. Can I have it next?

    [Reply]

    SLIM Reply:

    @Ravens,
    I will give you some stock tips but that’s all for now..

    [Reply]

  18. Scarletcat says:

    I like Ryan and wish him all the best. I almost expected his retirement announcement this summer, but if he would like to “go home” to do so, that’s okay.
    But, Brule? Really?

    Really??

    [Reply]

    deadcatbounce Reply:

    @Scarletcat, The Oilers probably wanted the Kings to take some salary back.

    [Reply]

    Kingsxstevenxkings Reply:

    @deadcatbounce, I’m gonna call this obviously the reason why

    [Reply]

  19. Jordan says:

    Dregger confirms says edm doesnt want to admit it…

    [Reply]

  20. loskingpride says:

    Taking the place of Simmonds maybe?

    [Reply]

    BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy Reply:

    @loskingpride,

    Not a chance in the Province of Alberta… or, North America.

    [Reply]

    loskingpride Reply:

    @BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy, Didn’t think so either..

    [Reply]

  21. Kristie says:

    DL did great with very limited bargaining power. If he never leaked he wanted a trade, we may have had more leverage. Good job DL.

    [Reply]

  22. DP says:

    Yep, Not Confirmed

    [Reply]

  23. Cynic says:

    Not confirmed, but he’s not going to upstage his #1 draft pick.

    THis is NICE if it finishes out. Brule has underachieved, but we know he’s got skills. M Richards will whip him into shape.

    What’s his cap hit? Anyone?

    [Reply]

    loskingpride Reply:

    @Cynic, Signed a 2yr/3.7M last summer so whatever that works out to be.

    [Reply]

    Kingsxstevenxkings Reply:

    @loskingpride, I think he’s 1.85m maybe 1.7 if the first year was 2mil

    [Reply]

    Cynic Reply:

    @loskingpride, OK, thx. Not bad. We gain about 4M on the cap. Should be enough room to get B Richards & Sign DD….maybe…

    [Reply]

    Jon Reply:

    @Cynic, $1.85m. Opens up some space…

    [Reply]

  24. David V says:

    it’s not confirmed , but it is ????

    [Reply]

  25. deadcatbounce says:

    I’m actually surprised they got so much back.

    [Reply]

  26. spidey35 says:

    My family and I met Ryan at meet the players 2 years ago. When we approached Ryan, he smiled and my daughter and for the first time that day smiled. Ryan talked to my daughter and she finally broke out of her shell. What a nice guy. I will never forget that moment with him and I am glad that we have a picture of it.

    Thanks Ryan for everything you have done for the Kings and best of luck to you and your family.

    [Reply]

    M.T. Netter Reply:

    @spidey35, no question, he is a class act. they don’t give those silver sticks out to just anybody ;)

    [Reply]

  27. Matt says:

    “He was a Los Angeles Kings fan growing up”

    http://www.dispatch.com/live/contentbe/dispatch/2006/11/28/20061128-C1-00.html

    [Reply]

    launch Reply:

    @Matt,
    nice work Matt….geez from ’06 eh?

    [Reply]

  28. Cynic says:

    BTW, you KNOW I’m gonna be watching the first meeting between CGY & EDM after Smyth snubs them to go back to EDM. Gonna be a boo fest

    [Reply]

  29. CB14 says:

    He had 17 goals and 20 assists 2 years ago so he’s got some talent, plus his cap hit is only 1.825 . This might mean Stoll gets traded. Just throwing it out there.

    [Reply]

    Michael J. Reply:

    @CB14,

    No way. Trade Stoll to and replace him with a big question mark? For the first time ever the Kings are talented and deep at center.

    [Reply]

    CB14 Reply:

    @Michael J., Richardson was our best center in the playoffs, plus Lewis was solid as well, also don’t forget about Lokti. I’m just saying that Stoll could be traded for cap relief if we sign a high priced LW. Or he could be packaged in a deal for a LW.

    [Reply]

    Player-X Reply:

    @CB14, Not fair to judge the centers when Kopi was out of the lineup, everybody stepped up, but Stoll was never expected to fill Kopi’s shoes. Plus, you and I have had the talk before about Stoll clearly being a top 5 second center, and the top two at that time were Kesler and a guy named Mike Richards. What we now have is a 1, a 2a and a 2b in Kopi, Richards and Stoll. Either Stoll or Richards can take the checking role, so we just got matchup-proof on the road. No way do you lose Stoll now; I have never understood thinking he is anything but the secret ingredient to the King’s cake.

    CB14 Reply:

    @Player-X, So you think Stoll is better than either kesler, zetterberg, sharp, couture, malkin, lecavalier, briere, or even stastny. I dont think so. I’m not saying trade Stoll for a bag of pucks, but if we sign Brad Richards and need cap space, who else are you gonna trade? We’ve got a lot of centers; lokti, lewis, richardson, brule. I know none of those guys are as good as stoll, but if its a toss up between keeping stoll and not signing a top 6 LW, or trading stoll and signing a top 6 LW, i would prefer to have the top 6 LW over stoll.

    bmova Reply:

    @CB14, And who exactly is going to replace him in the SO???

    [Reply]

    CB14 Reply:

    @bmova, We wouldn’t be in as many shootouts if we have a top 6 LW like Brad Richards. Most top 6 wingers are going to score more than Stoll would anyways. He only had 20 goals last year, and in a 3rd line roll those numbers would drop considerbly.

    [Reply]

    jonjon Reply:

    @CB14, stoll was responsible for 10 wins the kings had this year. without the shootout wins the kings only won 35 games, we would have been the first dropped out if there was a tie. stoll is too good position wise, hes a 20 goal scorer, automatic shootouts 9 for 10, high faceoff percentage, one timer on the power play. too much upside, too hard to remove and replace.

    [Reply]

    CB14 Reply:

    @jonjon, He didn’t win us 10 games, Quick did. As i said right above your post, a top LW would score more goals than Stoll would, and thus keep you out of a lot of those OT/shootout games.

    [Reply]

    crashin' da net Reply:

    @jonjon, Agreed. I was praising Stoll for most of last season with great SO and FO abilities. He checks and has a good wrister from the slot. He brings it nearly every game. If anything, I think he will up his game this season.

    [Reply]

    HockeyOnly Reply:

    @crashin’ da net, and he has something alot of the other Kings don’t have …………Speeeeeeedddddd.

  30. Jon G says:

    I’m happy with this trade because I didn’t think we would get much given Smyth’s big contract. I’m sad to see him go but appreciate his hard work while he was a King.

    [Reply]

    crashin' da net Reply:

    @Jon G, Oh and a hearty Thank you to Smytty. You will always own that space around the paint. You da’ man.

    [Reply]

  31. puck73 says:

    Hmm, lets see, Kopitar, Richards, Stoll, Handzus, Richardson, Lewis, Brulee, Elkins,…too many centers, I think another trade is coming.

    [Reply]

    loskingpride Reply:

    @puck73, Zeus is UFA July 1st and won’t be back, Lewis and Richie both play wings and who cares about Elkins? :)

    [Reply]

    puck73 Reply:

    @loskingpride, I like Elkins. And I still think their will be one more trade :)

    [Reply]

    DP Reply:

    @puck73,

    Handzus isn’t under contract

    [Reply]

    Michael J. Reply:

    @puck73,

    I don’t think Handzus nor Richardson will return. Richardson may return, but as a winger that can play center when needed. Unfortunately, Richardson plays better at the center position and will probably get more money elsewhere, which I doubt the KIngs will match.

    [Reply]

    crashin' da net Reply:

    @Michael J., I would bet Richardson stays. He’s a dynamo with talent. How many other Kings had a hat trick last season? Trade Lokti.

    [Reply]

    lafan13 Reply:

    @puck73, Loktionov says hi

    [Reply]

  32. Cynic says:

    Thak you Ryan Smyth. It was a pleasure and an Honor to have you on this team. I have no doubt our youngsters are beter players and men for having spent 2 years with you. Good luck back home!

    [Reply]

    BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy Reply:

    @Cynic,

    Ditto that from me.

    Juraj Mikus would give him a small nod, no smile…

    [Reply]

    Kingsxstevenxkings Reply:

    @BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy, Somewhere a man named Mikus doffed his cap in honor of a true hockey player. Thanks to #94 for everything.

    [Reply]

    jess Reply:

    @Cynic, well said

    [Reply]

    Harrison Merkin Reply:

    @jess, Smitty was and is a true pro. He gave us everything we needed when we needed it most. I’d be willing to bet that he nibbles at the 30 goal mark next season. He won’t have nearly the defensive responsibilities and a little home cooking will serve him well. Let’s not forget that for all of the bickering about his speed, defensive liability and prolonged scoring drought, the man still had 24 goals. Good luck Mr. Smyth and thank you for your services.

    [Reply]

  33. broncokings says:

    he’s small

    [Reply]

    deadcatbounce Reply:

    @broncokings, And soft, but at least the Kings got a mid-round pick.

    [Reply]

    historyguy67 Reply:

    @deadcatbounce, Small? Yes. Soft? No… Read the TSN article. He’s small but plays a contact style game which unfortunately results in injuries. That’s been his knock.

    [Reply]

    Kingsfanone Reply:

    @broncokings,

    Seems like the only “big” thing he’s done was pick up a hitchhiking Bono. Does that count?

    [Reply]

    Stonewall Reply:

    @broncokings, Quit peeking!

    [Reply]

  34. bickleton wigglesworth III says:

    Solid return. I’d rather have kept Smyth but good return if the move had to be made.

    [Reply]

    puck73 Reply:

    @bickleton wigglesworth III, Only 24, still good upside I would think.

    [Reply]

  35. KindSir says:

    Thanks for your time and effort Smytty, good luck out there.

    [Reply]

  36. PuckHead27 says:

    Brule grew up a Kings fan.

    [Reply]

    HockeyOnly Reply:

    @PuckHead27, and so???? I grew up a Wings fan and played in Detroit, didn’t mean squat.

    [Reply]

  37. dahack11 says:

    Getting a taker for that hefty salary, & salary cap hit is a good deal on itself in my book. Getting a draft pick & another young player (w/ potential) in return is a darn good deal. Plus, deano (w/ all the publicity) had a gun to his head.

    Well done.

    [Reply]

  38. Kevco says:

    Maybe he can be one of those players that starts to play better after he leaves his first team? Kind of like so many Kings have the last few years, we can hope right?

    [Reply]

    SDGolfer Reply:

    @Kevco, He was with Columbus and Edm.

    [Reply]

    puddle Reply:

    @Kevco, Wasn’t his first team Columbus? Or am I forgetting?

    [Reply]

    kevco Reply:

    @Kevco, Well we staill hope he break outs in a Kings uni.

    [Reply]

  39. SplattDaddy says:

    Thank You Smitty for all your work here in L.A. Good Luck In Edmonton and all the best to you and your family.

    [Reply]

  40. 714KINGS says:

    Must be another trade on the horizon??????

    [Reply]

    puck73 Reply:

    @714KINGS, Thats what I think as well !

    [Reply]

    Kingsfanone Reply:

    @puck73,

    I would think Dean isn’t quite done yet either. We still may be a little light on LW if he’s gonna part with Schenn like that. Now he just may have some room to manuver.

    [Reply]

    jonjon Reply:

    @Kingsfanone, Dean has been listening to Poker Face by Lady GaGa for the past 24 hours.

    Kingsfanone Reply:

    @jonjon,

    Exactly! Haha!

  41. Cricket says:

    Last season gives me a lot of question marks but the kid won a Memorial Cup and had 12 points in 5 games, being named to the Memorial Cup All Star team. DL gets another “winner.”

    [Reply]

  42. OCKingsFan says:

    We’ll miss #94′s presence in front of the net, but I think this works out for the best for everyone involved.

    I don’t know if anyone else noticed, but at every home game, when warm-ups completed, Ryan would always grab a couple pucks and toss them to the kids at the glass. Last year he tossed one to my 10 year old daughter and he instantly became her favorite player. She kept the puck, but getting it autographed just became a bit harder…

    [Reply]

    JacquesQ Reply:

    @OCKingsFan, One of the good guys in the game. I am glad that DL worked the deal so he could go back to EDM…Smitty is a great guy and I will always be a fan of his

    [Reply]

    Bill M. Reply:

    @OCKingsFan, Smyth will be back, with the oil, on Nov 3rd.

    [Reply]

  43. dabronx says:

    We just got Bono’s driver?

    [Reply]

  44. LBlocal says:

    I wonder if Brule ever plays a game in a Kings uniform? If he does, does this acquisition make Richardson expendable?

    [Reply]

    wavesinair Reply:

    @LBlocal, I’d hope not. Richardson is more durable and will cost less…I think.

    [Reply]

    LBlocal Reply:

    I concur. FWIW.. I wanted Cogliano.

    [Reply]

    jonjon Reply:

    @LBlocal, i wouldnt have minded seeing sam gagner on kopi’s left side

  45. jonjon says:

    ok someone fill me in because i have no clue as to how he fits in with the kings(terry murray’s) system. as far as ive seen murray doesnt know how to coach players under 6 feet tall..

    [Reply]

    Dillix Reply:

    @jonjon, another concern with Mike Richards then. THIS IS WHY THEY NEED BRAD! (well, it’s not the main reason, but point is, they NEEEED him! Mike is not enough! the WORLD is not enough! Only Brad Richards).

    [Reply]

    jonjon Reply:

    @Dillix, eh i think mike richards is a good enough player in his own right.. he doesnt need to be coached very much. it also just occurred to me they’re probably freeing up cap space to go after brad richards.

    [Reply]

    KingMe20 Reply:

    @Dillix,

    Have you seen Mike Richards play? Size is not a problem when you hit and skate like this guy does.

    [Reply]

  46. brymaster1 says:

    now they are saying NO DEAL…..damn it, i knew it was to good to be true.

    [Reply]

  47. Dillix says:

    Why take back a 1.85 mil cap hit of an injured player? Just take the 4th rounder and run. Instead you’re taking someone who basically makes 1/3 – 1/4 of the amount you’d need to sign Brad Richards.Now you add up some of your spare parts, Matt Greene, Brule, and that’s over half of what it would cost to sign Brad Richards. You’re just wasting that much significant money on spare parts when it could be used on Richards.

    That said, cap hit aside, if Brule is healthy, maybe he can bring good depth, 11-14 minutes a night, bring some speed that’s desperately needed.

    [Reply]

    Cricket Reply:

    @Dillix,

    I hear it but the Kings could use a 3rd line RW. Who knows if he’s a better fit there than Richardson but I don’t see Richardson being a 3rd line player on a contender.

    [Reply]

    jonjon Reply:

    @Cricket, Richardson had stints on the 1st line with Kopitar and was producing and holding up fine. this is the depth of the kings, theyre 4th line could easily play the entire season as the 3rd line. with the defense pairings the kings have they dont have to worry much about matching up forwards in the bottom six, its more about energy.

    [Reply]

  48. Twitter:
    @helenenothelen/

    few seconds ago kings just told me no, no deal. but their website guy posted the deal maybe 10 minutes ago.

    [Reply]

    BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy Reply:

    More:

    tweeted at 4:21 pacific. lakingsinsider.com/2011/06/24/smy…. at 4:36 kings pr guy says no deal.

    [Reply]

    BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy Reply:

    But then, from THN:

    Oilers acquire Captain Canada Ryan Smyth for Gilbert Brule and fourth-rounder.

    Dontcha Jest Love Twitter?
    /DJLT?

    [Reply]

    BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy Reply:

    Just now, Twitter:
    @helenenothelen/

    kings again just said details on Smyth trade still up in the air at this point.

  49. Chuck says:

    DL had better put that almost $5m cap relief to good use, otherwise, not a good return at all…

    [Reply]

    scott Reply:

    @Chuck, he did, his name is Mike Richards

    [Reply]

  50. Eric says:

    He doesn’t quite fit into the so called culture Lombardi consistently refers to. He’s small and lacks grit/toughness. Why not acquire someone to help further the culture change here???? Lombardi seems to keep me wondering with all his contradictions…

    [Reply]

    McDonalds Reply:

    @Eric,

    He really didn’t have much leverage this time man…we’re lucky that we got anything more than the 4th rounder

    [Reply]

    Eric Reply:

    @McDonalds,

    I’d rather trade him for nothing then take on a player of Brule’s “caliber”- $2 million cap hit. That’s ridiculous

    [Reply]

    JacquesQ Reply:

    @Eric, I think EDM probably made us take some salary dump….still 15M left to play with

    Dorian Reply:

    @Eric, dude, you’re still complaining?????? We got rid of over $5 mill cap space….

    KingsFan78 Reply:

    @Eric, But deals have two sides. Smyth wants to go back to Edmonton, can pick where he wants to go, but the Oilers may not exactly want him back, but are taking him back because he’s Ryan Smyth, so the Kings may have to take something back in the deal. It’s not ridiculous, it’s how things work.

    Eric Reply:

    @Eric, I take it back. He is actually a gritty player and is willing to drop his gloves. Decent pickup

    PP Anybody? Reply:

    @Eric, So essentially you felt so strongly about Brule(who you know nothing about) that you just had to get on the internet and complain about him to everyone? Cool. Thanks for the input. Are you sure he’s a decent pick up now, now that you’ve read three more lines about him on the web? Good to hear. If Hextall moves on to become a GM somewhere else, maybe you can takeover as assistant GM to DL.

    [Reply]

  51. JacquesQ says:

    He has been named the Kings bus driver…

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4sXFjiDVvQA

    [Reply]

  52. Pobo says:

    Sounds just like some Swede that used to play as a King….

    [Reply]

  53. Darrell says:

    But does he have a mullet????

    [Reply]

  54. CAmarillo says:

    That give us 3 of the top 11 picks in the 05 draft in JJ, Brule, and Kopi.

    [Reply]

    McDonalds Reply:

    @CAmarillo,

    Now if we could just get that Crosby kid… ;)

    [Reply]

  55. Eric says:

    NHL does not allow cash transactions in trades.Kings win

    [Reply]

  56. JacquesQ says:

    That leaves us 15.05M in cap space. Doughty and Richards and Richardson can be signed. Trade Martinez for a pick.

    [Reply]

  57. David V says:

    Per Helene Elliott

    kings again just said details on Smyth trade still up in the air at this point.
    http://twitter.com/#!/helenenothelen

    [Reply]

    BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy Reply:

    @David V,

    Like we’ve said:

    It’s no trade, unless Rich SAYS it’s a trade…
    Or not…

    [Reply]

  58. KingsFanInPortland says:

    I’m sure it is a done deal, they just don’t want to announce it quite yet. Either way, I am hoping this sets up a trade / signing for a #1 LW before the season starts.

    It is destiny :)

    [Reply]

    KingsFanInPortland Reply:

    @KingsFanInPortland, But even if we get a Gagne type player, I’d be happy. There is always next year as well. But the way things have gone the past 2 days for the Kings, as I said above it almost seems destined to get a #1

    [Reply]

    Kings Fan Vancouver,WA Reply:

    @KingsFanInPortland, Agreed!! We need that LW now to complete the course of getting past the fist round of post season. Where in Portland are you? I work in Portland.

    [Reply]

    KingsFanInPortland Reply:

    @Kings Fan Vancouver,WA, I actually just moved here a couple weeks ago from la. I’m in oak grove/milwaukie.

  59. Kingsfanone says:

    Thank you Ryan. Best of luck to you and the family.

    [Reply]

  60. King John says:

    Penner – Kopitar – Williams
    TBD/Parse – Richards – Brown
    Clifford – Stoll – Brule
    Richardson – Lewis – Westgarth/sub

    Maybe Loktionov or another surprise…
    If Lokti is 4th line center, Lewis can move to wing (hopefully in place of Westgarth).

    You can switch up the LWs if you like, which TM will be doing anyway, to see who fits where.

    [Reply]

    King John Reply:

    I hope we don’t end up wondering all year again who will be the other top 6 LW….
    Either Parse has to deliver or we have to get someone or Lokti has to get comfortable at wing.
    And that’s assuming Penner is up to snuff.

    [Reply]

    Deadmarsh Reply:

    Penner-Kopitar-Williams
    Parse-Richards-Brown
    Clifford-Stoll-Brule
    Richardson-Loktionov-Lewis

    ….speedy sniping 4th line.

    Westgarth replaces one of Richie or Lewis when needed.

    [Reply]

    CB14 Reply:

    @Deadmarsh, I like that lineup. I’d love that lineup if it had Brad Richards in place of Parse.

    [Reply]

    Bill M. Reply:

    @CB14, Pretty sure Richards would push Penner to the second. But I get your idea :-)

    CB14 Reply:

    @Bill M., No doubt.

  61. DesertKing says:

    Smytty, you are a class act, you treated the fans like we were important, you worked your butt off and our team is better because or your efforts here. Best of luck to you and your family and enjoy going home Captain Canada.

    DL, nice job. I can’t believe you got something for Smytty since the circumstances had your back against the wall.

    [Reply]

  62. Arthur says:

    So, let’s trade the future for Penner and Richards to win now, but then let’s trade the present in Smyth for… well, not the future, just a never-will-be and a draft pick. Because Ryan is homesick and misses Edmonton. And people call him a heart and soul tough player? Ha! What a wuss. Still remember him crying like a baby when he ‘had’ to leave Edmonton. Of course, he could have stayed if he hadn’t asked for the ridiculous contract he got, and now apparently doesn’t care about winning, just playing back home. Wuss! Class act, seriously?? And of course, what a crumby deal, if true! Third trade in a row Lombardi on the losing end of.

    [Reply]

    McDonalds Reply:

    @Arthur,

    wrong

    [Reply]

    KingsFanInPortland Reply:

    @Arthur, DL made two other trades after he got Richards? Hmm… I must have missed something.

    We just got needed cap space for…. stay tuned to find out.

    [Reply]

    CB14 Reply:

    @Arthur, Double Wrong

    [Reply]

    Garrett Reply:

    @Arthur, are you the complain about sunshine type or do you really not get how this all works?

    [Reply]

    714KINGS Reply:

    @Arthur, What are you talking about? The Kings were just named best prospect team????

    So they lose Schenn, but get Richards @ 26.
    Dump 6.5 mill and slowest member of team.

    DL had to take back some cap space vs. Smyth for it to work.

    I still don’t think DL is done and wouldn’t be surprised to see another trade. The Kings are DEEP in D in the minors still!!!

    [Reply]

    Player-X Reply:

    @Arthur, looking at life thru hoser-colored glasses.

    [Reply]

    IceGuy Reply:

    @Arthur,
    Move along everyone. Nothing to see here.

    [Reply]

    Gmo Reply:

    @Arthur,
    Dude are you a real kings fan?What DL has done are transactions to make the team better now as we are ready to move to the next level. All he has done is given up prospects, not proven players but prospects. The time is now for the kings to make noise. We can’t wait for prospects to pan out because by the time they start to hit their prime and that is a big IF, our current core will be hitting their end of their prime. So be happy DL is now making the push to make us a contender. Also in trades to get something good you gotta give something good .

    Go Kings Go

    [Reply]

    puck73 Reply:

    @Arthur, @poorman, is this you ?

    [Reply]

    CB14 Reply:

    @puck73, I think even poorman would like the trades. It shows DL is trying to win now, which is what he wants. Now if he would just trade Quick, that would make Poormans day!

    [Reply]

    Osaka Reply:

    @Arthur, You owe me 5 seconds I just wasted.

    [Reply]

    JacquesQ Reply:

    @Arthur, Win-Win. Smyth has earned the right to request this. We dump a huge cap hit and Smyth gets to go home to finish his career. EDM gets a true professional to teach the kids how to play. I think everyone wins in this trade

    [Reply]

    JackKent Cooke Reply:

    @JacquesQ,
    Check back at the end of next season, after we see what kind of numbers an aging Ryan Smyth posts. Already we have learned that Smyth in the open market is not worth what the Kings would have had to pay him this year. Few veterans are worth their contract price at the tail end of their careers. There is also the greater chance of injury.

    [Reply]

    Kevco Reply:

    @Arthur, The new Anthony? I dont care what you say, i say thank you to RS and good luck. I will stand and applaud when you come to play against us.

    [Reply]

    Kingsfanone Reply:

    @Kevco,

    This goes for me as well.

    [Reply]

    jofa6000 Reply:

    @Arthur, i dont get why ur so frusrtated. smyth wanted to leave l.a. and got his wish and by doing so gave us cap space, so in a way he did us a favor. our gm did a hell of a job to dump smyth’s salary so he can go after top 6 winger.

    [Reply]

    Harrison Merkin Reply:

    @Arthur, Your take on this. Fail.

    [Reply]

    Choralone Reply:

    @Arthur, Homesick? All we know is that family issues are involved. I’m never going to criticize someone for putting family before career.

    [Reply]

    pero Reply:

    @Arthur, I agree. The oilers made pronger a villian and Lowe had 29 team to pick from. Smyth left us with only one real trading partner (he declined the calgary trade). He could have gone home after this year. I think this is a dick move by a normally classy guy.

    [Reply]

  63. KingsFanFTW says:

    Bye Smyth u will be miss :(

    and hello Another Center with injury

    wonder what dean thinking

    [Reply]

  64. IceGuy says:

    Totally off topic here, but what do we think might be the possibility of Greene involved in a trade?

    [Reply]

    puck73 Reply:

    @IceGuy, Heart and soul guy, assistant captain, I would be surprised.

    [Reply]

    Bkrs-Bud Reply:

    @puck73, And don’t forget those head scratching penalties he takes at least once or twice a game or the turnovers,but i guess that makes him untouchable?

    [Reply]

    Tookie Reply:

    @IceGuy, like 0%, we don’t have a steady defensive D-man to repace him with in Manch, guys that are ready are all offensive puck movers. He won’t go. I could see us moving a prospect like Hickey or Voinov though.

    [Reply]

    Garrett Reply:

    @IceGuy, Ya, can’t trade a heart and soul captain from a team… wait…. oh ya, we just got MIKE RICHARDS!

    Anything is possible.

    [Reply]

    Garrett Reply:

    @IceGuy, Sorry, that was a reply to puck73.

    [Reply]

    puck73 Reply:

    @Garrett, Didnt say it wasnt possible, said I WOULD BE SURPISED…READ CAREFULLY PLEASE.

    [Reply]

    Garrett Reply:

    @puck73, Being surprised is the most ironic part of your statement, as I was reading it carefully. Did your caps button get locked? See, cause I was reading carefully, I noticed that.

    Ducks fan. . .

    (I was trying to think of something mean to say, that’s the worse insult I could drum up! :)

    Just messin with ya man.

    jonjon Reply:

    @IceGuy, always possible, but im almost certain the kings staff wants to keep the pairings they have now.

    [Reply]

    JMFJ#3 Reply:

    i think it might work to move Greene…we got another vocal guy in the locker room who coudl take his ‘A’ and also he makes 2.9 mil for 5th/6th dman. I think we could move muzzin up to play with AMart or have Whiskey play the 6th guy. All those Dmen make less and can provide enough fill in for the minutes Greene plays. Whiskey make 600k and Muzz makes 800k thats 2mil in cap space open if we move Greene.

    [Reply]

  65. SaveByCechmanek says:

    I don’t think Deano is done dealing.. Go Deano Go!

    [Reply]

    KingsFanFTW Reply:

    @SaveByCechmanek, idk what else he got to trade?

    if so i hope he gets good players

    [Reply]

    billanthony Reply:

    @SaveByCechmanek, I think with the added cap space he might be able to sign a player a tier below B. Richards, but who might blend in and contribute as much, but for less cost. Lombardi probably already has a few guys ready for an offer.

    The most coveted, the premier in free agency demand a premium price. If rumors are true, the Rangers are ready to go all in, and Tampa Bay, where he has past history is interested. To be realistic the Kings will not likely be able to sign him at a reasonable cost. And having some flexibility at the trade deadline is an important consideration as well. After seeing the footage of him discussing the Richards deal, to him a dream deal that fell into place, one can see he gets a rush from it. I think he still might have another significant move or two up his sleeve this off season.

    [Reply]

  66. JWR says:

    Burle came to the Oilers in return for Raffi Torres.

    I expect he will be in Manchester

    [Reply]

  67. Tweeting from Helene:
    @helenenothelen/

    kings still not confirming smyth trade. plot thickens. be interesting to find out later what the holdup has been.

    [Reply]

    Kingsfanone Reply:

    @BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy,

    It might be the “Note” in parenthesis in Rich’s post and have a lot to do with the draft. Just a wild guess tho!

    Just be glad you aren’t in a bank, cuz you should not say “holdup”!!!

    [Reply]

    Kevco Reply:

    @BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy, could be just notifying all the players.

    [Reply]

    Kingsfanone Reply:

    @Kevco,

    What, Brule is still driving Bono around? LOL

    [Reply]

  68. Subby says:

    Im sick of being the Los Angeles Oilers! Trade with someone else. Gahhh

    [Reply]

    BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy Reply:

    @Subby,

    How ’bout the Los Angeles Flyers? OK with that?

    [Reply]

    Subby Reply:

    @BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy, no :(

    [Reply]

    BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy Reply:

    @Subby,

    Now ‘Bout The 2011-2012 Stanley Cup Champion Los Angeles Kings?

    Puckn-A Reply:

    @BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy, LOL

    [Reply]

  69. CB14 says:

    ESPN is reporting Campbell from Chicago is refusing to waive his no trade clause, I ask you guys, who in there right mind would want him and his over 7 million dollar cap hit for another 4 years? Is anyone that stupid? I mean that’s got to be one of the worst contracts in the entire league.

    [Reply]

    Garrett Reply:

    @CB14, Toronto is….

    [Reply]

    CB14 Reply:

    @Garrett, That explains it. LOL!

    [Reply]

    puck73 Reply:

    @CB14, Not us

    [Reply]

    KC23 Reply:

    @CB14, Is Glen Sather still not a GM? ;)

    [Reply]

    CB14 Reply:

    @CB14, Looks like it was Florida, and he now will waive it. Makes a little sense because the GM in Florida is the same GM who signed Campbell originally to Chicago. Still 5 years at 7 million plus is a huge cap hit to take on.

    [Reply]

  70. LA_1968 says:

    WOOOT!

    With our lineup and FIFTEEN MILLION cap room, granted minus DD’s money, We are looking real good.

    SNIPER TIME !!!!!!

    If DL can find the right guy, for a fair price then there’s no reason to hold back now. I think we only missed selling out 4 games last year. Even then by only a few hundred tickets. It won’t be a good deal to max the cap unless you don’t make the second round.

    GO KINGS

    [Reply]

    jonjon Reply:

    @LA_1968, its just my perspective, but its really hard to picture a sniper thriving on this team. typical snipers are offensive threats and usually not very physical or strong. the exact opposite of how terry murray wants his team to play. id love to see a guy zooming down the wing on the rush and hitting the twine but its hard to do that when you’re so concerned with defense, as the coach is.

    [Reply]

    LA_1968 Reply:

    @jonjon, No doubt the offensive numbers go down when you come to the Kings. I’d like some really nice hands combined with being responsible. Skill and not irresponsible. Fit the puck into a tight space.

    [Reply]

    jonjon Reply:

    @LA_1968, haha i like that idea. Gagne is a UFA with Tampa, who knows we might get a sniper. Plus reuniting him with Richards probably isnt a bad idea.

  71. LA_1968 says:

    WOOOT!

    With our lineup and FIFTEEN MILLION cap room, granted minus DD’s money, We are looking real good.

    SNIPER TIME !!!!!!

    If DL can find the right guy, for a fair price then there’s no reason to hold back now. I think we only missed selling out 4 games last year. Even then by only a few hundred tickets. It won’t be a good deal to max the cap unless you don’t make the second round.

    GO KINGS

    [Reply]

    KC23 Reply:

    @LA_1968, You can say that again … oh wait. :D

    [Reply]

    LA_1968 Reply:

    @KC23, Yeah… sorry. I anticipated the click not working. Hah.

    [Reply]

  72. Salamano says:

    First off, I want to extend every best wish for success to Mssrs. Simmonds and Smyth, and thank them for their spirited play while members of our team. In losing these two players, I fear we will experience a net loss of a key ingredient to success, both during the regular season and beyond: grit.

    The trade took me completely by surprise. When I first read of it, right here, thanks to Rich, even though my eyes were looking at the words “Mike Richards,” my brain processed “Brad Richards,” having been conditioned to anticipate such a possibility prior to the deal for Dustin Penner. And I confess that I’m still trying to get my mind to come to grips with it.

    I have nothing against Mike Richards. I think he’s a smart, skilled, player with admirable leadership qualities, and I’m hopeful that he’ll contribute significantly to the Kings and quickly win the backing of the team’s supporters. I think we made strides in the intensity department last year, though the loss of Simmonds and Smyth will hurt, and it would be nice if Mr. Richards could bring some Philly-style intensity to the King’s room. But I digress.

    Speaking of having been conditioned…the thing about this trade that’s so hard for me to grasp is that in one fell swoop, we’re no longer a team dedicated to the slow but steady nurture of a bevy of very young players. With the abandonment of Mssrs. Schenn and Simmonds, that’s history. (And even though we’ve still got a batch of young guys, I think we just learned that just about any one of them could be gone tomorrow.) Which leaves me grappling in the throes of a team identity crisis. Of course, winning can quickly put an end to any such concern, but it’ll be tough to match the great start the team put together last season, which could leave heads shaking, laterally.

    It sure as heck is going to make for some interesting speculation over the course of the summer!

    [Reply]

    Puckn-A Reply:

    @Salamano, Mike Richards is younger and is a + 39 for his career, Brad Richards is a -72 for his career.

    [Reply]

    puck73 Reply:

    @Puckn-A, Good point.

    [Reply]

    SDGolfer Reply:

    @Puckn-A, Brad Richards has a Stanley Cup.

    [Reply]

    KingMe20 Reply:

    @SDGolfer,

    And Mike Richards was two wins away from a Cup without a great goalie.

    Ashykins Reply:

    @Salamano, Mike richards is a gritty s.o.b. I think were gonna be fine

    [Reply]

    LA_1968 Reply:

    @Salamano,

    Yes, the training wheels are off.

    I liked Simmonds when he was on his game. THIS Richards is always on his game. I would have felt lucky after 6 years and Schenn was nearly as good as M Richards.

    [Reply]

    miracle.on.manchester Reply:

    @Salamano, You must not have ever watch MR played? He is as gritty as they come plus he has the scorer’s touch; passing skills; and plays in front of the net with the best of them! Plus his age (26) fits right in with the rest of the core in which he will have both the chance to grow and yet compete now. Kopi, et al are just entering their prime and MR is right there with them. Well played DL! Well played!

    [Reply]

    Salamano Reply:

    @miracle.on.manchester,

    Perhaps I was misunderstood. I said we’re suffering a NET loss when it comes to grit. In other words, we’re losing two pit bulls and gaining one.

    [Reply]

  73. Phillip says:

    The guy who benefits the most from this deal I’m guessing would be Brad Richards. The aditional cap space could mean Lombardi is about to make a big offer to Richards on the 1st. As for Brule…will he or another center be packaged in a deal for a winger if Richards goes elswhere ? Dont know if I should thank Smyth for his service here or be frustrated at the way he left…I guess I can do both.

    [Reply]

    LAPD Line Reply:

    @Phillip, Doughty needs to sign now, so Lombardi will know exactly what hand he is holding, and how much he can spend.

    [Reply]

  74. friarking says:

    Thanks #94! I’ll always remember Smyth for being the last guy off the ice and the time he tossed me a puck in Anaheim. Too bad his wife wouldn’t let him be Captain CAlifornia

    [Reply]

  75. Big Plans says:

    Odd that Paul Stastny no longer shows up on Colorados Depth chart on yahoo sports???????

    [Reply]

  76. bbb7 says:

    I for one am relieved this happened. I complained thru the entire 2nd half of last season how Smyth and Handzus were total non-factors due to their horrid (and deteriorating) speed, and was resigned to Smyth playing another year and being good till Christmas and little after, so ANY return along with the chance to free his cap space a year early was a gift. I’m NOT saying I dont like Smyth (or Handzus), just that their days are over and they couldnt help us be an elite team. Even 4th-liners have to have footspeed now.

    Thanks for your service, guys, and good luck. Long live the new Kings.

    [Reply]

    puck73 Reply:

    @bbb7, handzus was a monster on the penalty kill in the playoffs, and Smyth played good as well. You might be right though, they are getting long in the tooth.

    [Reply]

    CB14 Reply:

    @puck73, From what i’ve read, Richards is just as good as Zues is on the PK. Plus Lewis was very good on the PK as well.

    [Reply]

    KingMe20 Reply:

    @puck73,

    Richards holds the NHL record for most career shorthanded goals while his team is down by TWO men (3). I would say he knows what he’s doing on the PK.

    [Reply]

  77. CB14 says:

    Ryan Smyth, the bizarro Chris Pronger!

    [Reply]

  78. Subby says:

    Is Zuesss returning or nah? Realistically

    [Reply]

    Garrett Reply:

    @Subby, Depends on Richards (Brad) in my opinion. If we land him, no. If we go get a few wingers, he would be a great fourth line center and solid special teams.

    (Fourth line center, how fun is it to place a decent guy on the FOURTH LINE!)

    I’m giddy.

    [Reply]

    puck73 Reply:

    @Garrett, Either signing Brad Richards or trading for Parise would top it off real nicely ! If I had to make a guess, I would say Parise only because he is 26, but if he “only” signs B. Richards then I will kick and scream all the way to the ticket booth ! lol

    [Reply]

    CB14 Reply:

    @puck73, I know how you feel, my checkbook would get considerably lighter if we sign Brad Richards. I’d gladly give Phil Anschultz my hard earned money if we signed B Richards. How much do season tickets cost BTW?

  79. Kevco says:

    I sat behind RS family at a game this year, he was getting honored for his 1000 game I think. It sure looked like his wife had her hands full with his their three kids. They seemed like a nice happy family and I thanked her for moving to LA from Colo so RS could help our young kids. I wish them good luck back in Canada. I have no idea if the guy we are getting back is worth anything, who knows. While I’m sad to see RS go, he was not as good last year as he was in the past. Good luck to you and your family.

    [Reply]

    D Reply:

    @Kevco, I think I sat a few rows behind you guys at that game because I recall seeing his kids dressed up for the 1000th game ceremony. I had the chance to meet his daughters during the playoffs last year and spoke briefly to his wife. His girls are beyond adorable and his wife is a genuinely nice person. I wish them nothing but the best and am grateful for his time as a King. If any other player were to ask for a trade, I think it would leave a bad taste is your mouth. In this case, however, it feels like he is completely deserving and I’m glad to know that I’m not the only one who feels this way.

    [Reply]

  80. KH says:

    Richards to wear number 10

    [Reply]

  81. LicoriceBiscuit says:

    I like this trade. A young team gets younger, Smyth is back with the Oil and the Kings free up more coin….BUT this still doesn’t address the left side.
    Does this spell the end of Brad Richardson’s tenure with the Kings?
    Doubtful Brule would be sent to Manchester, he has a one-way contract.

    [Reply]

  82. Michael__DD8 says:

    Not that its a bad thing for us…But i feel like RS just dipped out super sly! Haha oh well, i think its for the better.

    [Reply]

    puck73 Reply:

    @Michael__DD8, Smyth wanting to go back to Edmonton makes as much sense as when the Raiders left the 2nd biggest market in L.A for Oakland, in other words..Huh?

    [Reply]

    Kingsfanone Reply:

    @puck73,

    Think Salmon trying to get back to their spawning grounds. I think Smytty just wanted to end his career there, and just maybe, he thought he could free up a little cap space for the team and for Dean. He could also be a little selfish and just wanted back to the Oil, as he apparently nixed the Calgary deal.

    As for Al Davis? The LA Coliseum would never have given Davis as much control over everything as he seemingly got in Oakland, a deal breaker for a control freak like him.

    [Reply]

    puck73 Reply:

    @Kingsfanone, Valid points, good post.

  83. What's the frequency, Kenneth? says:

    Any idea (I know, it’s not announced) whether the Kings at least lose the whole cap hit for Smyth?

    [Reply]

    Kings win, Ducks lose Reply:

    @What’s the frequency, Kenneth?, Yes, the whole thing gone… His cap hit remains 6.25 with Edmonton, but they only pay him 4.5 million (his earlier years were higher, the average is the cap hit)

    [Reply]

    Sydor25 Reply:

    @What’s the frequency, Kenneth?, Yes. Smyth’s cap hit completely with Edmonton now. Dean has an extra $6.25 million to play with on July 1st.

    Brule was just a salary dump by Edmonton. He would have to beat out several players to be on the Kings roster. He will be waived and sent to Manchester.

    [Reply]

  84. Tweets out there are indicating Mike Richards will wear #10…

    @LAKings/
    Right now: http://ht.ly/5q2nf RT @geoffdetweiler: When can I buy one? RT @LAKings: Mike Richards to wear #10 with #LAKings.

    [Reply]

  85. BIG TRADE, NOT THE KINGS…

    @mnwild/
    #mnwild acquires Devin Setoguchi, top prospect Charlie Coyle and 28th pick from Sharks in exchange for Brent Burns and ’12 2nd rd pick

    [Reply]

    BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy Reply:

    Get the feeling that SJ is not going to sit pat this off-season…

    [Reply]

    blahblah Reply:

    @BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy,

    wasnt it just yesterday (or the day before) that setoguchi signed a 3 year extension to play with san jose? and hours later he gets shipped out. first richards and carter, now setoguchi. so much for signing contracts to stay with one team.

    [Reply]

    puck73 Reply:

    @blahblah, Maybe JJ is next ? Hopefully for Parise !

  86. KH says:

    Sharks trade for Brent burns

    [Reply]

  87. Bill M. says:

    More movement…nothing with the kings, but:

    Regehr done with flames, just asking for more options besides buffalo.

    Brouwer done to Caps

    And just announced at the draft, of incident to the kings – Setoguchi and Coyle to Minny for Brent Burns.

    [Reply]

  88. KFII says:

    Thank you Symth for all you brought to the Kings. Your work ethic, skill and love for the game will be remembered. Good luck in Edmonton (but of course, not when the Kings are your opponents) ;)

    [Reply]

  89. Eric K says:

    Brouwer going to the Capitals. This makes it very difficult for Washington to re-sign Brooks Laich. He would look great on Richards’ wing in place of Smyth…

    [Reply]

    PK Reply:

    @Eric K, preach son! I’ve been talking Laich all season. I thought the Kings may trade for him last season when we scooped up Penner. He kinda reminds me of Kesler (don’t kill me)

    [Reply]

    PK Reply:

    @PK, and sign Poni

    [Reply]

    JMFJ#3 Reply:

    @PK, no never sign poni he is slow and sucks

    Kyle Reply:

    @Eric K, holy crap. Good catch on Cap’s cap problem. Laich would be an excellent addition.

    [Reply]

  90. From NHL.com:

    Agent: Kings forward Smyth waives no-trade clause to return to Oilers
    Friday, 06.24.2011 / 8:38 PM / News Canadian Press
    ST. PAUL, Minn. – Veteran forward Ryan Smyth is returning to Edmonton.

    His agent, Don Meehan, confirmed Friday night that Smyth has formally waived his no-trade clause to rejoin the Oilers…

    http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=567091&cmpid=rss-News%20in%20English

    [Reply]

    BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy Reply:

    And then, Helene Tweets this:

    checked with kings again…they say no deal in place for Smyth
    @helenenothelen

    [Reply]

    Kingsfanone Reply:

    @BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy,

    Is this a tennis match???

    [Reply]

    BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy Reply:

    @Kingsfanone,

    …If I’m the ball.

  91. KFII says:

    Brule seems pretty injury prone. I hope the continuous injuries are behind him.

    [Reply]

  92. tuan jim says:

    Brule was chosen sixth overall in the 2005 entry draft??!!

    A coupla years ago he scored about as much as Simmer did last season. But he’s made of glass and always goes down with one hurt or another. And his plus-minus is so huge it’s not figure in points but in O’Sullivans.

    I dunno. Is this the kinda guy that the Oilers WANT us to take, along with a fourth-rounder? Or was DL scratching to get him? Deano does have an almost sexual hunger to sign players with a history of injuries. He’s willing to take that risk.

    So there may be something truly Byzantine going on in DL’s brain. If giving us Brule is just a cap-shaver for the Oilers — who really don’t need (or even want) to dump payroll — then it seems like DL actually has an interest in him and was himself the one who sought to have him included in a trade.

    Whatever, it doesn’t seem likely that another megadeal is in the works — though I didn’t have a clue about the deals that just got made. DL could be planning to trade Staples with Bell Center, for all I know.

    Maybe we’ll re-sign Poni and Zus to chump-change one-year contracts and play the season close to the vest to see what happens.

    Don’t pay attention to what I say. I’ve been slap-happy since yesterday’s news — which I wish would be discussed on the NHL network. But those goofs are in Draft-Day mode and don’t care about refuse like me. So they saturate their broadcasts with old war stories of Sam Pollock screwing the Kings and Seals out of draft picks.

    [Reply]

    puck73 Reply:

    @tuan jim, Its ok dude, you are just excited and worn out like Deano, and alot of us on this site ! lol

    [Reply]

    Dave Reply:

    @tuan jim, don’t read too much into his +/-. he’s played on some really bad teams in Columbus and Edmonton.

    [Reply]

  93. Subby says:

    The curse of #10

    [Reply]

    Marbles Reply:

    @Subby,

    No you didn’t!!

    [Reply]

  94. 408kingsfan says:

    Setoguchi traded to the wild for Burns

    [Reply]

    Rick Reply:

    @408kingsfan, Unfortunately, a good trade for the Sharks. He is very good. A replacement for Rob Blake.

    [Reply]

    KingMe20 Reply:

    @Rick,

    I think It’s a good trade for both teams if Setoguchi can play without a Joe Thornton-like center. Or, he could be another Cheechoo. However, I think Charlie Coyle is an underrated prospect who will do good things in the NHL.

    [Reply]

  95. LuckyNumber20 says:

    A lot of people have been talking about Laich, to me this is a proto-typical DL guy hard working player with leadership qualities. But I have also noticed the Jussi Jokinen is also availible in FA. Now all of this works if we dont get Brad. SJ adding Brent Burns is a good move but I think this may be a by-product of the Kings adding some more grit and scoring in that small trade the other day. Seems to me that these could be the 2 teams battling for the division.

    [Reply]

    tuan jim Reply:

    @LuckyNumber20,

    Yes!

    Get Laich! And get Jokinen! And get Brad Richards! And get Brent Burns! And get Simmonds back! And — and —

    (smack!)

    Thank you, sir. I needed that.

    This chazerai is KILLING me! And it’s not even July 1 yet.

    [Reply]

  96. Leo4kings says:

    If a player does not want to play on your team, he should be shown the door. Kings had a better deal in place with Calgury,but Smyth would not sign off on it, so Oilers t was:
    http://www.ottawacitizen.com/sports/Sens+select+forward+Mika+Zibanejad+Swedish+Elite+League/5003173/story.html?cid=megadrop_story
    Good luck Smythy.

    [Reply]

    tuan jim Reply:

    @Leo4kings,

    What was the proposed deal with the Flames?

    [Reply]

    jordan Reply:

    No move clause the rules are inblack and white he has final say@Leo4kings,

    [Reply]

  97. LuckyNumber20 says:

    Also needed to mention the classless Minny fans boo-ing the MTL GM and the USA chant.

    [Reply]

    Marbles Reply:

    @LuckyNumber20,

    Dude that is awesome!Way better than what the Canadians do to us. USA! USA! USA!! I love it!

    [Reply]

    kevco Reply:

    @Marbles, And there were very loud boos for vancouver, i love it!

    [Reply]

    Gary Reply:

    @LuckyNumber20, am I the only one who remembers the booing of the American anthem in Montreal ’93? How about when Edmonton used to BOO our anthem during the Gretzky years?

    [Reply]

  98. Kings11 says:

    I don’t think there will really be cap room for b Richards but I’d like to see gagne he played with richards in Philly and can put the puck inthe net

    [Reply]

  99. Dave says:

    DL got a good return for Smyth given he didn’t have many choices. It was a brilliant move to get CGY in on the bidding as EDM was trying to dump a player and salary we didn’t need (Souray). It would have been a PR nightmare for EDM if Smyth went to CGY and DL knew that and made it work.

    i would have been OK with just the 4th but to get a kid that went in the first round a few years ago that has a manageable cap hit is tremendous. He’s only 24 and he was a goal scorer in junior. there’s no reason to think he won’t get a good look on the wing. i wouldn’t put it past DL to move Brule to another team either to free up that space, even if it’s tomorrow during the draft.

    either way DL did another great job in a trade by maximizing return. now he gets another “swing” in this year’s draft and another asset that can contribute this year or used as bait to fetch something else.

    thanks to Ryan Smyth for his two years as a King. he filled an important role during his time here and i’m glad to see he can get back home and finish his career there.

    [Reply]

    PK Reply:

    @Dave, I read Smyth rejected the offer the Calgary. Deano had no choice. it was Edmonton or nothing

    [Reply]

    Dave Reply:

    @PK, that would make it even more impressive.

    [Reply]

    Dave Reply:

    @PK, btw, it sounds like CGY couldn’t complete the deal because Regher hadn’t waived his NMC. now that he has it looks like he and Kotalik are going to Buffalo. maybe DL can re-kindle talks with CGY and get a different deal done.

    [Reply]

  100. billanthony says:

    Dean did the right thing in accommodating Smyth’s specific trade request. I sense the player coming back is likely seen as a Monarch/emergency call-up and a little bit of a giveback on salary. (I read somewhere it was/is about 1.8 over two years). Anyway, the main objective got done, the Kings come out of it with good Karma, and $5 million+ in cap space.

    [Reply]

  101. Arthur says:

    @Leo4kings, Or, tell him to suck it up for a year and play for the 6.25 mil average he’s been getting and maybe have a chance to win? How is he a character guy if he sulks home a year early to play for a bunch of losers? All respect for him and his stupid mullet gone. Hope he has a lousy year.

    [Reply]

    Bill M. Reply:

    @Arthur, He only has one year on his contract, and he intends not to sign a new one. He’s done a lot for the sport, he did a lot for the oil, and he did a ton for our young talent that now knows what it takes to win in this league because smyth showed them. I don’t begrudge him retirement on his own terms. He also did us a favor by unloading his cap hit on the oil, opening a roster spot, and the cash to fill it, for a big scorer. He made it possible for DL to go shopping and maybe make this team a contender this year. Sign doughty. Pick up a scoring winger. Done. Contender. We can handle anybody in the conference. And now we have a team of twenty something’s who aren’t going anywhere for a while. We could realistically win a cup this year, and NOT have the Chicago problem. And THAT is a gift from the hockey gods.

    [Reply]

  102. Arthur says:

    Think I’m not going to post again, because it seems like 90% of you think WHATEVER Lombardi does is genius. And I thought Leaf fans were super dumb and brainwashed. Wonder what the Winnipeg Jet’s new uniform will look like. Because if it’s cool, maybe I’ll make a fresh start and leave these silly Kings behind. 20 years down the drain, no big deal.

    [Reply]

    SLIM Reply:

    @Arthur, Obviously your not a true King’s fan..
    Giving up because things don’t go your way…
    If you can’t take the heat , get out of the kitchen..
    If you don’t see the marked improvement then yes …be a Jets fan…

    [Reply]

    CB14 Reply:

    @Arthur, Don’t act like my 7 year old nephew who doesn’t get his way and takes his toys and goes to his room, MAN up and back up your opinion with some facts and other opinions. The Richards and Penner trades make us better now. Trading Smyth gets rid of someone who doesn’t want to be here, and opens up cap room for us to sign a big time free agent.

    [Reply]

    Ashykins Reply:

    @Arthur, Go to the jets please! But dont come back here when they move!

    [Reply]

    KingMe20 Reply:

    @Arthur,

    Don’t let the door hit you on the way out, and don’t come crawling back here when the Kings win the Cup in the next few years.

    [Reply]

    Belexes Reply:

    @b,

    Not quite sure how I got called “B”!

    [Reply]

    Belexes Reply:

    @Arthur,

    Can I have your Kings stuff?

    [Reply]

    Michael__DD8 Reply:

    @Belexes,

    PEACE! Your not hurting anyone but yourself! Ha

    [Reply]

    King Alex Reply:

    @Arthur, You my man are THE most negative thinking person I have read here. I am convinced that there is nothing DL or the Kings organization could ever do to please you. I do not think that too many of us TRUE Kings fans will miss the doom & gloom posts you bestow upon us. You will be a true delight to the joyful fans posting on the Jets site. Have fun “rooting on” your new favorite team!

    [Reply]

    Osaka Reply:

    @King Alex, Except Poorman.

    [Reply]

    Bkrs-Bud Reply:

    @Arthur, Bye.

    [Reply]

  103. Moondoggie says:

    Good luck in Edmonton Smitty, may you ride the sunset of your terrific career as good and as classy as you were a player. You were a pleasure to watch, regardless if you were playing against or for the Kings. Your leadership, your style of play, you’re bringing it to the ice every night was something we don’t see very often in professional sports.

    You will be missed.

    [Reply]

  104. AmirA says:

    Horrible trade.

    [Reply]

  105. Buster says:

    Any word on which of the two Edmonton 4th rounders is involved?

    [Reply]

  106. SLIM says:

    If this trade goes down……
    THANK YOU RYAN SMYTH #94..For all your sweat and blood….
    Kings fans don’t be so willing to condemn Brule just yet..
    Give the kid a chance..He could turn out good for us…..
    It wasn’t long ago that we were talking about this year being status quo….
    Look at how things have changed so rapidly…..
    BTW…I don’t think we will get B. Richards…just my opinion…
    Also I think Lokti is a better player than most think..
    GKG

    [Reply]

  107. Moondoggie says:

    Man….This guy has been sick and injured….a lot!

    http://tsn.ca/nhl/teams/players/bio/?id=4379

    [Reply]

  108. PK says:

    Stay patient Kings fans. I know all this wheeling and dealing is exciting. But we’re right where we need to be. Dean and the boys can now focus on signing DD8 and piecing it together.

    [Reply]

  109. Dillix says:

    Guys, I need an understanding shoulder to cry on.

    What i liked most about the Richards deal is that we improved over our rival, San Jose, and we were closing in on becoming the best team in the pacific division, while they had no options to improve.

    But now the Sharks have improved even more than we have.

    This sport is so stupid sometimes. There is no fairness in who gets to be the best team. You might like a good player, but he won’t choose your team, and he goes to another team. You wanted him the same as the other team, but he didn’t choose you.

    And then there are situations like this, where one of the GMs in the league does not uphold his responsibility to all the other teams to not give away a great player to one of your rivals for nothing in return. San Jose just got an elite defenseman without giving up so much as a complete 2nd line player. We had to give up a true elite prospect in Brayden Schenn with top line potential. They gave up late 1st round picks and a 2nd/3rd line tweener sniper who scored a grand total of 42 points playing next to one of the best playmakers on one of the highest scoring teams in the league.

    It just makes me sisck. This was supposed to be our time, and Minnesota gives Burns away to a team in the conference. Why not trade him for Carter, or a real top line player? Where were all the east teams in this? Why does San Jose always get the gifts? Thornton, Boyle, Heatley (whether you like him or not), and now Burns, all ridiculously one-sided deals for star players. Whereas we have to scratch and claw for 10 years just to finally get a Mike Richards.

    Everything that was happy yesterday is now miserable. We improved, then they improved much more, and it’s back to square one. I’m so depressed. It was just last week I was telling my friends how I hope San Jose doesn’t get Brent Burns, he’s one of my favorite players, and how if I was Doug Wilson, I would try to trade Setoguchi, and the 1st, and more for Brent Burns, but that I hoped he wouldn’t be smart enough to try that, or that Minnesota would be smart enough to say no, because Setoguchi is so overrated from playing in a Sharks system that gives their forwards easy goals just by playing enough minutes and going to the net. I was saying how great Burns was, and how I would try to do this exact same thing if I were SJ, but I hoped they wouldn’t. And now, they did it. Burns is amazing. Most people don’t know how great he is, but he will be spectacular for them next season, and everyone will talk about what a genius Doug Wilson is, when this is exactly what I said a week ago, and dreaded. It’s just so depressing. We can’t win.

    [Reply]

    Dave Reply:

    @Dillix, i actually think SJ gave up too much to get Burns. he is only signed for one more year and they lost a quality scoring winger, a good prospect and a high pick.

    Burns is good offensively but he’s not that great on the defensive side of things. i wouldn’t have given up that much to get Burns. this doesn’t help them defensively and i think it’s a push offensively giving up a 2nd line winger for a top-4 d-man.

    [Reply]

    Dillix Reply:

    @Dave,

    I hope you’re right, but Setoguchi is not a 2nd line winger right now. 40pts would be marginal for a two-way 2nd line winger. Like if Ryan Kesler only put up 40 points, you would still call him a 2nd line center because of his defensive game. But Setoguchi brings none of that. And remember he put up 40 on a very high scoring team, a lot of the time playing with Thornton. That’s terrible production for those circumstances.

    The one more year thing, that’s my big hope there, that he doesn’t re-sign, but you have to think once he gets a taste of winning, he will. They wouldn’t have given up three future pieces if they didn’t think they could re-sign him. My big hope is that they somehow don’t win the Cup this year even though they got Burns, and then he leaves, and i can actually look back at this as a good thing for the Kings. The Sharks got stronger for a year, but the year’s over, and now they’re down Setoguchi, Coyle, and that 1st, with nothing to show for it because Burns walked. However, I’m 90% sure that won’t happen. They will re-sign him and he will torture us for years dominating us. It’s amazing that he is 6’5 and he moves like that.

    As for the assets they gave up, people thought Milan Michalek was a top line winger when he was with the Sharks. People thought Wishart and Carle was an overpayment for Boyle. People think Joe Pavelski and Devin Setoguchi are elite forwards. The point is that people who play for San Jose get wildly overrated. Their GM is a hype machine (I’m sure you’ve seen him all year on NHLLive and other places talking about how great Couture is, with made up terms to inflate his value like “the best “three zone” player”), and most of all, their system gets their forwards easy goals. And for someone like Seto, he plays in a system where they shoot it from everywhere, and if you go to the net, you will find rebounds to put into wide open nets. And in addition to that, he’s also playing with either Thornton, Heatley, Clowe, Marleau, all these big forwards who do the work for you.

    So they become wildly overrated. Most the Sharks forwards, Clowe and Couture aside, would be nowhere near as good or productive on other teams. That’s why I don’t think they gave up too much. And that’s why I’m upset with the deal. San Jose got way, way, way, way better. They just added a true #1 defenseman, two-way (Boyle was more just offense), in his prime, only 26. I believe he will win Norris trophys sooner than later. As far as Im concerned, when it comes to two-way, physical defenseman like this who can do everything, there is Drew Doughty, and then Brent Burns. Burns is actually way bigger than Doughty even, at least in height, but Doughty is better at other things. But after Doughty, there’s Burns. Our big advantage over San Jose was having the two defensive pillars, Doughty and Johnson, but now they have two also, and actually a better tandem! Doughty is better than Burns or Boyle, but Boyle or Burns is so much better than Johnson, they have the better overall top 2. Now I don’t see where our advantage is.

    Such a disappointing day.

    [Reply]

    Dave Reply:

    @Dillix, Burns doesn’t play any defense. SJ’s biggest issue is keeping the puck out of their own net. Burns is not going to help them do that. to put it in a way that Kings fans would understand, he is much worse in his own end that Jack Johnson.

    he plays just about every second of PP time for Minnesota and he pinches all the time. he scores a lot of power play goals but he’s consistently a minus player on a defensive team.

    Boyle is a much better defensive d-man than Burns is. Burns gets a lot of hype because Minnesota doesn’t have any offensive talent so he gets a lot of their points. he’s just not as good as you think he is.

    Gary Reply:

    @Dillix, Burns scares you? I think San Jose hurt themselves with this trade.

    LBlocal Reply:

    @Dillix, Please, with respect: Immediately… Go to your medicine cabinet. Open the physician’s prescribed lithium bottle, and take your dose. Get well soon! =)

    gKg!

    [Reply]

    Dillix Reply:

    @LBlocal,

    That’s such a mean thing to say. I’m sorry that I care about my team. It’s the combination of that, and my valuing Burns so highly, that really makes this depressing for me. Judge me if you want. This is just how I feel right now.

    [Reply]

    tuan jim Reply:

    @Dillix,

    You’re taking this too personally.

    I was at both the Miracle and the Meltdown on Manchester. I’ve been a Kings fan since about the time Vic Venasky started wearing #10. I was at the game where Venasky was finally awarded the goal originally credited to Rogie Vachon — which would have been the first time a goaltender had ever scored. I watched Neil Kamodowski break Wayne Cashman’s fist by repeatedly banging his head against it. I felt my heart break when Toronto beat us in the best-of-three 1974-75 opening series — when we had the best record in our history and the Leafs were the doormat of all the teams entering the playoffs. I went through ALL THOSE BITTER YEARS when the Bobby Clarke Flyers beat us and we couldn’t win at gunpoint — I still have a Betamax cassette of the game at the Spectrum where we finally ended the losing streak and I was in the Forum audience the night we first broke the string at home.

    I know what it is to “care about my team”. You are not the only one among us who has suffered — and will, no doubt, continue to suffer — for the Kings. I don’t judge you for your love. To one who loves, much may be forgiven.

    But don’t use your love as an excuse for not being able to take a joke. Blocal wasn’t being “mean”. He was being friendly.

    DLB Reply:

    @LBlocal, actually seems quite like a troll, too, eh?

    [Reply]

    emb3 Reply:

    @Dillix, Don’t worry about it. DL isn’t done yet.

    [Reply]

    BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy Reply:

    @Dillix,

    Deep cleansing breath, insert …

    –No, you did not cause that trade…
    –The Sharks’ problem is not going to be solved by Brent Burns…

    The Kings will be better than the Sharks in 2011-2012.
    You read it here, first…

    [Reply]

    Dillix Reply:

    @BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy,

    I never said I caused the trade. That’s not what I meant. What i meant was Doug Wilson will be hailed as a genius for this deal, but I had the same idea. As in, he’s not a genius, it was an obvious deal for the Sharks that I would have made too, that I even suggested a week before the trade happened. The point was that it is frustrating to be on the sidelines of these things when you’re having the same ideas, and know better. From Doug Wilson’s side, I had the same idea, like I said, of offering Setoguchi and a 1st and more. But from the Fletcher side, I would have turned that down easily. So the point is it’s frustrating being on the sidelines, resting your faith in these GMs to make good decisions, when you know better than they do. If I was a Rangers fan, I would have felt the same way last year when they picked Macilrath over Cam Fowler, for instance. I would have felt like, I am so emotionally involved in this team from following it for so many years, and I want them to win so badly, but they can’t win unless the GM makes good moves. So I have to put all my faith in you Sather to make the right decisions. But then he goes and makes a crazy one, and you’re sitting on the sidelines thinking, I’m a fan, and I know better than the GM who is being paid.

    That’s the point. And that’s how I felt today about Minnesota. Fletcher, I know better, and I had faith in you to know better too and not give away such an amazing talent, but you didn’t know better.

    That’s the concept.

    [Reply]

    launch Reply:

    @Dillix,
    take a breath man…to be “miserable” one day after the Kings aquire MR is overboard and honestly just silly…I’m saying that with a smile on my face astonished at your post.

    LA is a better team now and DL may have something else up his sleeve

    GKG

    [Reply]

    DLB Reply:

    @Dillix, I think SJ overpaid. Burns is fine on the O side but not all that…and for the rest of the Wilson stuff, um, what?

    [Reply]

    Dillix Reply:

    @DLB,

    Sorry if it was confusing. I explained three comments up in repsonse to someone else who misinterpreted what I was saying.

    [Reply]

    King Alex Reply:

    @Dillix, Cheer up bro! DL made the Kings better. That’s the point here. You can’t worry what other GM’s & teams do. DL is not done yet. There is more left to do this off season. The times they are a chagin! We will have the best Kings team in decades on the ice next season!!!

    Ravens Reply:

    @Dillix, The guy is a minus 21 for his carrer, he has size but it doesn’t appear that he uses it, it’s like having JJ, but only slower,,much slower

    [Reply]

    KingMe20 Reply:

    @Dillix,

    I think you’re over-valuing. He’s a good player, but he doesn’t scare other teams in his own end. It’s not like he’s Niklas Lidstrom, or Shea Weber. They filled a need, but I don’t think they’re that much further ahead, and they traded away a guy (Setoguchi) who’s been a thorn in the Kings’ side for awhile. Plus, the Kings just got tougher and faster at the number 2 center position, so I think you’re jumping ship a little early.

    Frankly, and I’m not trying to be mean, but you’re fooling yourself if you think we as fans, not having access to all of the info that NHL GMs do, would “know better than they do.” Why don’t we let them play the games first before we give up on the season? It’s not like we’re fans of the Panthers or Senators here.

    [Reply]

    KingMe20 Reply:

    @KingMe20,

    Over-valuing Burns, that is.

    [Reply]

  110. Dave says:

    Helene now saying it’s a 5th round pick and Brule for Smyth and that DL is planning on moving Brule in another deal. not sure how much to trust Helene but we’ll see.

    [Reply]

  111. Twitter confirmation, at last…

    ok, it’s done. it’s Smyth to Edmonton for a fifth-round pick and Brule. but the Kings will move Brule along as soon as possible.

    /@helenenothelen

    [Reply]

  112. KH says:

    According to helenes twitter. It’s a 5th round pick and the kings are looking to move brule as soon as possible

    [Reply]

  113. David V says:

    Good, finally , i think everyone would like to have 4th but 5th is … whatever… probably can get another pick for Brule

    [Reply]

  114. From Helene:

    …And finally, the Kings’ trade of Ryan Smyth, which had been in place for hours but was held up by undisclosed complications, finally went through. He goes to Edmonton for a fifth-round draft pick and forward Gilbert Brule, though the Kings intend to trade Brule as soon as they can.

    http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/sports_blog/2011/06/kings-ducks-ryan-smyth-nhl-draft.html

    [Reply]

    Kingsfanone Reply:

    @BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy,

    Thanks for being the ball, Bako!

    [Reply]

    BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy Reply:

    @Kingsfanone,

    Ha!
    >bow<
    Welcome.

    [Reply]

    Goring 19 Reply:

    @BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy, Helene says the Kings intend to trade Berule as quickly as possible. I guess that makes ya really feel wanted. “It’s a business”

    [Reply]

    Goring 19 Reply:

    @Goring 19, Brule=typo

    [Reply]

  115. Howie in China says:

    Campbell to Panthers?? Hawks making room for someone? Hmm….

    [Reply]

    LuckyNumber20 Reply:

    @Howie in China, yea Patrick sharp

    [Reply]

  116. miracle.on.manchester says:

    all of the previous players to wear #10 for the Kings…

    Howie Hughes 1968-1970
    Jim Stanfield 1970-1970
    Vic Venasky 1973-1979
    Steve Carlson 1980-1980
    Rick Martin 1981-1982
    Bernie Nicholls 1982-1982
    Dave Morrison 1982-1982
    Scott Gruhl 1982-1982
    Brock Tredway 1982-1982
    Viktor Nechayev 1983-1983
    Terry Ruskowski 1983-1983
    Bob LaForest 1984-1984
    Bill O’Dwyer 1984-1985
    Sean McKenna 1986-1988
    Mike Allison 1988-1990
    Dennis Smith 1991-1991
    Warren Rychel 1993-1995
    Jeff Shevalier 1995-1995
    Don MacLean 1998-1998
    Donald Audette 1999-2000
    Mathieu Schneider 2001-2003
    Nathan Dempsey 2004-2006
    Alyn McCauley 2007-2007
    Brayden Schenn 2011-2011
    Marco Sturm 2011-2011

    [Reply]

    launch Reply:

    @miracle.on.manchester,
    let’s channel the “pumpernichol” for MR….nice research that was a walk down memory lane

    [Reply]

    Pumpernicholl Reply:

    @launch, I am definitely down with your idea…

    [Reply]

    FKA PakiFro Reply:

    @miracle.on.manchester,

    Umm…can we have him wear a different number? Maybe 99? 20? 17? Aside from Bernie, I see this as a bad luck number.

    (i’m joking, i know 99 and 20 are retired, yo)

    [Reply]

    miracle.on.manchester Reply:

    @FKA PakiFro, There have been some gritty players to wear the number but the positive spin would be that MR has the chance to make the number his. Plus, the number did not make the players. Nor were any of the players able to make the number memorable but MR will!!!

    [Reply]

    MrKing44 Reply:

    @miracle.on.manchester, Vic Venasky was My jr hockey Coach!

    [Reply]

    Michael_DD8 Reply:

    @MrKing44,

    I grew up playing under Vic Venasky also. He runs the Bay Harbor hockey shop, and i played with him when i was younger. Cool guy!

    [Reply]

    Gary Reply:

    @miracle.on.manchester, God Bless Mike Allison! Hopefully Richards doesn’t turn into Warren Rychel

    [Reply]

    tothehaters Reply:

    @miracle.on.manchester, B N really #10–damn u r good

    [Reply]

  117. launch says:

    looks like the Panthers have Campbell and his huge contract now…nice move by the Blackhawks

    [Reply]

    FKA PakiFro Reply:

    @launch,

    Dale Tallon REALLY must like him. He took on that contract twice.

    [Reply]

    Pumpernicholl Reply:

    @launch, Panthers actually had concern about being able to reach the salary cap floor. The Hawks get much needed cap space but the Panthers actually do get a player who stands a good chance of excelling in their system, good fit for Florida.

    [Reply]

    KingMe20 Reply:

    @launch,

    Yeah, re-signing the King-killer Patrick Sharp should be a lot easier now. Smart move by Chicago, and Olesz isn’t a bad return either.

    [Reply]

  118. Dave says:

    I never liked that Tambellini – come on dude, it’s a 4th round pick. i hope DL pulls out and finds another taker for Smyth. and if Smyth balks then he stays here. time for a little hardball, DL.

    [Reply]

    Telos Reply:

    @Dave, He can’t the Kings are screwed, Smyth only wants Edmonton.

    [Reply]

    Dave Reply:

    @Telos, then he stays in L.A. although i think he’ll go to CGY now that Regher has accepted the trade to Buffalo.
    i wouldn’t make a very good GM – i’d want to stick it to EDM for Tambellini being a punk.

    [Reply]

    McDonalds Reply:

    @Dave,

    lol

  119. therocknroll80s says:

    Will Wayne Simmonds still be attending the fan cruise?

    [Reply]

    D Reply:

    @therocknroll80s, Most important question of the day. Seriously.

    [Reply]

    kingsxstevenxkings Reply:

    @therocknroll80s,

    Umm NO…really? was this a real question?

    [Reply]

  120. Joel says:

    I was in favor of trading away Smyth for a while before I realized the cap room available. They can keep Doughty and Smyth.

    I for one hope the deal falls through. Let him finish his career in LA. Put him back on the #1 line with Kopitar and Williams again.

    There’s no guarantee anyway that Brad Richards is coming to L.A., and then if we still need another piece. Smyth’s contract is up next year and we can add a marquee player at that time. We might have enough now to make a legitimate cup run.

    [Reply]

  121. Dave says:

    As an aside from the Smyth trade talk, I was reading a story about the SJ/MIN trade and Doug Wilson was quoted as saying this…”"The two hardest things to acquire in this business are center men and defensemen…”

    this bodes well for L.A. DL is on the right track. i have to think he’s going to move one of his d-men (either Martinez or one of the guys in Manchester).

    [Reply]

  122. LA_1968 says:

    No. 10

    I don’t think the Flyers have a number 10 right now. Schenn should get it. Richards might be taking 10 so the Flyers management will be constantly reminded to check and see which 10 is better.

    I wouldn’t want to be Schenn in the fourth game of the season.

    [Reply]

    tothehaters Reply:

    @LA_1968, so this kid is already a starter for the flyers

    [Reply]

    Bill M. Reply:

    @tothehaters, They stated they intended to play him this year.

    [Reply]

    kingsxstevenxkings Reply:

    @Bill M.,

    “They said” he has a chance of making the roster…and from what Holmgren said he’s hoping but not confident…Schenn needs a lot of work to be an actual pro (NHL).. he barely played in the AHL even if he did perform well most players aren’t ready for 82 games of traveling and home stands..meanwhile..MR is totally ready to kick a**

    TYLER Reply:

    @LA_1968, Kris Versteeg is #10 in philly

    [Reply]

  123. Happy Lappy says:

    Hey, what’s new with the Kings? I just woke up from my self-induced coma after the Game Six loss to S.J.

    [Reply]

    CB14 Reply:

    @Happy Lappy, Glad too see you on here again! Some pretty good moves have happened since game 6. Mike Richards is the real deal, and we might get his brother from another mother come July 1st. Smyth is/was/might be gone/still here. Rich doesn’t even know at this point, and neither does anyone else for that matter. I guess we’ll see in the morning.

    [Reply]

    Happy Lappy Reply:

    @CB14, Glad to see everyone’s still holding down the Fort. I don’t get it, Smyth wants to leave, Edmonton is dumb enough to take on his salary, so what’s the problem? Maybe they’re getting cold feet. Love the Mike Richards trade, he’s Dustin Brown with good hands.

    [Reply]

    KC23 Reply:

    @Happy Lappy, Actually Edmonton needs a fat salary cap against them because they are up against the salary cap MINIMUM. Every team has to have a minimum salary and the Oilers are below it. Smyth is perfect because his salary cap hit is over 6 mil, but he only actually needs to get paid a bit over 4 mil (because the payment schedule was heavily weighted on the front end of his current contract).

    At least that is what I’ve gathered about the situation.

    Kingsfanone Reply:

    @Happy Lappy,

    No kidding, dude! You’ve been MIA & must have a helluva beard!

    [Reply]

    Happy Lappy Reply:

    @Kingsfanone, Just couldn’t tear myself away from Soccer and Tennis, not!

    [Reply]

    KingsFanFTW Reply:

    @Happy Lappy, welcome back :) are team got alittle more better.I just want to know if Smyth is going to be gone already.Then have to wait for free agent already want to know who we going to get

    [Reply]

  124. tothehaters says:

    Rich, do I understand you right, if this trade happens, Kings free up 6+ million $$$, and only have to maybe spend a little over 600,000 for two seasons. If I read this right, is it not a no brianer—RS wants to go home and we have guys that can step up to fill his spot–should we not make this trade, or am I missing something, please let me know thanks

    [Reply]

  125. Buster says:

    Something’s telling me that Tambellini has forgotten the words to “Show Me the Way To Go Home”, and that’s the only thing holding up the deal.

    [Reply]

  126. Nitrohockey says:

    Off topic a bit, and maybe its been addressed, but what do we do about Drewiskie and Harrold? We can’t keep them on the back burner, can we? If we’re not going to use them regularly, perhaps they can be packaged in a deal?

    [Reply]

    LuckyNumber20 Reply:

    @Nitrohockey, Would get a minimal return at best for those 2 fringe players.

    [Reply]

    Tookie13 Reply:

    @LuckyNumber20, if brule gets you a smyth, then a wiski gets you a…..something useable least right?

    [Reply]

    LuckyNumber20 Reply:

    @Tookie13, Not quite Smyth gets you put in a bind and some cap relief and Whiskey gets you a bad morning.

    CB14 Reply:

    @Nitrohockey, Harrold is a free agent and will not be brought back. DD2 won’t bring back anything. Plus why would you trade him? He’s the perfect 7th d-man. He’s solid defensivly, and doesn’t make a whole lot of money. Plus you don’t want one of our top prospects like Voynov or Hickey sitting in the press box, that’s DD2′s job and he does it very well.

    [Reply]

    Bill M. Reply:

    @Nitrohockey, Harrold is UFA and speculation is that we won’t give him an offer. We will have Drewiske as a spare defender and we will need to fill simmonds spot plus one or two spare forwards.

    [Reply]

  127. tuan jim says:

    Getting that cap space for Smyttie is valuable only so long as we turn that space into improving our personnel or keeping the personnel we wanna keep.

    To be honest, I was hankering to trade RS and his contract with him. But I wouldn’t be terribly disappointed if he finished out that contract with us. Yeah, he’s not what he was, but the guy is still good for 20-plus goals a season, shows up in the playoffs, gives us size up front — which we are losing with the loss of Simmer, Poni, and Zus — and is justly called “Captain Canada” for his commitment and hard work.

    If Tambellini wants to fuss and put the squeeze on us, I say he can blow the deal out his rectum. Wingers of Smyth’s steadiness and consistent productivity do NOT grow on trees.

    I might not have said this if we hadn’t already traded Simmonds for Richards. Now that we have, I see no reason to give up a good, if expensive, left-winger just to get cap-space we may never need to use.

    [Reply]

    Bill M. Reply:

    @tuan jim, We need it. I can already tell you dean isn’t done yet. We have at least two transactions that must go down. We could have up to three more, optionally. If dean winds up doing three our four of them, he’s going to be up against the cap.

    [Reply]

  128. Tookie13 says:

    In my opinion this whole smyth debacle put Deano in a bad position…we’re already slim at LW, theres not much in the hopper and the LW UFA class is not impressive. Brad richards can play LW but I think it’s a long shot we get him Parse @LW #2… This thing makes me nervous. It’s a trade or Parse and cross youre fingers.

    [Reply]

    LuckyNumber20 Reply:

    @Tookie13, We need to fill a LW2 slot, 2 players in FA fit that billing in Brooks Laich and possibly Jussi Jokinen though I think he may be a RW.

    [Reply]

    Tookie13 Reply:

    @LuckyNumber20, Brooks is another centerman and jussi potted more than 19 goals once. Not exactly wood inducing options. I’d rather take a shot with Cole but even that is blah. Are you confident those options are that much better than a healthy parse?

    [Reply]

    gralx Reply:

    @Tookie13, Time to forget LW’s outside the organization. Luc couldn’t skate during the prime of his career anyway. I say, just suit him up and let him snipe away :-)

    [Reply]

  129. Tookie13 says:

    Also, I’m glad I’m not Deanos cardiologist.

    [Reply]

  130. Nuclear Shag says:

    We already have a 2nd Line LW, his name is Penner!

    [Reply]

  131. JacquesQ says:

    Paging Dr. Milos

    [Reply]

  132. Dominick says:

    The Smyth trade was all a ruse, DL just wanted to get U2 tickets, and was hoping Brule could introduce them.

    [Reply]

    KC23 Reply:

    @Dominick, I can just hear the talks between the two GM’s.
    DL: You said 4th rounder pick,
    Oiler GM: no it was 5th rounder,
    DL: oh sure just like when you said Penner will give us added scoring for our playoff push
    Oiler’s GM: I only inferred that, I never actually said that
    DL: (face getting red) poop on you and I hope Hall tries to fight again (slams down the phone receiver)
    DL’s assistent call backs quickly … “we’ll get back to you in the morning”
    DL’s trash basket gets kicked across the room Rich slow backs out DL’s door with his lap top.

    [Reply]

    KingsFanFTW Reply:

    @KC23, LOL

    [Reply]

    Kingsfanone Reply:

    @KC23,

    How did you hide in the room? LOL

    [Reply]

  133. Kingfletch says:

    Why buyout Brule right away, let him at least come to camp and show what he can do. Worst case buy him out then if he cant make the team, unless the kings really need thta 1.5 million in space…

    [Reply]

    KC23 Reply:

    @Kingfletch, Because 1.5 mil in space may make the difference in yet another Richards on the team. I won’t let myself get my hopes up, but it would appear now possible to sign Brad Richards as well. If the Kings get Brad Richards they definately become a real threat to bring LA its first Cup.

    [Reply]

  134. Kingfletch says:

    Brad Richards is not coming to the kings to be our 3rd line center, we already have Kopitar and M.Richards. Brad Richards doesnt like playing wing, even at the allstar they had to ask him if he was okay to play wing for one game when St.Louis selected him.

    [Reply]

    LicoriceBiscuit Reply:

    @Kingfletch, Exactly KF. With this trade that is essentially closing the door on Brad Richards joining the Kings IMHO

    [Reply]

  135. KC23 says:

    Found this little Mike Richards nuggit on youtube. Enjoy: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LohGxFUCWsY&feature=related

    [Reply]

  136. petemagoop says:

    …Is this site where most of the commenting on the Kings is done?—->>I’m an X-Flyer fan and wish to follow Richards progress in L.A.

    [Reply]

    KingsFanFTW Reply:

    @petemagoop, well this site talks about mostly anything new with the Kings and if Richardson does something new with his career i believe Rich will say something about it

    [Reply]

    KC23 Reply:

    @petemagoop, Yeah, this is the place to be to follow Richards from now on. Welcome to the King’s family. I think you’ll find some other X-flyer fans here that you’ll have a lot in common with.

    [Reply]

  137. Sydor25 says:

    The Ryan Smyth deal has bogged down with Edm. Issue appears to be Brule’s health. Kings are still talking with the Oilers and… Flames.

    -Gord Miller @TSN

    [Reply]

    KingsFanFTW Reply:

    @Sydor25, i just dont get why the Olier GM wont trade a player that not injured than a injured player.So far am hoping Dean gets a right player that has no injury

    [Reply]

    KC23 Reply:

    @KingsFanFTW, After that crap Penner deal, I don’t blaime DL for getting picky.

    [Reply]

    KingsFanFTW Reply:

    @KC23, lol me either lol

  138. Kingsfanone says:

    Tambellini trying to dump a player on Dean? Cmon Steve.

    [Reply]

  139. LicoriceBiscuit says:

    As I said before, neither of these trades address our need for a sniper on the left side. I was hoping for a Penner trade and an FA acquisition. Oh yeah, and Schenn centering the the third line… um crap!

    [Reply]

Leave a Reply