Simon Gagne, attending a family function somewhere in rural Quebec, took a few minutes to talk about joining the Kings today with a two-year, $7-million contract…
Question: Why did you decide on the Kings? Was having Mike Richards, your former linemate, here a factor in your choice?
GAGNE: “First of all, I’m very excited to be a King now. It was a couple things. Yesterday, we were talking to some teams and L.A. was one of the teams that called up really early Friday, and let us know that I was at the top of their list. At the same time, they were honest with us that they were waiting to see what was going to happen with Brad Richards. At the same time, on our side we were looking at some other things with other teams. Then, this morning when Richards signed, they came back and I had a chance to talk with Mike Richards and, actually, Justin Williams too, yesterday. So I’ve got a couple buddies there, and everybody knows that I played with Mike Richards in Philly and had a lot of success too. There were a lot of Kings, Murph [Terry Murray], the coaching staff in Philly, John Stevens, Ron Hextall, Mr. Lombardi was in Philly too. It’s almost like Philadelphia on the West Coast. It was definitely a place where I know they were looking to get me. Even last year, when I was ready to move my no-trade clause, that was one of the teams that was really pushing to get me, so I know that it was a great fit for me.”
Question: You’ve had some injury issues — last season with the neck — so how is your health right now?
GAGNE: “Really good. Unfortunately, with what happened last season, I got hurt with the neck and it was something that hard to play with when I came back, but I got better, I got stronger. I was able to get better treatment. It’s stuff that you learn, what you have to do to feel better on the ice, and I was able to feel really good for the last push of the season. If you look at what I did at the end of the season, I was healthy, I was feeling good, my legs were feeling really good and my game shape was 100 percent. That’s why I was able to finish strong and have some good playoff (games) with Tampa Bay at the end of the season. So my health is very good right now. I’m really excited. I’ve got the whole summer to recover from the playoffs, from the long run with Tampa Bay, and get ready for training camp when it’s going to open in September in L.A.”
Question: Did you try to get a deal done to go back to Tampa Bay?
GAGNE: “To be honest, my priority was to get a deal done with Tampa Bay before July 1. We had some talks with them, a couple days before July 1, but nothing really ended up like we wanted to, on both sides. At the end, even today, we didn’t hear nothing from them, so we guessed that they were out of the picture at that time and we were working with other teams. It ended up with the choice we wanted to go with, with the Kings, in the end. So, like I said, I did enjoy my time in Tampa Bay and I had a lot of friends there, but it was time to do a change at that time.”
Question: You talked about yesterday. A lot of players got signed and a lot of money got spent. Were you nervous at all, waiting another day, or were you confident it would work out?
GAGNE: “A little bit. At the end of the day, when everything is done and you’re not signed, sure, you’re ready to be signed on the first day but on the other side we were confident that we would wait for the right moment, wait for the right fit for me and my family. We had some offers early on yesterday, but nothing like we wanted to look for. That’s why we were patient. We knew a lot of teams were looking to sign (Brad) Richards. A lot of teams were interested to sign me, but all of those teams were looking to see what Richards was going to do. So we knew that we had another options, so we took a chance to wait and see what was going to happen today. We knew we had some teams that we talked to last night that were really good. We had some good offers on the table, so that’s why we were able to be a little more patient and get a deal done with L.A. when it was a good time.”
Question: You talked about your connections, and you played under both Terry Murray and John Stevens. What are your memories of that, and what do you think about playing under those guys again?
GAGNE: “I’m very excited. I had some great seasons with those two coaches. Murph actually was more in charge of the defensemen when I was in Philly, but John was the head coach for two years. It was good. When you change teams, and stuff like that, sometimes you need to adjust to the coach. I feel that I know those guys already. Like I said, I was joking that it was almost the Flyers on the West Coast now. All those guys were with the Flyers before, and I was part of the same team and I had some great moments with those guys. I’m really excited to be able to work with those guys again for the next two years.”
Question: I know it varies a lot, but how much time did you spend on the same line with Mike Richards? A significant amount?
GAGNE: “Three years, at least three years. When Mike came into the league, I was playing more with Peter Forsberg. We all know Forsberg was playing maybe 60, 50 games a year, so the other 30 games, Mike — as a rookie — was my centerman for those games. I played with him at least five years, but on the same line at least two or three years.”
Question: You mentioned talking with Mike Richards and Justin Williams. Can you share anything you guys talked about?
GAGNE: “I’m really good friends with Justin. We kept in touch when he got traded to Carolina. We came into the league almost at the same time, same age, so we’re really close together, really tight. So we kind of kept in touch last year, all year long. He texted me yesterday that L.A. could be a good fit, that they were looking for a left winger, and he was kind of pushing for me to sign in L.A. So it’s always fun to do stuff like that. Today, I had a chance to talk to Mike Richards this morning, and it was the same thing on his side. He said, `You know, we could play again on the same line and do all the good stuff we did in Philly in the past.’ I kind of got excited a little bit at that time, and I know that my agent and the Kings were talking at the same time. So I was very excited when I got the phone call from my agent that we got a deal. They got the fax and I signed it and it was done. I was very excited about that, and those two guys definitely helped me to make a decision to come to L.A.”
Question: How much attention did you pay to L.A. in the past, and looking at them now, how far away do you think they are from a deep playoff run?
GAGNE: “Well, if you look at the last two years, they’re a really good team. They’re a young team, but at the same time those guys play like veterans already. If you look at the teams that have won Stanley Cups, it’s not like it used to be 10 years now. Now, it doesn’t matter if you’re 21 years old. Those guys play like superstars already. You look at Chicago and Pittsburgh, when they won Cups they were really young teams. So you don’t have to look, anymore, for just a team with veterans. You can look at teams that are young but already good, and they might need help from veterans a little bit, in having guys like myself and Mike Richards, to get to the next level. You look at last year in the playoffs. They played a really good team in San Jose, and they got really close to beating them. It was good experience for those young guys. My priority was to sign with a team that is going to be able to go to the playoffs. I know, with my experience, that it doesn’t matter whether you’re starting in first place or you end up eighth, everybody has the same chance at that time. I know that the Kings are going to be a team to put themselves in a playoff spot, and from that point on, you never know what can happen. I believe that the Kings are just getting better and better every year, and those young guys are just getting better and better too. So that’s why, when I had some choices between teams, that the Kings were at the top of the list, because they’re a team where I know good stuff is going to happen for the next two years.”
A LEFT WINGER THAT CAN SCORE!!!!!!!!!! SCOREBOARD!
WELCOME TO LA LA LAND MR. GAGNE! RICHARDS HAS A DRINKING BUDDY!
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jet Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 6:55 pm
@Niidan, who did better DL or Sather, one spent 7 million over teh next two years the other spent 24 million (if the contract holds).
Here is a deeper look at Richards: http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=370724
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Dominick Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 10:43 pm
@jet,
That article brought up some great points. Really interesting how his relative corsi numbers were lower 5 on 5, compared to his teammates. I had not picked up on the Corsi Rel Qo T numbers when I was scouting out his background, but their absolutely right. I guess I was too busy looking through some rose colored glasses, at the time. Still a great player though.
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KC23 Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 2:05 am
@Dominick, I was guilty of the same thing (overlooking both Corsi and plus/minus). This guy was way way over valued. He did us a great favor. Just took a look at Gagne’s lifetime plus/minus … plus 131. NICE!!!
Scott Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 9:47 pm
@Niidan, He has to be healthy for him to be worth the money. I hope he stays healthy. Also, will this mean there will be a line of:
Gagne-Richards-WIlliams?
Nice 2nd Line – if they stay healthy.
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Shakes Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 8:38 am
@Scott,
he’s sorta like our Andrew Bynum..
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Dominick Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 9:18 am
@Shakes,
Just a little shorter. lol
RobSD Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 11:07 pm
@Niidan,
Wow.
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Cool, seems honest, also excited to be back with old friends. Hope he asks TM to open up the O now that we have a legit top 6.
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I like your attitude SG!
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King John Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 9:54 pm
@Real 7, Yup, I think it’s important to have players who want to be here, and Gagne is excited. It’ll rub off on each other. Now Mike Richards will be more stoked to be here too. We will gel into a formidable team that plays even harder for each other (anyone thinking… like the most recent Cup winners?).
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M.T. Netter Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 10:34 pm
@King John, players rubbing off on each other? c’mon man, this isn’t anaheim ;P
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Mike in Anaheim Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 11:33 pm
@M.T. Netter, Now that’s funny…
Pesus Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 10:54 pm
@King John,
He said he was very excited 7 times. That has to be a record for a free agent coming to LA. Can I wake up tomorrow and it be oct?
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Lyon > LA Reply:
July 6th, 2011 at 1:30 pm
@Pesus, Wait till DD signs, THEN lets wake up tomorrow and have it be October. 2011/2012 is going to ROCK for the KINGS!!
Good times
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Shakes Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 8:51 am
@Bobby Scribe,
That will be funny when the “stable ownership” of the Rangers fires Tortella in 2yrs because they’re not producing and then BR is stuck there
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Nice to hear this from Gagne. Always seemed like a class act, and I’m glad he is aboard.
Welcome to the Kings family, wish you the best, hopefully no serious injuries.
If not, dude can score.
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raunq12 Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 7:54 pm
@KingsFanInPortland, Exactly. If he can stay healthy, I think he can put in at least 30 goals
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i love this signing, im so excited
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“At the top of his list”. Nice. I’m glad he wanted to be here.
Welcome Simon Gagne. Stay healthy my friend.
I think DL did just fine.
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Bluecoconuts Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 6:10 pm
@KFII, I think he did great, better fit than Richards probably. Mike Richards and Brown are going to punish opposing teams, and open up holes all over the ice, for Gagne to just snipe the goalie.
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he seems all happy about it maybe good things will coem to this team faster than we thought but staying realistic ge to round 2 come on Kings
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Is it October yet?
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Loved the answers, welcome aboard Simon. I was getting giddy reading this, can’t wait for October.
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hockeynut10 Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 8:38 pm
@K.M. Cost,
Dont get tooo giddy KM Cost… Last time you got this giddy for an ex-Flyer was over cechmanek.. lets hope this pans out and he is injury free!
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MacSwede Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 12:11 am
@hockeynut10, is this the same hockeynut10 who takes lots of kings pictures? remember me? I used some of your photos for my web articles..
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hockeynut10 Reply:
July 6th, 2011 at 11:46 am
@MacSwede, Ha yes.. I haven’t taken a lot lately but I have them on my flickr account.
Five years ago, I don’t think the Kings were on top of anyone’s list. And now look at us. This is the most excited I’ve been about a new season since…well, forever. We have a legit chance! Even BizNasty tweeted that we’re the favorites. LOL So that makes it official.
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hockeygeoff247 Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 6:32 pm
@Gabby, We were on the top of Roman Čechmánek’s list!
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King Cobra Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 7:05 pm
@hockeygeoff247, Bahh Humbug…..
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Gabby Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 2:29 am
@hockeygeoff247,
LOL We weren’t even on top of his list. Wasn’t he traded to us? Ugh, those were dark days indeed.
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Who Knows? Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 9:12 pm
@Gabby, BizNasty and Bailey got into some words on Twitter LOL.
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“West coast Philly” so true. They recently made it to the finals so I’m looking at it as a positive
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Fireplug Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 12:07 am
@kingsfaninsb, So does this mean that they will be serving Philly Cheese Steaks in place of the Big Macs or tacos. Green peppers and fried onions and a good pair also.
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The Third Vopat Reply:
July 5th, 2011 at 11:58 am
@Fireplug, Can I get that with Whiz, for you philly Pholks.
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Anyone else excited! I got goosebumps thinking of what next season could be like. Think Smyth is rethinking his move?
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KindSir Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 6:21 pm
@Alton, who’s that?
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Just re-sign Doughty and this will officially have been an AWESOME offseason. Super happy with this signing.
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ok, so i’m liking this move more and more. i wasn’t sure at first but DL got him signed to a very manageable number and the fit with Richards should be perfect.
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We loose Ponikarovsky and Handzus…and gain M.Richards and Gagne! What will become of our season? Maybe get outta the first round this time…props DL
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welcome to LA gagne!!!!!! look for forward to seeing you in a kings jersey!
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Hmmm, I see a pattern here:
Parse – Kopi – Brown (the LA Line)
Gagne – Richards – Williams (the Philly Line)
Penner – Stoll – Fraser (the Edmonton Line)
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jonsey Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 10:21 pm
@Otto Ped, He easily is a 1A
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Eggplant Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 12:10 am
@CupRun2012, Also:
Clifford-Lewis-Richardson (the Really Fast line)
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CB14 Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 12:39 am
@Otto Ped, He led the team in goals for cryin out loud. If he isn’t a first line player, then the Kings don’t have one.
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HBfan Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 9:08 am
@CupRun2012, if we played him with Brown & Kopi we could call it the KGB line. Which would be the best thing about it. Play him with Kopi & Willie. I can’t wait until Oct. We picked up about 125 in +/- signing SG vs BR plus he is actually a LW not converting from C
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I’m happy,, just wana get drew. Then I can relax.
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sign doughty how
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sign doughty now
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rcinsc Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 6:44 am
@brian, I can see Doughty this year being like Patrick O’Sullivan a couple years ago. Yeah, the Kings will re-sign him, but they’ll trade him down the road. Frankly, Doughty has been too inconsistent to really get upset about that…
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tim chaney Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 2:12 pm
@rcinsc, dd will be fine. Going to miss Wayne, but2 young guys together in Manhattan beach can be tough on a season. Drew will be focused and bounce back. Sign the long term deal @ 5.5 per, win the cup, get your Norris…
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Kingsation8 Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 11:27 pm
@rcinsc, Ducks fan?? If so, you are probably HOPING he gets traded down the road..
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Class dude with an honest game…and he can score!
SO HAPPY TO HAVE YOU, SIMON
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Very sad to lose Zeus especially to San Jose, but thrilled about Gagne! We actually have speed now! Now if we can light a fire under Penner’s ass we a have solid top 6!
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Gary livingston Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 8:47 pm
@Hockeysureshot, Mayors manor did an interview with him recently. Penner says he is working hard with the kings strength/conditioning coach and looking forward to coming into camp in his best shape.
Penner, to me, seemed to be having some mental issues with his confidence. It wasn’t a Lack of caring or trying. I could see it in his eyes while shooting the games. Lots of subtle things people do when they make a mistake and feel embarrassed or disappointed in themselves. When you don’t have that confidence you hesitate and stop working because you are spending that time over thinking and questioning what to do. It comes off like not caring but, it is the opposite.
I have a good feeling he will do well this season. He definitely wants to help this team.
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KFII Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 9:22 pm
@Gary livingston, I like the way you think. Penner will have something to prove. I expect he will be making lots of fans eat crow.
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old codger Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 10:15 pm
@Gary livingston, My take on Penner is this. He came in to a new team and team-mates to suppliment a line. Started out pretty good but it wasn’t long his two line mates were gone, now here is the hole filler expected to carry the load so to speak. Pretty big onus thrown at him even before his feet was really wet. Look for Penner to play like Penner is capable because he will be a needed “cog” filling a role in a familiar situation rather than thinking the world is on his shoulders.
He also probably read some of the demeaning comments here from some of the posters who would (will) jump all over BR and SG if they have a couple of bad nights.
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King Cobra Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 10:47 am
@old codger, I agree – I think he played a lot different when he was with JW and Kopi. It was obvious that his cardio was not where it should have been. I would go to games and watch him kind of eagerly almost frantically waive to the bench 20 seconds into a shift because he was gassing so fast. If he is in shape, comfortable with the team and our system I think we will have the good Penner playing on our team. We need to stop bagging on this guy (I include myself) because this is not going to do us any good. WE need to support him and hope he is committed to his training. Give the guy another chance to prove what he can do.
Will the real Dustin Penner stand up! Are sure hope so, because if he does our Kings are going to dominate!!!
Fireplug Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 12:12 am
@Hockeysureshot, I agree that it is sad to see Zeus, but a trade of Gagne for Ponikarovsky and Handzus would have been called a steal. I would make it any day.
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Tabernac! Awesome. Great fit. Welcome to LA Seeeeeemon
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http://video.nhl.com/videocenter/console?hdpid=49&id=119827&navid=mod-rr-topvids
just how we picture Rich — with his fingers doing this
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Lombardi learns from his mistakes. Last year, he didn’t communicate with Frolov effectively and lost him. We may not care now because Frolov didn’t exactly set the world on fire, but there was no way to know he wouldn’t have a solid year at the time. This year, he makes sure to both talk to Gagne and be honest about what’s transpiring. Gagne doesn’t sign if Lombardi feeds him one story, and he watches TSN and gets another story.
Good job, Mr. Lombardi.
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CB14 Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 6:49 pm
@MindGeyser, Gagne also doesn’t sign if Richards takes 2 weeks to make up his freakkin mind.
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MindGeyser Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 8:07 pm
@CB14,
I think Lombardi might have gone with plan B by that point. Yes, it’s plan B, but it’s a plan B that looks better than a lot of people’s plan As.
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CB14 Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 12:10 am
@MindGeyser, Yeah, I thought Gagne was the most talented forward in free agency besides Brad Richards. Plus we got him cheap compared to what other guys got.
HBfan Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 9:20 am
@MindGeyser, it looks better than our Plan A. BR just wasn’t a great fit for us. We already have enough guys that we need to convert from center to wing, who aren’t 30 with a 9 year contract
RoyalPain Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 11:35 pm
@CB14, Yeah, props to Brad Richards for making that decison so fast. First class move.
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Excellent interview…I think Gagne knows what’s in store….he’s going to be a good one. Besides all the TM questioners he happens to like TM so that’s another positive. Kings will be very good next year if everyone comes back in shape. I understand the strength coach to say that Penner was one of the strongest most agile gifted athletes he’s ever worked with. I hope Penner realizes how good he really can be and come back to camp in major shape.
Ok…Kings fans….gonna be a great year!!!
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Like the signing. I hope to God that he can stay healthy/injury free.
Its definitely a better feeling to get someone who wants to be here and not just trying to milk the highest bidder.
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If he stays healthy and we see a different Penner than what we saw last year, the first two lines are going to be great.
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You can feel the excitement coming off the page. It is so nice to see a player that excited about playing for the Kings. Say what you will about DL and TL, there has been a major attitude shift in this organization. I couldn’t be prouder to be a Kings fan than I am right now (well, when DD signs I will be a whole lot more happy).
I for one can’t wait until the season starts!
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Fireplug Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 12:19 am
@Kristie, I agree with you 100%. DL and TL have been very up front with the fans on what they wanted to do. I think that we finally have players and a management that are really interested making strong team and organization and not working on their tans. I cann’t wait until July 11 when the development camp starts.
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Nice pick-up. Experienced player but still has some leg, a nice upgrade from Smyth (and no..I not knocking Smyth with that). Lets hope these X-flyers can use that comfort with each other and produce some great chemistry again. As much as I hate the Flyers, I’m thrilled to see what their former managment, coaches and players bring to the Kings. With the trade deadline deal, the push at free agency, it would appear Dean feels the time is now for us to start the run he talked about when he took over. I hope it is time..I’ve been waiting over 40 years for it.
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The more I think about it, we should be called Philly plus instead of Philly west. Since we took the best players from Philly added a tough D and great goalies. I cannot tell you how bad the Philly fans will feel if we win the cup next season, but I would like to try.
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I know the most common line combos people have been mentioning is :
Penner-Kopi-Williams
Gagne-Richards-Brown
Clifford-Stoll-Richardson
Parse-Lokti-Lewis
I like those lines a lot, but Kopi was matched up against the top centers for most of last year, and playing Williams and Penner with him against top lines might be a problem because neither of them are good defensivly. The Richards line would see time against other teams top lines too, and they’ll be fine against smaller centers, but I see Kopi matching up against bigger centers like Getzlaf and Thornton, and I worry about having Penner and Williams out there against those big guys. Having one of them on a line would be ok, but having both of them out there at the same time scares me a little. How about spreading the scoring around a little. Possibly sign Antti Miettenin. He shouldn’t cost that much, and scored 16 goals last year while playing for a defense orientated team in Minnesota.
Here’s a possible line-up:
Parse-Kopi-Brown
Gagne-Richards-Miettenin
Penner-Stoll-Williams
Clifford-Richardson-Lewis
That #1 line played well together last year, but only for 5 games. Stoll, Williams and Smyth was our best line at the beginning of last year, and Penner and Smyth are similar players, so mabye they can recapture that good play. More importantly it makes Kopi and Richards’ lines defensivly solid. Which Terry Murray values above everything else. I don’t know, mabye I’m way off, but Knowing TM, they will probably end up that way at some point in the year, even if it is for only 1 period. Also, if we don’t sign Miettenin, we could simply slide Lewis or Richardson up into his spot, and play Lokti instead, or anyone besides Westy.
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jonjon Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 7:05 pm
@CB14, scott parse isnt playing on this kings team. sorry!
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AZ King Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 7:16 pm
@CB14,
A couple of problems that I have:
1 – Kopi and Brown really don’t play well together. Individually they are great players, but Brown seems to do better when he’s not on Kopi’s line.
2 – Parse had a good showing over 5 games last year, but I don’t really think the Kings are looking for Parse to play a top 6 role. It was the best they could do last year with what they had, but things are different now.
3 – Miettenin is a 3rd liner at best, and Minn was not a defensive minded team last year. Their coach actually made an effort to change the culture there which is probably part of the reason he is not there anymore.
I think getting Miettenin would be a good move, but only as a 3RW.
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CB14 Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 8:11 pm
@AZ King, My response to you ended up lower on the page, not sure how it happened.
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Hackwoods Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 7:26 pm
@CB14, I agree with your thought process above and about Penner and Williams going up against other teams top lines, but I do not agree with spreading them out as much as you did. Plus, you just put Stoll centering the 2 “weak” defenders in Pen and JW, and when we are at home and have the last change, TM likes that 3rd line stopper line to go against one of the 2 top lines, and since Kopi is better defensively somewhat than Stoll, you just shifted our “weakness.” You notice my quotes around “weak,” and that is because I do not think JW and Pen are that weak defensively. Maybe Pen, but JW showed a lot last year by working hard in all areas of the ice, and if Pen does come back in shape, he is adequate defensively (but not great, but not “weak”). Kopi dominates all over the ice, as does MR, so they are not going to worry me at all, and Gagne and Brown are solid, so if you do anything, maybe you swap Pen and Gagne when we play a deep team, but then that makes the 2nd line a little too slow and the first line too fast (I know, never too fast, but I mean compared to the 2nd line). The line combos will be a work in progress as they always are with TM, so it is all about playing well enough to make the playoffs, and have your lines in good shape going into the playoffs.
Penner — Kopi — JW
Gagne — MR — Brown
Clifford — Stoll — Richardson
Parse/Fraser — Lewis — Westy/Clune
Again, 4th line matters only a little as they will likely only play about 8 minutes a game or less. Lewis will get more time due to PK duties, but I see the first 2 lines getting 18 minutes or more per game, and the 3rd line getting at least 15 minutes, so does not leave much time for the 4th line. That is also why I do not think another move for a forward is needed, because Lewis showed he can play 3rd line, and Fraser and Clune can play there in a pinch, and Parse can jump on the top 2 lines when needed.
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CB14 Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 8:15 pm
@Hackwoods, I guess i undervalued how good Williams is defensivly. My only other point is that I don’t see Stoll going up against other teams top lines when we have two of the best defensive centers in Kopi and Richards. I could be wrong though. Thanks for the feedback.
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MindGeyser Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 7:58 pm
@CB14,
I don’t know that Williams is as poor defensively as you make him out to be. Penner can be servicable if he gets in shape and tries. I know the image of Penner being the guy who was badly burnt on the season-ending goal is seared into your mind like it is in mine, but generally speaking, he’s not bad defensively. I think they’ll be fine.
Where I think we should look is to add a third potential scoring line. I know most teams go with 2 scoring, 1 checking, 1 energy, but that’s because it’s hard to assemble the type of talent that the Kings have at their disposal today. Remember those old playoff Ottawa teams that were loaded offensively? Yeah, they didn’t do it like that.
Stoll is the key here, as he can be on an offensive or defensive line depending on the wingers assigned to him.
Clifford – Stoll – Richardson is a good defensive line that frees up the top two from having to take tough assignments. On the other hand, so is Clifford – Lewis – Richardson. Parse – Stoll – XXXX could be a third scoring line with solid D, or a solid defensive line with scoring potential, depending on how you look at it (Upshall would have fit extremely well here). If a winger shows some potential scoring in camp, you could put him there.
If Loktionov impresses, Parse – Loktionov – Lewis is a potential line, but likely too inexperienced overall.
My point is, the top six being what they are is not only good in of themselves, but pretty amazing as to what options it leaves for the always shuffling Coach Murray.
[Reply]
steve Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 8:28 am
@CB14, Stoll is NOT a third-liner and Penner is NOT a first-liner
[Reply]
Get rid of Penner and life will be good
[Reply]
tellmeY Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 6:59 pm
@F X, I think you will be pleasantly surprised by Penners performance upcoming…just keep my contact and let me know if I’m wrong.
[Reply]
jonjon Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 7:04 pm
@F X, No way we’re getting rid of Penner now. Gagne if anything can play the first line and Penner would be a fabulous 2nd LW, if he doesnt make the 1st. I still want Gagne with Richards
[Reply]
AZ King Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 7:07 pm
@F X,
Seriously…Give the guy an opportunity to go through training camp and play with guys that can set him up. I think losing Kopi really has the biggest effect of Penner. Penner is not the kind of player who makes the guys around him better. He needs to be able to set his big backside in front of the net and have guys who can feed him the puck.
[Reply]
crashin' da net Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 9:10 pm
@AZ King, I would agree with that. Give him a chnace but you know, if we play that stupid pass around the perimeter again for the one time point one-and-done, it won’t matter. Zeua and Smyth are gone. We should not be playing that useless game anymore. We have very skilled top lines that we should see defelctions and shovels from the low slot (not in the crease). We should sniper wristers shots from within 15 feet. Essentially, we better change our style of play. Different talent – different business model.
When is Kompon leaving?
[Reply]
LBlocal Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 7:15 pm
@F X, Dumb.
[Reply]
Goring 19 Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 7:22 pm
@F X, I wouldn’t give up on Penner yet Mr. FX. I’m pretty sure it has been or will be made clear to him that there’s no room for a sub-par performance this year on this team. I’m confident that we’ll see a different Penner than we saw last season after the acquisition of said Penner. I’m gonna give the guy the benefit of the doubt. He really didn’t have much time to settle in to the system before losing this linemates to injury. At the time I thought Penner-Kopi-Williams were really starting to click so give him a chance and we’ll see what happens.
[Reply]
old codger Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 10:24 pm
@Goring 19, Right. Like my post earlier
[Reply]
Marbles Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 9:07 am
@Goring 19,
Exactly and we shouldn’t judge Penney just yet until he has a full season playing with Kopitar. This will make or break Penner.
[Reply]
Stoked to be a kings fan
[Reply]
Welcome to LA Simon! We are so happy to have you here. Classy player, speed, can put the puck in the net, deep playoff experience, familiar with the organization, and your probable linemate you already have years of proven chemistry with.
I am very….very…happy.
[Reply]
what a guy! seems like he adds everything mike does, offense, defense, leadership, character, PP, PK im so excited for this season!
[Reply]
He seems really excited to be here. It’s so nice to have that. I can’t tell you guys how excited I am for the season to get going. Welcome to LA Simon. I wonder if Lokti is going to give up #12 for Simon to where.
[Reply]
Jacob Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 9:49 am
@AZ King, Richard took # 10
[Reply]
AZ King Reply:
July 4th, 2011 at 8:03 am
@Jacob,
10 was Schenn’s number…Gagne has always worn 12, which is currently the number Lokti has.
[Reply]
Thirty years of suffering as a Kings fan and I still can’t believe this is happening. I keep thinking I’m going to wake up tomorrow morning and learn that we signed Eric Gagne rather than Simon.
[Reply]
Bobby Scribe Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 10:36 pm
@Jon G, Lmao
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These guys are gonna step up the games of Parse, Lewis, Clifford and whoever else ends up making the team. We have an amazing team. I can’t wait to see the power play! Gagne is a great 2-way guy so the defense just got better. Other West teams have to be quaking in their boots! If everyone can stay healthy, we go deep into playoffs. This is great.
[Reply]
I am excited, Simon is exited, Terry is excited, Rich are you excited?
[Reply]
Did someone say Forsberg?
[Reply]
I like this deal. We needed a true goal scorer. We have terrific centers, but needed more guys whose main skill is to put the puck in the net. Enter Gagne. The guy has averaged over 30 goals per year over the course of an 82 game season IF he can stay reasonably healthy, particularly with a center like Kopitar or Richards, he should be able to make the 30 goal mark again. I am a little perplexed as to how we were able to get him so *cheap” compared to what others are being paid this year, but he seems like a very good gamble under the circumstances.
I have to give kudos to DL and ownership – it has been a very long time since we had such an obvious commitment to winning. As fans, there is not much more we can ask for (except of course for TM to update his system from the dark ages….)
[Reply]
As a life-long Flyers fan, I was crushed to see Gagne go last year. You guys are going to LOVE him! He is a total class act and a very nice guy.
[Reply]
What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 8:01 pm
@Sharon, I hope Brayden Schenn works out well for you–so well that he stays in Philly for a LONG time and doesn’t end up on a Western Conference team.
[Reply]
I’m so stoked right now I can’t stand it, uh yes I can. Welcome to L.A. Mr. Gagne! You will find LA Kings fans to be quite the passionate and knowledgeable ones. Bring on 2011-2012!
[Reply]
old codger Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 10:28 pm
@Goring 19, Also they don’t boo the easter bunny, either as they do in Philly. (Just kiddin’?)
[Reply]
Goring 19 Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 12:30 am
@old codger, philly fans booed santa claus, plus several other incidents
[Reply]
I was very pleased to read this. I have a big ol smile. Welcome to l.a.. you know maybe its good that we have this philly depth bc I mean look. Now we have their talent. Nothing wrong with that either.
[Reply]
BTW excellent job DL, TM, TL, and all the Kings staff on the past 2 weeks. And especially to you Mr. Hammond, for bringing it all to us to see and exchange our views with our Kings friends on this blog. Thank you again. Happy 4th Rich
[Reply]
ChiTownKingsFan Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 8:40 pm
@Goring 19, LOL for a minute there I thought your closing statement read: “Happy 4th Reich.” Especially with the Goring last name…is your first name Herman? Where’s Ehrnhoff?
[Reply]
Goring 19 Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 9:54 pm
@ChiTownKingsFan, nah no, that’s Goring as in Butch not goering as in herman
[Reply]
So, with only DD, Richardson, Moller, Lewis, Martinez, and Harrold unsigned, the Kings are $12.6M under the cap. If they give DD $6M, that’s $6.6M to go to the remaining players.
I really hope that the guys who are saying Penner will surprise us are right. Otherwise, these two big additions may be for naught.
[Reply]
Philly West does not upset me one bit if it brings that large silver chalice to L.A.
I could not have dreamed this could happen with this team since ’93.
Man……..this is sooooooo cool. I hope I’m not dreaming, that’ll piss me off if I wake up & this isn’t happening! Great time to be a Kings fan!
[Reply]
Osaka Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 7:47 pm
@Kingsfanone, Wouldn’t it be great if Philly West beat Philly in the finals! Hmmm I like LA beating NYR and Brad Richards in the finals. No disrespect to Brad, he is a classy guy and made a choice, I have no problem with him. The story would be great though, and the preasure he would be under during the finals would be crazy.
[Reply]
Kingsfanone Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 8:10 pm
@Osaka,
I believe the Kings first game (in Europe) is against NYR. We will be getting an early looksee!
[Reply]
Osaka Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 8:16 pm
@Kingsfanone, And a team that starts the season in Europe always wins the cup.
Kingsfanone Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 8:36 pm
@Osaka,
Yes, I saw you mentioned that in a previous post, I believe. This ride just keeps getting better, doesn’t it?
[Reply]
One87Money Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 11:33 pm
@Kingsfanone,
Could you imagine either a LA/NY or LA/Philly finals?!?! Lots of great storylines. With an East West final like one of those TV ratings in the US would be at an all time high.
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 9:53 pm
@Osaka, Especially if basketball is shut down. LA will go absolutely NUTs on the Kings.
[Reply]
Penner-Kopitar-J.Williams
Gagne-Richards-Brown
but i see TM interchanging the RW’s if they struggle especially since SG and JW have played together before. I doubt DP and SG will flip-flop much but with TM you never know.
parse-stoll-richardson
clifford-loktianov-lewis (westgarth)
these lines will change a lot depending on how TM feels they are meshing or during particular
stretches where they are slumping or match-ups versus other teams.
scoring will be expected from the top 2 lines and the 3rd line will provide auxillary scoring but its primary duties will be to win face-offs clear the zone and tire out opposing offensive lines.
the 4th line will be the energy line that can score, too.
I would have to say that this would be the strength of signing SG – all 4 lines are capable of scoring and TM won’t have to worry about benching an entire line for long stretches of time as he has done the past 2 seasons.
[Reply]
YoBro Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 10:22 pm
@miracle.on.manchester, I’m totally stoked over our recent acquisitions!! I can’t wait til next June! One thing I don’t get though is all of our GM’s here penciling in Loktionov as 4th line center. That job, I believe, was well earned by one Trevor Lewis last season. The dude stepped up and clearly showed some of the 1st rd pick skill we anticipated. Lokti hasn’t proven a darn thing YET, but after a season or two of seasoning and bulking up, perhaps he too will be ready to realize his potential. Just not yet folks.
Go Kings
[Reply]
FAX???
Come on DL, let’s get some DocuSign going…
[Reply]
John Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 8:45 pm
@Doug in Sacramento,
Haha hopefully it was an eFax!
[Reply]
It kinda came down the way I thought it did. I figured, giving the timing, that the Kings were in communication with him all along and told him they had to try to get Richards, but he was in their plans either way. It turns out, the chatter from (the other) Richards and Williams cemented the deal. Great stuff!
[Reply]
So glad to have Gagne here!!! I’m worried that DD is waiting to see what Shea Weber gets in arbitration before he names his price. If he’s looking to play hardball with his salary, DL is the last guy you wanna do that with. He should call up POS and Cammy and ask how that goes.
[Reply]
That bothers me a little that he said that Philly on the west coast but that’s what it is and if it brings the cup to the Kings then whatever a cup is a cup.
[Reply]
What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 8:04 pm
@Hat trick, I think it was meant to be flattering–like coming home to a real contender like he was with before. He did give props to the “young guys that play like veterans.” He clearly sees his role as helping them be what they’re going to be, for a long time.
[Reply]
Hat trick Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 10:53 pm
@What’s the frequency, Kenneth?, As long as the cup comes to LA for 1 year doesn’t matter to me.
[Reply]
Shakes Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 8:47 am
@Hat trick,
i think he just sorta meant it in the sense that he’s coming to a new team but it’s a familiar and friendly place based on the people
[Reply]
scoring predictions…
AK = 30-35 – very possible now that he is older and better.
MR = 30+ – playmaker who makes plays in front of the net.
SG = 30+ – his resume is hard to argue against.
DB = 25-30 – grinder whose tenacity will force many pucks into the net.
DP = 25+ – our newest (younger) smyth – park big butt in front of net and look for rebounds.
JW = 20+ – as long as he stays healthy, his offensive awareness leads to many goals.
JS = 20 – playing the point on the PP will help but it will be a tough road to goal total.
SP = 15+ – if he plays RW3, his time will be limited but his skills will make up for it.
DD = 15-20 – last year scored only 11 goals in an obvious down year.
hearing Bob Miller doing play-by-play this upcoming season is going to be priceless.
[Reply]
Kingsfanone Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 8:14 pm
@miracle.on.manchester,
I would love to hear reaction from Bob & Jim. I’ll bet they are pretty stoked!
[Reply]
miracle.on.manchester Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 8:42 pm
@Kingsfanone, Bob deserves to call a SC winner as much as anyone else. I would probably get major goosebumps if (when) I hear Bob making the call in the series clincher.
[Reply]
TYLER Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 9:26 pm
@miracle.on.manchester, NBC takes over in the finals…we’ll never get to hear bob say it…
Sammuch Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 10:39 pm
@miracle.on.manchester,
I say Kopi will have his best year yet and get us 42 to 45 goals now he free from all those guys ponding on him. The other teams have 6 guys to look at on the Kings.
[Reply]
Wow, sounds like a great guy already! Okay, I’m getting stoked.
[Reply]
Another point…I remember after the Smyth fiasco was finally settled, we were looking for the possibility of “making lemonade,” if at all by chance DL gets lucky, at left wing.
We’re in the lemonade business!
[Reply]
@AZ King, I disagree with your #1 topic, but that’s alright. There are a lot of people how agree with you.
I agree with your second point. I was simply trying to spread out the scoring evenly between the 3 lines. Plus Parse has a guaranteed contract and TM has said the only way he plays is if he’s on one of the top 2 lines.
Good to know about your 3rd point, I only remember them as the team that tried to win every game 1 to 0. Plus like I said on topic 2, I was trying to spread out the scoring between the lines. Thanks for the input.
[Reply]
Now we just need a physical shut down defender and the cup will be in LA.
[Reply]
KingsFanFTW Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 8:15 pm
@Dtalker, we just need to beat the living crap out of the Sharks hahaahhaha
[Reply]
Michael Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 8:16 pm
@Dtalker, mitchell, scuderi, and green?
[Reply]
KingsFanFTW Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 8:23 pm
@Michael, Greene is a Beast dont mess with him.Yea sometimes he gets dumb penalties but he does get away with some and he sure knocks them out of their feets
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 9:57 pm
@Dtalker, Greene is going to have his best year ever. You’ll see.
[Reply]
Michael Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 10:13 pm
@Dtalker, see, our D is fine
[Reply]
In the Net Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 8:38 am
@Dtalker, Our D is good until someone gets hurt. Who will be the back-up D guy this year? Muzzin? Would like to see him do well. Also don’t forget Andrew Campbell. He is one big dude. We’re looking good on D as far as I can see.
[Reply]
anonandonanon Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 9:52 am
@In the Net, dd44.??? He did all that was asked, got the Big experience, and stay at home d requires a little more time in the barrel. He might be the most under-rated King right now. Davis is a NHL D.
[Reply]
Love Simon Gagne!! One of my all time favs, so excited about next season. He sounds excited can’t wait to see him play. Plus he does a good SportsCenter commercial lol “that’s right American cheese” good stuff
http://youtu.be/id_kJ4cqwUo
gotta love that Olympics experience too
[Reply]
KingsFanFTW Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 8:24 pm
@brig33, LOL sure shut him up LOL funny commercial
[Reply]
Finally. A player that actually wants to be here. I think DL and the Kings put everyone in the Western Conference on notice. There is such a sense of urgency this off season and it was very noticeable. No more 5 year plans. The time is now for them to win.
[Reply]
John Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 11:40 pm
@SavebyCechmanek,
Actually, the organization and team we gave now IS the 5 year plan
[Reply]
I like the fit of a LW instead of trying to force Brad Richards into the line up on the left side. I know he played LW before, but obviously with Richards signing with the Rangers we know the smarter hockey player is Gagne. Richards obviously has not watched the history of the Rangers and signing FA’s and how that’s turned out for them. Can we say, “Scott Gomez and Chris Drury?” That’s exactly how the signing is going to turn out, Richards might get his points, but he surrounded by a bunch of 2nd and 3rd liners, with a team that has no defense. So at best every year for him is going to be a struggle to get into the playoffs, and when they do it’ll be a first round exit. There is no hope in New York, and yet he took the money of New York over the possibility of winning a Cup. He’ll be begging to leave New York in a couple years. Gagne meanwhile wants to win a Cup. That’s a guy I want.
[Reply]
jet Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 10:18 pm
@Mike J., can you blame the guy, 33 million in 3 years. Only a wall street banker can come close
[Reply]
So… anyone going to make the trip January 17th or March 27 to Vancouver for a game? I’m thinking about going. Would be nice to have a “section” of Kings fans there all together.
[Reply]
KingsFanInPortland Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 8:52 pm
@KingsFanInPortland, get back at em a little for filling our arena.
[Reply]
TYLER Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 9:29 pm
@KingsFanInPortland, possibly! wed have to have a big group! or they might try rioting against us
[Reply]
TheRussianKing Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 9:55 pm
@KingsFanInPortland, Good luck buying seats. They all come to our town to watch games because the trip down here with hotel and all costs about the same price as one of their tickets.
[Reply]
KingsFanInPortland Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 10:28 pm
@TheRussianKing, yeah I know. Maybe we can rent out a suite there and be in full force lol. Although that would probably cost a fortune.
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 9:59 pm
@KingsFanInPortland, We can keep warm outside by the Police car fires.
[Reply]
Tacomakingsfan Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 10:01 pm
@KingsFanInPortland,
I wouldn’t mind!!! Gotta get the kids some passports first!! Only couple hours away from me!
[Reply]
YoBro Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 10:29 pm
@Tacomakingsfan, Ha Ha , I first read your handle as taco making fan ! Sorry bro. Bummer that you’re probably surrounded by Nux fans. Tacoma Kings Fan. There, now I got it.
Go Kings
[Reply]
KingsFanInPortland Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 10:39 pm
@YoBro, lol @ taco making fan
Kings Fan Vancouver,WA Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 10:44 pm
@KingsFanInPortland, I get seats up there all the time. About eight rows back of the green guys. I would love to flood the place with Kings fans.
[Reply]
KingsFanInPortland Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 2:47 am
@Kings Fan Vancouver,WA, I’m down to go myself, I’m sure a few others would be too. As long as the tickets aren’t too outrageous, I’m going to be there one of the two dates.
[Reply]
Looks like we have 2 viable 1st lines and 2 viable 3rd lines. If we can find space for a rookie to crack the line up and have a breakout year we can be even more dangerous. With this roster any rookie (f) who makes it will certainly have an advantage. We still have some D prospects that can step up and fill a spot if we need cap space to male an addition at the TD.
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 10:00 pm
@Redlights, My money is on Holloway.
[Reply]
David Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 11:36 pm
@KC23, Great Choice. I just really want to see someone from our future take part in this. Just the promise that this season holds is amazing. So many people on this site find a way to bicker over things as each person has their opinion. But I don’t think anyone can find a reason not to be happy or excited with this team. This team can contend and will start the season under close watch of the other 29 teams. I think we can all agree we have something to look forward to.
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 3:43 am
@David, Yeah, the DL haters have gone away to hide for a while. Shortly after the Richards announcement I read a post using the name dumbarti throughout. Going on and on. Now I just get to smile about it. Those that have been around as long as I have (69) know dam well that DL heads the best front office in Kings history.
Any room under the cap for Kaberle? DD needs a dance partner on that Power Play. Jack hasn’t been up to par.
[Reply]
Osaka Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 9:26 pm
@Cup B4 I Die, That is the area Jack has excelled. JJ led the Kings in PP scoring with 28 points, Kopi was second with 18 points, DD was tied with Brown for 3rd with 15 points.
[Reply]
KingsFanFTW Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 9:29 pm
@Cup B4 I Die, i say put DD with Martinez..
Martinez did great on the PP on the blueline he has a nice blueline shot.His shots always seem to be on target and he can pass too so DD and Martinez will make a good pairs
thats just me.I put JJ with Stoll
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 10:01 pm
@Cup B4 I Die, Actually, its the only thing JJ is really good at imho.
[Reply]
K.M. Cost Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 12:10 am
@KC23,
I think JJ, DD, and AM should be the only 3 patrolling the Kings PP blueline. Stoll is money with that quick release from close in, but can’t hit a barn from the point, I never understood why they don’t try to set him up in the slot.
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 3:47 am
@K.M. Cost, You’ll get no argument from me. Stoll flat out sucks from the point on the PP. Absolutely terrible. I don’t think he’s good from the half boards either. His one timer is embarrassing. Stoll needs to be off the PP period.
Great interview.
[Reply]
Good reaction plan from DL. Now we just need to get some size back that was lost with Zues and Poni
If a girl tells you size doesn’t matter she’s just being nice!
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 9:33 pm
@408kingsfan,
Uh oh….
[Reply]
I feel real good about this signing for 3 reasons:
1. I believe Gagne will be a better “chemistry” fit than BR would have been.
2. We have cap flexibility for the rest of the season and into the next free agency period.
3. If you are Parise and wondering where you should sign next year, it can hurt to look at the Kings and see Kopi, DD, JW, SG, MR, JQ, JJ, et al, and think to yourself that might be great group to play with and win a few Cups.
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 10:01 pm
@DesertKing,
Sorry, “can’t hurt”
[Reply]
KingsFanInPortland Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 10:41 pm
@DesertKing, Amen to that. Lose Stoll maybe, and Penner most likely, but get a pure sniper in Parise. How awesome would that be.
[Reply]
Glad we did not sign BR. Rumor has it that if we did, Luke Richardson and Maurice Richard were coming out of retirement to join the team. Richards, Richards, Richard, Richardson, Richardson. Only Bob Miller could handle that!
[Reply]
Goring 19 Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 10:07 pm
@edwood2, he shoots, he scores!!! Can’t wait for October!
[Reply]
Nitrohockey Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 6:36 am
@edwood2, Sutter and Suter at center!
[Reply]
My head is spinning after the Vokoun signing in Washington! They paid $1.5M while they had almost $6M in cap space. I get it’s not a favorable place for goaltenders out there this UFA season, but $1.5M? Thank God it’s only 1 year!
I guess he’s hoping to win a cup and then demand the big payday. . . but 1.5M?!!!?
In a UFA season where over paying was key, this one shocked me.
[Reply]
By the way, have to give a huge shout out to Tallon over in Florida. I know he over paid for those players and took on some crazy contracts, but what a great statement by that organization. They seem to be done being the worse product consistently in the NHL.
It will take them a few more years, but they also have some amazing young prospects. I kinda feel for them. They went out and got their “bridge players” and are building for the future. They over paid now, to have something in the future guys will want to play for….
Sound familiar?
Say a prayer for the Panthers – could be a fun season for them! (Though they should have kept Vokoun)
[Reply]
Just like Kolvabucks going to NJ, it seems that Brad going to NY is the best thing that could of possibly happen to the Kings. Gagne seems clearly the better fit and if that wasn’t good enough the price and risk was far far far less. Gagne is the better scorer by far.
Pressure is on TM to change the King’s style because we are less of a power forward team and more of a speed team. Gagne and Richards are a whole lot different than Smyth and Zues. Our playing style needs to adjust to play to our strenghts.
I see the lines:
Penner – Kopitar – Brown
Gagne – Richards – Williams
Parse – Stoll – Richardson
Clifford – Lewis – Holloway/Westy
That gives a big hitter on our first two lines Brown and Richards. Honestly I think the Richards line should be considered our first line. Kopitar is coming off major surgury and is likely to have a slow start.
Don’t agree with others about Brown and Kopitar parings. I thought they played very well together last year (who could forget that pass from Kopitar to Brown hail mary pass), but we’ll see.
I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I do believe we are set for a cup run. No reason in the world why we should doubt it. I like our chances against anyone.
Look for DD to break out with a sick sick year and Norris talk to go with it.
[Reply]
KingsFanInPortland Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 10:50 pm
@KC23, I posted the same top 2 lines you did, didn’t see you had it there first. Its worth a shot at least, and I am in agreement, the second line you have listed could be the first line really.
I hope TM at least gives it a shot. Long season, it would be worth it for a couple games at the least. I think a lot of fans would never want to see Kopitar on the second line, but having the players we have now gives us the options to do that.
No more DL hating for now on from people, not that he cares lol, but his vision came to fruition and I have nothing b ut man love for the guy. He is a man of his word. Also to TL for spending the money. Now its up to TM and the players to give it their best and see where destiny takes “us.”
P.s. doughty don’t be a RICHards, sign for what’s right please.
[Reply]
miracle.on.manchester Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 9:27 am
@KC23, I see we think alike in terms of how the lines should be set up. But as for which is the No.1 line or No,.2 line, it really doesn’t matter in hockey as it is in name only. TM could start whichever line on the opening face-off depending on the match-ups.
Also, the lines that get the most minutes could also be deemed 1 or 2 but that will also vary from game to game depending on TM’s assessment of the game and situations.
Those top 2 lines are more like No.1 and No.1A…which is going to be a headache for other teams to match-up against and try to stop.
[Reply]
I’m glad we didn’t get BR’s, I just had a bad feeling that we would spend to much and nothing again… I love the fact that we got Gagne, He will play hard as will Mike and Justin… We are going to score so many more goals this year… It’s always nice to have players on a team your going to that you’ve played with before and played well with..
GO KINGS GO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
[Reply]
He’s got some nice hands and a sharp shoot. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oa1Fzpoyq4k&feature=youtube_gdata_player
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Yep. I’ve been converted. I now believe the Kings have what it takes to go all the way. I would have liked to see Richards signed. That would have slam dunked it, but they’re loaded this year. Great trades and signings DL. Do you like that Puck73 and Dominic! It figures the year that I’m moving ta New York, that’s when the Kings put it all together. Yes, my little radio show is going into national syndication with some industry heavies putting together the deal. Life is sweet. Poorman broadcasting from the Big Apple (and I will always be a Kings Fan “F” the Rangers and Isles)
[Reply]
Sammuch Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 10:47 pm
@Poorman, Is this the Poorman way back from the KroQ radio days…???
[Reply]
CB14 Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 11:52 pm
@Sammuch, Yup.
[Reply]
jet Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 10:55 pm
@Poorman, hey, youll get to see the 12 million dollar man.
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King Alex Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 11:02 pm
@Poorman, Best of luck to you in NY! I’ve been a fan for quite some time!
[Reply]
KingsFanFTW Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 11:08 pm
@Poorman, LOL Best of luck
Good to hear that u always going to be a Kings Fan 
[Reply]
Kingsfanone Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 12:11 am
@Poorman,
Good for you Poorman, you are getting something you’ve wanted for a long while. Ride that wave as long as it’ll take you, dude! Hope you keep posting here & keep following our boys!
Best of luck!
[Reply]
Goring 19 Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 12:18 am
@Poorman, good luck to ya in the big apple. It’s always a pleasure to argue with you. Even though I’m always right lol nah just kidding. Take care Poorman in N.Y. I hope Bernier does well for us this year!
[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 12:40 am
@Poorman, So, you finally showed some sack and came in to take your medicine huh ? I hope this doesnt sound condescending but I am very proud of you.
[Reply]
Shotongoal Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 4:12 am
@Poorman, see you on the flipside Mr Trenton. You and I will always believe that JB should/will be the #1 netminder……only difference is that I actually like JQ too! Remember the Insider at Cup time next June!!!
[Reply]
Dominick Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 8:46 am
@Poorman,
I couldn’t be happier for you, and your show! Congatulations, and I hope you’ll still answer my calls when your show becomes bigtime. LOL
I hope your even buisier than before, but still find enough time during the day, to come here and drive Kingsfans nuts.
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KingsFanFTW Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 9:05 am
@Dominick, LOL wouldnt be the same without Poorman..
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Gleeful. What a great way to come back from fireworks. Take that Britain!
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Its such a relief that Simon and Mike Richards are back together, and Justin Williams and Gagne are buddies…smells like Major Chemistry. Brad Richards would have ruined this team they are building, I don’t think you can have THE NEW GUY making a large amount more money then guys that are established with the team, it has to screw with players heads. If they get Doughty signed as they should, since they have spent less money then what left, then this team healthy will be very difficult to beat, Fans get your voices ready for some screaming this season, Man I can’t wait…GO-KINGS-GO
[Reply]
Interesting to think about…
Gagne / Richards / Williams (philly connection)
Penner / Kopitar / Brown
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KingsFanInPortland Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 10:37 pm
@KingsFanInPortland, how long are my comments going to be moderated for? Lol
[Reply]
sebastian Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 11:01 pm
@KingsFanInPortland, KOPITAR is the Kings #1 Center!!!!!
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KingsFanFTW Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 11:09 pm
@sebastian, agreed but he can Scarface for once LOL jk jk just switch those lines around and it will be a great line
[Reply]
Dominick Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 8:31 am
@KingsFanFTW,
That seems like the logical line combos.
Penner-Kopi-Brown
Gagne-Richards-Williams
Clifford-Stoll-?
Richardson-Lewis-?
Parse, Lokti, and Westie (especially Westy, to my shagrin) being plugged in here and there, with an FA signing still to be had, and a player from Manchester still to come. 82 games is a lot of games.
Amazing that the entire time Penner was here last season, I kept screaming for Brown to be paired back with Kopi, now that we had a true left winger, and not only did TM not even try it, but a lot of fans resisted it as well.
I bet I get my way this season (you’ll all see), and nobody will even remember when I say “I told you so”. Mwaaaahaaaahaaaaha!
KingsFanFTW Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 9:04 am
@Dominick, Maybe TM will do that…U might get what u want LOL just wait and see
KingsFanInPortland Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 2:42 am
@sebastian, why, because he has been on the kings longer? Id argue that the second line is better than the first in that mock up… whatever the case may be, I’m not saying that’s what I want or don’t want, I’m just stating that is an option
[Reply]
I know this is a little bit of a stretch, but do y’all know what the French word “Gagne” translates to in English?
Give up?
“To Win.”
Is this a prophecy or what!?!
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I ironically, I believe we’re better off with Gagne. How many times does a highly sought after free agent become disappointing after signing the BIG deal?
Gagne and Richards are hungry, out to prove they can did it again together.
This is the best we’ve looked in years!
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This is the best July 4th weekend ever, Thank you DL for MR and SG that bang bang weekend.
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Bleacherreport.com is saying there are rumors of the Kings trading DD to the Flyers. No mention of who we would get though. Could there be any truth to this? Philly would have to cough up big time for DD. Giroux or JVR would have to be involved in a sign & trade as well a some draft picks.
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Cry Baby Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 11:35 pm
@King Alex, I think the Kings should look at Schenner and Simmonds….I think they might fit well in LA!
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puck73 Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 12:43 am
@King Alex, I dont see that happening. Trading away Larry Murphy in 1983 was one of the dumbest things this organization has ever done…I dont see it happening again.
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DBking Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 12:56 am
@King Alex, I think whoever came up with that rumor needs to look for a different profession. That’s garbage.
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FiG17 Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 3:11 am
@King Alex,
I would seriously cry. Seriously. Unless we get a BIG name back… I would be in tears, in the fetal position.
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The4thPeriodDB Think there is shot at one more big move. Keeping that to myself. RT @vapper1971: @The4thPeriodDB do you think dl is done?…..
The4thPeriodDB May have one big move left RT @thelangston: @The4thPeriodDB hey you think the kings are done….
The4thPeriodDB Forward. RT @ChrisNeil17: @The4thPeriodDB is the big move for LA a forward or defense do u think?
via twitter…what else could could the kings be thing of doing???
[Reply]
CB14 Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 11:50 pm
@Levi, 3rd line R.W. Someone like Miettenin or Langenbrunner. TM has said on numerous occasions that the only way certain guys will be on the team is if they are in a top 6 role. Given that we have 6 top 6 forwards, that doesn’t bode well for guys like Lokti and Parse. Parse could be an extra skater, but if TM sticks to his plan, Lokti is in Manchester. Thus we would need an additional bottom 6 forward. Also Fraser is going to miss the first month or 2, so there’s a need for another forward on the roster.
[Reply]
Levi Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 11:58 pm
@CB14, got ya, but The4thPeriodDB says there is a shot at one more big move..or do you think thats what he’s talking about??
[Reply]
CB14 Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 12:29 am
@Levi, Hmmm. I’m not sure. I believe we only have about 3 million to play with given that we were going to give Brad Richards 6.5 million, and we gave Gagne 3.5 million, so that would leave 3 million per year for someone else I believe. I don’t see 3 million bringing us any BIG player like they’re talking about. The only FA’s out there that I can see being BIG, are Selanne and Kaberle. Teemu isn’t coming here, and after seeing Kaberle play in Boston, I don’t see DL calling his agent any time soon. Plus we don’t really need another d-man. A trade might be possible, but where is our big need? Aside from another top 9 forward, I don’t really see one.
I woke up this morning to the postings of a lot of panic. We didn’t get Richards, but clearly Gagne was the second biggest FA scoring forward on the open market July 1rst, and we landed him. Some were worried that the Kings had pissed their options away, and missed out, and I believe AZKing and I were the first to call it exactly right (technically AZ beat me, lol).
Reading Gagne’s comments, I now have nothing but the utmost respect for him, for waiting for the Kings, and that he set aside his own personal needs, to give the Kings the opportunity to make a bid, for another player, when he didn’t have too. The desire to sacrifice his own financial prosperity, just for a chance to be a King is exciting to me.
Many had speculated before the FA’s had become available, that Gagne would be a perfect fit, and although I was concerned about his health, I’m no longer concerned about his desire to be here, and see it work. Thank you Simon Gagne, and welcome to the Kings.
[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 12:45 am
@Dominick, Leave it to you to hit it out of the park ! Atta boy
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IceGuy Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 6:55 am
@puck73,
I keep seeing Roy Hobbs, or was it Kirk Gibson?
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WOW! I’m excited too bad it’s months away from hockey season. The fact that 3 Kings are all excited to play with each other makes me think we could get some good chemistry going on early. I almost like this deal better that Richards. I got excited when I realized Kings were in the hunt for Richards and sure another option at Center is always good. But it will be nice to have some quality winders for a change. I hope Penner comes back in shape!
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is he going to wear #12?
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#1faninvegas Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 12:09 am
@OCkingsFAN,
Give him Ryan Smyths number! ROFL
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OCkingsFAN Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 12:14 am
@#1faninvegas, haha wait we’re not retiring 94??
i guess loktionov needs a new number!
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#1faninvegas Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 12:17 am
@OCkingsFAN,
lol! hear ya there
Just the promise that this season holds is amazing. So many people on this site find a way to bicker over things as each person has their opinion. But I don’t think anyone can find a reason not to be happy or excited with this team. This team can contend and will start the season under close watch of the other 29 teams. I think we can all agree we have something to look forward to.
[Reply]
CB14 Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 11:44 pm
@David, Agreed!
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Off topic: I was wondering – are there many other teams with only one or no Euros?
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Who Knows? Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 11:46 pm
@RoyalPain, Unless Lokti makes the team next season, Kopi will be the only one.
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OK I’m SUPER happy about how things have panned out the last couple of weeks with the addition of Richards and Gagne…elated even!
However, I’ve noticed that most people are penciling in our 3rd line as Clifford-Stoll-Richardson. If that is our SHUTDOWN line, we’re going to have troubles; they will be the b!tch every single #1 line in our division! I think it’s a decent 2-way line that would play some good hockey, but I seriously doubt they’re capable of stopping other teams top line.
For this reason I think maybe DL will still try to tinker a bit. He’s given himself a ton of maneuverability. Thoughts?
[Reply]
RoyalPain Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 12:00 am
@John, I agree, a top-notch defensive winger for the shutdown line would make this a complete team. If Stoll really concentrates on the defensive side he can be a good stopper center.
[Reply]
#1faninvegas Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 12:08 am
@RoyalPain,
Love that show! (RoyalPain) Have you watched it?
Im not too worried your two. I think Cliffy and Richardson, can do some major spanking!
[Reply]
KingsFanFTW Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 12:08 am
@John, well last season in the playoffs lines were:
1st was Penner-Stoll-JW
2nd was Smyth-Handzus-Brown
3rd was Clifford-Richardson-Simmonds
4th was Poni-Lewis-Westy
so that line could do it only different is Stoll the Center and Rich a RW winger
[Reply]
Dominick Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 1:41 am
@John,
Nothing wrong there, except for a little size on the right side. Yes, if there’s an opportunity to add to that right side, then by all means, do it, but that line wouldn’t be considered a real stopper line anymore, with Richardson on it. It would however be considered an overskilled energy line, capable of pushing opponants back into their zone, win faceoffs, and chase down, and hold onto the puck, till the scoring lines can score.
The 1rst 2 lines have the capacity to hit even harder, and score even more now, so teams will be focusing the bulk of their talent on them. That 3rd line will most assuredly not be facing the quality of competition it did before, so it has the potential to be able to outscore any other teams #3 lines.
I’m sure it will all be worked out by camp (since we’re only at day 3 of free agency), but that isn’t too bad an option, as is. Some more size would give them a better opportunity to grind it out better, and hit more, though.
[Reply]
John Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 9:03 am
@Dominick,
After thinking about it some more & reading your post, I think you’re totally right – they really should be able to get the job done. All 3 are definitely quick, tenacious & smart enough! Plus our coaching staff will have them well prepared from day one.
[Reply]
FiG17 Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 3:15 am
@John,
maybe put Lewis in for Richardson… he’s proven to be pretty BA defensively…
[Reply]
Simon Gagne seems more excited than a giddy little school girl on Christmas day! It is a pleasure to have him on the Kings. Glad we have someone that wants to be here for the team and not the money!
I am glad that Williams and Richards helped push him abit to make the deal.
This is going to be an AWESOME SEASON coming up…. I CANT WAIT!!
Is it October? Not even July 4th yet? Aww, darn!
[Reply]
KingsFanFTW Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 12:10 am
@#1faninvegas, i know and its funny Richards hasnt play for the Kings and he kinda give him the edge to sign LOL
[Reply]
Dominick Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 1:52 am
@#1faninvegas,
“I am glad that Williams and Richards helped push him abit to make the deal” It is amazing that it was them who turned the tide. We had Gretz, and Koby plead our case, and lost out. Richards, and Willy ask, and presto!
[Reply]
i just have a feeling, going by what happened in the playoffs. that clifford is gonna be a big time player next season..i just have a feeling…
[Reply]
#1faninvegas Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 12:28 am
@OCkingsFAN,
4sure
[Reply]
The biggest things I picked up on reading that article is that Mr.Gagne really is happy to be, wants to be, and is looking forward to being a King. He seems like the type of player that friends and familiarity are important to, and he feels like LA brings him that. He also seems excited and ready to contribute.
GOOD LUCK TO YOU SIMON!
[Reply]
Joemv8 Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 4:11 am
@Steven Jaime,
He waited a day to see if he could come because he wants to be here. We look forward to having him here. We only want players who want to be here. This will make Richards even more valuable to our team.(the richards with heart)
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jonsey Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 9:18 am
@Joemv8, I think the other Richards has plenty of heart. This one didn’t necessarily want to come here, he was traded.
[Reply]
@John, Agree I don’t think. Clifford. Stoll Richardson is a shutdown line. Way to slow. I think using our top line as a shutdown line could work. It forces other teams top lines to do more than think about scoring. On the other hand it has the same effect on our top line.
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 5:35 am
@Steven Jaime, Stoll is just about the fastest guy on the team and Richardson isn’t slow either. Way off base.
[Reply]
John Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 9:06 am
@KC23,
Cliffy can get going too!
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I have not been so exited for an upcoming season in a long time. Its so exited that Heidi Androl is doing cart wheels right about now.
[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 12:47 am
@Enrique, If she is, may it be with a skirt on !
[Reply]
CB14 Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 12:57 am
@puck73, And the video camera rolling!
[Reply]
Dominick Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 2:09 am
@puck73,
If that’s the case, add the ice girls also!
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KingsFanFTW Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 8:41 am
@Dominick, LOL
Looking far ahead deep into the playoffs, we are going to be a nightmare to match lines with. Imagine Van trying to get the sedins away from our #1/2 Shut down lines which just so happen to be our best offensive lines, lol so this is what Detroit used to feel like. Muhahahahaha! Oh and keep your head up Taylor Hall because its not just Doughty looking to be a “Cannon”.
[Reply]
Good signing for the Kings, especially if he can stay healthy. If so he’ll score 20-25 a year. I still think they need one more winger.
Rich: That photo of Gagne looks more like a mug shot. lol.
[Reply]
IceGuy Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 7:07 am
@PaulHB,
Note to Kings Mgt:
You know, there is a thriving business in LA, specifically Hollywood, that you might want to tap into. It’s the photographers who specialize in the Hollywood Headshot. You know, those 8×10 glossies that actors drop off after an audition? Posed and composed to make the person appear in his best light. Something with character. Geez, even KingsVision does better lighting than you player PR pictures!
Please, no more mug shots! Maybe even a smile!
[Reply]
jonsey Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 9:16 am
@IceGuy, For sure. Maybe even have all of the players do the exact same look. Kopitar hair.
[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 10:04 am
@IceGuy, Good point about Hollywood and using it as a source. I think the Kings players and their agents should utilize it more…Money !
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I knew he’d be a King. I think we all felt it, especially after the Richards signing (the Mike one). I’m very excited about this and I gotta think that after the dust settles (even as of now) our team is better today.
[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 10:06 am
@KingNewfie, No question. I was hoping for either Fleischmann or Gagne via free agency….DL shoots, he scores !
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It’s nice to see someone so excited to come out to LA. We’ve kind of been the red-head step child, the last few years, during free agency…
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The only thing that rubs me a bit on the wrong side is that we might loose all of our young Russians.
I spent two years anticipating Lokti and Voynov making the big club, seeing them pay their dues in Manchester and pay them well. Looks like there won’t be much room for them this season.
Lokti will stick around but Slava might bolt.
Kitsyn held up to his end of the bargain and skated American ice last season but he still has a contract in the KHL to wrap up. He might do what Semin did, finish his KHL contract and his military thing before returning.
I know, despite an awesome offseason there’s just no pleasing me.
[Reply]
Dominick Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 8:09 am
@Token,
Wouldn’t mind seeing Kitsyn go back for 1 more year to play with his older brother Kirill, but if he makes camp this summer, I wouldn’t completely count him out for holding down a spot for a depth player, and sticks around a while. Especially if there’s any injuries coming out of camp. Question is, wether he’ll even make camp.
[Reply]
John Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 9:11 am
@Token,
I don’t know – I have a feeling Drewiske, Muzzin, Voynov & Hickey will have quite a competition for that 7th dman spot!
[Reply]
Token Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 9:52 am
@John, I would hope so too, but Whiskey is not waiver exempt, and for the money he’s paid is a good deal. My guess is he continues to warm the bench as a backup for Mitch, Green, Scuds and the others get flown in for DD, JMFJ, Martinez, should the need arise.
Again, more of an emotional quandary than a real issue.
[Reply]
John Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 9:59 am
@Token,
Yeah, that’s probably very true. I guess I’d just like to see what kind of game Voynov and Hickey can bring on the big club.
puck73 Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 10:16 am
@John, Totally agree. With all the depth we have on defense, nobody is guaranteed anything. Thats whats so great about DL drafting and developing players…the cream will rise to the top !
[Reply]
PP Anybody? Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 11:26 am
@Token, I’m starting to feel like Lokti just might not be able to make it at the NHL level with his size. I like the kid and all, but he seems just too small out there. Mostly it’s his timidness. Small players need to have that extra tenacity, like Brad Marchand has. I just don’t see that in Lokti. Hope to see it develop, cause he definitely has some skill, but I don’t know if that’s something you can grow into or not.
As for Voynov, I don’t think he’ll ever make it with the Kings. He seems like a Mike Green type, only focused on offense. Just doesn’t seem like a TM type of guy. Could be good trade bait though..
[Reply]
Detroit was patient with their young Russians, we’ll be patient too. Time is on our side with some of the talent we have.
[Reply]
Token Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 9:57 am
@KC23, Tru that. Nothing brings the talent back home like a few cup runs.
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JUST SIGN DOUGHTYYYYYYYYYYYYYY!!!!
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I said all along it was going to be Gagne coming to Kings. I believe this is a better fit for us.
Great job DL. Building this team the right way. Just get DD signed long term and we are gold.
Or should I say silver, as in Stanley Cup.
[Reply]
I’m sorta glad we didn’t get MR- look @ the bruins… they didn’t have a ‘go to’ guy in the traditional sense, they spread out the ice and scored by commitee and played great defense with great goaltending… sound familiar?
Can’t wait for the 2011 season to begin! GKG!!!
[Reply]
jonsey Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 9:13 am
@Mike McChesney, you mean BR, cause we DID get MR
[Reply]
John Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 9:14 am
@Mike McChesney,
Yep exactly! I really think we’re going to be able to do what TM loves, roll 4 lines!!!
[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 10:18 am
@Mike McChesney, I think you meant BR.
[Reply]
sounds like gagne is excited to play with mr again. we need 65-70 pts outta him. what do you guys think?
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Flyers fans on blogs all over are mad. They keep saying what bad players Gagne and Richards are. I think that means we got a couple of really good players. It was odd timing that the Flyers completely retooled their team, but we did a little retooling too. At least our entire D is the same as last year. Our forward corps is very similar. Gagne>=Smyth? Richards>Simmonds. Schenn is gone, but he wasn’t on the team anyway. Handzus is out. Lewis might be able to do what Handzus did and he’s much faster. Love the Gagne signing for such a reasonable cap hit.
[Reply]
Kopitar
Richards
Stoll
are there any other teams with a better top 3 centers right now?
[Reply]
Canadian King Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 9:53 am
@tornado12, Just pittsburgh IF they move Stall back to the third line, other than that no there is not.
[Reply]
tornado12 Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 10:00 am
@Canadian King, also maybe San Jose? Thornton, Pavelski, couture?
[Reply]
Cry Baby Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 9:55 am
@tornado12, Yes! Crosby, Malkin, Staal.
[Reply]
tornado12 Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 10:10 am
@Cry Baby, are crosby and Malkin even going to be healthy enough to start the season though?
[Reply]
Only thing that bums me out is Handzus signing with San Jose. I know he wasn’t in our plans, but why San Jose? Some things in life just aren’t right.
[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 10:22 am
@tim, I miss Handzus as well for the moment. Lets see how the team unfolds this season, and then we will know for aure how much they really miss him. Speaking of missing, this is just my own opinion, I believe Doughty really missed the comfort level of playing alongside Sean Odonnell…Just my opinion.
[Reply]
tornado12 Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 10:38 am
@puck73, was that a backhanded slight by puck73 at WM? Im shocked…
[Reply]
Dominick Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 10:44 am
@tornado12,
He does have a point there. OD was a calming influence on DD, and last season DD lost his cool at bad times (when teams actually racheted up their physical play), and key momments of the game. Many complained about his maturity, and I think that was a major difference in DD’s play, from the season before, where DD seemed more poised.
tornado12 Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 10:57 am
@Dominick. i agree with you about DD, but what does that have to do with WM vs SO? im having a hard time making a connection, unless you are referring to SO being more willing to fight for DD than WM. i can def see that!
wavesinair Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 11:05 am
@D re: maturity
It was a difference but not a major one imo.
His concussion early on along with the entire league keying in on him more were the 2 major factors for the dip. The frustration we saw was a result of these 2 things, so it was basically inevitable that Drew would have growing pains.
The question is, how long will it take him to settle into a super consistent force? 1 year? 2 years? It will all depend on how bad he wants to be a great (dare I say hall of fame) player.
Dominick Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 1:13 pm
@tornado12,
Willy is more of a quiet lead by example type, while SO was a more in your ear type. SO was able to put things into perspective at criticle times on the ice, and settle DD down. It was widely believed (not just by me) that Sean O’Donnell had a calming influence on the D as a whole, but I believe it was on DD where this was even more apparent.
I wasn’t saying you were wrong or anything like that (I hope it didn’t come off that way). I was just adding more to what puck was saying as it pertains to DD.
tornado12 Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 8:39 pm
@Dominick, not at all bro, just wanted to understand your thinking!
Gagne > Smyth..& we are going to pound the ducks…..LETS GO KINGS!….
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wavesinair Reply:
July 3rd, 2011 at 11:07 am
@chuckrocks,
C2 Richards > Stoll
C3 Stoll > Handzus
Huge upgrade up the middle.
We are going to pound the ducks…
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hell yes. kopitar,williams,penner./richards,gagne,brown./ stoll,richards,parse./lewis,lotinikov,clifford. its early but i see a playoff run.
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