Hello to everyone from the secret-location bunker. If anyone could save me some newspapers and TV programs, so I can catch up upon my return, I’d appreciate it. If there’s anything interesting going on in the hockey world these days, I remain blissfully ignorant.
Meant to do this before departure last week, but during the last open forum session, there were a couple questions about possible changes to the commenting system here. In short, there will be some dramatic changes fairly soon. It’s pointless to get into particulars, but suffice to say, like many things in the world, a small minority makes things difficult for the vast majority. So, we change, and hopefully find something that works well for everyone. The most-discussed option is to go to a system in which people log in through Facebook accounts and post. The point is for people to post behind their real names, because it’s been proven, time and again, that there’s a higher level of responsibility and accountability when people actually attach their names to what they say. I understand the concerns about Facebook, particularly in the area of privacy. I can tell you that, from all my investigation, there is nothing that would be made public here that is not made public through your Facebook setting. If you don’t have a public picture there, you won’t have one here, etc.
That said, I’m open to ideas. I assure you that my primary concern is to find a system that best serves (within reason) the needs of the readers. I know we’ve got some highly intelligent tech-type people out there, so feel free to share some thoughts and I’ll be happy to read them.
First
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Jack the Lad Reply:
July 22nd, 2011 at 9:35 pm
@vtecjunkie, What is it with this first thing, seems really childish to me.
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LBlocal Reply:
July 22nd, 2011 at 10:56 pm
E5
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39scars Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 6:17 pm
@LBlocal, 1000th
puckbob Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 5:18 pm
@Jack the Lad, 2nd
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dMan Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 1:10 am
@vtecjunkie, Kind of ironic.
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Sancho Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 4:15 pm
@dMan, I agree.
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Shakes Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 10:03 am
@dMan,
technically, not to be anal, but i think it would actually be ironic if Jack the Lad’s name were “Vtecjunkie” because then it would ironic that he would get annoyed at people wanting to be first when he desires to be first. The fact that vtecjunkie wanted to be the first person to comment isn’t ironic but rather par for the course as per his name
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neil Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 12:48 pm
@vtecjunkie, two hundred and eighth!!!!!!!
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vtecjunkie Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 6:35 pm
@neil, You’re all jealous.
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Brownkingsfan Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 10:01 am
@vtecjunkie, Yeah. I’m super jealous. And most people on here are way over reacting! He said “Facebook, for instance.” It’s not a definitive thing yet, and Rich has to do things like this to keep people honest. It’s not the end of the world… Go with the changes, or don’t. You have the choice to not comment. This site is free, and there are very few, very reasonable restrictions that go with it. Perspective people! Come on!!! GO KINGS GO! Thanks Rich for keeping this going!
KFII Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 10:52 am
@vtecjunkie, #600 LOL
Kinger Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 9:04 am
@vtecjunkie, Honda’s are garbage.
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don’t forget about Google+ for us hipsters who ditched facebook.
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To keep it short I can tell you that this will have a great impact on the number of people who post on the blog. The majority that will no longer post will actually be the people who are decent humans and are able to carry civil conversations without making fools of themselves.
I speak from experience as I’ve worked on projects that have had to endure similar changes.
I for one do not have a facebook account nor do I plan to have on.
In regards to suggestions the only thing I can suggest is to have commenting system that will log users by IP and cookies. You have a simple 3 strike rule. Anyone breaking any combo of rules or does something that is deemed by Rich or the administrative staff of this blog is “exiled” from the blog. Is this fail proof? No but neither is using facebook accounts as a gateway.
A troll will troll with a bogus facebook account. Banning them by IP will force them to jump through harder loops to get back on and they may not be willing to do it.
My 2 cents.
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Facebook? What is THAT?
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jonsey Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 9:53 am
@Doug E, +1
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puckbob Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 5:57 pm
@Doug E,
facebook? just say NO!!
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Facebook.. Blahh…
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I really am Chris Bond….I have a facebook for now until google + takes over the world…(evil laugh) hahahhahahahha….hahahhahahah….
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Player-X Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 8:38 am
@Chris Bond, lol
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Ravens Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 4:07 pm
@Chris Bond, yeah and I;m really ravens on FB…well Ravens Moreland that is
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kingsxstevenxkings Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 11:22 pm
@Chris Bond,
kingsxSTEVENxkings… totally my actual name…big surprises all around haha (I agree on the google+ comment..matter of time…muaaaahhaaaahaha)
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As I post with a fake name, I say let us use a facebook login. I want people behaving well, and to make it easier to access.
Also, please iphone and android apps!
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2hitnik Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 7:40 pm
@QUICKsilver, apps would be nice, but I would settle for a decent mobile site. (And I’m not really Alex Zhitnik, but a click on the link where it says 2hitnik leads you to my twitter page, with my picture).
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But what about the people who don’t want/have a facebook account?.. I want to read and post here without Facebook!.. And attaching your email to your post name is the same as your name IMO.
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DaveinSD Reply:
July 22nd, 2011 at 9:45 pm
@Jpizzle313, i’m with you here. I do not want Facebook. Like me the Kings were established long before Facebook. I do not understand why everyone wants to go to Facebook? If the Kings, Rich Hammond and anyone else in the Kings organization wants us to be real and accountable, then let’s do that be real here. Create this site using a dedicated login and we will create our identity. I would think the majority of us here are DIE HARD Kings fans and would not mind doing this. Just my thoughts, I may be the minority here but oh well…
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Deadmarsh Reply:
July 22nd, 2011 at 10:26 pm
@DaveinSD, Well said Dave. I don’t care for facebook either. Usernames should be tracked through an e-mail address. It’s 2011, I’m sure Rich and his staff will find a way. Thank you for your dedication Rich!
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Gary Livingston Reply:
July 22nd, 2011 at 10:45 pm
@DaveinSD, People are more likely to use false information on a blog site where they interact mainly with people they have no attachment to or real world contact with than they would on Facebook where they generally use the site to stay in touch with real friends and networking with people.
As for using Facebook…since this is built on word press I am pretty sure it will allow you to log in as you do now and offer the additional option to use facebook connect to log in/sign up to comment.
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LittleRhody Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 10:11 pm
@Gary Livingston, Just my observation, but it seems that the people here have a fair amount of real-world contact.
Besides the suite night(s), people are often trying to get together to watch/attend games, meet for a drink during the iintermissions or before or after the games, etc.
Sammuch Reply:
July 22nd, 2011 at 11:29 pm
@DaveinSD,
I agree let do are own long in account, I like that die hard King fans have a place to go. Without facebook being a part of our everyday lives. Please Rich not everyone one is a fan of FB, but we are a fan of you and the Kings… no FB no no FB no
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GG Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 12:30 am
@Sammuch, die hard kingsbook
MacSwede Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 12:39 am
@Sammuch, I totally agree!! I do not want this on facebook! I want it to be a separate thing… Blah!
PagenHagen Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 3:21 am
@Sammuch,
I have no facebook and refuse to get one, I’ve been a kings fan my whole life, and just became a part of this blog (and my first, and only blog of my life) do not bring facebook into this picture.
TMagz Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 11:08 am
@Sammuch, NO FACEBOOK!! Don’t have one, don’t want one. There’s got to be other alternatives. Not a threat here of course, but I’ll be forced to stop reading and posting my thoughts if we have to log in through Facebook. Man that would suck. Don’t do it Rich. What’s wrong with just creating a log in through this website?
Cortex949 Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 12:13 pm
@DaveinSD, I am anti FB too. I don’t want everyone I know, knowing everything I do, look at, or commet on. Maybe I’m more of a private person but I have different circles of people in my life and my choice to not use Facebook stems from having no desire to integrate this different groups together. Example: I don’t want my co workers seeing how drunk and stupid I was on sat night with my friends from my personal life. I know there are ways of filtering info from certain groups or people through settings and such but I still feel that if I want someone to know something about me or where I am or what I’m doing I’ll FREAKING TELL THEM! Hahah, sry.
Anyway GKG!
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Peter90210 Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 12:24 pm
@DaveinSD, I’m surprised that there even needs to be a change. Far and away, the majority of people on this site are responsible, and those that aren’t tend to go away when they’re ignored. Keep it separate, Rich. Everything in the world doesn’t have to go through facebook, and we should be able to keep this little gem of a specialty web site just for the faithful without having to open our lives up to everyone. Some of us don’t collect facebook friends in favor of keeping the site truly restricted to real friends, so the last thing I intend to do is draw unwanted attention to my facebook site.
I vote for no change……
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Kingstane9 Reply:
July 22nd, 2011 at 11:01 pm
@Jpizzle313, agreed! Facebookland registration? No way. But I’d much rather do one here…
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USHA#17 Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 6:45 am
@Jpizzle313, Agree. Will we next need to join a political party, become a season ticket holder or have to somehow participate in some other unrelated enterprise to participate?
Try adding a flag option and hire a monitor. After all this is a PR enterprise ultimately
designed to generate revenue.
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jpizzle313 Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 1:30 pm
@USHA#17, my political party is the LA KINGS!.. i love this site and what the HAMMER does!.. and im a season ticket holder! All that without a Facebook!, I think this site was created by the PR department to keep fans informed all over the world on there LA Kings!.. and the major majority of bloggers here use the same name, and most are regulars at games! From time to time there’s a rogue duck fan or something that comes here changing names and creating a mess. all I was saying, is first this site then Facebook gets the world! Whats next i get my tickets on Facebook!?.. I was ok with not getting my high school reunion tickets because of FB, BUT NOT MY KINGS BLOG!… GKG!
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Mike McGriff Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 8:53 am
@Jpizzle313, I guess the minority loose this time, yea!
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Jamesonafterawin Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 10:55 am
@Jpizzle313, Yeah. I need anoher login like I need another hole in my head. And with all the logins I have now with being in the computer field I’m surprised I have any head to have another hole to be put in. Just to do my job, ebay and personal email 13.
Now that I think of it, this is my only ‘social media outlet’.
I’ll just go back to watching the games and telling my frieds and family about the Kings and getting blank stares. As it was not long ago.
But I totally understand. I run into ‘those types’ that I label as ruiners all the time.
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just my opinion Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 11:54 am
@Jpizzle313, I, too, am not part of the “socially engineered” and have no interest in it. I agree that the email and IP address should be enough, but apparently it’s not enough. Since I always comment responsibly I guess I will yet again be inconvenienced by the ones who aren’t.
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jpizzle313 Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 1:40 pm
@just my opinion, not only that but being a season ticket holder the kings have my name money and address to go along with my email and things i say on this site!.. iv used this site with the same name every time! you can find me in section 313 so that said the people who sit around me should know who i am!.. not to say that i haven’t made a drunk comment on here or 2 after a bad loss1.. but who hasn’t among-st the normal bloggers! but still i use the same name and same email so IMO email loggins is ok just PLEASE no out side social networks THEY ARE MAKING ZOMBIES OUT OF THE PEOPLE WHO USE THEM!.. GKG!! PS paid my tickets off early this year in hopes DD needs my money!
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BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 9:37 am
@jpizzle313,
I don’t think Zombieland is as bad as you say…
Anymore than Zombieland includes this site!
So many of us may have lived through a lifetime of being ignored…
I have.
Posting is a way out of that invisibility.
I have no problem with having my identity out there, anymore than I have a problem with the ubiquitous nature of videophones. I believe individuals get stronger with a defined identity, not weaker.
Control your life.
ZombieLand will not control you.
Old Man Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 3:33 pm
@Jpizzle313, I agree 100%,please leave things the way they are.I`m just now after 3 years learning how to operate this computer.Thank`s Rich!
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King John Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 1:50 pm
I don’t want to connect Facebook to this; let’s keep things separate, please!
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Howe 9 Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 9:34 am
@King John,
I am not on Facebook & would not want to be on it. It’s stoopid.
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GkingsG99 Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 11:52 am
@Jpizzle313, You all can just create facebook accounts if it does go that way just to use the blog. You don’t HAVE to do jack to your profile, or post, or update what you are doing.. no one forces anyone to talk about how pounded they got the night before, it’s all your own choice wheather you want to do that or not. just saying…if it comes down to facebook.
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Jpizzle313 Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 9:19 pm
@GkingsG99, your late in the convo!. Peoples employers block FB and privacy hasent been there MO ether!.. People don’t want Facebook on principles keep reading the posts Ty!
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5holer Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 11:59 am
@Jpizzle313, Bang On! Privacy is a Right not a luxury. I will not pay the price to sacrifice my privacy for any reasons. Many War Vets gave their collective lives for this cause among other freedoms fought for indeed. I will delete myself from here first before relenting to another freedom lost. Hiding isn’t one of my better virtues. Words and opinions about hockey matters don’t kill or maim! Some here will be happy to see & hear me no more. Good enough! Many other places to post with kept freedoms and privacy intact. Political Correctness is the Cancer of Liberty! See Ya!
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Jimbo Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 7:34 am
yeah…no Facebook…ya bunch of young hippies…
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I would be very disappointed to be a spectator only if we were to bring Facebook into the picture. I do not have a Facebook account and will not get one. I will say that I will still be a follower of your comments but will not be able to post. Facebook will be a drawback for me. /soapbox
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PRMan Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 5:49 am
Exactly this.
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FaceMeetPalm Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 7:32 am
@PRMan,
Agreed with anti-Facebook sentiments.
1. Don’t have Facebook. Don’t want Facebook. Won’t get it.
2. Delete “offensive posts,” hire a monitor, and require dedicated log-ins. Ban people who violate your decency rules.
3. Question: Are the “offensive posts” so bad as to actually warrant this much attention?
Great blog. Too much time spent worrying about people’s delicate sensitivities.
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King Alex Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 9:57 am
@FaceMeetPalm, I agree. No interest in joining Facebook. If that’s the way this blog is going, I guess it’s time for me to move on. Some of us are not into FB, Twitter & the like. I’ll just remain a die hard Kings fan who does not blog anymore.
anonandonanon Reply:
August 2nd, 2011 at 7:24 am
@FaceMeetPalm, Total agreement, nicely put, deep regret that another outlet for expression might be lost to me.
Rick Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 8:44 am
@MrMister, Totally agree.
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Kingofkings Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 9:26 am
@MrMister, My thoughts exactly.
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8Doughty8 Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 10:09 am
@Kingofkings, It seems to be a consensus… NO FACEBOOK!!!
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Choralone Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 11:09 am
@MrMister, I’m not a Facebook fan myself, but if you only get a Facebook account to post here, I don’t see why it’s a deal-breaker. Crank your privacy settings up and don’t use it for anything else. You don’t have to post pictures, accept friend requests, etc. unless you want to.
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MrMister Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 11:57 am
@Choralone, it’s on principle that I would not get a FB account for the sole purpose that I don’t want to support a company like FB. If Rich decides thats the direction he wants his blog to go towards to, then thats his decision, but I would not force myself to open a FB, Google+, Twitter, etc account for the sole purpose of commenting on this forum. I support Rich Hammond and lakingsinsider NOT the any of the above mentioned social media outlet.
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DLB Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 9:26 am
@Choralone, I don’t want to go through that hassle, and I refuse to support that company.
I would be happy to post under my real name otherwise.
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Hockeysureshot Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 11:37 am
@MrMister, Me too. Don’t have Facebook and don’t ever plan to sign on. Don’t like that idea, Rich.
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Istilmiszhitnik Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 4:29 pm
@Hockeysureshot, I finally canceled my facebook, and will never get back on. Please avoid bringing facebook into the picture.
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Jorgen Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 4:27 pm
@MrMister, I agree. The FB tie will end my posting days here. There are so many other options that should be considered before even thinking about linking via another site.
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Howe 9 Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 9:35 am
@Jorgen,
I will not get a Facebook account. i see the problems it has caused my son & my wife has had a problem with it too. If this switches to facebook then I am done.
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HockeyOnly Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 3:39 pm
@MrMister, I totally agree with all those who do not want facebook, I guess when someone says something stupid here and you make a comment to the contrary, it means it’s kindergarden time and you have to take a time out because you’re not playing nice. They don’t seem to have all these nice nice rules on the TSN comment section. But then there are not quite as many hockey illiterits there either.
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I’m good with it. It’s not like I go online expecting anything I say to be completely private anyway. I don’t read many comments just because of some of the fake name bravado.
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If you’re taking about LiveFyre commenting with has taken off on WordPress, it’s not bad. Takes a while to get used to, but it’s really effective and clean. Plus, I believe commenters would have the option of posting their comments to Facebook/Twitter/LinkedIN, to get more people to join the conversation.
Having said that (There’s my Curb reference), you would still be able to comment through your email, but your email address would be shown.
Again, this is just assuming that Rich is talking about LiveFyre.
And if you want to avoid Facebook, if you create a LiveFyre account, I think a username will show. That way people can keep their nicknames like they’ve had here.
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Facebook login is horrible. I would rather have to just make a legit account off this site. Facebook is lame. Please rich, help us fight against the evil Facebook.
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Gary Livingston Reply:
July 22nd, 2011 at 10:48 pm
@Kingme81,
I think you haven’t spent very much time exploring Facebook connect and the many options it offers through the API.
It’s actually pretty secure and you can set your privacy settings however you like if you want to take the time to customize those features.
What’s so evil about Facebook?
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rumpa#19 Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 10:46 am
@Gary Livingston, Whats so evil? how about scanning a photo and it tells you who that person is. FB should be call FBI book. Come and join government control of your privacy rights book.
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Gary Livingston Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 11:24 pm
@rumpa#19,
Lots of software and sites use that coding now. I call that convenient because I don’t need to spend extra time tagging my friends in the photos I take of them. I can just look over the suggestions and click “done.”
If you use a site to share images amongst your friends you are going to tag them in the photos they appear in so they can easily see those photos and they can easily share those ones with their other friends.
If you can save time by clicking “done” instead of manually doing that work how is that evil?
You should check out Picasa. It recognizes and tags people and LEARNS as you use it. If you want to be confronted with pure evil you should read up on that software! It blew me away how accurate it is! haha
kingsxstevenxkings Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 11:29 pm
@rumpa#19,
The Mac program iPhoto does that too, is Apple evil and run by the government as well?
Gary Livingston Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 12:56 am
@rumpa#19, Apple is more evil if you ask me because they stole code from some kid that developed an app for the iPhone. They first denied it from entry to the app store, then they took the code and built it into the newest iphone OS update as and included official Apple app. haha. That’s pretty evil.
Run by the government, no. Evil, yes.
I login with the name Shakes because that’s my nickname, but if using real names makes the people conduct themselves better, then that works. I’m guessing that most of the pain and angst Rich is alluding to is with comments which we don’t see or get edited relatively quickly, so if it makes your life easier Rich so you can report more on the Kings and spend less time monitoring, that works
Plus I suppose the added benefit is that it may make the online Kings community tighter as people start befriending each other…
The downside is that there may be some people who don’t have facebook accounts (perish the thought!) and thus we may inadvertently lose their voices.
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James Harris Reply:
July 22nd, 2011 at 10:53 pm
@Shakes, I like your style.
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Ari Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 7:36 am
@Shakes, Well said
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Michael J. Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 12:25 pm
@Shakes,
I agree. we don’t know all that Rich has to do to keep this place on the up and up.
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Wow this is MAJOR. Think about it, rolling your LAK Insider account with your fb account? As if we are not already bombarded with enough on fb with all the other junk we have to sort through. This place is a nice vacation from fb so why roll them into one another? Are we not witnessing the greatest cosolodation of personal info in the history of manking? How about the greatest centralization of everything? Anti-Trust laws anybody?
I orefer the separation of church and state (LAK Insider & FB) thank you very much….
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jess Reply:
July 22nd, 2011 at 8:49 pm
@jess, Wow my buttons are skipping haha..
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Gary Livingston Reply:
July 22nd, 2011 at 10:54 pm
@jess, What are you ranting about?
Do you ever use Facebook Connect? The programmer for this blog is probably only going to utilize it in two ways:
1. Facebook Connect will be used for registering accounts for commenting on this site. By doing so it will auto fill your name, location, and email address (which you supplied to Facebook) into the registration fields.
2. It will probably integrate the “share” or “like” button onto the posts. Simply to help publicize the blog posts through your facebook wall IF you choose to do so.
I doubt it would be used in any other way and you would not see LAKingsInsider on your Facebook feed any more than you do now if you already “liked” his Facebook Page.
So, what are you ranting about and worried about?
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jess Reply:
July 22nd, 2011 at 11:01 pm
@Gary Livingston,
No I purposely don’t use facebook connect.
Ranting? Worried? Keep giving up your freedoms for the sake convenience and ask me that quesiton again someday.
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Gary Livingston Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 11:33 pm
@jess,
What freedoms have I given up?
What freedoms do you not have right now?
Cause, you have the freedom to not sign up to Facebook. Whether or not this blog implements a mandatory “you must sign in through Facebook to comment” rule you still have the freedom to decide if you want to do that.
So, now that I know you are ranting and worried about our freedom I will follow up with this question:
WHY are you ranting and so worried about losing our freedom due to Facebook?
Furthermore, since you have no personal experience with the site because you purposely choose to not use Facebook, what research have you done to come to the conclusion that Facebook is removing our freedoms?
King Alex Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 10:01 am
@Gary Livingston, Not everyone likes nor wants to be a part of Facebook. Why can’t you respect that?
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Gary Livingston Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 11:27 pm
@King Alex,
I respect that if the argument is rooted in logic. Not this ridiculous “my rights! my freedoms are being taken from me!” business.
Honestly, if you’re just too lazy to use Facebook that is a far more understandable and sane argument to not wanting to have an account there than the majority of what people here are going on about.
rumpa#19 Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 10:58 am
@Gary Livingston, You must live on FB because you seam to be the only insider who really wants this and more than your own freedoms .Most of us commenting back to you will probably be on a terrorist list for resisting. I dont mind if other bloggers have my info but i dont want it part of our requirements. Live free or die .
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SpreignedAnkle Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 3:19 pm
@rumpa#19, Seriously guys? Using Facebook is “giving away our freedoms”? How ridiculous does that sound?
Some people choose to live on Facebook, and some use it in moderation, just like anything else in life. Don’t throw the baby out with the bath water.
I, for one, like the idea of being able to respond quickly without having to re-login to anything… just like on SBNation, Yelp, etc.
jess Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 11:48 pm
@SpreinedAnkle,
So you can press a few less buttons?
SpreignedAnkle Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 12:37 am
@jess,
Precisely. You seem to equate someone having a facebook account to someone who likes to spend hours on the computer; being able to log in via facebook actually streamlines it for me, so I spend less time on the computer overall.
Besides, I think it would be dumb to make everyone sign in via facebook, and I don’t think that would ever happen (nor is that what Rich was implying). Allowing people to have accounts solely on this blog, OR log in via facebook, google, or yahoo would be best for everyone involved.
Honestly though, the only change to any of this I would REALLY REALLY want is the ability to thumbs up (or some variation) posts I like. Anything else doesn’t really matter much to me.
jess Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 11:46 pm
@Gary Livingston,
Dude what planet have you been on? FB is always being reported on by true investigative journalists on the infringement of personal privacy issues, and this is something that will happen in perpetuity. Now Gary, get back into that program from which you were created and quit selling us on the benefits of public IT exposure.
[Reply]
Gary Livingston Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 12:59 am
@jess,
“always being reported on by true investigative journalists”
By all means please inform me and others about this by citing sources.
Let’s see some links. I’ll go check them out.
FemaleFan #1 Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 6:32 am
@jess, Any one else get the impression that this GL guy works for FB?!?! I think Rich gets the idea that FB should be a no go, and at this point, this guy is just wasting time arguing with all of u when he could be spending time on FB
King Alex Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 12:59 am
@Gary Livingston, Just because I do not FaceBook does not make me or anyone else lazy. What’s with the personal attacks? I keep in touch with my loved ones on a more personal level the same way they do with me. I don’t wear tinfoil hats thinking “they” are out to get me either. Social media is a choice one must make for themselves and I respect your right to due so & my & anyone elses right to opt out. Peace!
[Reply]
Gary Livingston Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 11:19 am
@King Alex,
I’m just painting a general picture that if someone is too lazy to bother checking into what something is I feel that is a valid and sensible reason to not bother with exploring and learning about something. This other junk about losing freedoms and whatnot is not sensible. I don’t respect people building arguments out of misinformation and spreading it and getting way too heated about things based on that.
I don’t recall saying “King Alex is a lazy person.”
I will say you’re sensitive though. ^_^
Michael J. Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 12:30 pm
@jess,
Actually the Constitution states: “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof.” Which roughly translates to something like: “Facebook shall not force one to log onto LA Kings Insider…”
We can choose to do so, or not to. It’s our choice = Freedom
[Reply]
Howe 9 Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 9:37 am
@Michael J.,
Alot of us are not computer savy enought to work facebook. I don’t i=understand a lot of things the people above have just said. I say no to Facebook.
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I am boycotting Facebook because Zuckerberg is a shmuck who doesn’t give to charity.
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408kingsfan Reply:
July 22nd, 2011 at 8:58 pm
@408kingsfan, Just Kidding!!!! not a horrible idea, although I hope a better one comes along
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Gary Livingston Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 11:36 pm
@408kingsfan, This I can support. <3
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Rich, hope you are enjoying your mentoring time in the “secret location bunker”. I’m sure your efforts are facilitating a young journalist to realize more of their potential.
Have fun and read you afterwards.
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I don’t post here very often, so my voice will surely not be missed, but I will not ever, ever, ever get a Facebook account. I hope some other method can be found.
[Reply]
nofreight Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 10:47 am
i never post either read everday before last summer…this place is grat..it aint broke why screw it all up no facebook
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nofreight Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 10:48 am
@nofreight, great*
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bulldog13lak Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 3:37 pm
@EJ, Same here, will never go on Facebook, shame to not post on the odd occasion I do.
[Reply]
Jim S. Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 11:53 am
@EJ,
Actually your voice, my voice, & the voices of regular Kings fans will be missed… and that’s the point. This blog is great because you have the ability to comment & state your opinion whenever you are inspired to… and it stays here on this blog. Besides some of the handles here are hiarious… yet I go “old school” with my first name & last name initial. It will be sad & a big mistake if this blog goes social media mainstream with Facebook; especially, with the team poised for a huge breakout this year! Other sites do exist, but I only post infrequently here cause of the insightful posts of the community here. Oh well… it’s only hockey, right? Good day to you!
[Reply]
Count me out…….. I will not go anywhere near Facebook, Twitter etc.
Consider me old fashioned!!!
May I suggest you offer the current format as a ‘read only’ option.
Just my 2 cents.
[Reply]
Buster Reply:
July 22nd, 2011 at 9:09 pm
@Colin E.,
I couldn’t agree with you more on this front.
I won’t go to Facebook for ANY reason. Twitter? There’s something about a site that starts off with the letters TWIT that tends to make me avoid it like the plague.
[Reply]
Jamesonafterawin Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 11:28 am
@Buster, Ya!
[Reply]
Gary Livingston Reply:
July 22nd, 2011 at 10:56 pm
@Colin E.,
For the read only version here is the RSS feed: http://lakingsinsider.com/feed/
Stop being afraid of technology for no reason.
[Reply]
Colin E. Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 8:14 am
@Gary Livingston, I think you don’t understand, I’m simply not interested in Facebook or Twitter….. and I am in the technology field!
[Reply]
Gary Livingston Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 11:43 pm
@Colin E., Statement retracted. I jumped to conclusions reading your post after reading the other many posts rooted in paranoia.
But, yeah, RSS feed
jpizzle313 Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 2:11 pm
@Gary Livingston, I just wanted to repeat something i said earlier! FACEBOOK IS MAKING ZOMBIES OUT OF THE PEOPLE WHO USE IT!.. sorry if some of us would like to keep our lives Facebook free! but there are no laws stating that every internet user needs a Facebook. and all the wounder full comments from all the real people in this site would be gone IMO, and a system with predetermined email log ins and a user name would be MUCH MUCH better and all who really want to comment and not have the whole world see, would be happy. Its Riches job to have Facebook, Twitter, and all the above but its not a requirement for any of his readers and IMO its should stay that way!.. and obviously im not alone on this!… PS this is the begging of the end Nostradamus said the world was going to end in 2012! he ment to say FACEBOOK WILL RUN THE WORLD IN 2012!
[Reply]
Gary Livingston Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 11:53 pm
@jpizzle313,
This is valid on its own: “sorry if some of us would like to keep our lives Facebook free!”
But, you come to that conclusion based on what you make out to be your assumption that “the whole world [will] see” and that’s just false and an assumption obviously based on other people you know not understanding/not taking a few minutes to set up their Facebook account to avoid that.
So, in the end your argument is silly and not correct.
DLB Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 9:34 am
@Gary Livingston, Why do you keep telling other people what to do?
Facebook does not have a sparkling track record on privacy concerns, and everyone here can have his/her own opinions.
[Reply]
pizzle313 Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 11:24 am
@DLB, Gary? you obviously don’t get that im not alone in here about not wanting a Facebook!, its a tool used by little girls, zombies, and apparently a hand full of people in here!.. there is nothing wrong with not wanting a Facebook, in fact some might argue that its what makes me American!..you are not understanding that its not the time that it takes to make a Facebook! its just simply that some of us don’t want one! WHATS SO HARD TO UNDERSTAND! more than just my voice in here is going to be gone if this site gets a Facebook log in!.. or has anything to do with Facebook for that matter!.. and so yes some of us take this seriously! BECAUSE THIS SITE HAS BEEN THE BEST HOCKEY THING SINCE CURVED STICKS!!.. PLEASE RICH DON’T LET ZOMBIES WIN!
SINCERELY: a concerned season ticket holder! and HUGE FAN OF THIS SITE!
Gary Livingston Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 11:25 am
@DLB,
Because, I want to see these people back up their claims that Facebook is ruining lives and stealing our freedoms. I want to see some real intelligence behind their arguments and not just the rants and outrage based on nothing.
I want to proof of this stuff and to be wrong about them assuming the worst and freaking out about nothing.
By all means, have an opinion but, at least have one based on some actual research and personal experience if you are going to make a wild claim. Show me I’m wrong so I can learn something.
pizzle313 Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 12:31 pm
@DLB, Why is it so hard to understand that Facebook is not wanted by some people! it sounds to me like Facebook is paying you Gary?.. ether that or ur not understanding that some peoples employers block FB and others in here have privacy concerns!..and yes i read ur stupid rules a few times,..tho they make sense its still not going to change that Facebook and social sites of the like are exactly what people are trying to avoid when it comes to there favorite hockey blog site!!… rich has a good reason for wanting a log in and a way for people to be more responsible for there words!.. but there just words and they harm nobody!.. those of us who are real don’t get offended by words! so like i said yesterday im all for a log in, SN, password, ETC.! but as long as its private property of the LOS ANGELES KINGS AND THIS BLOG! not property of Facebook, Google, etc!.. we all no that privacy settings can be changed on FB so others like quack fans cant see!.. but its a matter of principles that some of us don’t want FB..and are not going to get it even for this blog!.. Gary please let it go you are the only person in here taking up the Facebook fight!. Rich could not have known that this was going to be such an issue! we all understand what hes doing and he asked for our input not for one person to take Facebooks side, against and obvious huge chunk of his readers!..IMO a major majority of posts in this blog have been against FB! and even people who have FB say no FB log in because there they want this site to stay in the same form it has been in!.. like i said its personal because people wont get a FB on principles not even to argue with you gary!!.. we all love this site! its almost like a religion to read this site and post here about our favorite hockey team! in fact the kings and hockey are my religion! and my political party! iv said quick for president at least 100 times! and i mean it!.. so lets get back to hockey and drop this loosing battle its going no where!..
I would not be able to post anymore. My wife is a Ducks fan. If she knew I was posting on this site she’d divorce me.
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jess Reply:
July 22nd, 2011 at 9:04 pm
@fourtunato,
wow, what a nightmare!
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Bryan T Reply:
July 22nd, 2011 at 9:08 pm
@fourtunato, There must have been something in the prenup allowing full access to your first amendment rights to badmouth the Ducks right?
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InTheCrease Reply:
July 22nd, 2011 at 9:20 pm
@fourtunato — If your wife is a Ducks fan, why haven’t you already started the proceedings?
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Jon G Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 12:00 am
@InTheCrease, Brilliant!
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8Doughty8 Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 10:18 am
@InTheCrease, Ha!
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LB Reply:
July 22nd, 2011 at 9:24 pm
@fourtunato,
I really hope thats a joke and you’re not forced to be a kings fan in secret.
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jess Reply:
July 22nd, 2011 at 9:31 pm
@LB,
haha that is hilarious!! Really, think about it. –it’s like a woody allen movie or something…
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Scot Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 12:00 am
@fourtunato,
Why did you marry her??
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jet Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 12:08 am
@fourtunato, its the 10′s, time to come out of the closet
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Shakes Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 3:34 am
@fourtunato,
This maybe the funniest post ever
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tornado12 Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 8:11 am
@Shakes, agreed. barely beats some of your best…barely
[Reply]
LVKINGS88 Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 10:20 am
@fourtunato, Wow,thats sad,funny but sad,LOL.
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Michael J. Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 12:32 pm
@fourtunato,
Maybe we can perform some kind of exorcism to deliver her…
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bulldog13lak Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 3:41 pm
@fourtunato, I hope she doesn’t make you (GAG) go to Sucks games, YECCH!, CHOKE, COUGH,
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gmo Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 4:09 pm
@fourtunato, !!!!!
i guess ull just have to come out of the closet and tell your wife the bad news…………that you are REAL KINGS FAN!!!!!!!!
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Being one of those tech savvy guys that uses most forms of online communique in many forums, I wouldn’t mind the addition of Facebook connectivity and interactiveness. At the same time, I think that having a base Login for this forum would help all of those that dont have/want a FB account. Instead of just single post access, make it mandatory to have a username/password to login and interact on this forum so trolls can be trolls and avid fans can post their imos’ and .2 cents. =)
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DesertKing Reply:
July 22nd, 2011 at 10:21 pm
@Bryan T,
I kinda like this idea. I have never been on facebook and don’t plan on going there. I constantly hear about people using facebook and statements on it to mess with peoples lives. Basically, I think punishing the majority for the actions of a few is the wrong path to follow. Going to the above listed format would allow Rich to exclude those few who are unable to follow the rules.
[Reply]
Gary Livingston Reply:
July 22nd, 2011 at 10:58 pm
@DesertKing,
Here is a rule of thumb to live by so people can’t mess with your life online or off: Don’t do things you are ashamed of. Don’t do things you won’t openly own up to. Act as though the entire world is watching you at all times. Always assume anything you do will be found out and talked about at some time.
Nothing can hurt you then.
[Reply]
tuan jim Reply:
July 22nd, 2011 at 11:16 pm
@Gary Livingston,
“Don’t do things you are ashamed of. Don’t do things you won’t openly own up to.”
EVERYONE does things he’s ashamed of. Think of the most horrific episode of your own life, that private-most event that you’re sure no one else knows about, that part of your past of which you hope and pray not a single witness remains alive — that instant of absolute and utter humiliation that you’ve spent a lifetime trying to conceal, a lifetime trying to forget.
Have you remembered it? Is it clear in your mind?
Well, I’ve got it on videotape.
jess Reply:
July 22nd, 2011 at 11:28 pm
@Gary Livingston,
Seriously dude??
PRMan Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 5:58 am
@Gary Livingston, I am a Christian. I’m not ashamed of it. But I don’t necessarily want employers using that information against me before hiring, because unfortunately there is a lot of anti-Christian prejudice these days. There are other things I am not ashamed of that people could use against me as well. I just want people to give me a chance to actually see me work before making a decision, because then they typically love me.
Gary Livingston Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 9:50 pm
@Gary Livingston,
PRMan, I agree with you there. But, here is what I’m trying to get at the most in regards to this discussion and debate of using Facebook and whatnot:
Stop being so paranoid.
If it is something that you aren’t ashamed of and it is part of what makes you you, then anyone at anytime could use it against you. Whether you are on some site or not. No matter what you do or where you go what makes up you at your core will be known by some and easily found out.
And, you gotta realize that. You gotta just live your life and be ready for whatever may come your way. But, don’t live paranoid.
If someone wants to hurt you because of one of those things you deal with it and you face it and you move past it. Those people that do want to hurt you because of one of those aspects will do so no matter what.
Too many people complaining about this are making it out as though that’s not possible UNLESS you sign up to Facebook.
Gary Livingston Reply:
July 22nd, 2011 at 11:01 pm
@Bryan T, Probably smart to force logins for any commenting. http://disqus.com/ is a good alternative option I think. It allows you to login using any of the main social networks or create your own account through their site.
[Reply]
PRMan Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 6:00 am
@Gary Livingston, seconded on disqus. That’s a nice system that requires an account at a major site that would still be painful for people if you blocked it.
[Reply]
FiG17 Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 1:32 am
@Bryan T,
I like this idea. I’m not too keen on linking this with facebook… I like the anonymity, not because it allows me to troll or anything like that, just because I’m relatively young and a girl… I know I’m kind of spoiling it now, but it’ll come out eventually if facebook comes into play. I know with my family at least, when it comes to hockey related conversations, my opinion doesn’t hold a lot of weight. Female hockey fans aren’t always taken seriously, especially young ones. Here it never mattered that I am a girl or that I am twenty years old, and I liked that I could express my opinion freely. I hope my opinions have earned respect for what they are and not who they came from.
[Reply]
EJ Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 8:09 am
@FiG17, not that it matters a heck of a lot, but in my book if you love hockey, I don’t care what gender you are or how young or old.
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Player-X Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 8:46 am
@FiG17, Love this post. Good for you to speak up! To paraphrase:
“I have a dream. I dream that there will come a day when people are judged by the content of their comments and not by the content of their interactive social media homepage.”
[Reply]
rumpa#19 Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 11:08 am
@FiG17, Let them be free from the real world prejudices. i will read any kings fan comments .
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CB14 Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 12:29 am
@FiG17, That’s what I like best about this type of setup, the anonyomimity. I don’t have Facebook, and if I did I wouldn’t use my personal facebook account on LAK Insider. I like people not knowing who I am, that’s just my personal choice. For all anyone knows you could be Dustin Brown. I’m not saying that you were lying, just that no one really knows who anyone else is, and it’s nice that way. The people who want others to know who they are can link their name to a website about themselves, Gary Livingston for example, and those of us who don’t want to, don’t have to.
BTW, I’m Wayne Gretzky, serious.
[Reply]
SpreignedAnkle Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 12:41 am
@Bryan T, I like your voice of reason. I’m almost positive something like this is the only viable change.
[Reply]
Separation of Church & State (FaceBook & LA Kings Insider)
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jess Reply:
July 22nd, 2011 at 9:12 pm
@jess, actually reverse the order, insider is church, fb is definately STATE
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I am another of those that doesn’t have facebook, and will not get one. I don’t post a lot, so people wont miss me, but it would suck not having the option. If you are going to integrate that type of login, it seems you need to have multiple types of login options. Facebook, google, etc. For people with different accounts.
There is no ideal solution when it comes to tying into any social network, as you will be alienating (at least) a small group of the community. I hope someone can come up with a way to doesn’t attach the kings so closely to facebook….the horror.
[Reply]
before99 Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 6:27 am
@Luuc, not on facebook…. and don’t plan to be either. I also don’t post very much and would be bummed out about not being able to comment(which I don’t do much of anyway I suppose) on the rare chance that I feel the need to chime in. You have a great site here Rich….. Don’t pander to the few who cant handle the rules. As long as I can read your site i’ll be happy….that just wont be on facebook. Keep up the good fight Rich, and thanks for all the info;)
[Reply]
Well, I don’t use my real name on facebook, the rare occasion I go on. A simple registration page on here would suffice. Afterall, we are talking hockey here, its not that important in the grand scheme of things. Its what we may love, but its not life or death. But I don’t see what people write on the backend. Are you the only one that moderates your site right now?
Btw, my posts are still being moderated after a month or two when I said doughty signed, then replied back to myself a minute later and said jk. Doesn’t make sense but ok. That is why I don’t write here much anymore.
[Reply]
KingsFanInPortland Reply:
July 22nd, 2011 at 9:19 pm
@KingsFanInPortland,
Well. Disregard the last paragraph. I guess I’m off time out now lol.
[Reply]
lvkingaholic Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 7:00 pm
@KingsFanInPortland, welcome to the club…………
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Rich, I also seldom comment, but, I enjoy the fact that I can.
I also will not join Facebook, even for the opportunity to participate in your much appreciated web site. I understand your concerns about the “jerks”, but, those people will be jerks whether they are on Facebook or not.
Please ensure that your site will be able to be read by non Facebook people.
Thanks for what you do for all of us rabid LA Kings fans.
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
July 22nd, 2011 at 10:26 pm
@blugator,
You said it perfectly!
[Reply]
mauverick Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 1:54 pm
@blugator,
Late to the party, but I completely agree. I do not have a FB account and have no intention of ever getting one. Without getting into an anti-FaceBook rant, here’s my 2 cents. As someone who has dealt with stalkers and harassment over the past 7 years, FB and other social sites are not an option for me, regardless of the strict security settings available. I read this blog religiously, and even though I’ve only posted on here about 5 or 6 times in the last 2 years, (to quote “blugator”) I enjoy the fact that I can.
I would not mind creating a dedicated username and password for this site and verifying it via my personal email address, but I am strongly opposed the idea of using FB to log in and post comments. FB works for some people, but not for me; and not just for the reasons listed above, but also because I am a slightly reserved individual and I do not care to broadcast my lifestyle across the internet. After reading through many (and I do mean MANY) comments, it seems that a majority of individuals who read and comment on this blog are also opposed to using FB as a log-in for comments (albeit for a variety of reasons). Still, speaking for myself, it would be very disappointing to not be able to comment on this blog in the future.
Lastly, I find it amusing and entertaining to check out people’s names on here. Some are pretty funny! No offense to those who use their real names, but “LannyMcDonald’sStach” is way cooler than “John Smith”.
Thanks for all the hard work, Rich!
-L
[Reply]
I would be bummed going through facebook only because my employer blocks it….so i wouldn’t have access during the day if this site went that route.
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kozak Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 5:03 am
@MeanMrMustard, same with my employer. My laptop is issued by my employer and to access the interweb at home, I must go through a VPN to get on the network so that means I wouldn’t be able to access the site at any time.
Having a facebook login to access the site would block my access at all times. I know what you are trying to do Rick but there has to be an alternate method to block the abusers and riff raff.
[Reply]
kozak Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 5:06 am
@kozak, *Rich (typing too early in the morning without my glasses on)
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PRMan Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 6:02 am
This too.
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I’m sure I’m part of small minority that does not have face book…it wouldn’t be fair to exclude me from commenting because I do not have a Facebook…nor is it fair to ask that I create a Facebook in order to comment. Requiring real name and confirmation with email address provided that u exist and that u are who u say u are should work.
[Reply]
I like this blog and, for the most part, the people who post on it. I would hope that a simple registration process would suffice. One that will send a password to your email address that you would use to activate your account. Once the account is opened, you would be allowed to post once logged in. The rules of engagement (blog etikwetty) would still apply, of course. If you mess up, your account is closed. My thinking is that people are less likely to post garbage if they have to go through a registration process.
[Reply]
I have a Facebook but I don’t really care for my comments in here to show up on Facebook. It has nothing to do with behaving here. I will probably stop posting here.
I think a better solution is to let some people moderate the comments for you. I’d bet you’d be able to get a few quality volunteers.
If you have a strong following you can make this work.
[Reply]
Gary Livingston Reply:
July 22nd, 2011 at 11:04 pm
@bobknob,
They wouldn’t appear on your Facebook wall unless you chose for them too. They don’t just automatically go to facebook.
[Reply]
BobKnob Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 10:38 am
@Gary Livingston,
I also don’t care for my name to be more searchable on the internet. People have been using handles for decades now, and it works just fine.
[Reply]
Gary Livingston Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 9:53 pm
@BobKnob, I enjoy your complaint being logical. =)
Just stop the LGK crowd and all the negative stuff will stop.
[Reply]
Tim from the OC Reply:
July 22nd, 2011 at 10:51 pm
@Matt, awesome! L O freaking L! Well played!
[Reply]
lafan13 Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 12:12 am
@Matt,
The truth…
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Shakes Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 3:36 am
@Matt,
Hahahaha
[Reply]
scooter Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 7:54 am
@Matt, wait .. I love all the women’s (questionable) roller derby photos, self-promoting crap, and pictures of their families wearing kings garb. Not to mention their opinions on the kings … LGK is almost convincing that they are the smartest, most devoted kings fans around. almost.
[Reply]
Player-X Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 8:50 am
@Matt, Sadly, this seems to be exactly what compels Rich to consider changes. Blind, concocted attacks on a group of people out of personal dislike becomes contagious and suddenly it’s ugly and personal.
[Reply]
Matt Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 8:25 pm
@Player-X, I didn’t make an attack. Just an observation. LGK posters have ruined being a fan online. If they stayed on their site this would be a nice place to get info and share thoughts.
[Reply]
Player-X Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 8:32 am
@Matt, But your conclusion is totally subjective, which you then state as “fact.” I have no idea who LGK posters are, I know about the site but it has had zero impact on my on-line experience. I have no problem with you, sir, I hope it doesn’t sound like I do; I am only pointing out to you that generalizing based on personal experience is inappropriate.
Multiply.com isn’t too bad, even though it gets a bit tedious after several cat and mouse moves concerning how to post certain things to the site. There’s about 20-30 people (including yours truly) that are using that site as a home to bring old time radio back into the public eye. It’s not too bad once you learn the tricks around some of the road blocks they put in front of us.
[Reply]
How do we know that Rich Hammond is your real name? Just kidding, whatever you decide, I’ll still be here reading. Not that it matters, but I use a fake name because I was the Asst. Equipment Mgr. for the Kings from 1985-1988.
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This site has been the best thing to ever happen to Kings fans since the Great One came to town! I seldom participate, but when I feel the urge to comment, it would be sad at least for me if I couldn’t.
As a number of people have also posted….Count me out! Not only will I not go anywhere near Facebook, but as a parent, I have serious reservations about letting my own kids do so.
I don’t know what the perfect solution here is, but my hope is you will find another way to accomplish what your and the majority of users goals are without losing the essence of what this incredible site has become.
[Reply]
I would just like a way to ignore trolls so I don’t have to read their posts, and als an edit button to be able to alter my own.
Also would like the latest post in a thread to be on the end of the post, and not somwhere in the mid so it’s easier to keep track of. Just include a quote feature to show what post you are replying to.
Just my thoughts but I think bundling in with the facebook monster is a mistake.
[Reply]
LVKINGS88 Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 10:34 am
@Belexes, Me likey.
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Well, lowegirl doesn’t like it. I don’t like that facebook “friends” get to know what I’m posting on this site, and I like the anonymity posting here as we do now. Besides, I really don’t need a bunch of people seeing my picture and commenting constantly how awesome my hair looks in my profile pic. What can I say, it was epic that day.
[Reply]
jet Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 12:18 am
@lowegirl, nice hair
[Reply]
Rich,
I’ve been following this blog for what, four years now? Pretty much everyday. I don’t comment alot, but I like knowing I can.
I have a facebook account but I won’t use it for this site. They are different sites, they should stay that way. If it comes to that I just wont comment anymore I guess.
I don’t really want to use my real name either, just because why should I have to? I never change the username I attach to my posts, and that I guess is my LAKi persona. I enjoy seeing other peoples handles too. They are often clever or funny and say something about the person that they want to convey. I think it’s unnecessary to require full names, especially when a local registration system could suffice.
When people post bothersome (or drunk?) comments, I just ignore it. What’s so hard about that? But if something more extreme is needed, why not just have a log in here on LAKi? If anything, I would find that MORE convenient than the current system, because at least I don’t need to type my name and email for every post.
[Reply]
jess Reply:
July 22nd, 2011 at 10:05 pm
@Tyfighter77,
Well said
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Who Knows? Reply:
July 22nd, 2011 at 10:23 pm
@Tyfighter77, I believe this site started in October of 2009.
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Deadmarsh Reply:
July 22nd, 2011 at 10:34 pm
@Who Knows?, I think he means following Rich’s blog in general. Like over at the Daily.
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Tim from the OC Reply:
July 22nd, 2011 at 10:55 pm
@Tyfighter77, I like the person who came up with “bob millers hair” great name!
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LVKINGS88 Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 10:36 am
@Tyfighter77, Sounds good to me.
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I have no problem using real names, etc., but for ease of use by all commenters, I think dedicated login accounts is the best option. It should be pretty easy to manage using WordPress.
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I’m cool with it!
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Wouldn’t making names available, and Facebook accounts known to everybody open up the door for cyberbullying by undesireable fans who like to troll these blogs already. Giving them access should be a choice, but some aren’t always capable of protecting themselves, and I think that choice should be left up to the individuals who post here.
I personally never have used facebook, because I’m kind of old school, and maybe a little rebelious to begin with. My teenage daughter uses it, and so does everybody in my family, which makes me want to use it even less. Stubborne I guess, but it’s my choice wether to use it or not.
I would make it available to fans to begin with, see how successful it is, then make a hard decision on wether to make it permanent. Who knows, I might even start up an account someday.
Maybe not.
[Reply]
rumpa#19 Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 11:24 am
@Dominick, When mean comments pop up other bloggers tend to stick up for one another and that make it more interesting to me.
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Jim S. Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 12:09 pm
@Dominick,
I totally agree with you & I would miss reading your insightful comments if this blog goes Facebook. I guess those of us who are little more “old school” will find another place to comment, like at JFTC. Quisp has done an awesome job taking over that blog & it’s always about hockey there.
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I have no prob with a dedicated login… If it’s only facebook then I’ll read it daily but won’t post. I do not want a connection between the two. CNN allows either dedicated or facebook login and if it goes to facebook only, then I won’t post there either.
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G+
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I do not want this blog to be accessible only via Facebook. I avoid Facebook because it actually harm me professionally. There should be some provisions for this.
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lots of people have multiple facebook accounts under various (obviously fake) names. my thought is: do your own registration and then ban violators at the IP level, such that anyone who is banned and subsequently attempts to post under a new name from the same computer is blocked from doing so.
i doubt the facebook thing will do anything other than to alienate people who don’t use facebook.
on the other hand, it may create new networks of kings fans, which is a good thing. and people will be able to troll other people’s facebook pages, instead of LAKi.
you could require registration through yahoo id or some other non-facebook service.
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YHarry Reply:
July 22nd, 2011 at 11:04 pm
@quisp, There is always ways around when an IP is blocked…
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quisp Reply:
July 22nd, 2011 at 11:42 pm
@YHarry,
Yeah, but it’s a question of where you want to throw up your roadblocks. My sense is the Facebook thing would be more trouble than it’s worth. And the point raised above about it creating problems with work is a good one.
i suspect that people who are likely to be problem tenants in the comments section are also likely to be the ones who are pretty skilled at getting around whatever protections a web-master puts in place. the result being that the effect of those protections is not to eliminate the trolls or the bad behavior, but to eliminate a big chunk of innocent people who don’t want to register somewhere and/or deal with facebook.
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Matt George Reply:
July 22nd, 2011 at 11:58 pm
@quisp,
damn i just wrote 2 paragraphs and deleted them! too many beersh ..
I’m all for it…
I think there are different levels of trolls and bad behavior.
The skilled trolls will obviously be able to circumvent at their will.
The unskilled trolls and casual fans will probably be better deterred.
As someone who has used his real name since Rich was doing the Inside the Kings, I’m obviously a proponent of this kind of thing.
Also the dealing with Facebook (for those of us who use it regularly) is really not “dealing” at all … you just log in with your facebook account.
Matt George Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 12:06 am
@quisp,
just to clarify
“The unskilled trolls and casual fans will probably be better deterred.”
should read …
The unskilled trolls and “casual insult throwers” will probably be better deterred.
Token Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 7:14 am
@quisp, You have registration on JFTC. Both FB, yahoo or the SBN login.
How does that work for you?
Does SBN handle all the accounts administrative stuff or do you have to actively manage users?
I log in to JFTC via my yahoo account so my handle is different than here, but my gravatar mug follows me everyware.
quisp Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 12:51 pm
@token
Yes, on Jewels from the Crown (which is one of 5 million SBN blogs) you can register (exactly as you said) directly through SBN, or by using your Yahoo or Facebook profile. Like you, I log in via Yahoo. Whichever method a user chooses for signing in, all of the users are overseen by the individual blog managers (for example, me, on Jewels from the Crown). Blog managers are omnipotent with regards to managing the commenters. They can issue warnings, delete comments, and (ultimately) ban commenters.
Rich’s community here at LAKi is exponentially bigger than what I’m dealing with at JftC, and there’s no way around the fact that when your traffic increases, so does your troll/bad-actor population. I’ve only issued two bans, I think, in the entire 1.5 years of JftC. I was kind of proud of not having banned anyone through the first year of operation, but that became impractical as the blog grew. And, as I said, I’m dealing with a tiny fraction of what Rich has to deal with here.
One thing that SBN does in its comments section that I think is useful: as you’ve probably noticed, there’s a way for each commenter to “recommend” comments they like and “flag” comments that are offensive. Comments that are “rec’ed” a certain number of times turn a nice green color to indicate their specialness. Comments that are flagged get the attention of the blog managers. This not only cuts down on the work I have to do policing the comments, but it gives each commenter “performance incentives.” And — something I find especially useful when trying to figure out whether a commenter is a troll or just having a bad day — I can look at the commenters entire comment history and see how many recs, and how many flags, how many comments have been deleted across the entire SBN community of blogs, etc..
I’ll tell you one thing I’ve been wishing we had at SBN, and that’s a “hide” or “block” feature like they have on Facebook, where each commenter would have the option of hiding all comments by a particular other commenter,so that each commenter’s experience of the comments section would be customized. For example, consider the patron saint of all LAKi problem tenants, “Anthonyy.” Many called for his banishment (and those people could simply “hide” him) while others, no less infuriated, enjoyed his serialized rants (and they could choose to keep him around on their own personal comments “feed”). And of course you could unhide Anthonyy if you changed your mind, or if you sense from the comments that you’re missing out on some fun. A commenter could be as draconian or capricious as he/she wanted, because it would only be affecting their own experience. AND the moderator would have access to the data of who is being hidden and could make private suggestions to the problem commenter or even ban if need be.
UNfortunately, I think Facebook can do that “hide” stuff because their interface is extremely powerful and well-funded. Smaller blogs have budgets to consider.
Token Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 7:00 pm
@quisp, Good info Quisp. Much obliged.
I agree on the ignore or “plonk” feature of old. It makes life allot easier for all.
I suspect that Ritch will look for a solution that improves the mood but doesn’t increase the board management.
I don’t have a Facebook account, and really don’t want to be forced to have one to participate in this forum.
Thanks for asking Rich.
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Rich,
I love the comments, and agree with the sentiment, but I’m not on Facebook. Both myself and a few of my friends have been hacked with sad results. I disconnected my page to protect my identity and limit myself from online attempts of heinous and cowardly crimes.
Just sayin, maybe if folk had to list more honest screen names, more people could contribute to the blog while still protecting themselves.
Also, what is the impetus for such a move? Did someone in our community abuse the privilege by making abusive or offensive comments under a pseudonym? I feel like the community has a right to know why the whole are punished for a select few.
I for one will not go back to Facebook just to post the occasional comment. I’ve been a loyal fan for over twenty years, and have found this forum to be a wonderful location to engage like-minded fans of the game and the occasional newby that is learning nuances of management from those with no experience. It’s better than the real news sometimes watching a couch-coach get manhandled by a veteran in a post.
It’s all good, I just hope there’s another way. I’m all for people being more responsible. What if identities could be verified before posting.
Sincerely,
furrylats
aka Justin (I have a hairy back-hence my nom de plume)
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Rich,
There seem to be many complaints about the Facebook idea (I also don’t have a Facebook account and don’t plan on getting one), but not many suggestions. Here’s mine:
Use a system similar to the one used by Engadget and other similar sites where the community is empowered to uprank or downrank individual comments through the increasingly popular “+1″ or “-1″ system. If a particular comment gets enough “+1″‘s it rises to the top of the thread, and if it gets enough “-1″‘s it is automatically hidden from view (though still accessible by clicking on the comment itself if someone wants to see what the trolling was.) This system tends to work well because it allows the community to police itself by rewarding solid contributions and hiding trolls and troll-food. Seems like a win-win.
I’ll keep coming to the site regardless of what you implement, but this suggestion might be a better alternative than the Facebook idea if only because it gets the same desired result – cleaning up the 20% of inappropriate comments that ruin the experience for the other 80% of us – without forcing everyone to sign up for a Facebook account if they don’t already have one and give up their cherished commenting anonymity in the process.
It’s just a suggestion, but check out any article regarding an Apple product on Engadget for a good example of the system in action. It works.
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I’m not a big fan of facebook even though I have an account there. I mainly find old friends etc. I found out quick if you say something private in the wrong spot, everybody you ever knew knows about it in an instant. The only thing I like about the Kings and facebook is I have the team marked as “like” and that’s all I want it to be. I prefer to keep it separate from this blog. Just my opinion
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Sammuch Reply:
July 22nd, 2011 at 11:41 pm
@Goring 19, i agree
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KC23 Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 7:06 am
@Goring 19, Pretty much my feelings exactly. I have an fb account, but learned quick not to post anything you don’t want the facebook world to know about. I really would rather not have to do this site through facebook, but I would if I had to. I can honestly say that I have never posted anything here I wouldn’t of posted through facebook. I have been a moderator myself in the past and know just how idiotic people can get, but the one’s that really spoil it will be able to do so know matter what you use.
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Ok, a few of you don’t quite understand how Facebook Connect works. Or how this site is built upon Word Press.
First of all, those of you being really paranoid about the idea of Facebook hurting you read this:
Here is a rule of thumb to live by so people can’t mess with your life online or off: Don’t do things you are ashamed of. Don’t do things you won’t openly own up to. Act as though the entire world is watching you at all times. Always assume anything you do will be found out and talked about at some time.
Nothing can hurt you then.
—————–
Now then, the programmer for this blog is probably only going to utilize it in two ways:
1. Facebook Connect will be used for registering accounts for commenting on this site. By doing so it will auto fill your name, location, and email address (which you supplied to Facebook) into the registration fields.
2. It will probably integrate the “share” or “like” button onto the posts. Simply to help publicize the blog posts through your facebook wall IF you choose to do so.
I doubt it would be used in any other way and you would not see LAKingsInsider on your Facebook feed any more than you do now if you already “liked” his Facebook Page.
Nothing is automatically posted to your wall or to your friends. You are always prompted and you usually NEED to click a button to share anything from a site integrated with Facebook Connect with your friends or to your wall.
——————-
Furthermore, if they do go the route of only being able to comment if you use Facebook Connect you can still read everything. You’ll just be unable to post comments.
I wouldn’t expect that to last very long and Word Press has many options to moderate and force user registration and login to post comments. Word Press has its own system included too. You probably don’t need to worry about anything. Don’t be so paranoid.
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jess Reply:
July 22nd, 2011 at 11:38 pm
@Gary Livingston,
Ahh the life of a goldfish
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DougS Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 2:31 am
@Gary Livingston,
Without a doubt, that is one of the most smug and self-righteous sentiments I have heard expressed in a long time, and if you dared to lecture me like that in person, I might well punch you in the snoot for your presumption. And I say that as someone who both has a Facebook account and wouldn’t mind posting under his real name.
Unlike you, apparently, I respect the right of people to be cranky and refuse to participate in the hive mind. It does not make them Luddites. It does not make them paranoid about technology. It means that they don’t like social media. There is a difference.
What Rich wants to do with this blog is up to him and the Kings. But I presume that they both have the goal of encouraging broad participation in this blog, and it seems to me that limiting comments to those who choose to have Facebook accounts goes against that grain.
[Reply]
kingfish Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 5:47 am
@DougS,
I Concur Doug.
“Always assume anything you do will be found out and talked about at some time.”
Thats a horrid and terribly paranoid way to live, no thanks.
Anything I post on here is none of any potential future employers business. Its a hockey board not a manuscript for every off the cuff conversation I have.
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Gary Livingston Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 10:04 pm
@DougS,
I’m all about freedom and choice. I just got done yelling at my friend about his idea of forcing people to do crap they don’t want to.
I’m not arguing for or against choice here.
I’m arguing against complaints built upon conspiracy theories, assumptions, paranoia, and false information.
If you look through the complaints few are complaining about logical pitfalls in the software. Most of them are complaining about how Facebook ruins lives, opens them up to attack, offers no privacy, forces them to mix people together they wish to stay separate, and some go much further into insanity.
I don’t care for Facebook and I can’t wait for something to be built better.
But, it’s not that bad and it does offer lots of work arounds and options to keep your information private if you like. People just choose to not investigate the myriad of settings available and choose to base their opinions of how the site works on the way morons with no understanding of social media use the site to ruin their own lives.
I also followed up and said that, I too think forcing EVERYONE to use Facebook will not last long. Because, I agree with you. It will limit the ease and desire to interact with the blog.
I’m just trying to point out to the people that are too lazy to do some research that Facebook isn’t this big bad thing that hurts people. People need to chill out.
And, common sense isn’t self righteous. It’s just common sense. That doesn’t mean I use my common sense more than you or that I’m better than you. It just means I know when to share it amongst the group. Hell, mainly because I have made enough mistakes of my own.
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EJ Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 8:21 am
@Gary Livingston, by the number of pro-Facebook comments you have made in this thread, it seems that you do not understand the basic tenet that there are a number of people (including myself) who do not want to interact with Facebook in any way, shape, or form. I don’t want to give Facebook any nom or email information, and I certainly don’t want to have anything to do with a freaking WALL.
I am willing to give that info here, if that helps fight the trolling. But I will not deal with the grotesque empire that is Facebook.
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MrMister Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 7:58 pm
@EJ, exactly!
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Gary Livingston Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 10:06 pm
@EJ, Hey, that’s cool. That’s your decision. And, I have no argument against that.
You’re not part of the people I’ve been addressing. =) Carry on.
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BigIslandKingsFan Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 9:07 am
@Gary Livingston, So, you work for FB or something? Technology is NOT the greast answer to everything. As others have stated previously, they are not afraid of FB, they just do not want to follow the herd mindlessly just because someone says that its the “neat, cool” thing to do.
And by the way, I do have a FB account. Big deal, I’d rather call and TALK to the people that matter to me instead of posting.
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Gary Livingston Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 10:12 pm
@BigIslandKingsFan,
Nah, I’m working on my own tech start up. I think Facebook is on the right track with some ideas but, is a mess in terms of delivery and design and the overall way it links people to content. It does nothing to help people discover new things, expand their minds, and increase their chance of meeting people of quality to enrich their lives outside of a computer.
If you look at who I am addressing, I’m not addressing you. I’m addressing the people that are afraid of Facebook and are creating rumors against Rich, the Kings, and Facebook. I’m addressing people that are spreading false information because they are too lazy to do some research before reacting.
I would only kinda include you with that last category since you seem annoyed at me and seem to think I was aiming that post and my others at you. But, hey, that’s cool. Cause, I’m not. =)
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Cortex949 Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 2:54 pm
@Gary Livingston, In response to your “don’t do anything you are ashamed of” comment, I’m a little annoyed at that. Do you mean to tell me that every act you do, every decision you make, and every place you go to or people you see should be made available to everyone? I’m not a bad person by any means but I really would rather not tell my boss at work what I do every weekend. There are different groups of people in everyone’s life and I don’t think I’m the only one who has a desire to keep this groups separate. Like I said before, im not lying, cheating on my girlfriend, or being a coke mule on my days off I just don’t want everyone I know grouped into one huge collective pool of knowing every detail about me. I know there are ways to “filter” stuff to certain people but I don’t want to deal with that. If I want someone to know something about me, or come join me somewhere, or see my freaking vacation photos I will TELL them!
[Reply]
Gary Livingston Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 10:37 pm
@Cortex949,
Grr. This blog had an error and my nice reply to you was lost. I’ll try again though.
I didn’t mean to annoy you and I am most certainly not attempting to portray myself as someone that has never done any wrong (and, that subjective based upon our own feelings…so, don’t think I’m saying people that do something they might feel ashamed about makes them a bad person). Mistakes are made and they make you a better person if you learn from them.
What I am trying to convey is that if you conduct yourself in that manner it will show you what actions are worth doing and which are not. If you do something and you find yourself willing to own up to it then it was worth it. If you do something and you either feel ashamed or feel a need to lie about it or hide it…you probably realize it was not worth doing. Most of all, be aware of where you do these things and the possible results.
Now, if you are referring to intimate moments shared between people I suggest you never place those items online. If you simply assume whatever you place online…no matter what site you place it on by the way…will see the light of day at some time you will be better off. Again, I’m not saying I haven’t said to myself “Oh, what’s the chance of that happening” and gone ahead and put something online my common sense said not to. I am just sharing that my common sense was right about that and in a situation or two it did see the light of day. Those moments should be kept intimate and definitely offline.
I’m just sharing some lessons I’ve learned and some rules I think we could all benefit from. That in no way makes me better than anyone else. It is just me sharing something I’ve learned.
I’m sorry you took what I said as an attack against you and as me saying you’re a bad person. I wasn’t trying to paint that picture at all.
I’m just trying to explain, to those that believe otherwise, that you can easily avoid bad situations and the use of Facebook does not automatically or immediately mean impending doom for you. Doom awaits you no matter what website you interact with or places you go if you aren’t aware and don’t conduct yourself in a manner accordingly.
When I say that I am not calling anyone a bad person. That is completely subjective and only you are the real judge of that.
I want to make it clear that if you are aware of where you are, if you are aware of what you are doing, if you are aware of who is involved, and if you are aware of who will/can find out you probably aren’t likely to do something that will cause you grief later. People just need to be a lot more aware.
Look, if you don’t want to deal with spending five minutes to tweak your account settings on facebook and it isn’t worth signing up to you…that’s fine. That’s a valid argument.
But, again, most of what I’ve been replying too and arguing against is people that are acting as though Facebook ruins lives.
[Reply]
Cortex949 Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 9:34 am
@Gary Livingston, Ok I understand but I just don’t live the type of social life that fits with facebook I guess. Sometimes I want to tell one friend that I’m staying in or the night when I really am going out with a girl or something. It’s just simpler to be able to fudge the truth sometimes then explain everything to everyone. There is something to be said for being honest with everyone tho and I respect that but I am not in that position.
Bkrs-Bud Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 8:26 pm
@Gary Livingston, Thanks for enlightening all of us, Internet Jesus.
[Reply]
Gary Livingston Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 10:40 pm
@Bkrs-Bud, I prefer Internet Messiah. It’s multi-faith friendly that way.
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EJ Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 8:58 am
@Gary Livingston, despite your stubbornness about FB, I’ve got to give you credit for being patient and non-aggressive in your replies. Kudos for that and keeping a sense of humor. It isn’t enough for me to touch Facebook with a Zdeno Chara hockey stick, but nothing will accomplish that (I’m stubborn, you know
).
Im just a passenger in this car. I go where you take me Rich.
[Reply]
One of the nice things about this blog is that it allows users from all walks of life the ability to leave a comment. No pre-existing account is needed. No need to go through a registration process. No need to remember another login for another site (or forgetting a login for another site).
If you are a casual poster or a fan from another team and post something controversial the discussion stays HERE. No need to worry about someone hopping on your facebook page and spamming you for your opinions.
Additionally no one should be worried about something they post on a hockey blog coming back to haunt them. Online privacy these days in paramount. Posting a statement in jest that is directly attached to your name can have real world consequences. What you write can be taken out of context by someone years later. If I write ‘DUCKS SUCK’ here and 2 years from now the HR director of the company I am applying to is a hardcore Ducks fan, I could easily miss out on a job opportunity (although this is an extreme example). Worse yet, what if I say something in jest that could be viewed as racist, hateful or bigoted? Someone researching my background on the internet can come across that and immediately jump to the conclusion that I am some horrible person. This results in a scenario where what you write on the internet is engraved on your past forever.
Tying facebook or some other personally identifying service to the blog will immediately dissuade a percentage of your audience from joining in, thus excluding them. No one wants to be excluded when we share a passion about the same thing. We all want those comments from people who have something to say.
I understand the desire to cut down on the ‘bad apples’. Tying facebook to your posts should hopefully cause these persons to seriously consider their comments. But those determined enough to troll and incite can just as easily create fake facebook accounts and continue to post their incendiary remarks.
The best solution is to control access on the site level. Have users create their own accounts (I know, another password to forget lol). Monitor the IPs that these accounts login from. If a user gets out of hand block their account. If they try to sign up for a new one check the info used along with the IP to decide whether the new registration should go through. Let users create profiles where they can optionally provide a link to their facebook account should they choose to. This alleviates the concern of tying a name directly to a post while still allowing people to personally connect.
This may all be just too much for what the goal of this blog is, and I can understand that. Tying users to a facebook account in that sense is the most efficient means to accomplish the goal of tracking users. It is my hope though that this decision is not yet set in stone and that it can be evaluated further to find a course that fits best for the fans, and the blog.
[Reply]
RandomPoster Reply:
July 22nd, 2011 at 11:43 pm
@LomitaKingsFan, ^ this. And I’m telling you it has happened. Very well put.
[Reply]
MacSwede Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 12:41 am
@LomitaKingsFan, AMEN!
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MacSwede Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 12:43 am
@MacSwede, I like that this is a separate free from facebook forum. Here, people can post what they really want to say. Sometimes harsh, but it need to be said. This site is great as it is.
Create an own community if that is the wish, but dont involve facebook.
[Reply]
Rich,
Your work and what you have created here and with the Dailynews has brought my hockey knowledge and Kings fanaticism to a new level. As sad as it may sound, this site has become a part of my daily life. Maybe im a loser and need to get out more (maybe?), but I seriously think I would go into depression (maybe an overstatement) or at the very least it would hinder an very important aspect of my life to me, if facebook becomes essential to this site. I had a facebook account once but found it affected my life in a negative way. I will not get another facebook account. Please, i implore you, do not go to facebook. I would gladly change my handle to my real name, or do whatever it takes to avoid this. Im not tech savy, and cant really offer up another solution, but Im afraid i would not be posting any longer if this happens. There must be another way. It may only be a job for you to run this site and make it the best you can, but what you have created here is very special and means alot to many of us fans. Thank you Rich for listening and everything you do for us fans.
[Reply]
CB14 Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 7:39 pm
@tornado12, I second this post!
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I hate the facebook log in thing. I won’t be participating in posting if the site moved to facebook.
[Reply]
SBNation does great with the Facebook log thing.
As someone who’s used his real name on stuff like this for years … I’ve always believed in standing by what you say.
I’ve never been comfortable with the “cloaked attackers” … by that I mean people who know that if you were in a bar, and said some of the things they write, they’d get punched in the face. But who cares right? No one can trace my fake name!
[Reply]
Personally….If i were running this website. I would not base something so important as a user login on the liability of a facebook account. What happens when the masses of people abandon their facebook accounts??? Much like what happened with myspace… Does that mean thsse users can no longer post on this site?!?!?
And this being “internet land” the freedom of posting anonymously is one aspect that i feel that truly initiates a good discussion. If people want to hide their identity to speak their mind, then let them. There is no reason to discourage people to post, or try and add accountability to posting on here. Who cares if someone posts something dumb, ignorant, or off topic. Dumb of not, it generally leads to further discussion, and traffic to your website. As long as your website continues to get hits and new visitors then you are a winner.
Example:
Over at LGK forum, they currently have a post over 40 pages long, of just the RECENT eklund/hockybuzz poo from the past month… We all know hockey buzz is pure crap. But yet we still debate over these “rumors”, and produce endless amounts of discussion based off of them. Discussion is a good thing, no matter how real/fake/dumb/absurd it is.
I think you have a really good thing going here Rich….
If it ain’t broke, Don’t fix it…
[Reply]
I Can never remember my facebook login, so this could be my last time on La Kings Insider. I find people to be largely tame (especially for us kings fans) on this site, so I am surprised extra measures are necessary.
So far my last post, I have to say, I can’t remember being so excited for a season to start. When was the last time the Kings had this much depth?
[Reply]
Wow, sifting through some of these posts makes me realize how in the minority I am on Rich’s site here. I’m 25, a daily user of Facebook, and when I read Rich’s post about this, thought everyone would be in favor of it, like me!
I would be all for the Facebook thing. I do everything from my phone anyway, so being able to just log in with that and post from there would be much easier.
I also agree with some earlier posts that there should be an LA Kings Insider application for iPhone users. I mean, there’s an app for just about everything else, what’s one more? I’m still a kid, I’m still just a consumer. I will make my mark on this earth one day, trust me!
Besides, if you all knew what I looked like, maybe some people on here would lose the horrid, ugly face they have subconsciously, automatically attached to my name on here from the past! It would make it a little more personal for sure, but I think it would be cool to know what everyone looked like. Hey, maybe I could even meet a cute female Kings fan
http://www.lakingsinsiderharmony.com?
[Reply]
FiG17 Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 2:19 am
@Scot,
The thought of an LA Kings dating site is pretty amusing. lol but like I said earlier… as a girl, myself, I want my opinions to be taken seriously for what they are, not who they’re coming from. (I don’t mean that to sound like a silly feminist thing, it’s just that hockey is a bit more of a man’s sport and I don’t want people thinking I’m just a puck bunny or something. lol) Maybe there can be a separate site for intra-team matchmaking. lol
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 7:17 am
@FiG17, Been my experience that on average female hockey fans are every bit as knowledgable as male. Of course I have 3 daughters and a wife that are all Kings fans so I am a bit biased.
[Reply]
Scot Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 3:49 pm
@KC23,
‘Atta way to take control of your household!
Must be one big happy family!
Bodoe Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 8:53 am
@FiG17, It’s refreshing to see a female take such an invested interest into a predominantly male sport. I know far too many females who have taken an interest in hockey BECAUSE it is a predominantly male sport.
[Reply]
GkingsG99 Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 12:37 pm
@Bodoe, I am female as well and a huge Kings fan! I go to all the games with my uncle who has knows everything of the Kings since they started, so when i need to refresh my memory hes there to enlighten me. I update him daily with new Kings news since hes not perticularly tech savy but browses the site from time to time. We can go on for hours, yes hours talking about the Kings and just hockey in general. He is the only person i CAN talk to aside from people at the games.
My girlfriends are just interested in “thier mans” when i take them to the games with me haha and i can’t get into the specifics of the game because it probably sounds like a foreign language to them. Also I just can’t understand why anyone wouldn’t like ice hockey!! haha
With that being said I think people need to relax a bit with the whole facebook integration, i totally understand why people don’t want the change and of course he DID ask our opinions, but i mean, Rich is doing us all a favor and does does a lot to inform us all of Kings news, and if this is going to make his life a little easier then so be it. This blog is his life…the man needs to get some meals in!
Scot Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 10:43 am
@FiG17,
Sooo, how old are you?
I also think it’s great to have female fans. It’s a sport everyone should invest in. Cammi Granato is a fantastic hockey analyst.
p.s. I like the puck bunny thing. I could see that being a future costume I dress up my future wife in
[Reply]
FiG17 Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 12:03 pm
@Scot,
Haha I’m four months shy of being 21 (:()… even younger than you. lol
And thanks, to you and everyone else, for the lack of gender bias. Even I’m a little wary of other female fans… I just recently met one who told me she was talking to a guy who could possibly be drafted and if he was, she was going to leave her boyfriend for him. I didn’t even know what to say to that. That’s exactly the type of “fan” I don’t want to be. lol
FiG17 Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 12:04 pm
@Scot,
That was supposed to be a (
). lol
Scot Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 3:54 pm
@FiG17,
Ha! You don’t say anything to her. You just understand she goes for the “green” pastures! Heck, if I was about to be drafted into the NHL, I would expect all girls to dump their boyfriends for me! Right?? I’m kidding, of course.
Some female fans can be known as fairweather. (Pretty jerseys, cute players, etc.) But I can differentiate them from the real ones within the first few minutes of a conversation.
Had a girl tell me at work the other day she’s a “Die Hard” Red Sox fan. She was so adamant that the Red Sox are the best and they would win the World Series this year. I said, who’s your favorite player? I said, better yet, name ONE player on the team. She couldn’t do it. Must be “her boyfriend’s” favorite team. Whatever. Here’s your Midori Sour little lady, have a good day. SELL OUT! haha
FiG17 Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 4:42 pm
@Scot,
Haha I lived with a “Sharks fan” at school last year, while I was watching one of the Sharks/Canucks playoff games, she was taking pictures of herself in her jersey and putting them on facebook. The jersey, btw, she had just gotten and it had Heatley’s name on it… I was a bit sinisterly gleeful when he was traded. She’s not my favorite person. lol We watched the sixth Kings/Sharks game together :’( (the only game I’d ever seen her actually watch) and she called her dad right when it ended to talk really loudly about how amazing it was that the Sharks eliminated the Kings. Yeah, haven’t had too many positive encounters with female hockey fans, so that’s why I’m a little cautious.
Btw, a real hockey fan wouldn’t be able to date an NHL player or draftee… I may not be a puck bunny, but I am a girl and human… I have thought about it. I couldn’t date anyone in the system because there’s only a 1 in 30 chance that he plays for the Kings. You’re supposed to be supportive of the guy you’re with, and if he played for anyone but the Kings, I would have to hope he loses… that’s not exactly healthy for a relationship. lol
jet Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 9:15 pm
@Scot, at just shy of 21 it sound like fig has yet to experience a FF. the door is ajar my friend. I hope to see both of you there.
Scot Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 9:38 pm
@jet, and FiG17,
I will definitely see you there, my roommates and I already got our tickets. It’s easily one of my favorite weekends of every calendar year.
Maybe next year, when fig is 21, she can come out and have a drink at the game!
I would still encourage going if under 21. Just get there Friday night, check in, and hang out at the pool all day Saturday. You can still go to the game. Only downside is inability to have a drink in hand all weekend, while at the pool and the game. I suppose that’s kind of a major downside. Fake ID maybe?
FiG17 Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 12:06 am
@Scot,
I want to go so badly, but it probably won’t happen until next year. Besides not being 21, I’m also broke. haha Hopefully next year I’ll be all graduated with a big girl job and will be able to afford it. I can’t wait to be able to have a drink at a game over winter break, though.
Scot Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 3:37 pm
@FiG17,
Well I will be there as well!
My roommate and I finally buckled down and got season tickets this season. They are up in the 300′s, but we still love going. We went to so many games last year, and we are even more excited about this year so we decided it was worth it. It probably wasn’t. I may have to tell my landlord he won’t be receiving any rent from us anytime soon, but he should understand, right?
How on earth did you get stuck living with a Sharks fan?? I would rather be homeless!
FiG17 Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 5:14 pm
@Scot,
If he doesn’t understand, you shouldn’t be living there in the first place. lol I wish I had season tickets. I always sit in the 300′s… it’s all I can afford mostly. Sitting any lower is usually a rare treat and mostly only happens when my dad buys. haha But I still like it… the 300 level is normally louder than lower levels, anyway.
I landed a Sharks fan because I go to school up north, so I live among them. I was bound to live with one at some point. I’m definitely not living with her again, she was one of my worst roommates, and I’ve had some bad ones. I’m so glad it’s my last year… I can now officially say I hate Northern California. lol
Scot Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 12:09 am
@FiG17,
Since this whole conversation started on the topic of facebook, you are welcome to add me if you want. Lol.
My name is Brian Scot Halliburton.
(My parents and Grandma are the only people in the world who actually call me Brian)
Perhaps I’ll get banned from this site for taking it this far! Lol.
Obviously, I understand if you don’t feel comfortable doing that. I’ve just enjoyed hearing your stories
So as the un elected Bad group chairman, Will we now be blocked by are FB accounts?
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Rich,
As long as you still provide us with the same quality insight as you always have, then I say do whatever you need to do to make your job easier. I think those who fear FB/Twitter have not learned how to properly utilize their Account/Privacy Settings. Even if they have, there’s this little website called Google that’ll give the world pretty much all the same info. Rich, I’ve followed your work for long enough to know that you’re honest, ethical and only have the readers best interest at heart. I support whatever decision you make and will continue to follow no matter the media outlet you choose to deliver it to us. Thanks for the all of your efforts. I really hope you’re enjoying (or, enjoyed) your vacation. You’ve more than earned it!
Fan of yours, for life,
Ryan McCormick (real name)
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P.S.-Big Brother already has tabs on those who don’t want/have a FB account.
[Reply]
Puckn-A Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 12:41 pm
@NIDKingsfan, LOL, good one man.
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It seems to me that anyone who really wants to be so obnoxious as to make “things difficult for the vast majority” can simply make a fake facebook and terrorize the way they would with an anonymous screen name. The only people inconvenienced are those bloggers who don’t use facebook, such as those of an older generation… or those of a higher intelligence.
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Bodoe Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 8:58 am
@Muelch, Not sure it’s wise to be insulting those of us who use facebook on this blog. Not sure if that was your intention, but I saw it as “Those of you who use facebook are lower than those of us who don’t.” Care to elaborate what you meant by “those of a higher intelligence”?
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just my opinion Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 2:05 pm
@Bodoe, Seriously?!? Insulted? Those of us who choose to not use Facebook, texting, Twitter et al are constantly being made to feel inferior and stupid because we choose not to spend my life on the phone or telling the general public about our lives.
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Rich — for years I have tried to kindly and sometimes directly take out the trash on this site with my replies. So, I do share your frustration. That said, I have blocked facebook from all of the computers in my house to protect the youngens. While, I love your work and the many fun fans here, I would not change any computer settings. I would probably start posting on quisps site.
Thanks for asking for input.
also, I should have time tomorrow to post my rookie camp thoughts
[Reply]
quisp Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 1:03 pm
@jet,
?
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jet Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 4:54 pm
@quisp, do you still have the site that you were blogging from?
[Reply]
quisp Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 9:29 pm
@jet,
you mean Kings Kool Aid? Yeah, it’s still there, but dormant.
jet Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 4:01 pm
@jet, we may need a revival
Quisp Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 9:31 pm
@quisp,
you’re aware of jewelsfromthecrown, are you not? it’s the same candy in a different wrapper.
[Reply]
Quisp Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 9:31 pm
@jet
er, that was for jet, not quisp. i am quisp.
jet Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 2:23 pm
@Quisp, is it the one that has a pitcher of purple kool aid in the background. It is a little difficult to read the trasisitions in and out of the pitcher.
Listen Rich, many people here dont like the idea of involving facebook. I hope you are listening to that..
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Doughty not going on Trip
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/sports_blog/2011/07/kings-drew-doughty-nhl-hockey-.html
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Matt George Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 10:40 am
@YHarry,
Don’t blame him at this point.
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Jeff Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 1:35 pm
@Matt George, I really think that he should of gone, regardless of what is going on. He is really only hurting himself by not going, as people who paid for the trip did so with there hard earned money. Simmonds had a reason for not going, as he was traded and I doubt people paid over $400 to see Trevor Lewis (no offense to Trevor). I hope the Kings compensate those that went on the cruise expecting to see Drew.
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jet Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 9:18 pm
@Matt George, exactly, the last thing a 21 year old needs.
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Rich,
Thanks for the heads up & asking for input. I enjoy spending oodles of time here reading & posting comments. I will not be a part of Facebook tho, no matter what. I guess should you change to it, I will no longer be a poster here. We all have our own rules, and mine includes no Facebook, period.
Thanks again, Rich.
[Reply]
BrokeKingsFan Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 2:37 pm
@Kingsfanone, Ill 2nd that!
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Sounds good, implement it!
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Matt George Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 10:41 am
@Henrik,
+1 !
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I don’t know if this was mentioned above, i might have missed it but- Facebook is fad that is slowly losing its momentum. It can/will be replaced by “the next best thing”, so eventually, it will become obsolete, much like how myspace is becoming.
When i type in L into my browser and lakingsinder.com pops up, or when i open the browser on my droid and it automatically brings up this site, i get this great feeling that- even though i’ve never met any of the members on this site, i know they speak my language. They’re my people. We’re a secluded and not very respect bunch from the point of view of other teams fans. if the fb login will alienate those who don’t have a fb, i for one would be extremely sad, as i am sure i am not the only one that checks this site, leave comments and enjoy reading other peoples opinions- before even getting out of bed..
Maybe if we can create our own profiles on this site, adding our name, a picture, whatever..
I’ve mentioned before that i think a chat of some sort would go really well with this site.. so we can discuss games as they progress in real time and also a section where us fans can post a thread that does not interfere with blogs posted by Rich.
Rich, regardless of how you change the site, we’re not going anywhere.. we’ve been through McSorely’s stick, Andy Murray, Marc Crawford, Sean Avery, Dan Cloutier and countless other baffooneries as fans. Just please, don’t ever, never, never ever stop being our Hammer.
[Reply]
Kings Fan In Temecula Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 8:08 pm
@Mikey, Ya know its funny, i only got facebook because my family, a few friends, and some relatives had it, but never really did anything for me otherwise, i’m 24 so i’m in that sort of age group, but i see it as something replaceable, then again i’ve been the soical type lol, but i love coming here to do what you’ve done, read comments, peoples opinions, feelings etc. and i know this place is for me, i’m a kings fan and that’ll never change, i love the game
So yeah just my two cents…in short i’m indifferent on the facebook thing…i have one, more out of whimsy than anything serious, i’ll use it if implemented but we could do without it too, i hear both sides of this…but if its at the cost of purging some dedicated bloggers, i would have to be against it, the more bloggers here the merrier…thats what a community’s about…
and i’m with you on the live chat kinda thing, sounds interesting
[Reply]
Kings Fan In Temecula Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 8:09 pm
@Kings Fan In Temecula, CORRECTION* I’ve never been the soical type lol, wish we had a edit button D:
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Anybody have their facebook account hacked before?
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gmo Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 4:31 pm
@Goring 19,
someone once tried to hack mine…………so i deleted then…………….
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I have a forum with 200k users. We use vbulletin and it’s been very good. You just have to keep the updates current as the admin to maintain security. It has a lot of censor, antispamming, blacklisting, moderation and admin features, plus user levels (user/mod/admin). Totally customizable. Very reliable and proven (some forums have millions of registered users). It’s also got apps for Android and iphone/pad. We’d definitively want to pay for a quality custom theme – some are totally awesome others are ugly. I can recommend an excellent designer who can show you sample work.
Pretty sure facebook and twitter domains are blacklisted in many workplaces.
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KC23 Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 7:23 am
@LA_1968, I know of very few workplaces that haven’t blacklisted facebook, but with smart phones it makes little difference to most either way.
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kozak Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 7:47 am
@KC23, my smartphone is also issued by my employer which means no access to facebook through the phone either.
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 9:12 am
@kozak, That would definately not be good thing for people with that situation.
408kingsfan Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 10:00 am
@kozak, This is my dilema as well
LA_1968 Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 7:52 pm
@LA_1968, I see a lot of negativity about using facebook for our kings blog. Not everyone uses facebook and twitter and I’m sure a lot of those people are on this blog. Therefore it’s a given that if this blog ran through facebook it would lose some valued users.
I don’t see why using our real name will help. I do think that the ability to effectively ban/suspend irresponsible posters will improve accountability. I suggested vbulletin above. It does have a lot of features to slap peoples hands (suspend priveleges for x days). It also lets you moderate new(er) users posts or all users posts. Bans/Suspensions can be based on email addresses, ipaddress and of course user names. If the penalized party opens a new account they better come up with a new ip address and verifiable email.
My point here is that I don’t think that the persons real name is really important. Being able to keep them out of here is.
[Reply]
LA_1968 Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 7:52 pm
@LA_1968, I see a lot of negativity about using facebook for our kings blog. Not everyone uses facebook and twitter and I’m sure a lot of those people are on this blog. Therefore it’s a given that if this blog ran through facebook it would lose some valued users.
I don’t see why using our real name will help. I do think that the ability to effectively ban/suspend irresponsible posters will improve accountability. I suggested vbulletin above. It does have a lot of features to slap peoples hands (suspend priveleges for x days). It also lets you moderate new(er) users posts or all users posts. Bans/Suspensions can be based on email addresses, ipaddress and of course user names. If the penalized party opens a new account they better come up with a new ip address and verifiable email.
My point here is that I don’t think that the persons real name is really important. Being able to keep them out of here is.
[Reply]
Hi Rich,
I will not be leaving my occasional comment or opinion on this blog if a Facebook login is required. Of course, I will continue to read it religiously everyday, but I won’t be able to participate. It’s a conscious choice,
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Hi Rich, I’ve read through all the comments, and I think there are many good ones, so I’ll simply bring up two points that I think have been overlooked or understated:
1 – I use FB as rarely as possible, I use it almost entirely for business purposes, e.g., networking, marketing, keeping in contact with other pros in my field, etc. The Kings, on the other hand, are one of my great passions in life. Much like I think Tornado12 and Dominick mentioned, I am literally on this site everyday. Part of this site’s beauty is that it is self-contained. I go here to get my Kings’ news, I don’t need to also see which “friend” is hosting “karoke-bowling night”. Now, I get that means that a few “trolls” can remain anonymous and cause trouble, BUT
2 – doesn’t connecting LAKI to FB or any other established social network significantly increase the likelihood of “trollers” or people with disruptive intentions?
Just imagine for a minute the Kings beat PHX on a controversial decision (hey, we’re due, aren’t we?
), and some Coyotes’ fan has a friend who happens to post on this site. “LAKI Fan” posts something to our lovely site, “PHX fan” sees it, and, still enraged at his team’s result, looks to create a little chaos. Now, imagine all the trouble that could come about if that controversial regular season loss was instead a Game 7 OT Kings’ victory v. the Quacks or Sharks (hope! hope!). IMO, the longer we stay unattached the higher % of Kings’ fans we’ll attract, assuming that Kings’ fans are most likely to seek out Kings news, right?
At the end of the day, there has to be another way, and I think the I think the best suggestion was that we everyone with an account has the option to block a poster who says something s/he deems offensive. Maybe if a poster gets too many “blocks”, they are warned and if they continue, they’re banned.
Additionally, I really like my name on here, and I like many of the other names too. Maybe you could have a few name moderators, as well as some trusted posters who can report any potential objectionable material to you.
Finally, as others have said, I genuinely appreciate you opening this up to get our take. That decision alone gives me the confidence that you will find a thoughtful solution that benefits the most people possible.
Thanks for reading,
Doughty99 aka Greg
[Reply]
Bodoe Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 9:10 am
@Doughty99, The simple truth is Trolls are going to troll. implement facebook or not they’ll still find a way. In this day and age, if a hacker or troll wants to do what they do, they will. It’s the nature of the beast when it comes to the internet. I’ve seen plenty or forum/commenting systems that work great. I’m sure Rich will find what works best for this site.
[Reply]
please say no to facebook. I don’t have facebook, nor can I use it at work. Let us just create accounts here on the site. besides, some people only have google+, or only twitter. Not everyone has facebook and no one is going to create one just to be able to post on this site.
[Reply]
“The point is for people to post behind their real names, because it’s been proven, time and again, that there’s a higher level of responsibility and accountability when people actually attach their names to what they say.”
Who proved it? When?
I thought the purpose of this site was to talk hockey. I don’t care about Facebook or Twitter or social networking. I don’t know anyone’s name here but yours. And I don’t need to know anyone’s name. All I care about is that person’s opinion. If the one who’s giving it is excited about his subject, if he cares about his own points of view, I don’t mind him using a dose of salty language to secure additional emphasis for what he’s trying to say.
In fact, if you look over hockey blogs for teams all over the country you’ll find vigorous discussions, written by highly intelligent fans whose posts are infinitely more flavorful than what is “permitted” here. THAT is the standard, not mousy self-censorship and fear of giving offense.
Every time I read those yellow-bellied pomposities, “responsibility” and “accountability”, I know what’s coming. They only issue from the mouths of schoolmarms — not reporters — and they don’t mean what they should mean — integrity and the willingness to stand by what you say. Instead they mean only a gutless sacrifice of the vigor of one’s opinions to the minions of good taste.
In short, running LAKingsinsider through Facebook or some other social network strikes me as a cowardly device which will bleach every thread on this site of the color and pleasure to be had from reading it.
Don’t go down this path, Rich. All you’ll accomplish is to burn whatever intellectual credentials you thought you were gaining when you studied journalism. And I guarantee you, the older you get, the more you’ll regret having done it.
[Reply]
Rich,
I believe it would be a big mistake for people to have to use their facebook profile to post. Yes this is becoming very common on the interweb but that doesnt mean its a good idea. I personally view my facebook profile as a personal page that only myself and friends can view. You shouldnt have to sacrifice your privacy to post on a fan board. yes there are different security settings for facebook and you can have your page set to private but even at the strictest settings your identity is easily obtainable when using your facebook profile to post on boards. I also think it may scare away female fans from posting if they feel that guys are going to want to talk about how good looking they are instead of what they have to say. I have seen this happen on CNN and LA Times boards. There is also the issue that if you are posting with your real name linked to FB anything you say here could be searched by someone like a potential employer who may find you talking about how you drank 10 beers last night at the kings game and slept in your car. Which us fans would think is cool but an employer will not. I think Facebook has gone too far in terms of logging what everybody does on the web and it has to stop. If you have to change the system I think you should have everyone sign up here with their real name and email but they would post with a screen name. They would have to login to post. If you have to delete someone, you can. That would create the sense of community and decorum you are looking for I believe. This is a great site Rich.
The power is in your hands, don’t feed the Facebook beast.
Regards
[Reply]
Rich, I hope the time off is going very well! I feel that in life some things get further ahead by staying put, but on the other hand in life change is necessary. I don’t use the social medias and have enjoyed this insider and your past Kings coverage. If social is the direction, my hopes are that I can still read the blog as a guest and/or still give you a email question about the Kings and/or NHL from time to time. Thank you for the dedicated Kings coverage and the enjoyment for us fans that has come from your works. Your talents our very much appreciated, take care Rich.
[Reply]
It’s not like I can’t create a fake facebook profile/account.
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FKA PakiFro Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 8:58 am
@Cry Baby,
So you’re the culprit!!
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Cry Baby Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 9:36 am
@FKA PakiFro, Hahahaha…I barely even post on here… let alone post under multiple names.
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Facebook, Apple, Google and Twitter are taking over the internet and the world. Must we conform like all the robots are? NO facebook log in.
Keep it unique, keep it real…..
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Bodoe Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 9:16 am
@King Cobra, Not sure why people feel the need to belittle those that use facebook.
[Reply]
King Cobra Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 3:00 pm
@Bodoe, I myself use all of the above including Facebook for business. I just want to keep the Kings Insider unique and on it’s own. As from what I have read today here, most of us seem to be on the same page.
[Reply]
As a passionate kings fan I have had my comments moderated in the past. I have also corrected myself when I realized where I had erred. Having been blocked, I know it is possible now, so having our real names available seems to have the purpose of lessening the workload of moderation. My suggestion would follow a.setup that shares this workload with the online community. I have no issue with Rich having my identity (it is included in the email address I used to sign up)but I won’t be able to use it publicly. The potential impact is something I couldn’t accept. Incidentally, while ip addresses are dynamic and can change, each networking device has a burned in address which doesn’t change and can be used to blacklist. My $.02
[Reply]
Not everybody is fond of facebook, though, and I know people who don’t even have accounts.
[Reply]
I’m not comfortable with Facebook. It’s not secure, we’ve seen how they let your personal information get out there. I would prefer a system like most of the forums on the web use. You sign in with an email address, which you then must verify as being valid. As examples:
http://www.avsforum.com
http://www.techsupportforum.com
http://www.howardforums.com
These are really big forums that run with little problem. You must provide a valid email address to them that is verified. These forums are enormous with many thousands of visitors and it’s all pretty painless. If we go to Facebook, I for one will stop posting.
[Reply]
Most of us are real and good people. I’ve met Rich on Kings Road Trips and have been a Kings fan since 1974. Carolina Kings Fan real name is Howard Goldstein. Look it up. I don’t care if you know who I am. Probably know some of you! I will be happy to change my name. This is an awesome site and we need to keep is separate from Facebook or Twitter. People use social media site for different things and different relationships. Facebook is for Friends and reconnecting, LinkedIn is a professional business site, and Twitter is for rumors and announcements. Lakingsinsider.com is where we go to talk La Kings hockey. Just like the NJD site and many other teams sites. I believe we should use real logins and passwords. Check out http://www.carowindsconnection.com. It is a fans site just like this for the Carowinds (Cedar Fair) amusement park here in the Carolinas. To post you need a login and password. Why not do a site like that? I hope this all works out ok. The old rule of thumb is “don’t fix what isn’t broken.”
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I think im on this site more than I am on Facebook. I’d prefer to keep the two seperated.
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If it is like commenting on news and newspaper articles like the Times.com or similiar then its is a good idea. There, they have multiple options for signing in. If it helps the site grow which should help make it better if they use the new resources then it sounds great to me. I’m not scared.
[Reply]
I agree with those who abstain from Facebook. I originaly liked the idea of regularly staying in touch with family who live across country. My wife ruined Facebook for me when she got hooked on Farmville and Farkle. I’d rather Rich just create a live call-in show on KCET. I can picture it now…
Rich: “Matry’s Knuckles from Burbank, You’re on with Rich and Friends!”
[Reply]
(1) I am a process server. I deliver legal papers to people that do not want them. I have done this for over 11,000 services.
(2) My actual name is unique. I am the only one in the country with it.
(3) Ummm, I kinda don’t think Facebook would be wise for me, since I would never even know which of the 11,000 people found my name as listed publicly in the Court case file and then tracked me down starting with info from a social media site.
(4) That’s how I sometimes find people, by combining aspects of info from the social media site with other info I already know. Process of and by elimination.
(5) Then, their picture…
Don’t think me sleazy, or cruel, please: my job is black and white in that someone is always happy I found somebody and somebody is almost always not happy I found them. Ultimately, I am simply compelling people to go to Court and tell the truth, let the Judge decide. If you got hit by a drunk driver, you would be damn happy I found them…
As I understand it, the problem seems to be not only the “violators” posts, but the work of monitoring and editing/deleting/policing them.
If that is the problem, here is a proposed solution:
Add some buttons, one of which would be “This offends me” or “Rules Violation.” Let the swarm police themselves. Turn your readers into your content editors. Let us flag the garbage for you, so if a comment gets maybe 5 or more objections then you go look at it. Maybe people will abuse it and go click-happy out of spite on someone, but eventually you will see a pattern emerge of those few that consistently violate.
Finally, I had recently thought that the tone of this blog had really improved, and that the offensive personal stuff had abated significantly. I cannot know if this was due to user improvement, or harder policing and deleting, or if it was just typical of off-season dynamics, or what. But, it was more fun lately, with spirited discussions, without the comments like “what game are you watching” or “you don’t know what you’re talking about”
I will confess that I was once moderated, and left this blog for 6 months, because people were so cruel and negative, and eventually I became that, too. I learned from that, and am hopefully a better person from my mistakes. We can never get rid of any particular problem completely, we can never design a foolproof system. Coming here now I know I might see something that I dislike or that offends me or that I see as just plain naïve or stupid. When I do, I try to remember that I posted stuff that others absolutely MUST have felt the same way about.
There is a book by a Native American, titled “I Become Part Of It.” We all do; it is what we choose to become part of that defines us.
If I lose friends here because of this info I now volunteer, it would only be an example of how adding a social media information-trove would create more potential for polarization between users. Now, we only talk about hockey, and mostly the Kings. Add everything else we think about and the differences of opinion, the opportunity for negative judgment on another’s character, are multiplied.
[Reply]
BigIslandKingsFan Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 9:42 am
@Player-X, Very good post. There will always be things posted that someone won’t like or be offended by. Its just how humans are, we are all individuals with vastly different viewpoints on everything (especially things concerning the Kings).
I like your suggestion of self policing but, as with everything in this world, it can and probably will be abused by the very people that Rich wants to restrict from this site. As others have stated before, the Trolls will still find a way to disrupt things because that is how their warped minds will make them feel better about themselves.
The majority of the people that post on here are truly die hard Kings fans that I enjoy reading their posts. Although sometimes it is difficult to understand what they are posting. Maybe its because of the “beer glasses” when they are typing, or even my own. Hahaha !
[Reply]
Player-X Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 11:12 am
@BigIslandKingsFan, Thank you BigIsland, we agree on the problem, and maybe my solution will only perpetuate the problem, but it might still be better than the huge changes I am worried about.
[Reply]
tornado12 Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 10:33 am
@Player-X, i dont care what you do for a living and shouldn’t even have to be an issue here. You have had many insightful and intelligent posts about hockey and the kings. Thats all that should matter. I hope you can be afforded the luxury to continue to post, because it would be a shame and a loss to this community if you had to stop. Im sure you arent the only one that would be casualty
[Reply]
Player-X Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 11:11 am
@tornado12, thank you tornado, I appreciate the compliment. Of course, I told my occupation to illustrate the consequences…
I see your posts, too, and feel like you take your time and have a well expressed point of view, you stay within the rules and add to the worth of this blog. Maybe they will come up with a way to include non-facebook people, until I see the changes I will reserve judgment.
[Reply]
mcsorleyfan Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 11:09 am
@Player-X, well written post!
[Reply]
Player-X Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 11:12 am
@mcsorleyfan, TY
[Reply]
Bkrs-Bud Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 9:09 pm
@Player-X, Here Here great post.
[Reply]
Player-X Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 8:33 am
@Bkrs-Bud, Tks Bud
[Reply]
RoyalPain Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 11:27 pm
@Player-X,
Stop coming to my door at 7AM! That guy you are looking for hasn’t lived here in eight years!!
[Reply]
CB14 Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 8:35 pm
@Player-X, I think you served me yesterday! LOL. I too have a unique name, and don’t want people knowing it. I don’t have Facebook, but even if I did, I wouldn’t want the 2 to be combined. As someone currently on moderation, I can attest to your feelings about being on it. It has also made me better with my reactions to other people’s comments that I don’t agree with, like yours! HaHa! Just Kidding. While I do disagree with some of your opinions, they are still very thought out and intelligent. It’s the trolls that come on here that I have a problem with. I use to get angry and post responses that violated the rules. Lately I’ve been better with my responses, and I try to re-read my comments before I hit the Submit Comment button to make sure they aren’t illegal. The problem I have is that the joking and sarcasm in my responses don’t exactly come across very well in writing. I’m trying to work on that. I always enjoy reading your posts, even if I don’t agree with them and they take a long time to read!
[Reply]
Player-X Reply:
August 1st, 2011 at 8:26 am
@CB14, Salute.
[Reply]
Rich – if you have thousands of commenters, then obviously no fb since the comments here would be a representative sample. If you have only 100s of commenters, then integrating with fb may expand the active audience. I’m sure that the kings intent is to grow an active community, with tens of thousands of readers, and the comments be a draw to the site. a rabid fan base means more revenue, which is good for the kings future.
Sites get certain types of commenters and can be dominated by a steady group. From the comments above, this site does not pull in the Internet social crowd. If the dominate crowd makes it intimidating for large numbers of people, it may be a gain to integrate with fb.
I’m okay with fb. I keep my work devices separate from my personal devices. I enjoy reading the comments here, but the real draw for me are your articles. is it possible to have two sites for a few months and see how it plays out?
[Reply]
I think we should have ‘like’ and ‘dislike’I think it be cool of we could use pictures instead of the small avatar. Nick names it real names? Whatever i guess.
[Reply]
Subby Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 9:36 am
@Subby, or*
[Reply]
jonsey Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 9:56 am
@Subby, I think that blogs are supposed to be anonymous and it takes away from the appeal to make everything everyone says ever public. Just put a filter on that automatically deletes anything with key words in it like Obama or jonsey.
[Reply]
Thanks for the opportunity to comment, Rich.
• Facebook? No thanks.
• Allow anyone to stop by and read only.
• Login/password to LAKI to comment, fine by me.
• Perhaps include “Member Since” display to Handle.
• Perhaps include number of posts made by account.
• Display “new” accounts for at least 14 days by having handle colored Gold. That way we can self-monitor trolls.
• Mods: The Kings must know that this online community backs up their passion for the Kings with their dollars. The success of the Suite Nights proves that point. (Thanks, Frank!) AEG/Kings should hire moderators/help for Rich to keep LAKI honest. It’s a small investment for good return.
• Rich can then have more time to write, which is his job.
Just my thoughts on a Saturday morning. I’ve been a Hammer Fan since the Daily News days.
[Reply]
Guss Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 9:40 am
@IceGuy, nice, really liking your idea here! +1 gkg!!!
[Reply]
BigIslandKingsFan Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 9:45 am
@IceGuy, I second Guss’s motion.
[Reply]
Player-X Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 11:13 am
@IceGuy, Like it!
[Reply]
Mikey Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 12:44 pm
@IceGuy, I dig it.
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Matt George Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 12:54 pm
@IceGuy,
Love it .. good stuff!
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jess Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 1:03 pm
@IceGuy, Best idea so far
[Reply]
King Cobra Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 3:02 pm
@IceGuy, Yes, agree…..
[Reply]
Shakes Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 3:38 pm
@IceGuy,
great ideas, i especially like the gold colored “trial period” for new peeps
[Reply]
JunkyDare Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 12:24 am
@IceGuy,
Agree 100%!
[Reply]
Yeah no one has a fake name on facebook, no one.
[Reply]
NO FB
Thank you IceGuy, problem solved.
GO KINGS !!!!!!!!
[Reply]
As an infrequent (but always civil) commenter on this post who enjoys Rich’s website and journalism frequently, I guess I am a dinosaur. I will never be connected to Faceschnook or Twaddle (O! the inanity) and have resolved to never surrender to the spreading doltocracy that sweeps our nation through invasive and mind-numbing technology. I also realize, conditions prevailing as they do, that a Faceschnook option, or something like it, is perhaps inevitable (or is it?). With any change of that sort, you would hear from me no more. I would therefore thank Rich for not only the best Kings website on the planet, but perhaps the best hockey website. Rich, you have always informed, provided cogent insight and analysis, and entertained in the best traditions of the sport and of journalism. I have been a faithful reader since your Daily News days, and will continue to read as faithfully as ever, no matter what changes are made. Thanks.
[Reply]
Who has time for Facebook? I spend all my free time here reading this blog. I don’t have a Facebook account and really don’t want to be forced to have one to participate. I dont mind logging into this web site with a password, but not another web site to use this one. I’m looking forward to meeting some of the bloggers in Vegas and the thought that some would not have a voice to say they were comming to the frozen fury game would be a shame.
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Pesus is my nickname, short for Pesusich, Im in sec 320 row 4 seat 1 & 2. There, you know who I am, no need for facebook!
[Reply]
Here’s a site that’s done it with commenting:
http://www.thepensblog.com/pensblog-news/tpb/malkin-goes-swimming-with-gonchar.html
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From my screen name you can tell I am one of the old guys.
I personally do not like Face Book or any other social networking like it.
I have nothing against people who do use Face Book.
If you want to use it, it is your choice.
The important thing is that most of us that use this site are Kings fans.
It is a shame and typical that a few ruin it for the many.
I do not post much, but I have enjoyed reading all of the comments to Mr. Hammond’s articles.
These articles have been my main source of information of what’s going on with the Kings.
I will return to reading the Kings Home page, NHL .com, or the Yahoo NHL page if the LA Kings Insider goes to Face Book.
Which ever way this site goes, I want to thank Mr. Hammond and all the people who have made posts.
It has kept me informed of what is going on with the Kings and how some fans feel about it.
GO KINGS!!!!
[Reply]
Bob Bobson Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 1:17 pm
@GeezerKingsFan, If Rich implements a Facebook sign-on (still a big IF despite the tone of some of the comments) you can still read the blog. You just would not be able to comment on it. That being said, I would also prefer a separate login system if only to keep as many people involved as possible.
[Reply]
Rich,
You should of done a poll.
[Reply]
Rich, I hope there is a way to move forward without having to go through FaceBook. I like many others are not into the social media outlets. This site is awesome as it brings us Kings fans as place to meet and share thoughts. I have no fear of technology but I do cherish my privacy. FB is great for those who like it & wish to participate but please think of those who do not. I have no problem using my real name if that’s what it takes.
Sincerely,
Alexander Ward
Kings Fan from Van Nuys, California
[Reply]
Confused? It shows on the pre-season schedule the Kings play Phoenix here on Sept.21st and in Phoenix as well on the same day? Is this a split squad going on between the two teams??
[Reply]
GeezerKingsFan Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 11:30 am
@mcdangles, That is what has happened in the past. Split squads that is.
[Reply]
Since no other Kings site has seen fit to attempt to stifle comments, I guess you will have to count me out as well. Is this the Kings talking, or Rich Hammond?
Mike Mazzer aka m_and_m
[Reply]
Without reading all of these, I’m fine with it, but there should be an area to put your alias so people can still know what you used to post under.
Really, the majority is here just to talk good puck and have some fun being goofy once in a while.
[Reply]
Deadmarsh Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 7:12 pm
@Cynic, I think we should be able to keep our handles. Just make a login where we register our names. And please don’t anyone steal Deadmarsh. He is what Clifford and company should strive to be like!
[Reply]
Booooooooooo !! Facebook……The King of spam.
[Reply]
Gary Livingston Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 9:13 pm
@puck73,
Spam?
I have never once gotten spammed from Facebook. I have been a member since you needed to have a college email address to sign up.
When do you ever get spammed from Facebook?
Are you talking about getting email notifications? You could turn those off in your accounts settings.
Are you talking about getting notifications from people your are friends with using apps like Farmville? You could turn those off in your account settings.
Are you talking about getting random messages from people you don’t know on Facebook? You could make it so only your friends can message you in your account settings.
Are you talking about getting random friend requests from people you don’t know on Facebook? You could make it so only people that know your full name (which you can make hidden) or know your email address (which you can make hidden) can send you a friend request IN YOUR ACCOUNT SETTINGS.
Facebook learned a lot from Myspace and it’s spam problems (75% of the users on myspace are fake/bots that ONLY SPAM YOU) and their inability to control it. If you spend five minutes in your account settings you can make it so you everything you do is essentially private (you pick who you share with) and can prevent people from spamming you.
You should not add random people as your friends to Facebook.
After you change your account settings, delete people you don’t know. OR, put them on a list.
I have a list for idiots that I added to be nice. I have it set so those people can’t see anything on my profile. They can only send me a message. Yeah, you can set all kinds of privacy rules on Facebook if you spend five minutes customizing it.
[Reply]
jess Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 11:53 pm
@Gary Livingston,
So I’m guessing you are not the creative type.
[Reply]
Gary Livingston Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 12:02 am
@jess,
Nah, I only pretend to engulf my entire purpose for life in the pursuit of creative efforts for myself and others because I learned early on it gets me a lot of chicks.
Bonus cause I can dress like a drifter and not do anything with my hair too.
^_^
Belexes Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 12:13 pm
@Gary Livingston,
Why do you question his spam comment, and then go on to list multiple spam problems yourself? The spam is very annoying, as is the fact that “friends” can sign you up for groups you have absolutely no interest in.
Some of these groups can be of very questionabe morale integrity. And facebook has been called out a number of times for not closing off these options, but instead leaving it up to the unsuspecting user to first experience alot of this crap first, and then try to figure out how they got added to the NAMBLA group, and how do they get out of it.
[Reply]
Don’t like it, as I dislike FB. No commenting from my part any more if in FB mode. Thank you and good bye!
[Reply]
I dont post all the time but i would be out.Seams that we would have one 3rd the comments too. We already hit refresh to much.
[Reply]
I am on this blog to get Kings news…anything else is extra anyway. Rich, just keep giving the fans the details and inside info..that’s what we want.
thanks,
Mike
[Reply]
I have a facebook account and I use it everyday mostly to stay in touch with family and to show off my work, but it was especially useful when my boy was overseas in the military.
But as a true American who appreciates my privacy and freedom, it would follow suit that I also appreciate de-centralization of pretty much anything -especially personal information. So why have our little kings insider oasis rolled into a massive data sharing / proliferating collection machine?
I would say make mods to this existing format where needed, but please stay away from FB, Twitter etc. and any other macro data sharing mills.
[Reply]
King Cobra Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 3:05 pm
@jess, Good comment
[Reply]
I would recommend going the Google+ route vs. FB. The integration is passive in nature. Also, WP has integrated BuddyPress into it’s platform. I think most of us (if not all of us) would be willing to create a profile and be fairly transparent inside the LA Kings site. I know we all have a thousand social networks, but this cult like group would be up for a touch more work for a great experience.
As a side note:
Our firm has also offered to build a publication style platform for this blog. Would be a custom, kick arse experience. Just saying….
[Reply]
Gary Livingston Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 9:06 pm
@Bama Kings,
Google + has not released their API yet and has made no formal announcement as to when they may.
Google Apps (which, did have a API released for using on registering/logging into third party sites) is being discontinued/has been discontinued.
Your credibility as a programmer is questionable now.
D:
[Reply]
Bama Kings Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 9:17 pm
@Gary Livingston, I’m not a programmer
I’m one of three partners at a technology firm, but I’m the Managing Partner. I can speak tech, I can’t code a lick.
Google + will have a few options in the next few months.
[Reply]
Gary Livingston Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 5:10 pm
@Bama Kings,
Credibility restored. ^_-
What sort of projects and languages does your company usually work with? I’m just curious. I’m like you. I know enough to speak tech but, I can’t code. My background is in the visual field. Not the back end.
OK Rich, I think you’ve got some feedback here..
Ultimately, I trust rich to do what is best for him and this blog. Lets remember that he has given this a whole lot more time and thought than just about all of us put together.
I rust in RH.
Mike Miller
[Reply]
WAKingsfan Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 2:51 pm
@Michael J., Wow, I finally found out your real name!!!
[Reply]
Michael J. Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 6:16 pm
@WAKingsfan,
the secret is out!
BTW, when will you be down to SoCal? Tickets are on me.
[Reply]
WAKingsfan Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 7:31 pm
@Michael J., Christmas day is, I believe, the current plan.
my real name is Neil Wachs and I am a addict to this blog……Whew…that felt good!!!!!
[Reply]
laikaloco Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 12:52 am
@neil, Hi Neal!!!!
[Reply]
laikaloco Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 12:58 am
@laikaloco, aka Tom Madesky
I rarely post here. I don’t even read here everybody. But I love having access to what Rich gives us. It personally would not affect me one way or the other what Rich decides to do about log-ins and comments…I’m all for whatever makes HIS job easier. My usage (or lack thereof) wouldn’t be affected at all.
[Reply]
I trust in nobody — especially someone who undertakes to tell me when I’ve not behaved “responsibly”. No one likes to be judged by standards he believes are inadequate or inappropriate.
Rich is, frankly, employed at a task where he has much to gain by becoming better known. His face and name are on TV and on-line. To him, no doubt, there’s nothing wrong with every poster wearing a name tag to the party. Fame is a SPUR for him.
But there are many here who have no interest in exposing their identities. Personally, I’m not a shy and retiring sorta guy. But if a fellow blogger can’t take my measure simply by reading what I post, knowing my name won’t help him. Nor will it compel me to be more “accountable”.
I have no Facebook account and I don’t want one. Recently I took a class in how to implement techniques to pierce Facebook’s “friendship” shields. So running this site through such overblown social confluences may have the effect of flushing one’s privacy down the toilet.
No thread that depends for its value on the free flow of differing opinions can successfully survive its members being thrust under a spotlight — thrust under it for the lamest, prissiest reasons. There’s a reason, after all, for a “secret” ballot.
So why don’t we stop the pretense that one may be a good boy, may disagree respectfully, and may express one’s self forcefully without giving any offense. This is the Modern World. Giving offense is a sine qua non of voicing one’s point of view.
[Reply]
Rich…I grew up in the era that gave us Big Brother is watching…
Not the SHOW….We were afraid that one day all our doings would be monitored..
Now with facebook we tell everybody our doings ourselves…It’s unbelievable…
I have abondoned my Facebook account because of finally realizing this…
eg…I’m in Chicago today on tour…So my house is empty!!
I realize this is a silly comparison and I’m not paranoid just some one that would
prefer as much annonnimaty as possible…
This Facebook thing doesn’t sit well with me…Please there are other well established sites
that don’t need to use facebook entrance…Is it Cheaper to use Facbook?
That’s my two cents…
[Reply]
There is a way of setting up a system where we can log in either through the site itself or you can sign up with facebook. So those that don’t use facebook or don’t want there facebook known can still sign up. If you do use facebook you can set it up so nobody knows what you do, except for those you add as a friend. Any way no matter what is done, this is a great site and no matter what is done, it will be for the better of the site.
[Reply]
Hello Rich,
I hope its not the Kings managment trying to make your blog into something its not. Most FB users use FB for friends and family. I use FB just for that.
But most are not Kings fans and why should they. They all cant relate to me about the Kings… Thats why I think your blog is so great kings blogs for King fans only. I am starting to wounder who owns this blog? I hope its yours not the Kings. Thier has been some good advice on how to improve this blog and thats all it needs, updating.
[Reply]
FB is great,,,if you’re a 14 year old with acne.
[Reply]
BigIslandKingsFan Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 5:17 pm
@The ZamboniMechanic, ROTFLMAO ! ! !
[Reply]
My NAME is Thomas M Grogan III. Thats my real name but I refuse to get a Facebook page so I guess I’ll keep my comments to myself. Thanks Rich, nice knowing u
[Reply]
I was thinking what about setting up the blog in a bulletin board style ala hfboards, with a user name and password setup. When a person signs up, they will have to activate the account through a legitimate e-mail address. Rich can be the moderator, or he can assign a couple other people to do so also. It can be set up where the only person who can start a thread would be Rich, as each new blog post would be the start of the thread, with us as users commenting on said thread. Us users will never be able to start a thread, only Rich would be able too. Being like this maybe he can add a section on the site where us users can start threads, a section that can be done separate with needing a separate password to get into. Maybe charge a nominal fee for this part of the site. Anyway just a sugeestion I came up with, thought about.
[Reply]
I do not have either Facebook or Twitter accounts and I will NOT have them. If that precludes me from using the Insider to read and comnent, so be it. I am still a season ticket holder but I get more and more disenchanted with Kings management each yer as the get chintzier each year.
[Reply]
Gary Livingston Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 9:00 pm
@poe,
I can smell the bitterness on you from here.
Who said you couldn’t read the blog? How is requiring a log in system to comment on the blog “chintzy?”
[Reply]
Belexes Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 12:29 pm
@Gary Livingston,
He said “read and comment”
Do you understand better now that you’ve read it again? Let me give you an example:
If I’m wanting to traveling to Europe, I need a ticket AND a passport. If Poe is wanting to participate on LAKI, he needs to read AND comment.
[Reply]
As a Facebook user, I would like being able to use my Facebook account, but I definitely understand the position of those who don’t want to be forced to be on Facebook in order to post here. I have seen others that allow both, and I think that is the way to go.
[Reply]
OpenID
http://openid.net/
[Reply]
OpenID
http://openid.net/
[Reply]
My name is Shekhar Karnik. And I’m addictied to this blog.
[Reply]
Shakes Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 3:41 pm
@Shakes,
i should probably become addicted to a spelling blog while i’m at it…
[Reply]
jess Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 3:49 pm
@Shakes,
Hello my name is Klonvick Shhhmartnek, and I am fron France
[Reply]
Shakes Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 6:04 pm
@jess,
Beldar Conehead: “When my people come to colonize this planet, you will be on the protected rolls, and no harm will come to you.”
Gladys Johnson, Driving Student: “You are wise. But there is a sadness to your wisdom.”
jess Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 10:36 pm
@Shakes,
haha somehow I knew you would understand me:)
This site becomes more and more of a joke every day. Just wait and watch the lawsuits Hammond and the Kings get when something goes wrong from all this.
Dumb IMO.
[Reply]
Gary Livingston Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 8:58 pm
@kingshockeyguy,
Could you elaborate on this train of thought and how you concluded this is a dumb idea and how lawsuits will be involved?
[Reply]
the timing of all this facebook talk seems strange to me.i feel something is about to go down and it may not be a popular move.in the past players who seem to play hardball with dean get moved.i hope i’m wrong
[Reply]
RoyalPain Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 11:45 pm
@brian, Are we gonna be shipped out to Edmonton?
[Reply]
laikaloco Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 1:05 am
@RoyalPain, only if we’re already injured.
[Reply]
New item:
Newsweek reports that the largest employer in Colorado is Anschutz Company which employs 112,634.
To give that a little perspective, at a projected annual salary of $6.5 million, Drew Doughty’s salary would have the same impact to Anschutz as would a $57.71 per year increase in compensation for each Colorado employee.
[Reply]
Belexes Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 12:35 pm
@JackKent Cooke,
Are you telling us that famous entertainers make lots of money?
[Reply]
JackKent Cooke Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 9:10 pm
@Belexes,
No; merely making the point that very rich people can easily afford to pay them.
[Reply]
laikaloco Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 1:07 am
@JackKent Cooke, That’s only $1.10 per week that he has to cut their salaries to break even…
[Reply]
Rich,
While I would have no problem using my actual name in this forum instead of online moniker of JWR I use in all my online forum login’s that is actually just my initials.
But if I was forced to signup for Facebook in order to use this forum I would be forced to abandon it’s use.
I enjoy and appreciate the hard work you put into this site and the insight you are able to pass on to us. My wife and I have gone to the suite nights you and Frank have put on the last couple of years. While I would not wish to give it up, if the price to access it is to be forced to join a social networking site I have zero interest in joining, setting up or maintaing, that is a price I am not willing to pay.
It would be better to setup the site as a “Yearly pay for use” with a modest $5 per year signup fee for which one would need to fill out an online application which would allow your to verify who each person is thru either taking payment via CC or Paypal.
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jet Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 5:16 pm
@JWR, Rich actually asked readers a few years ago if they would be willing to pony up a few bucks to keep the site going. The response was surprisingly underwhelming. I think this would keep most of the rifraft out. Rich could you add this option to the poll?
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FiG17 Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 9:30 pm
@jet,
It would also keep the poor college students out.
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BigIslandKingsFan Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 5:26 pm
@JWR, You know what? I would be infavor of that. But, again, it might keep some of the occasional posters out so that would be a drawback for them. Then again, it would also keep most of the Trolls out of the blog.
So, good idea, but no panacea in keeping everyone happy.
Just my 2 cents.
[Reply]
JWR Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 5:50 pm
@BigIslandKingsFan,
If Rich could have any payments made for the ability to post in the comments be directed as a donation to the Kings Care Foundation it could make it more pallatable to those occational posters that might be put off by being required to pay $5 for the access.
[Reply]
jet Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 9:37 pm
@JWR, or to new jerseys as gathered from the tome in previous threads.
Btw, my name is Tony Martin , I work for Sony Computer Entertainment , I live in El Cajon, CA and I think freedom of speech is very important and should not be governed by corporations or journalist ‘s, especially journalist’s ( kind of a conflict of interest) .
[Reply]
As an avid Facebook user and an avid Kings fan I must admit I am not very fond of this idea.
Rich, I completely agree and understand what you are saying about people who are obnoxious and rude buy Facebook wouldnt be the answer. I am 16 years old and follow the NHL and Kings on Facebook not to mention the the Reign and Monarchs. but even the Kings have a problem of controlling comments on their Facebook as there are many fans from Anaheim, San Jose. ,Vancouver etc. That troll their account.
I spend a lot of time on Yahoo Answers in the hockey section and don’t spend as much time on here mainly because my dad (a regular on here whose name I wont say) keeps me informed but I don’t think Facebook would he any good.
I do have an alternative in mind. Back in middle school some friends and I created a forum/web page for our debate team (simple enough for middle schoolers to make) but I can’t remember it so when I find out I will leave a comment on this post with the website.
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matthew Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 6:20 pm
@matthew,
Well is seems as though we used Wiki Spaces. It might not be the same thing but they do offer plans for free, $5 and $20 a month (I doubt you would wan the $1000 a month plan)
[Reply]
Parsing Rich’s post we find the following:
“So, we change, and hopefully find something that works well for everyone. The most-discussed option is to go to a system in which people log in through Facebook accounts and post. The point is for people to post behind their real names, because it’s been proven, time and again, that there’s a higher level of responsibility and accountability when people actually attach their names to what they say.
I assure you that my primary concern is to find a system that best serves (within reason) the needs of the readers.”
So while concluding that the needs of the readers are paramount, the fundamental change, prohibiting anonymous posting, is decreed not debated. No discussion is encourage whether to abandon anonymous posting only how to accomplish it.
Here are a few random thoughts about anonymous posting. In the world before the internet, sports fans had to rely for their fix on print media, principally the reports of beat writers. There were many constraints on beat writers being objective and opinionated. First, the teams had a lot of influence with the papers and if a writer was too negative, the papers often successfully lobbied to replace them. Second, the beat writers needed access to and cooperation from management and the players to get information and quotes. Again, too objective or critical reporting could jeopardize the access necessary for the reporter to do his/her job. Third, there is a natural desire to be liked, and that often colored a reporters coverage. Hard hitting opinion and colorful commentary were the province of a few established feature writers, who had sufficient stature, “tenure” and guts to call things they way they saw them without worrying about their jobs or whether they were liked.
Most reporters were governed by the “higher level of responsibility and accountability” (aka-control) to which Rich refers.
One of the tools of the journalistic trade is anonymous sources for the simple reason, that some people will only provide information or opinion if they do not fear retaliation of one sort or another. Today’s L.A, Times front page story concerning the latest breakdown of the debt ceiling negotiations, relies heavily on anonymous sources.
The Arab Spring is largely an internet phenomenon. Would it have been possible if posters had to sign their names. I am hardly suggesting a King fan uprising, but simply making the point that institutions fear nothing more that the power of expression free of constraint.
All institutions seek to control their public image by controlling to the extent possible what is known and communicated about them. That is why they insist, for example, on having control over who their radio and television announcers are.
Sports are in the Toy Department not the State Department. The great thing the internet has allowed is a constant sort of hot stove league, mimicking the conversations that you might have with other fans in your living room or at Staples watching a game. What would a sporting event be like if everything you ever said about Terry Murray, Justin Penner, “Donuts” Doughty, Jamie Kompon, Mark Hardy, etc, etc,,,,was attributable.
A blog should not be like a book club with measured meanderings on the themes of Proust. It should be a lighthearted conversation like you might have in a bar before or after the game. It should have more the culture of a comedy club than a church.
Like Rich, I am a Chicago Cub fan. I read three fantastic Cub blogs; Desipio.com, HireJimEssian.com and TheHeckler.com. They are incredibly entertaining. All allow anonymous posting without which they would lose most of their color and flavor.
If you have ever belonged to a college sports alumni group, you will have found that at the formal meetings only a positive spin is presented by the same people who, in informal post-meeting gatherings. offer a much different and objective opinion of the “state of the program” when they are not concerned about jeopardizing the perks of their insider status.
Profane and irresponsible behavior is surely to be discouraged, but it happens all the time in your living room while you are watching a game with friends. It is usually a harmless, natural and spontaneous part of being a sports fan. Rich controls this site with a steady hand and carefully safeguards behavior that crosses the line between harmless spontaneity and violating community standards.I fear attribution will undermine the fun of unfettered repartee with fellow King fanatics. IMO, this site is not broke, so don’t fix it.
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LBlocal Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 8:39 pm
Mr. Cooke. Wherever/whomever you are… Your response.. Spot on. gKg!
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JackKent Cooke Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 5:30 pm
@LBlocal,
I was buried in 1997.
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jess Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 10:07 pm
@JackKent Cooke,
Fantastic
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Player-X Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 8:44 am
@JackKent Cooke, a toast to “unfetterd repartee.”
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tornado12 Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 10:48 am
@JackKent Cooke, posts that make you think “hmmmm?” another example of what I hope wont be lost here. Cheers to you my friend!
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kingrnav Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 2:37 pm
@JackKent Cooke, A very thoughtful post.
Robert
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Had FB, thought it was a pain and insecure but they tightened up the security since then. Still, don’t really want to resurrect my account.
I’m not a chronic poster but I haven’t seen much “spam” posting or even disrespectful posts. Is a switch in logon really even required??? Anyway, appreciate Rich’s work here and pretty much all of the knowlegable and loyal Kings’ fans. I’m really excited for this upcoming season (I know, I know, I’ve been saying that for nearly 20 years now) but this time it just finally feels good to be a King again.
Can’t wait to see those Canucks and Sharks again. We got a score to settle.
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vtecjunkie Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 6:42 pm
@crashin’ da net,
Agree. This is a very civilized blog.
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I don’t have FB because there I don’t want people who I don’t care about from my high school class contacting me and saying let’s be buds. Also, FB seems to in a very scary way be able to find your sixth cousin on your moms side and tell you you’re related. No thanks. I guess if I have to you FB it will just be with fake email & fake name.
[Reply]
Rich,
I am rather new to the Insider, going on only two years. This site has become my daily addiction. I have come to love this site for a multitude of reasons:
1. It is about the Kings
2. You always make sure we have the latest and most accurate information
3 The other posters are terrific ans add insight and humor to the sometime frustrating status of being a Kings fan
4. This is the first internet blog I ever participated on
5. It is the only internet blog I have ever participated on
6. It is doesn’t allow politicss
7. It doesn’t allow religion (unless you categorize Kings hockey as a “religion”),,,
8. It is so easy to use that even I can do it
9. When I am having a bad day, I can always count on getting a laugh from a fellow Insider’s post
10. I am a rather private person and don’t believe in having an open life on Facebook,
11. Last but not least os you Rich. Your ability to remain true and neutral ensures that this site remains a simple, honest and informative place for Kings fans to discuss, joke, laugh, support and debate everything about the Kings.
Many of my posts contain a degree of sarcasm, but in this instance I will be completely serious. Please don’t go the Facebook route, as I am afraid that it will severely damage if not destroy the wonderful thing you have created.
[Reply]
Cortex949 Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 6:58 pm
@DesertKing, I love #10. Well put. I don’t feel you or I are hiding anything bad I just don’t want everyone who has even known me to know everything I’m doing at all times. Can cause drama and there is enough real drama in the world already.
[Reply]
Gary Livingston Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 8:54 pm
@Cortex949,
Use the privacy settings on facebook. Make everything hidden to the public and, if you want, hidden to anyone you decide to add as a friend.
Nothing is open on Facebook unless you make it so.
[Reply]
Cortex949 Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 9:19 pm
@Gary Livingston, wouldn’t it be more accurate to say “anything can be made private if you want it to be”?
Bkrs-Bud Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 9:33 pm
@Gary Livingston, Are you employed by Face Book? Maybe in sales?
jet Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 9:54 pm
@Gary Livingston, Hey Gary, is there not some controversy about FBs ability to change those privacy settings without your prior knowledge or consent? You are expecting us to trust some board of directors we have never met with our most most valued posessions, our family. it is not going to happen
Gary Livingston Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 10:46 pm
@Gary Livingston,
“Cortex949 Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 9:19 pm
@Gary Livingston, wouldn’t it be more accurate to say “anything can be made private if you want it to be”?”
touche. haha.
I just want you and desertking and others to realize you have control over that on Facebook.
Gary Livingston Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 11:15 pm
@Gary Livingston,
“jet Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 9:54 pm
@Gary Livingston, Hey Gary, is there not some controversy about FBs ability to change those privacy settings without your prior knowledge or consent? You are expecting us to trust some board of directors we have never met with our most most valued posessions, our family. it is not going to happen”
I’m gonna say “if I recall” a lot below. Because, it’s been a while since anything like that has been brought to my attention and I do try to keep up to date about such things. I’m hard at work at building my own social network geared towards artists and about helping inspire, educate, and empower people. I really don’t want to make the same mistakes others have in the past. So, research, research, sign up, play around, research. haha.
I think during one of previous site redesigns/relaunches some privacy settings got reset to the default modes. If I recall correctly, huge outcry and it was a heap of crap by Facebook. If I recall, it was during a launch of some new features.
I’m not saying the site is built perfect or they aren’t a bunch of idiots running it. But, they do respond well to outcries and have done a good job at applying user feedback to new implementations of the site.
Most of the anger Facebook has gotten, from myself especially since I am a photographer, revolves around the user agreement contract. It’s essentially a license agreement you enter when signing up to the site. Every single site has one. Especially social media sites.
In the most user friendly and ethical versions it simply acts as an agreement that allows the site to distribute and alter any content you upload to the site. Distribute is simply meaning they can move that content and display it on any computer that views that site and they have permission to put that content on any page within that site. Now, alter is only used in the most non threatening of ways. Such as, cropping an image to fit within a given space in a layout or even compressing the image file to save on server file space and bandwidth. Every site requires this because the law requires a contract from you in order to legally store, display, distribute your content across their site.
In the evil unethical versions there is language that gives the site permission to sell/distribute/do whatever they want with anything you upload to their site.
In the inbetween versions there are questionable clauses that give them more permission than they deserve or need.
Facebook has twice (that I can remember) been called out for changing their user agreement contract and including some questionable clauses. Mainly, (if I recall) dealing with photographs and allowing them to be used on third party apps built for Facebook but, not by Facebook itself. That could be like Farmville not needing to ask you for permission to use a picture of you as a poster on a barn in the game (just a made up example). It was something they didn’t need to include and was not fair of them to include.
I’m not really up to date on it because it only took about a week of outrage on Facebook and other sites like Reddit for Facebook to amend the user agreement and make it user friendly/ethical again.
I follow those things as they happen and once they are fixed I play around and make sure they are to my liking and move on. The last time that happened was over a year ago I think.
But, Facebook and every single website goes wrong here and there. It’s just a matter of paying attention to which ones don’t care to go right afterwards. Or, spend too much time trying to avoid going right.
Usually, it’s the fault of the lawyers. Not the board of directors or CEO. Lawyers don’t quite understand what users expect and deserve and they usually side WAY too far on the side of their client while writing/amending a user agreement contract (amended as new features are added to a site). It’s usually just thrown up and those questionable clauses are never noticed by management. They just assume the lawyers wrote what needed to be written to protect them from getting sued for displaying a user’s photo in an created by the site . They aren’t thinking the lawyer wrote something extra that says they can now display a user’s photograph in any 3rd party app added to the site as well.
Also, any site can change those user agreements at any single time without notice. And, almost every single site does as they add new features and need to amend them. Just do your best to be aware. I get lazy myself. It happens. Which is why being an active reader on Reddit.com comes in handy. People are kinda hell bent over there on finding those clauses and making sure everyone finds out in order to tell the site to fix them immediately.
Don’t trust anyone blindly. But, don’t expect the worst just because people make mistakes.
tuan jim Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 10:01 am
@Gary Livingston,
“Don’t trust anyone blindly. But, don’t expect the worst just because people make mistakes.”
Why not?
Nothing in your comments gives me reason to have faith in Facebook or any of its clones and copy-cats. I took a “legal” seminar in ways that trolls and troglodytes like me can step around the privacy settings on social networks. I’m not saying I understood everything I was told — in fact, I didn’t — but there were many, MANY, who did. And those persons — who included lawyers, investigators, collectors — are precisely the ones I most fear sticking their noses into my business.
You mention your own efforts to “play around and make sure they are to [your] liking and move on”. Naturally, being a photographer, your penchant for technical details gives you both the interest and the skill necessary to protect yourself from the inevitable “mistakes” of others.
But most of the world doesn’t know as much as you know. Many of us need a road map to find the gas cap on our cars. Yes, our fear of technology is irrational and based in good measure on ignorance and inertia. But our ignorance and inertia are as palpable as your knowledge. While all of us wish we knew more, very few are willing to take the time or trouble to learn.
That’s one of the reasons we — and all mankind, including you — make as many mistakes as we do. Other reasons include faith in the privacy safeguards of a multi-billion dollar website that even you admit can be tweaked to your — or perhaps someone else’s — satisfaction.
We don’t come to LAKingsinsider for personal growth, to learn how to master computer technology, or to announce our un-ashamed lives with our names, our backgrounds, our pictures posted in the noonday sun.
We come here to talk hockey. The Facebook I’ve seen is not built to accommodate people like us. Nothing that goes on here will be improved by it.
And once again, you adhere to that wonderful, wholly fantastic, principle that we’ll be safe so long as we do nothing to be ashamed of. And once again, I respond: Every member of the human race does something he’s ashamed of. That’s part of our job description. I can express it in sacred terms, like “Man is conceived in sin and born in corruption” or more familiarly in language that Rich will disallow or even in the terms you yourself use: “People make mistakes.”
What that means is that no one is safe. Lemme say this again so my point is clear: NO ONE IS SAFE.
And if that’s the Way Of The World — (and you know it is) — it means all of us, lawyers, computer nerds, telejournalists, hockey fans, even photographers, are headed down the poop chute to a vicious and retributive hell.
If it’s all the same to you, I’d rather make the trip on my own — without a “social network”.
Cortex949 Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 10:57 am
@Gary Livingston, morning! I realize that you can control all that on FB but my problem isn’t with the site or the people that use it. It’s a fantastic network for people who have that kind of lifestyle or people who want to connect with old friends. The point I’m trying to make and a lot of others on here who seem to be ‘arguing’ with you is that it’s not for us. For me (and I think others) to have a profile there and still feel comfortable, we would have to create a profile, and then go in and spend some time editing everyone’s level and privacy and such. Doing this is basically removing all the intended purpose of the site to begin with. It’s intended to be a place where everyone you know can communicate and learn about you and have fun, but to make me comfortable with it I would have to “cut more people out of the loop” and eliminate the actual designed purpose in the first place.
So maybe I’m unique in this perspective on this. I don’t feel FB will steal my identity or give my info to the evil bad guys hiding on the Internet or anything. I just have a more private lifestyle than others and to have one and filter everyone out seems pointless. I guess if we need one to post here in the future I’ll make one and adjust the settings accordingly but until it’s required I want nothing to do with it. Hope this makes more sense.
CB14 Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 7:54 pm
@DesertKing, I agree 100%. While i’m fairly young, 28, I’ve never gotten into Facebook or any of that other social media stuff. I like to keep my name and personal life, well personal. I don’t comment on any other blog, and like the posting system on this site just the way it is. Except possibly add a “like” button, and an edit feature. Other than that it’s perfect, IMO.
[Reply]
doesn’t this site then risk losing posters to another Kings blog? – or is there even an alternative site available?
[Reply]
Gary Livingston Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 8:53 pm
@petemagoop,
People only come here to comment?
They don’t come here to read the great articles about the team?
[Reply]
Belexes Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 12:45 pm
@petemagoop,
Yes, I would say this site will certainly lose a lot of POSTERS to other sites, people have POSTED that in this thread. While others have been called out for misrepresenting the virtues of facebook, and it’s privacy.
[Reply]
I agree with all those disliking the social media take over. I am a dedicated Kings fan for over 40 years and will remain one forever. I am fairly new to blogging and this is the only site I wish to do it on. Please rich keep us together as one group undivided on a dedicated site.GKG!!!!
[Reply]
I read a bunch of the comments.
Here is mine….
Im a bit older and mature. My kida laugh that I even have a face book account. My daughter scoffs that I might go there and use it….Facebooks is for teens and younger adults….
SO NOOOOOO to facebook !!!!!
Besides im a professional person and frankly I dont want patients or the world… or others knowing all about my private life.
Seems like you would lose a lot of us Rich !!!!! Ive been a kings fan since 1974. This site has given me pleasure to read what is going on with the kings . Ive put my two cents in where I had a specific interest…
Do what you think is professional.
[Reply]
hip-check Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 8:02 pm
@hip-check, word is Kids…
BTW on any upgrade can you add an edit feature so we can go back and edit our spelling…..
[Reply]
Forum to Staples Fan Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 1:13 pm
@hip-check,
“Besides im a professional person and frankly I dont want patients or the world… or others knowing all about my private life.” Amen to that.
I don’t have a Facebook account and am not going to get an account for this, no matter how much I love my Kings and how terrific this blog is.
Rich – please, please don’t do that to us. And enjoy your well-earned vacation.
[Reply]
Well Rich, it looks like the trial baloon you set afloat was shot down with a high powered dart gun. People like the site as it is, and they just want you to keep doing what you have been doing because you have alot of die hards like me on this site, which in turn have made me some new friends and acquaitences because of what you have created…dont change a thing, you have already hit the jackpot !
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 8:48 pm
@puck73,
Nicely said and 100% true. Rich, you and this blog are the perfect just the way they are.
[Reply]
neil Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 9:07 pm
@DesertKing, are you Billy Joel???
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 9:10 pm
@neil,
Only if I get to spend quality time with Christie Brinkley
jess Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 10:34 pm
@puck73,
Just when @ gary livningston was ready to liquify what remains of your individuality? –You must not be allowed to think for yourself robot-sheeple person, don’t ask questions, now, eat the steroid pellets and walk forth into the stainless steel counter opposing propeller blades spinning @ 30k rpm.
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tornado12 Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 10:07 am
@jess, LMFAO…classic Jess
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The best (and most interactive) commenting section I’ve seen is SB Nation.
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I will admit, it would be pretty convenient if there was a way to keep track of our posts… I feel like I may have left a few people hanging mid-thread in the past, simply because I forgot I had left a comment in the first place… or I couldn’t find it. So some sort of notification system, or log, would be helpful.
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My current total is 21 pro Facebook login 83 opposed
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Rich,
I’m going to start by making a few statements, wrong or right these are my opinions.
#1: You are a steward of all things Kings, thank you.
#2: I consider “LA Kings Insider” a Rich Hammond production.
#3: I dislike Facebook.
That being said, you should reserve the right to “moderate” the forum as you see fit. Delete replies if they interfere with your agenda. As a 34 year old male who grew up in the modern computer age from a relatively early age I often wonder about these rogue trolls
who engage participants maliciously with utter disrespect. I don’t get it. They must not be true King’s Fans. I believe you set presedence a year or so ago when you sat us all down and reminded us that this is not that type of forum. I think it helped. Having to log into Facebook to prove identity is fruitless. I don’t have a Facebook account. My name is Ryan Mudd and I’m proud of it! You can always add a @gmail.com to the end of my user name to reach me.
Respectfully,
Ryan Mudd
[Reply]
Sorry to go off topic, but I wanted to post some thoughts about rookie camp in case this is it for me. Please consider my prospective as a fans and not a reporters, such as Rich. Also, my writting is no match for Rich’s or 90% of those who comment here.
My first overall impression was that the overall speed of the players in the drills and scrimages was as good as we have had at any rookie camp. This was surprising considering what I thought to be a weak draft and not selecting a skater until the third round. I will go in order of the roster they handed out.
Muzzin – appeared much calmer on the puck this year. he did not try any fancy spin moves, but went for a more steady and consistent approach. He looked thicker if that is possible. He and Nic could be a third pairing by the end of the year.
Posa – did not notice
Durepos – did not notice much, skated the puck out a couple of times
Roach – raw, but the potential is there. Not sure if he is quick enough latterally to cover a winger turning the corner on him. That said, I would invite him back to training camp
Brown – did not notice
Schumachar – seems to remind me of King 4 years ago. His skating was good for his size and spent a lot of time in the slot. the game did seem fast for him, but it should at 17.
Eddy – this guy looked good he was able to create a little space, shot was good. I would invite him to training camp
Lowery – I thought we selected the wrong Lowery at the draft. we got the right one. good skating, good shot, with a little Tony Granato. He ran a defenceman 30 pounds bigger into the end boards hard, but clean. this one was a surprise. he does look thin, the attitude is there
Kozun – clearly the most skilled player on the ice. I think he could even get a look by next year. But, I was left with the impression that he will never get to Phase A. I do not actually have any inside knowledge, but I do have a feeling from decades of coaching that his body language and a couple of incidents lead me to believe he is headed down the me first path. Again, I could be completly out to lunch, but if any other coach was left with the impression that I took away, he should be in TMs office tomorrow with 3 questions. Coach, how can I improve my on ice performance, how can I improve my off the ice performance, and what can I do to take a leadership role? If not, he may be on his third team 18 months from now.
Friedmann – some skill, but looked intimidated
Mignardi – took some body, and made a sweet pass from behind the net to set up a great look. he may have been an attackman in LAX when he was younger. He was strong on the puck for his size and had good vision. I would invite him to training camp.
Gravel – did not see much of an improvement in skating as I thought there would have been. It is still good for his size, but… He did look more comfortable and his awarness of off puck attackers was a much bettter. He could get stronger.
Mersch – pretty good at most everything. willing to go to the net. This is one that is completly in the players hands, he could be very good if works hard.
Shore – I can see why the Kings moved up to select him. got in on a break away from the blue line and put it away easily. his speed was good, but the 200 lunges appeared to affect his skating stride. skates, shots, moves without the puck well. This could be the Lombardi special this year
vey – far and away the most improved player. all plays with and without the puck seem to be in slow motion for him this year. The player I most want to see in training camp this year. Could be wearing a crown within 3 years.
weal – speed is getting better, but needs more work. very good at seeing seems on attack. did get a PS, acceleration was good, finish was fair. was much stronger on the puck than last year. needs another year of growth just like the one he just had.
Andreoff – Left a defender flat footed and was in alone from his bench. He held on too long and took away his angle. As I say that, the goaltending was very good all the way around. He is very strong, but I am not sold on his finishing skills. He will have to follow the Simmonds road map to stay in camp.
Kantor – hits like Brown, good timing, uses small push/pull to get D off balance. The rest of the game is uhh, uhh, DB?
[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 1:37 am
@jet, Very good analysis on these players. However, you left off Niclas Deslauriers and Maetin Jones who from what I was told by several people looked dominat. Heard great things about Vey, apparrently he really improved this camp compared to last season.
[Reply]
jet Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 3:48 pm
@puck73, Hey puck, I meant to post two seperate segments. I ended up adding info to the first in the post below. so check the post below for wverything.
[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 5:58 pm
@jet, You are right, I didnt read the bottom one because I thought that it was the same as this one. Excellent post and analysis, cant wait til September when camp starts, will you be attending some of those sessions ? Also, dont forget about Dodger Stadium next Friday, guys like me and @wavesinair will be making a big push for everybody to get a cheap tix on stubhub in the Loge Level, sec 157 and 159. Hope I finally get to meet you, looking forward to friday night. You can contact me at @mikebrnstn@gmail.com and I will float you my cell# and hook up with you and some of the crew !
mcdangles Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 6:03 pm
@jet, I was there day 2. The one guy that seemed to stand out was Andreoff. He seemed to be in the thick of things all 3 zones, and tuff too. I believe he was the one that the coach’s on ice had to say NO to him dropping the gloves. Toffoli without a doubt has a great knack for the net, has a cannon of a shot, coverage in his own end looked good. All in all, wait till regular camp and see if the ROOKIES do good when thrown in with the BIG FISH….going to be interesting to see what unfolds
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jet Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 8:58 pm
@mcdangles, agree with Andrenoff being tough, I just am not sure the skill is there yet to keep him on the team. I think he will need a camp similar to Simmonds rookie camp to stick. So the willingness to go needs to be there. a work associate saw him fight a few years ago with a full on (Clifford at the end of the season) shinner. Andrenoff was lighter and younger, but handled himself well. I love Tof, so if I sounded too negative, I did not mean to.
hey, what did you think of Cajkovski
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Quisp Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 9:38 pm
@jet,
good stuff, jet.
Sorry to go off topic, but I wanted to post some thoughts about rookie camp in case this is it for me. Please consider my prospective as a fans and not a reporters, such as Rich. Also, my writting is no match for Rich’s or 90% of those who comment here.
My first overall impression was that the overall speed of the players in the drills and scrimages was as good as we have had at any rookie camp. This was surprising considering what I thought to be a weak draft and not selecting a skater until the third round. I will go in order of the roster they handed out.
Muzzin – appeared much calmer on the puck this year. he did not try any fancy spin moves, but went for a more steady and consistent approach. He looked thicker if that is possible. He and Nic could be a third pairing by the end of the year.
Posa – did not notice
Durepos – did not notice much, skated the puck out a couple of times
Roach – raw, but the potential is there. Not sure if he is quick enough latterally to cover a winger turning the corner on him. That said, I would invite him back to training camp
Brown – did not notice
Schumachar – seems to remind me of King 4 years ago. His skating was good for his size and spent a lot of time in the slot. the game did seem fast for him, but it should at 17.
Eddy – this guy looked good he was able to create a little space, shot was good. I would invite him to training camp
Lowery – I thought we selected the wrong Lowery at the draft. we got the right one. good skating, good shot, with a little Tony Granato. He ran a defenceman 30 pounds bigger into the end boards hard, but clean. this one was a surprise. he does look thin, the attitude is there
Kozun – clearly the most skilled player on the ice. I think he could even get a look by next year. But, I was left with the impression that he will never get to Phase A. I do not actually have any inside knowledge, but I do have a feeling from decades of coaching that his body language and a couple of incidents lead me to believe he is headed down the me first path. Again, I could be completly out to lunch, but if any other coach was left with the impression that I took away, he should be in TMs office tomorrow with 3 questions. Coach, how can I improve my on ice performance, how can I improve my off the ice performance, and what can I do to take a leadership role? If not, he may be on his third team 18 months from now.
Friedmann – some skill, but looked intimidated
Mignardi – took some body, and made a sweet pass from behind the net to set up a great look. he may have been an attackman in LAX when he was younger. He was strong on the puck for his size and had good vision. I would invite him to training camp.
Gravel – did not see much of an improvement in skating as I thought there would have been. It is still good for his size, but… He did look more comfortable and his awarness of off puck attackers was a much bettter. He could get stronger.
Mersch – pretty good at most everything. willing to go to the net. This is one that is completly in the players hands, he could be very good if works hard.
Shore – I can see why the Kings moved up to select him. got in on a break away from the blue line and put it away easily. his speed was good, but the 200 lunges appeared to affect his skating stride. skates, shots, moves without the puck well. This could be the Lombardi special this year
vey – far and away the most improved player. all plays with and without the puck seem to be in slow motion for him this year. The player I most want to see in training camp this year. Could be wearing a crown within 3 years.
weal – speed is getting better, but needs more work. very good at seeing seems on attack. did get a PS, acceleration was good, finish was fair. shooting was improved, able to do more at toop speed, was much stronger on the puck than last year. needs another year of growth just like the one he just had.
Andreoff – Left a defender flat footed and was in alone from his bench. He held on too long and took away his angle. As I say that, the goaltending was very good all the way around. He is very strong, but I am not sold on his finishing skills. He will have to follow the Simmonds road map to stay in camp.
Kantor – hits like Brown, good timing, uses small push/pull to get D off balance. The rest of the game is uhh, uhh, DB? I would invite to training camp
Nolan – this was the first time I actually looked at him as a prospect. awareness was better, puck possession was better, play making was better. this guy has come along way.
Dowd – did not notice
Toffoli – shot still great, skating is better, awarness in the Ozone is better. willingness to back check, still needs to keep focus in own end. during one of the huddles during drills, one of the newbies went to him to ask a question. This guy is a King.
Czarnik – finally thickened up. The strength really helps. skating and shot are fine. was one of the top players out there Could be a big contributor in Man this season.
Cajkovski – Good lateral movement, good feet for his size. Great stick on D. Weak shot. he dumped Kozun in the slot on a 2v2 attack and Kozun took a two hander to his ankles. He backed off and Kozun just missed one timing a pass in the top corner. he should have stayed with him. Anyway, he plays the body. I would invite him to training camp.
Deslauriers – very smooth, more confident in D zone, moves the puck quicker, skated out a couple of times. need to see him in training camp.
Campbell – like Nolan, this is the first year I see him as a prospect. Awareness improved 1000% the past couple of years. I am not positive he will wear the crown, but there is some light there.
I need to hit it. Forbort was on track, Miller was good lateral, but got caught flat footed at his blue line. All the goalies were good. Morrison and Gibson are good prospects.
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jet Reply:
July 23rd, 2011 at 11:39 pm
@jet, sorry, i meant to post two independant sections.
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Not into the FB thing either. Didn’t even realize the sphincter-factor was an issue here! Haven’t been annoyed at anyone since Anthonyyy was around bleating for Patty O to come back and for DL/TM to be burned at the stake!
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Has anyone else had there posts show up then disappear?
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My thoughts:
I love this place… just as it is.
Reading the comments on other websites, articles, etc., has actually made me notice how well behaved this group is. I don’t really notice any seriously disruptive behavior. If there is a lot of that going on, whomever is handling it sems to be doing a great job.
Of all of the feature requests I’ve seen posted over the years, more ways to control who posts what, isn’t on the list. I don’t see posters complaining about the poeple on the blog. (yes, I remember Anthonyy. But, hey.. sometimes a common enemy is what galvanizes a group. The truth is, often times he is brought up for a laugh. He is part of the Insider Culture.)
I agree with those who think “it’s not broke”.
If the job of keeping it this way has become increasingly difficult, then I am truely sorry. I am in the mostly silent majority who appreciates everything you do to continue to allow us to have this place.
I believe you, at least once, described this as “organic” and I believe that. It has become a community where posters visit each other when in town, drinks have been bought, tickets offered, events planned, friends made. The people who come here and use this place as it’s intened, know what’s going on.
If change is warrented because the task has become unmanageable, it’s my guess that most of us would rather accept a few more ‘trolls’ to scroll past than more ‘account management’. We’re big boys and girls. No one is forcing anyone of us (outside of the addiction) to come here. Those of us that do, know what we’re getting in to. Allow it to continue to evolve…
“It’s not broke”
All that said, a “agree” or “disagree” with a post button would be cool. (I prefer that over “like/dislike”)
Thanks for listening and thanks for asking. Thank you for the experience you’ve created so far.
I know that you will choose best available option.
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Dominick Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 11:55 am
@LittleRhody,
Good post. I agree with your sentiments here, especially the part about disruptive posters being part of the culture. Often times I get just as good a laugh out of seeing how many posters Anthony can suck in before somebody recognizes what he is doing. It might agitate some, but I love seeing our own bloggers take an interest in policing the site, and it’s pretty easy to identify the good ones who regularly post here.
Can’t say I haven’t been sucked in by a few myself, but that’s what fuels our passion sometimes. I think where I get sucked in, is where a troll will come on and say something disruptive, but Kingsfans will actually start agreeing with him, without realizing just what he was doing to begin with, and start doing it themselves. That’s a real troll, who can turn a teams own fanbases against their own team, can actually get the fans fighting with each other.
All in all I like the way this site has evolved, and the few negatives tend to leave more positives in their wake.
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a few blogs i follow require a log in in order to post..
others moderate the comments… this blog prolly gets too many comments to moderate them, but a create an account log-in approach might be the better option…
i dont have facebook.. youll likely lose a few of the commenters here if you go down that road.. whatev…
~ cheers…
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Rich,
1st of all, you have way too much free time in your vacation. I think you’re thinking deep dark thoughts. That being said, I deal with many of the same issues. I have 4995 friends on FB and a group of relentless detractors who really piss me off. It seems like this is a byproduct of social media. My suggestion is to keep your blog a is. Even if you change, certain yahoos will post garbage anyhow. Everybody gets it. Even Howard Stern is dealing with a group that has formed bagging on him to the point he can’t even log into the group. The thing that makes your blog great is the thorough analysis of our Favorite team, the Kings.
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Player-X Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 8:52 am
@Poorman, “Even Howard Stern?” As if he is so likeable that detractors from his persona would be unusual?
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Poorman Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 9:56 am
@Player-X, The point is everybody gets hit dude.
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puck73 Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 12:37 pm
@Poorman, Like Martin Luther King, I had a Dream, that one day I would read one of your posts and it wouldnt be contoversial, and I wouldnt be irritated….Free at last…Free at last !
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rumpa#19 Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 2:19 pm
@Poorman, Well said.and so positive?
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jet Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 3:53 pm
@rumpa#19, when poorman changed to richman, he left the dark side of the moon.
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DesertKing Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 2:53 pm
@Poorman,
That was beautiful man, just beautiful.
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Poorman Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 2:40 am
@DesertKing, hhahha you guys are hilarious!!!!!
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mcsorleyfan Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 10:13 pm
@Poorman, Who are you, and what have you done with our Poorman???
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Hey Hey Poorman!!!! Kings look good going into this season. Hopefully we get off to a good start and keep the winning going right into the playoffs. Now on to this Facebook thing. Facebook is taking over the world. I remember win this blog site only had a few people and we all knew each other, it was like we had our own little corner of the world. This is now gone. With all the new people longing in, we just can’t keep up with all the posts. Its great that King fans are coming out the woodwork and that we are growing in popularity. Nothing like having more people to root our club on. Maybe this Facebook thing will bring us all closer and make us more accessible. I’ve always have wondered about some of the different folks who post. There have been times when, going to a game with someone was a great way to meet someone. Now it’s right at your finger tips. Facebook is the new thing. Get with it people. Throw away your 8-track tapes and Bell-Bottoms. This is the New World, Moving at a high speed. Stay up or get left behind, it’s your choice. Go Kings and see you all in Vegas.
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BuzzKing Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 10:02 am
There’s just something about an 8 track and vinyl for that matter that soothes the soul…
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Shakes Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 10:06 am
@BuzzKing,
I don’t care what anyone says, listening to Dark Side of Moon on vinyl with the crackles beats any remastered CD…
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LVKINGS88 Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 11:14 am
@Shakes, there’s a new radio station in So Cal that plays vinyl alot of the time,over the 4th of July and Memorial weekend they played “side one” of all the great R&R bands.It’s funny to hear the scatching and cracking sound,and the Quarter falling off the needle arm,ahh memories.
DesertKing Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 5:43 pm
@Shakes,
While watching Apocalypse Now with the volume off. That combination is like napalm in the morning it just smells like victory.
King Cobra Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 2:14 pm
@kinginsaltlake, I do not agree with your comment at all, except the part about the Kings line up looking good this year. I run my own online business and I don’t wear bell bottoms.
Don’t try to pigeon hole a large group of people as behind the times dinosaurs just because they are not into Facebook.
I am so happy to see that about 90% of my fellow Kings FANaddicts commenting here feel the same way. We don’t want our LA Kings Insider Blog being absorbed into the Facebook-Google-Apple-Twitter power grab of the internet.
KEEP It independent, unique, decentralized…….
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rumpa#19 Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 2:23 pm
@King Cobra, short but sweet ,nice.
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kinginsaltlake Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 6:31 am
@King Cobra, Get used to it dude. Its going the way of facebook and you, with your company can’t stop it.
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King Cobra Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 4:12 pm
@kinginsaltlake, You seem like you are used to conforming to what you are told to do. Yes, my business is on Facebook, but LA Kings Insider Log In won’t be.
Here is my issue with the Facebook idea. Yes, I do have a Facebook account…. BUT… and it’s a big ‘but’, I’m a freelance artist and I find that even having the account is a big distraction already. My Blackberry hums everytime I get an email letting me know that such and such contacted me thru Facebook. Nonetheless I keep the account. But I have no interest in getting even more involved in Facebook, be it using my real name (which I don’t have a problem with) or number 6.
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That said, I think it’s time for me to do a wee post with Good News For All Kings Fans!!
Puck Daddy did a thread on the worst NHL Power Plays. You’ll all be thrilled to know that the Kings did just well enough to escape the honor of appearing in this thread. Well done Kings!!”
http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/blog/puck_daddy/post/Did-the-worst-power-plays-in-the-NHL-get-any-bet?urn=nhl-wp9370
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dwave Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 9:42 am
@number 6, hey, easy coas
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dwave Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 9:45 am
@dwave, damn phone. Anyway, I was gonna say…..”east coast bias pays of sometimes I guess”
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I tried tracking the responses to this question, but it hurt my brain. Just guessing though it seems at least 90% will in no way join facebook, and would rather just check in to read comments. Rich’s articles are great and informative, but much of the reason I come here is to read other peoples opinions, and the back and forth. If 90% of commentors on here are going silent why even have a blog. Rich can post his articles and I will gladly read them, but I will have no interest reading the opinions of so few when I know so many have been silenced.
This seems like a good topic for a formal poll if there ever was one.
How about this…
A) I’m glad the site is going to facebook
B) Don’t have an opinion about facebook, but I will be signing up so I can post here.
C) Don’t like facebook, but I will be signing up so I can post here.
D) No facebook, guess I will be read only
E) No facebook, will not be visiting LAKi anymore
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King Cobra Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 7:19 am
@LAPD line, D
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LAPD line Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 8:20 am
@LAPD line,
D for me.
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OnTheFly Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 9:22 am
@LAPD line,
” D ” (No facebook, guess I will read only) sum’s it up!
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OnTheFly Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 9:24 am
@LAPD line,
Or F…. Willing to log on to this Web site. as a stand alone page to post.
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jess Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 11:24 am
@LAPD line, “G” -Get out of town:)
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Kingsfanone Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 1:01 pm
@LAPD line,
E……One of the purposes of me visiting this site is NOT just to read, but to be able to comment as well. If I have to “simply log in” to Facebook to comment here, when I do not want to “join” Facebook in any way, then I will go elsewhere to get my Kings news. I won’t “like” it, but I have a no Facebook rule.
Quisp, here I come to JKTC a lot more.
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Kingsfanone Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 1:05 pm
@Kingsfanone,
Sorry……JFTC
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nykingfan Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 11:22 am
@LAPD line,
D
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Jpizzle313 Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 9:37 pm
@nykingfan, Big ole D
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CB14 Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 11:30 pm
@LAPD line, D
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Yeah…umm…don’t have any problem with real accounts, but want one that doesn’t need a real name. Yahoo! login with the alias they allow works for me.
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What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 7:19 am
er…clarification…Yahoo! account has my real name, but only shows my pseudonym on comments.
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What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 7:20 am
…and…er…strongly hate Facebook, MySpace, etc.
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I suspect allot of folks are under the impression that LAKI is going to move to Facebook or some such. This is not what Rich is saying.
Rich is suggesting that his independent site that will continues to run on his servers may require a registered login before posting is allowed. He is saying that him and his crew are very seriously considering using the Facebook API for their identity management of registered users. This is equivalent of using an OpenID type of authentication service.
If you already have a Google or Yahoo account, you have OpenID and can use your credentials to log into accounts that support this.
For better or for worse, Facebook has done a pretty good job of promoting the user base to use their in-the-flesh identity. I believe this contributed to their success over places like Tribe, Friendster, MySpace etc that eventually failed or are on the way out.
So for all folks that are averse to using Facebook, would your worries be averted if an alternative OpenID was offered for login?
What if Rich offered Verisign OpenID. This is an identity Manager with multi-factor authentication, very safe and secure.
Just thinking out loud here.
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LAPD line Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 8:18 am
@Token, I would not mind using yahoo or some sort of verisign. No facebook for me,
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DesertKing Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 9:20 am
@Token,
That sounds reasonable. Thank you for breaking it down that way.
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jess Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 11:27 am
@Token,
You are much better with the needle than @gary livingston.
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jess Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 11:27 am
@jess, I barely felt anything
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crashin' da net Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 3:02 pm
@Token, OpenID? Multi-factor authentication? How about a RSA FOB with Iriscan and Trusted Platform Module. All for a hockey blog? Wow!
Seriously, OpenID federated type passwords would work.
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Token Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 6:20 pm
@crashin’ da net, Hey now, I’m just putting down some options for a bunch of folks that didn’t like Facebook for whatever reasons.
If Rich implements OpeniD, your authentication server can be as lousy as Google or as strong as VeriSign, depending on your privacy concern. Point is, it becomes your personal decision.
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KingTrojan Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 2:29 am
@Token, If it’s LiveFyre that Rich is alluding to, which is being added to WordPress, you can log in with a LiveFyre account[where you could create you own username just like here, Facebook, Twitter, Google or LinkedIN. So yes. Just like an OpenID.
And, if you log in through Facebook, you can change your username anyways, to show something else. You only access LiveFyre through FB so you don’t have to take the 5 minutes to register.
You guys are all thinking this is the end. Stop, relax.
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This certainly is a very diverse community!
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I’m pretty sure facebook is blocked at my job, so that’ll suck for me
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Shakes Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 10:09 am
@nykingfan,
that’s what i’m worried about to, even the logging on a 3rd party website to comment (like on CNN.com) is blocked…. and frankly most of my great Kings thought happen during the work day
plus i wouldn’t want someone to be able to google my full name and see how many posts i write on this site during work hours…
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NOW IMPRESSED Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 10:19 am
@nykingfan, Yea, for me too. That’s also why I don’t use my real name.
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BrokeKingsFan Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 11:21 am
@nykingfan, I didnt read all the posts before i opened my mouth. FB is blocked by my work and like you 99% of what i post happens at work.
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I like commenting on this blog, but not enough to join Facebook.
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I’m also not on Facebook and have no desire to sign up, so I respectfully vote (not that I have one) to keep this space independent of it.
Either way, you da man, Rich.
Go Kings Go!!!
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Rich, I swear, my real name IS Kings win, Ducks lose
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Dominick Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 12:03 pm
@Kings win, Ducks lose,
Ha ha ha! My name is really Dominick.
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DesertKing Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 3:02 pm
@Dominick,
I was going to guess your name was William Sharked and I was hoping you could get me a deal on a hotel room.
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DesertKing Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 3:06 pm
@DesertKing,
Shatner. Stupid smart phone.
Dominick Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 7:14 pm
@DesertKing, William Shatner was my alias, I’ll see what I can do. Ever since Leanard Nemoy stole all my thunder, I couldn’t even get a part in the last Star Trek movie.
Facebook is blocked from the computers where I work but this blog is not. If I had to sign on through facebook I may not even be able to access this blog anymore…….
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No face book
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Can’t we just have weekly meetings at Staples as a group and then retire to the Yard House?
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King Cobra Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 4:17 pm
@Tito Ortiz, How is JJ doing!!
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Haven’t read all the other posts. I can say that I’m strongly against Facebook. So much so that I would completely stop posting. This doesn’t stop people from making dummy facebook accounts and flaming others. I don’t see it as a solution. the only real solution is to do approval commenting which I know is tedious.
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You could make people register with the site first and must have an account to comment, similar to espn.com. Then when people comment you can have their name pop up instead of a username, but make it so people cannot completely fake an account, via email or sms confirmation
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We don’t need FB and I like the format the way it is… leave it alone.
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Dear Rich,
First of all, I just want to mention that I have been intending to write this comment for a little while and this Facebook announcement has only motivated me further.
I thoroughly enjoy reading all your updates and you distinctly noteworthy ability to pick things to share with us that are truly interesting and often a neat, new side of the goings ons. I read your blog several times a day most days. Without question, it is my most preferred source of Kings news which admittedly, I check before checking national news. I love reading this blog. I tell my kings-loving friends to check it out all the time.
I also work on a website and manage a blog amongst other parts of the site where there is commenting allowed. It’s quite popular. I bring this up to say that I understand what it’s like to sift through the comments and responses of the general public hiding behind anonymity. People can be very off-putting and rude. They can also be very ignorant or unperceptive. It’s frustrating on a regular basis. However, that’s just people. We all deal with it on every website.
I’m fully aware of this push to use Facebook and the reasons why. Personally, it would only force me to use a fake facebook for this sort of purpose like many others do and as this trend becomes more popular, more and more people will keep additional accounts. I simply don’t want to leave myself open for any sort of contact or even accountability for what I’m compelled to say somewhere like here. It’s along the lines of giving every person you chat with about the team on the subway your business card. Some people are into that. I’m not.
I am in the habit of ignoring a lot of the vile things said on this website; the over the top responses to games or players’ performances. I don’t like it but figure it’s just par for the course and human nature and I wouldn’t want to host a website where people could comment but not share their real opinion for whatever reason.
My biggest concern with the commenting on THIS site, to be honest, for a long while has been the tone that YOU, Rich Hammond, take. Whether you like or agree with the opinions shared on this site… whether you respect someone’s knowledge about a topic… the people that visit this site are what give it value. You should respect that. In a not so roundabout way, they pay for your food. I am a loyal reader and as I’ve mentioned, I really enjoy this blog, but I can’t stand seeing you take a tone of sarcasm, rudeness, or judgement of those who visit this blog and comment. There is no need or reason for you to respond in such a way or add to the negativity here. The most recent example crossing my mind might sound small, but it’s not an isolated incident and in my case, it’s the straw that’s broken this camel’s back.
You were asked what Richards’ number will be. I found out the answer to that the moment you posted it here and I thank you for that. This person apparently, hadn’t found out yet and didn’t realize how easy it would be to search for that online and find out. This person is expressing to you that you are their source of information on the Kings. It might have been their first time on the website. If you’re going to bother to answer someone’s not-so-insightful question, why not be nice or at least put away the sarcasm and be respectful. You seem so professional in about every other aspect; I find the appearances of this side of you so incredibly unbecoming and nothing makes me want to stop reading this blog more.
I’d rather read the vile and impassioned comments of the fans until the cows come home.
I apologize for the tone of this, but it’s out of respect for you that I believe you have room to improve and I would like to see it. Additionally, I think it almost goes without saying that if you have such a problem with the tone of the comments on your blog, you should consider the tone of your own responses. I hope that you are humble enough to understand what I’m referring to without listing more than one example.
Strange note to end on after all that, but I do want to tell you to keep up the GOOD work and that as one reader, I appreciate your constantly working to keep up a high standard of quality.
With Great Respect and Sincerity,
joe i’d this not be facebook based
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Well, I think the “No”s win, but will that be enough to bust the F.B. option? I hope so, I don’t need my friends and family finding out just how much time I spend here. LOL What format does the MLB.com use? It has a like button and you can flag comments there. Maybe just add those features to this site and call it good. Since this site is such a hit, you would think the organization would hire someone to moderate the site and let Rich spend all his time doing what he does best, writing great articles. I did create a Face Book account a few months ago, but have since closed it. Not really my thing.
[Reply]
KFII Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 2:07 pm
@KFII, Oh yeah, and let’s not forget the edit button.
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jonsey Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 4:21 pm
@KFII, Ha! Exactly, I do NOT want everyone knowing how many times I go to Lakingsinsider.com They would be sickened.
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Hey, Rich….Do what you gotta do. None of us has any idea of what you go through to make this blog as good as it is and dealing with the Neanderthals that use this blog to advance their own agendas. Those of you who “don’t change a thing” seem unwilling to leave their comfort zone. Some change is good and it is obvious to me that you feel some change is needed, particularly in dealing with those few “experts” out there who saw a hockey game once . I’m not sold on Facebook but I will not threaten to ” quit if I can’t have it my way”. Most of us will put our faith in you making a correct decision for all.
Thanks again for all that you do
[Reply]
BrokeKingsFan Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 10:27 am
@Dave’s a Killer, Im speaking for myself here but the only reason i blog here is because its set up the way it is(blog name and email address). By changing this it might prompt me and others not to participate. Call it what you will but to me its not a threat but a fact! I have never been willing to sign onto or participate in any forum or blog were i have had to link through some other social networking site and never will. If Rich institiutes some sort of login be mandatory and share some personal/identifying information with him and the Kings Org. then thats something ill have to think about and most likely be willing to comply. But there is no way i particvipate if Facebook is used…..Period!
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Man, Is it October yet!! I am so frothing to hear Bob say – Penner passes over to Kopitar, HE SHOOTS HE SCORES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! KINGS WIN!!!!!!!!!!!
[Reply]
Cortex949 Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 3:59 pm
@King Cobra, Or my all time favorite:
Jim: “And now coming up with the play by play….bob miller”
Bob: “…thank you very much Jim…”
[Reply]
jet Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 6:44 pm
@Cortex949, “The Kings come into tonight’s game on a 9 game winning streak”
[Reply]
FiG17 Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 11:33 pm
@Cortex949,
That’s my favorite too. It’s like I wait all day just to hear Jim say that.
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jess Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 4:11 pm
@King Cobra,
Thumbs up to that post;)
[Reply]
SLIM Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 4:45 pm
@King Cobra,
How bout Doughty passes to Gagner then to Richards who tips
it in passed Ilya Bryzgalov…Kings beat Philly..Yeah…
[Reply]
number 6 Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 5:37 pm
@SLIM,
Are we getting Gagner? From Edm? Or are you referring to Simon Gagne?
Those french names’ll get ya everytime.
[Reply]
SLIM Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 8:49 pm
@number 6,
oops….got confused with my french canadians names..
And I’m from Montreal…Can you find forgiveness in my kaffaful..
number 6 Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 1:09 pm
@SLIM
You are forgiven my child.
laikaloco Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 1:29 am
@SLIM, Like…big time.
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 5:17 pm
@King Cobra,
Thank you for the actual hockey post! Now let’s get DD signed and go kick some you know what.
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I know I am naive, but who are the trollers and what do they post? Maybe most of it is filtered out but I don’t notice anything.
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 5:54 pm
@Osaka,
I wasn’t sure either so I asked my friends. They told me that I was a troll. I was aghast since I thought a troll wassomeone who went onto various blog sites and posted junk just to cause hate and discontent. They then reminded me that I was really ugly and lived under a bridge next to the Geico guy who was living under a rock.
[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 6:03 pm
@DesertKing, D. King strikes with an ugly Geico caveman blast, Nice !
[Reply]
Osaka Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 6:45 pm
@Osaka, Am I a troll for openly supporting TM?
[Reply]
jess Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 1:04 am
@Osaka,
No but you would be a troll for blindly and unconditionally supporting TM –that is to say, it you did that sort of thing:)
[Reply]
Osaka Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 5:33 pm
@jess, Hahaha No unconditional love for TM. A couple times this last season I screamed for his head like everyone else. The difference is I calmed down and stop letting emotions get the better of me. Those emotions can really cloud your vision.
This will kill the site but, oh well. Hope someone else starts this kinda blog someplace else.
[Reply]
I said earlier that if I gotta go through Facebook, it’s OK by me. I still have no problem with it personally, but there have been lots of anti-Facebook comments on here that have mostly made sense from privacy issues to simply personal choice issues to not liking facebook.
The crux of the issue here is personal information: Posters want to keep it private, Administration of the blog wants to protect posters from trolls & the like. You’ll never get it 100% right no matter what you do.
I think there could be one solution that might be better for everyone, (caveat) IF Rich can somehow guarantee the privacy of personal information being shared: Have everyone sign up for an account that needs to have one piece of verifyable personal information attached: Cell Phone Number, Home Number, E-mail (Not Yahoo, Gmail, etc.), address, whatever. Have a code sent to that medium and the code needs to be entered to verify the account.
This information could be very handy in sending out special Insider deals, meet-ups, Suite nights, etc. The listing of personal info allows a personal account on the blog and that information could be used to enhance the blog experience with marketing designed to be exclusive to insiders. (Opt0out available of course for those who don’t want the marketing). Just don’t sell the info, not even to the Kings (Unless agreed to by the poster). Keep the marketing to Insider business only.
Guest accounts can be available with rules of moderation: All Guest comments are reviewed before posting (TSN does this with all their posts), Limit the number of posts per day, IP address info is taken and if a comment is deleted for bad form, simply ban the IP address.
This would be the format I could see working the best while keeping the moderation as simple as possible. Hope this helps a bit Rich.
[Reply]
Cortex949 Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 7:51 pm
@Cynic, A+
This is a logical solution to both the users (us) and the blog (rich).
[Reply]
Kingsfanone Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 8:28 pm
@Cynic,
A very good solution. Might be too late as Rich writes as if its already in the process of being completed.
Good thoughts here, though.
[Reply]
Wow, it’s been a slow few weeks for kings news
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Why is it any time I mention E K L U N D, my comment is in moderation? What rule am I breaking?
[Reply]
EJ Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 9:33 am
@Bama Kings, I’m only guessing, but it probably has to do with the fact that the person you mention spits out unsubstantiated rumors, and this site is about real and verifiable news.
[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 9:34 am
@Bama Kings, Thats strange, because I have mentioned him once or twice before and wasnt moderated. IMO, you must have posted something the blog administrator didnt care for recently and you maybe on some type of temporary moderation. I can speak of this because this happened to me back in March, however, unlike you, mine was because I was in a running gun battle with another blogger on this site and was moderated for a month and a half. Suffice to say, I got what I deserved and toned it down quite a bit.
[Reply]
tuan jim Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 11:19 am
@puck73,
How do I find the site of this E-K-etc. who spits out false rumors?
I enjoy reading false rumors. Every time there’s a free agent signing in progress it’s impossible to read anything else.
Incidentally . . . this report that’s been circulating for some weeks . . . the report that DD says he wants to be the highest paid King. Where did that come from?
Doesn’t Dewey have the same agent whose client, the biggest fish among last year’s free agents, is supposed to have said he wanted to be the highest paid player in hockey?
[Reply]
Guss Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 2:30 pm
@puck73, yea i remember u use to be more spoken lol
ive always digged your hockey talk. Gkg
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I run an ISP and I Don’t do facebook, Don’t do twitter, Don’t do Google Plus, have not interest, and won’t anytime soon. I have no interest in being socially engineered by either of these entities so that they can sell my preferences and tendancies anonymously to their advertisers. Its pretty simple if it goes to any of the above I will, and many others commenting above will lose access to this blog and notes which will be a shame. I am sure that the Kings organization thinks its really cool to have a facebook section so that they can derive some sick satisfaction with the statistics Facebook provides them with, but for me its a deal breaker.
If you or the Kings think that you are really gaining any security by using FB or TW or G+ and knowing who says what you are mistaken. They can be spoofed just as easily as your existing WordPress is. If you feel the need to moderate the comments then i guess that is probably the way to go, however, i would caution you about editorial and political moderation vs.language character attacks, but i frankly can’t see where it has been a problem over the last season.
Hope you make the right choice.
RR
[Reply]
jess Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 11:17 pm
@RogerRabbit,
Best post on this entire thread
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Osaka Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 11:19 pm
@RogerRabbit, The Kings already have a facebook page.
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jess Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 11:56 pm
@Osaka,
FB kings page does not directly link to insider. Comments made on FB do not show up on this page and visa versa. None of the personal info. at this time is shared with anyone (that we know of) and many here are trying to keep it that way including myself.
[Reply]
billanthony Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 11:25 pm
@RogerRabbit, Testify!
Well said. I must be missing something, the posters here certainly seem cordial enough towards one another. Everyone seems to know and respect the rules. Does a Facebook connection improve this already excellent site in any way? Or is it a sad case of something once really good going downhill.
[Reply]
CB14 Reply:
July 24th, 2011 at 11:58 pm
@billanthony, The reason why you don’t see any negative posts on here is because the Referee does a great job monotoring all the comments and deletes the ones that break the rules. I can attest to that last part personally. If you break the rules you get sent to the penalty box, so to speak, and not for only 2 minutes. While most people on this site are cordial towards one another, sometimes even the nicest people do break the rules, whether they mean to or not, and are subsequantly watched more closely by the referee. Certain people who break the rules, think Sean Avery, have their posts deleted even at the slighest appearance of a penalty, even though they try desperately not too get a penalty because then their comments are on delay until the referee emerges from his super secret-location bunker. LOL
[Reply]
RoyalPain Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 12:23 am
@billanthony,
I assume the offensive content is often removed quickly, so we don’t see most of it. I don’t know how much time the LAKI crew spends doing this but I can see how that would be a hassle.
[Reply]
jonsey Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 4:10 pm
@RoyalPain, If it is removed quickly, then it isn’t a problem. If it’s too much work, then just design it such that it can be removed automatically. I am sure there is a program. I have never been offended on here. If I am offending anyone, then they need to grow up. This is an adult world, and there are far worse things on the internet than a few inuendos or bad words on a hockey blogger’s comments page. They said the F word on regular cable before 8:00 the other night. I think the site works just fine. PLEASE take me off moderation.
Did anyone mention how easy it is to create a FB account with a fake name?
[Reply]
what a lot of you are not considering saying the bad comments haven’t been a problem is all the comments that never see the light of day or are taken down quickly so that most people never see them. in essence – it’s less moderation for rich so he has more time to report rather then playing babysitter.
i do however agree with a lot of you that said it’s really easy to create a dummy facebook account to post anonymously from so i’m not really sure that’s the right solution either.
@Rich — what about getting some of the more frequent posters to help act as moderators? i’m guessing you have a decent idea of the people who post a lot and who also don’t violate the rules. that could help lighten the load on moderation.
also – i know yahoo sports uses a vote up/vote down system which seems to also help “cover up” some of the more unfriendly comments. as you said – the troublemakers are usually in the “small minority”. and given the power – the “vast majoriy” are more then willing to vote down the inappropriate comments.
[Reply]
I don’t have a Facebook account. And I don’t want to have to sign up for one just to post here. There has to be another way to prove accountability.
[Reply]
My 2 cents, in case the Hammer is curious. I very rarely comment on this site, mostly because i am very busy at work and because of the time difference in Honolulu i am usually still at work during games. So the commenting issue really doesn’t matter to me-I’d say use the facebook link if its easier for Rich or the other more frequent commenters. I don’t have facebook; because of my job I don’t want people looking me up. To be honest, I read the site everyday because i like the content, articles, and insight it provides to my favorite sports team.
Bottom line: Rich, do whatever makes it easier for you to focus more of your time on the actual content of the site.
[Reply]
Not sure if anyone posted this but its an interesting read out of Philly..
http://www.philly.com/philly/columnists/dan_gross/20110725_Dan_Gross_.html
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in regards to this Facebook thing – I have a Facebook account that I started because I thought it would come in handy – the thing is, it’s set to private and the name on the account is not my real name – the account is only for my convenience, checking up on ‘people’ and for ease of sign in to various sites – somebody wants to talk to me they can pick up the phone – now my question is: under these proposals,do any of you techy types know if I will still be able to comment?
[Reply]
http://www.philly.com/philly/sports/flyers/20110725_Dan_Gross_.html
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 9:34 am
@petemagoop,
Looks like Philly has bigger problems than Richards and Carter. I wonder what we would call a “no doughnut” month here in LA?
[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 10:00 am
@petemagoop, Great article, and interesting responses from Flyers fans. My own personal opinion is that as long as they produce, that is the bottom line. I think Philadelphia overeacted on Richards and Carter, and I think that was a mistake for them, and a great pickup for the Kings. I agree with one of the Flyer fans who posted in that article, “can you imagine if the internet and cellphones with camera’s were around during the 70′s when the Broad street bullies were doing there thing ? Or how bout the Oakland A’s from 72-75 ? Or how bout when John Wayne was a resident in Newport Beach drinking up a storm at several bars and restaraunts on the Coast HWY ? See where I am going with this ? If the internet was around at that time, those people wouldnt be glamorized, they would be ripped a new one !
[Reply]
jet Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 3:05 pm
@puck73, The problem is that Richards had a letter. The fans do not want JVR to fall into this pattern.
Richards will likely be the better player, but Schenn will likely be the better leader. It’s a win win.
On a side note, I once posted how teams would come in to play LA and spend a couple of days in Palm Springs in a mid season team party. The times are a changin my friend.
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 10:25 am
@petemagoop, Interesting, but I bet that could be said about 1/2 the league. I was worried it was something about the two that was far more serious. This comes as somewhat of a relief to me.
[Reply]
tuan jim Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 11:36 am
@KC23,
I wish I had your confidence.
Every adverse word in the blogs about Richards is making me crazy.
[Reply]
YoBro Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 10:25 pm
@petemagoop, If the owner of our company were to put up such a blackboard requesting a month’s sobriety, I would venture a great deal less that 18 of 25 would sign it! If I’m not working, and it doesn’t affect my job when I AM working,,, Bartender, set me up!
Go Kings
[Reply]
So this blog will officially become a subsidiary of Facebook? What if you’re not a housewife, a teenager, or a ******? What then? No blog for you?
[Reply]
Hey gang…have you heard the one about Jim Jones?
[Reply]
I never have and never will be on Facebook! I dont mind a login type scenario or posting by my real name. Please Rich…… do not make me sign on to FB to be blogger on your site. I support you and your site and am a diehard kings fan but i would be forced not to participate if you go the FB route. This is the first and only site i blog on and i dont want that to change!
[Reply]
smoKING gun Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 10:22 am
@BrokeKingsFan,
WORD! I enjoy reading all the comments and chiming in with my own from time to time but if it goes the FaceBook route I will not participate. I hope there are other workable alternatives.
Mark Miller
[Reply]
Anyone know what day training camp falls on? I cant wait amymore.
[Reply]
See what happens when there are no new headlines to respond to? This is off topic, but then again where else am I going to post?
Regarding the Position of Center:
The Kings are now super deep. Super Duper Deep. Kopitar, Richards, Stoll, Richardson and Lewis, maybe Loktionov. I look at it like we have a true #1 center in Kopi, two #2 centers in Richards and Stoll, and two #4 centers in Richardson and Lewis. And maybe Loktionov.
Of course, many if not most will say “Stoll is #3, best suited to take Handzus place, not a true second center, etc., etc.” Fine, I get the thinking, I know it’s out there. Conventional wisdom, okay, okay. However, I see Stoll as a legit #2 because of his mix in skills, and the way those skills fit the Murray ice-world view.
All centers are supposed to be the high F3 except on a rush, or until and unless a low possession is established. Then the entire line is expected to rotate into F3 based on reads. I have posted long and repeatedly on the relative value of Stoll, dollar/roles-fulfilled, and he even holds up well when compared with #2 scoring centers, but I digress.
Murray does not necessarily require his second center to be mainly focused on scoring; in Murray’s system the “second center” is even more expected to maintain the high F3 on his line. This is due to match-ups of lines under Murray, as he likes Kopi out there against the other team’s #1 line, but when the other team gets their preferred match of their #3 against Kopi, usually that opponent coach is also going to get his #1 line against our #2 line. If we are on the road, the other team is going to win the match-up battle often enough that our #2 absolutely must be very good at defensive positioning.
But what about when Murray gets the match-ups he wants? As I see it, Murray likes, in most cases, his #2 to occupy the other teams’ designated checking line when possible (#3), using them up until Murray can get a match-up advantage of Kopi against the opponent’s #2 or #4 line. As I see it, Murray rope-a-dopes by not emphasizing match-ups regularly, but does steal a match-up in critical moments. He won’t disrupt his sequence to avoid match-ups as much as many coaches (Randy Carlisle comes to mind as a compulsive matcher).
As well, Murray’s centers and wingers need to adapt to many in-game line changes; not because Murray is a compulsive line-juggler as many often state, but because Murray likes to change his lines to accommodate specialty teams. Murray makes his PP units from among all lines. Kopi, Stoll at point, sometimes Handzus in front of the net (even when he was “demoted” the 4th line), Smyth in front of the net, Brown or Williams on wing… When you pull from all parts of the roster for PP, you need to then mix up the lines coming out of the PP. So you would get a mix of the 3rd and 4th lines after the PP ended.
As well, Murray drops a winger from the top 2 lines down to a 4th line shift occasionally, to fill in for Westgarth on occasion, for example; this is a further need for the adaptability, which makes line matching by the opponent less consistent, and shows it to be less important to Murray. Murray is gonna roll what he rolls, and the other guy is not going to get that many regular chances to exploit a match-up game because Murray is already spreading his guys around anyway.
Which is why I highlight the position of center; I believe that Center is the most critical positional foundation for Terry Murray when formulating strategy. And now, he has one of the best top three center groups in the league, complemented by two very capable #4 centers that he can also plug into any bottom 6 role when needed.
Richardson is a Center, LW and RW, in order of use, and Lewis is a Center and RW. Either can play 3rd or 4th line, and they shoot opposite sides. If there were any weakness in the Kings’ 4th line center tandem, it would be Lewis’ face-off percentage of 39.2. Richardson was even better than Mike Richards (50.8 to 49.8), but I am always puzzled as to why Richardson only got 181 chances, going 92W and 89L while Lewis got 385 chances, going 151W and 234L.
Clearly, Lewis gets more time at Center, but I think that was due to Richardson being on Wing among the various lines last year. I am hoping our new depth at wing puts Richardson more into his natural position at Center, on the 4th line, and Lewis goes RW on 4 or 3. Still, Lewis is responsible on D, and can play well enough that he doesn’t need a great face-off stat to earn ice time. But, Lewis is not a scorer, and never has been; he is clearly viewed as a defensive player thus far, apart from the one game after Kopi got hurt when he was put on a scoring line and responded with a goal. After that game, though, he was dry offensively. If he is going to maintain his spot on the team as a defensive player and maybe a defensive Center, Lewis will likely need to improve on face-offs. Seems like a better chance of that than suddenly turning into a scorer, even at the 10-15 goal level.
Summing up, I am really excited to see the line combos, as we will likely see almost all variations over the year, but this year the Kings will have a truly solid foundation of not just great goaltending and very good defense, but also the potential for great performance from the Center position, and with Murray’s system if you do well at center and play strong defense, you are gonna be a very difficult team to beat. I am thinking Division title, or better.
[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 10:31 am
@Player-X, Well, you covered the deep center position very well. We also have depth at defense. Fact is, as much as I like Martinez, both Muzzin and Voynov have FAR bigger upside then Alec. That being said, we will see if this is the season that one or both are ready for the big show…Yet more nice problems to have !
[Reply]
Player-X Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 10:37 am
@puck73, Wish I knew more about Voynov, I like Muzzin, would rather travel either of them instead of Drewiske…Let a new guy develop if he’s good enough to play, say, 30-40 games.
[Reply]
Howe 9 Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 10:47 am
@Player-X,
Thanks for the non-facebook read. It was nice to read some hockey news. And I agreew with you. Your post was well thought out & fun to read. Thanks.
[Reply]
IceGuy Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 10:52 am
@Player-X,
Please, X, stop this!
29 other NHL coaches are already making notes from your post for when they play the Kings!
But really, well said. I’m in agreement with what you’ve laid out, but I think, as I have stated before, that Murray’s toughest decision will be how he will handle the lines. Is it going to be the traditional 1 & 2 scoring lines, an Energy Line and a Stopper Line, or will he move toward rolling 4 lines (OK, maybe 3) and a slam bang 4th?
I believe the real nugget of information regarding Penner’s addition to the team last year, and his generally accepted poor performance, was his surprise at the high level of physical conditioning for the whole Kings team. Therein lies what I suspect will be the basis for Murray decision. Yes, the best skill will be seated in the top 6, but if you just keep coming at your opponents with lines 3 and 4, when can they catch their breath?
If there is one word I’d like to be associated with this year’s team, it would be RELENTLESS.
[Reply]
Player-X Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 4:31 pm
@IceGuy, Relentless, I like it! Even with Clifford and Richardson in the playoffs, those gusy were scary fast and pretty efective against the Sharks. 4 lines of unrelenting pressure!
[Reply]
JWR Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 12:46 pm
@Player-X,
Great thoughts, only minor disagreement I would have is that I would put Kopi & Richards as interchangable #1′s rather than Richards & Stoll as #2′s.
Our biggest failing lat year was that when Kopi went down we did not have anyone of simular skill, creativity or defensive prowest to fill in. Zues, Stoll, Lewis & Richardson all tried but none were up to the task. If we found ourselves in a simular problem I would have no lack of confidence having Richards center the 1st line.
[Reply]
Player-X Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 4:30 pm
@JWR, you’re right man, your take is true, too: I think the beauty of it is that either of those three guys is a threat to either check you to zero or score on you if you leave them alone…
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 3:03 pm
@Player-X, I’m one of the many that don’t feel Stoll is a legit #2 center simply because of his lack of scoring/play making. Because of his lack of play making and scoring ability Kopitar always saw the other teams best defensive pair without worry. Teams didn’t even have to use their 2nd best checking line against Stoll’s line. Also Stoll has proven time and again he is very ineffective on the PP.
This year the opposition won’t have that option. Stoll’s numbers will likely improve this year because other teams will be forced to throw their 3rd and 4th line against him. Not to mention the youngsters that will be playing with Stoll have another big year of experience to lean on to help Stoll.
The King’s are going to be a very difficult team to play against. They will give most any team match up problems. I see the Kings either winning their division and getting the 2nd seed in the playoffs (Vancouver in that weak division will likely get the top spot) or 2nd to the Sharks and in the 4th spot for the playoffs. We have an outside shot at the top spot in the western conference because I believe our division got weaker and we got stronger.
[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 3:21 pm
@KC23, I agree about Stoll. I feel on a good team, he can be a #2 center, but on a great team he is a #3 center. Since the Kings have been upgraded with the acquisition of Mike Richards, Stoll will be playing where in my opinion he will be more comfortable…at the #3 center spot.
[Reply]
Player-X Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 4:28 pm
@puck73, Well said, and though I think Stoll played to a very good level as a second center for any team last year, I do realize that it was actually a very good year for him, maybe the best he can do offensively while not sacrificing the D.
I am gonna look up the points and other stats from among the 30 teams, and I am confident there will be many metrics that show the terrific potential among our 3 centers moving forward.
Man, am I happy to get Richards; at first I was worried about his cheap shot rep, but then again this team needed grit, and maybe Richards is just a 50 grit belt when we needed a 60…
Player-X Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 4:24 pm
@KC23, all good points, we mostly agree. My main point is very well clarified by puck’s expression, about Stoll on a good team being #2 and on a great team being #3. I also was talking about Murray’s particular needs from a second center, and you also see the same need where you talk about what Kopitar saw from the other team’s D pairing and 3rd line checking assignment.
While we disagrre on some of the hues, I think we see the same shades of the same colors. Fun chatting…
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 4:50 pm
@Player-X, Cheers.
Stuart Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 5:11 pm
@Player-X, THANK YOU!! It’s unfortunate that the little nugget RH left us with has turned into the world v. Dr. Livingston, I presume, but I digress…
Nice post brother! As I started to read I can almost see players rolling over the boards and hear the ice cutting underneath their blades… Your assessment is solid, and I dug the way you got into TM’s head. No doubt we will be relentless to play against this season. I just pray to whoever’s in charge we don’t get hit by the “I” bug! Otherwise I see a banner (at the very least a Pacific Div) hanging at Staples.
Nice refreshing breath of hockey air. I cannot wait for the biscuit to be dropped.
Thanks again!
[Reply]
Player-X Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 8:34 am
@Stuart, LOL re Dr. Livingston, very nice…Yeah, that got old about one third of the way into it. Then it just kept going anyway.
That was my reason, actually, the thought had been rolling in my head, and I figured it was a good time for something about hockey, so I’m glad you enjoyed it.
[Reply]
Do not use “social networks” like Facebook and others. I guess you can live without my comments. Will still read the Blog.
Thanks Rich for asking. Keep up the good work and I will continue to read the blog – no comment.
Bob
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Btw. Monarchs’ Bud Holloway signed one year contract with swedish elite team Skellefteå
http://www.skellefteaaik.se/content/lasvart/nyheter.aspx?id=553
[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 10:39 am
@SebaS, Wow ! This comes as a big surprise to me, I really thought the kid was going to get a great look here in September. Also, I wonder if this came as a surprise to Dean, or if he was expecting this and wasnt too concerned? Hopefully Rich will be able to ask Dean so he can shed some light on this, at least from the outside looking in, surprising news.
[Reply]
Dominick Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 10:53 am
@SebaS,
Bummer!
[Reply]
tornado12 Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 11:20 am
@SebaS, what? really disappointed about that! I had high hopes for this young man with us…
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Sebastian Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 11:53 am
@SebaS, this is what moller and voynov did. the guys dont want to play in the AHL anymore, they want more money. If they knew theyd be making the NHL this year, they would, but they know realistically the wont. Its a good way for them to get even more experience and still remain property of the Kings.
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 4:51 pm
@SebaS, Disappointing, but can’t say I’m shocked. I look at it as a sign that we’ve become so deep that players like Moller and Holloway are going for the quick sure buck in Europe.
[Reply]
Token Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 2:26 pm
@KC23, Well at least they are on the same team and likely to play the same line. Moller is a RW and Holloway a LW.
[Reply]
Since i mostly post here when im at work i have a question for everyone!
Does anyones work allow them to use facebook?
Mine does not! So even if i was willing to go that route (which im not) i would be blocked by my work anyway.
[Reply]
pr0cess Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 11:11 am
@BrokeKingsFan, does it count if i work for facebook??
[Reply]
nykingfan Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 11:34 am
@BrokeKingsFan,
Nope! It’s blocked where I work.
I have a facebook account, but I don’t understand the need for this.
Rich has my name and work from my email, but why does he need everyone’s personal info?
[Reply]
Mikey Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 11:39 am
@nykingfan,
could it be that… Rich is trying to become Big Brother??
[Reply]
nykingfan Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 12:20 pm
@Mikey,
I don’t know what his reasons are, but I don’t think Rich would be that way.
I’ll say if you’re right, I’d be very surprised and unhappy, but again I don’t think that’s it.
Mikey Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 12:24 pm
@Mikey,
I know, i was only joking.
Cry Baby Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 12:36 pm
@nykingfan, I think rich is talking about using a Facebook account to log on with…not moving this site.
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Do it Rich, go with Facebook connect. Sorry but a select few have ruined it for this blog by acting immaturely, repeatedly. How many times has Rich had to leave posts about people commenting with respect, too many. FB connect would absolutely hold people accountable for their comments. If you don’t use FB, understood, but I urge you to give it a whirl, I think you’ll be surprised. Great way to keep in touch with old friends, family, etc. Privacy options are highly customizable as is everything. Cheers!
Thanks for your hard work Rich!
[Reply]
Anyone going to Kings night at Dodger Stadium this Friday? Im not sure who from the Kings will be participating this year but it should be a cool night, and there are fireworks after the game as well. Im not much of a baseball fan but have some friends that are so we are going to go with them. You get a free crappy hat too.
http://kings.nhl.com/club/news.htm?id=563215&cmpid=rss-News
[Reply]
Harry Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 2:16 pm
@Sebastian, The hat actually looks pretty cool.
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Sebastian Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 2:20 pm
@Sebastian, is sure does…on paper. ive got some dodger diveaway stuff before and its ..well..FREE.
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http://m.philly.com/phillycom/pm_28501/contentdetail.htm?contentguid=sjwXE3rH
Article on MR and Carters Drinking lol
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friarking Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 12:48 pm
@Subby, I think it’s kind of bad form for your captain to not take part in the challenge and be an example.
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EASportsMgt Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 1:08 pm
@Subby, I can tell you that is completely blown out of proportion. This is a gossip columnist, who a month after the trade writes this story. The intent is not to shed light to Philly fans about why they got shipped out, but just to stir the pot and create conversation. That’s it. Nothing more.
Honestly, I respect him more for not putting his name on the board. What’s worse, his name not on the board, or him letting his team mates down because after a great night he decides to party a little with a drink or two? I am glad he has integrity and was honest with himself and the team. What is not mentioned is that he spoke to the coach about why he wasn’t going to put his name on the board. He felt that having a drink or two will not affect his play or his leadership as a captain. Most players respected that he did that.
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Subby Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 1:27 pm
@EASportsMgt, Thank you for clearing all that up :] Damn someone can make someone look really bad when they don’t report the full story.
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BluLiner Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 1:50 pm
@EASportsMgt,
Great point, a captain stands up for the players and does not bow down under pressure from the coach and management. It took guts to say, I have a right to have a beer after a game. And just maybe, he got traded for doing it.
[Reply]
King Doughnuts Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 1:56 pm
@EASportsMgt, Where there’s smoke, there’s fire
[Reply]
fsd1 Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 2:01 pm
@King Doughnuts, not always, especially when a rag writer like that is blowing the smoke….
Shotongoal Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 3:44 pm
@King Doughnuts, not when the smoke is being blown up the arse….and that appears to be EXACTLY what this article was intended to do!!!
KC23 Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 4:46 pm
@King Doughnuts, Still leaves the question on whether the smoke was from Richards/Carter, Philly’s management or both.
dMan Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 3:20 pm
@EASportsMgt, I’d be curious to hear how many players actually did write their names on the board (according to Holmgren not 23 – does this mean 8 or does it mean 18) and how many of these actually held fast to it!
I wonder how many employees would accept their employers’ instituting this Dry Island concept and not think this is a form of discrimination or in the least an invasion of privacy issue?
[Reply]
Stuart Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 7:56 am
@dMan, no kidding, I had a hard time working for places that dictated how you can wear your facial hair… F-all-that!!! And who knows, it may have been an issue of principle, I know as stubborn as I could be I might not have put my number on the board just because. If I were MR and the captain, I’d have to feel that I was responsible enough on my own to understand what my role with my team was and to have to play Lavi’s little “sober” game would be a slap in the face. I’d be like “I’m a grown-@ss man” and I’m not mormon, so I can make my own decisions without having to pledge anything other than to give my 110% to my team the way I know how…
Good for MR, and bad for Napol…I mean Laviolette. Maybe Holmgren was upset that someone leaked that out of the room because it is embarassing and childish. I can see Pronger putting his name on the board because his wife probably won’t let him drink…
number 6 Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 6:22 pm
@EASportsMgt,
Blown out of proportion or not, So many people from the Philly side (fans) say that everyone knew the two were out well after 2AM on drinking binger, Including the playoffs evidently. Whether or not the late benders were also during the playoffs, I’ve no idea. But I have to say it doesn’t look good at all.
You’re the captain of one of the major franchises in the NHL and you’re out on benders at all hours?
I personally had absolutely no doubts of that sort of thing happening with Schenn. His attitude seemed very straight. So, if that in fact is true, then MR would do well do clean his act up here. Think there were temptations in Philly? LA isn’t exactly Calgary or Minnesota.
[Reply]
Puckn-A Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 1:39 pm
@Subby, LMAO at Laviolette, what a party pooper
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LBlocal Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 3:14 pm
@Subby, This is a LA Kings “NON ISSUE”
gKg!
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puck73 Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 3:33 pm
@LBlocal, Exactly. As I said in a previous post, in this age we live in today where everyone has instant access to information and photographs, can you imagine if The Broad Street Bullies of the 70′s had to deal with this ? They would have been tarred and feathered, along with people like JFK, and John Wayne, who had their own transgressions that most of the time were hidden from alot of the public unless you happen to be in the inner circle, or in the case of Wayne, I happen to live in Costa Mesa at the time, and knew his son Ethan Wayne. John Wayne’s drinking exploits in Newport Beach are the stuff that legends are made of, and it would take me too long to write them here. The point is, this stuff was well known in that area, but was kept hidden by the cops, city council, and even the press back then.
[Reply]
petemagoop Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 6:25 pm
@puck73, funny John Wayne gets mentioned here.Years ago he had a camp on Lake of the Woods near Kenora, Ontario. Mike Richards,who was born and raised in Kenora, now resides on Lake of the Woods. Kind of neat I think.
number 6 Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 6:26 pm
@puck73,
One thing that most all of the Philly fans pointed out in their comments, is the following: the game has changed dramatically and players are getting paid millions and millions of dollars to maintain a certain standard of professionalism. There most certainly was that drink culture across the board back in the days of the Bullies.
You think Sidney Crosby lives his life and leads like that?
I Know the answer, and the answer would be absolutely not.
I think the ‘back in the 70′s’ thing is an out. Just look at DD and Simmonds this last year. They both took a rather significant step backwards. I can see it if Simmer had scored 25 goals the year before. Maybe you start to think ‘hey this is easy…. I’m a star’. I liked the guy, but that was far from the case.
408kingsfan Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 8:48 pm
@puck73, Did you know John Wayne (Marion Morrison) injured his back bodysurfing at the wedge and had to quit football. I mean can you even picture the Duke bodysurfing at the wedge. I dont know what this has to do with anything but here I am
lvkingaholic Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 3:28 pm
@Subby, great, dd has more party buddies……..lol
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There needs to be a change in the system, but I’m not sure Facebook is the answer.
I have been basically on permanent probation for 2 years now and honestly I don’t even know why. I was told it was because I tried using different names, which I did not even know I was doing at the time. Sadly, there is a good chance this post won’t even make it to the site. I am nothing but a Kings fan, but I am treated on this site like an Internet troll and that is why I am opposed to the way the site is operated.
All I want to do is contribute like everyone else and I feel like the current system doesn’t lend me that opportunity. I heavily appreciate this blog and understand it is a privilege not a right. All I want is the chance to participate like everyone else and not be penalized for harmless mistakes. If the new system is a bit more understanding of these types of human errors I would greatly appreciate it.
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Welcome to Sweden Bud Holloway
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@Rich Hammond, I think this Facebook thing would prompt people who do not already have facebook accounts (Im one of them) to either not participate on your site, or create bogus FB accounts, (totally defeats the purpose) and i dont belive either option is what your looking for. I know where your coming from but i dont believe FB is the answer.
sinceraly,
Todd Rosser AKA BrokeKingsFan
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So with all this Facebook or no facebook banter I realized something weird. In the original post rich made it said he remains blissfully ignorant of all things going on in the hockey world. I wonder if that’s really true. I mean I know he’s on vacation and shouldn’t be working but I really wonder if he really knows nothing right now. When I went to Vegas a few weeks ago for a CRAZY 4 nights I was still checking up on kings news at least twice a day. It would feel weird to turn a blind eye to it entirely.
[Reply]
Sebastian Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 1:16 pm
@Cortex949, I have no doubt that he meant the ignorant part. Gotta remember its his job. I know when i go on vacation the last thing i want to think about is work.
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King Cobra Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 4:40 pm
@Cortex949, Thankfully for Rich, It does not seem like there is a whole lot of Hockey news as of late….
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PK Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 5:56 pm
@Cortex949, Rich has stated before he is not a fan. He is a paid writer. We are the fans. I come on here to get KINGS news. I really don’t care what the format is, I know everybody has an opinion.
And please stop jocking Rich. It gets annoying.
[Reply]
Not a huge fan of the whole Facebook thing because the vast majority of people who have Facebook ruin the small minority’s ability to post and participate actively on this Site. I believe a good option would be to link social networking sites (Twitter, Facebook, Google+ etc.) but still keep the old method of posting. Many people would find it easier to log in through their social networking but this method does not limit those without social networking to post and participate in the discussions.
On a similar note, I would like to see the reply format drastically improved, way to clunky and irritating to follow a conversation.
[Reply]
Its funny…… up until today i thought i was the only one without facebook! I cant tell you how relieved i am to know this.
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King Cobra Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 4:47 pm
@BrokeKingsFan, Dude how can you survive?? Everyone is doing it so you must. You must relent, it can be fought…..
In all seriousness props to you.
We are hockey fans and Kings fans because we don’t care what everyone else thinks our does.
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Apparently LA Times have already instituted the Facebook entrance
to post on their Dodgers blog…Many people have refused to and have dropped out..
This is something my dodger friend [yeah...I have a friend who likes the baseball]…
He as a long time poster refuses to post there anymore and is bummed..
This is what he told me today…So I hope he’s not kidding me….
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Not that I am an expert in all this, but let me offer what I’ve experienced that last 6 weeks…
I began to use Twitter just as a lark, but I’ve found it to be invigorating, in its own capacity. It is 140+ characters of expression, based upon your own thoughts and timeline, but easily associated with other similar threads utilizing the ‘#’ mark to link to ideas (such as #GiveRogieABreakHHOF) and the ‘@’ to link to individuals. An individual owns their own comments, as would a celebrity (such as Quispie’s @KingsKoolAid http://twitter.com/#!/KingsKoolAid). A person creates their own thread, and can be followed–or not.
It is a quick version of this blog, and with Twitter I think most of everyone here would like it.
–In My Humble Opinion…
[Reply]
BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 5:12 pm
…I am @CameraGuyBakoCA, for anyone interested.
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My feedback on this blog is that the reporting is excellent, most people have intelligent opinions and debates. However, the layout is very generic and would benefit from an overhaul with username / password log in and spell check I cannot function anymore without it. In closing, please keep Facebook out of it and just tune up the existing layout. Thanks for listening and Go Kings!
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Nothing better than posting your real name.
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To his credit, Rich may be a modern day disciple of Abbe de Bellegarde who wrote extensively in the 18th century upon appropriate behavior in polite society.
In 1723 he penned some thoughts about behavior during play, which given that there were no blogs then, might by inference apply to us as well:
“It is necessary to moderate one’s ..self when playing. Those who play with passion, greed and self-interest often forget themselves. They become impatient, they curse, they are bad tempered when the game turns against them and they disclose the baseness of their sentiments.”
Such is surely conduct unworthy of King fans in command of their senses.
[Reply]
LBlocal Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 7:54 pm
Golden
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As long as reading/posting is as easy and convenient as it has always been, I don’t care what happens. It would be cool to have the blog linked to FB.
You guys (in LA) usually do some sort of blog site event at a game right? I think It’d be great to see some pics for those events. People can even post their own pics from games whether it’s in LA, or in any other city.
Most of the comments I’ve read seem to be geared towards Facebook/Apple being evil and corrupt? Please… this is an LA Kings blog site.
Keep it real boys (and girls)
Mike Richards – Anze Kopitar – Simon Gagne
Drew Doughty – Jack Johnson
Hello Power Play!!!
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 8:42 pm
@kevin from toronto, I would replace Williams with Kopitar on that PP. Kopitar isn’t all that good on the PP imho.
[Reply]
nykingfan Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 6:00 am
@KC23,
I disagree. I think Kopi’s the smartest player we have on the ice.
gotta love being able to talk a little hockey for a change!
[Reply]
King Cobra Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 7:10 am
@KC23, Take our best player off the power play, NO…..
[Reply]
kevin from toronto Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 7:41 am
@KC23, Yeah I’d disagree too. Williams is good, no question. But who has Kopi had to work with over the last few season on the PP? Handzus? Simmonds? Moller?
Put someone like Gagne and Richards out there with him and the PP% will be way up, along with the Wins!
And @nykingsfan,
Yeah I wanted to change things up and focus back on the upcoming season. I could care less what everything thinks of Facebook and Apple. I do care what everyone thinks of the boys this season!
The blog will stay and everything is fine. Rich runs this thing so well, do you guys really think he will jeopardize a good thing?
[Reply]
Ahh…
Wordcloud!
http://www.wordle.net/show/wrdl/3871246/LAKingsInsider_Blog
[Reply]
Otto Ped Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 7:32 pm
@BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy, What the hell is a wordcloud
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Who is this Sam McCaig guy?!?! The article he wrote on Puck Daddy listing the top 25 centers in the league had Kopi at 19. Richards is 12 but you mean to tell me 18 centers are better than Kopi? Really?
[Reply]
kevin from toronto Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 6:06 pm
@Osaka, Yeah that’s crazy. He must be from the East Coast.
[Reply]
jonsey Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 6:58 pm
@kevin from toronto, They even have Koivu as better?
[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 9:31 pm
@Osaka, Exactly. Maybe they should have asked Joe Thornton if was easier to play against the Kings in the playoffs without Kopitar all over his jock.
[Reply]
Drug makers and medical device manufacturers often “prove” “time and again” the wonderful benefits of their wares only to have serious underlying issues disclosed later.
I have no panacea suggestions though I would speak with other sites that use enhanced login systems like Facebook for their ability to achieve whatever goals/requirements are intended. The outline of the requirements in the article still seem a little “soft” to me or perhaps predestined. Huffington Post is one such site and there are plenty of “vocal minority” there and their system still requires human intervention. Crowd-sourcing the monitoring/reporting of posts is another potential option – HP yet again is another example of this. But crowd-sourcing monitoring attracts “cop” mentalities… Maybe NHL should crowd-source it’s officiating?
Ironically crowd-scouring [content] is at the heart of the issue. Will fans really feel more engaged if they can post on this site? Is this quantifiable… or even monetizable? Do all articles need to have comments? Perhaps simply eliminating comments on game day would be a very low resources way to perhaps achieve many of the intended goals while still maintaining the current fairly “open” system? Do fans buy more or less tickets on game day or whatever this Kings are trying to achieve with this site? Can “better” crowd-sourcing be achieved by linking to other fan sites/blogs/groups that have “better” articles [essentially commentary] than the comments section here can provide? How does lakingsinsider.com want to position itself – a source to the best content or the “stickiest” kings site – the first stop or the last stop? If commenting is really worth it, then surely more resources [than stopgap Facebook solutions] can be applied to the issues? Not all clicks or hits are created equal.
Judging from the comments it seems like the majority here will be shushed by FB login along with the targeted minority. Or maybe it’s just the vocal minority causing problems again for the not so silent majority? Good luck.
[Reply]
UNREAL Gary Bettman made 7.5 million last year. Are You Freakin kidding me.
If we use his salary as a basis for Doughty, Drew would get 20 million a year. http://espn.go.com/nhl/story/_/id/6801318/report-salary-gary-bettman-doubled-nhl-lockout
[Reply]
In order to be a Kings fan we have to have one common behavioral trait. That trait is “non-conformity”. When others ars bandwaggonning the Ducks and the Red Wings, Kings fans refuse to conform and follow the popular team. We hold onto our hope that our Kings will bring home the Cup. We remain true to who and what we are. The fad that is FB will be replaced by something else some day(see My Space) but we will still be Kings fans. We like our blog just the way it is because if they gave Cups for best blogs, we would have a wall full of Cups
[Reply]
LittleRhody Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 10:31 pm
@DesertKing, I whole-heartedly agree with that statement.
[Reply]
In reading a bit of the comments made here about the verious ways being considered for the future of the commenting system for this blog I am left with one unmistakable fact.
Even if I could still read Rich’s blog stories, if I was unable to interact with the people here and be able to add a comment here or there, add to a debate it just would not be as fun.
One of best things was the Suite nights so I could put a face to people I have enjoyed reading the comments from.
It is a shame if due to the actions of a few bad apples can be allowed to screw up what has been such a good thing. Like many here I go back to the Daily News days and been happy see it grow, we were all happy for Rich when he was given the chance to be with the King’s organization knowing the uncertainty of the future of print media.
If a social media log in becomes required we will lose a lot of quality voices from this blog. Will it survive? I expect it would but it would be changed.
[Reply]
Off topic, thank goodness…but I ran into this article ranking the top 25 centers for the upcoming season:
http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/blog/puck_daddy/post/Looking-ahead-to-2011-12-Ranking-the-NHL-8217-?urn=nhl-wp9636#remaining-content
Mike Richards is ranked #12 and Kopi is ranked #19. Based on Kopitar’s pre-injury stats, amongst other intangibles, I would personally rank him higher. Maybe I’m just a Homer.
Go Kings!
Eric Gislason (AKA: Gislaw)
[Reply]
Mike Richards is in LA looking for a place to live, go on twitter and give him suggetions.
MRichie18 Michael Richards
Good day house hunting
[Reply]
Hi Rich and fellow posters,
my favorite german Hockey Team has had the same issues / problems with Trolls in the past.
Their solution was simple: every user MUST provide a photocopy of their PASSPORT in order to be able to register to the administrator. Then, a username could be selected to post.
The Administrator was able to block the respective user from the IP level and the user would have to scout a new passport in order to re-register, something that would be rather difficult and most people simply would not go that route as it’s too embarrassing to ask your buddy to “borrow his passport” for something like that.
It has not eliminated 100% of all troubles but almost all of the former trolls usually give up at that point…….
The main issue that was raised right away was identity theft.
First, only the Administrator (Rich) would have access to the copies and I guess we all trust him enough with a copy of the passport because there are virtually no issues whatsoever giving out your passport number.
It’s not like handing out your SSN or Driver’s License number (where more damage could be made as it features your address etc.).
The passport is deemed the only ID that is safe enough to ensure proper identification without jeopardizing individual protection as your passport number is NOT linked to other vital information that one would need.
After a few weeks of hesitation (as the former posters only came back slowly) the feedback from the Administrator in Germany was overwhelming – almost 100% of former posters eventually signed up and it became a safe, friendly and easier controlled environment with thousands of registered users.
The site is essentially self controlled as User-Levels are given out along with “like it” / “don’t like” and other buttons (i.e. “offensive content”) that ensure the Administration easy access for potential problems.
Just an idea as I personally am opposed to Facebook et al as well……
Cheers
Dom
[Reply]
Osaka Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 8:42 pm
@Dom, That is a good idea, but I think a lot of people in the States don’t have passports.
[Reply]
CB14 Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 9:09 pm
@Osaka, How about Drivers Licenses then? People under 16 could just borrow their parents Drivers Licenses.
[Reply]
jess Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 9:15 pm
@Dom,
Hey brilliant but why don’t we kick it up a notch by bar coding the back of our necks and then scanning ourselves in to our own computers?
[Reply]
Dom Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 9:44 pm
@jess, it was only a suggestion.
What I wrote above is a working version of a website. Thanks for the intelligent reply, I can see why Rich needs to change the format.
[Reply]
jess Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 9:51 pm
@Dom,
I’m known for my dark sense of humor on here –wasn’t meant to offend.
Osaka Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 12:13 am
@Dom, I use my passport all the time for ID and your right, it is very secure form of ID. No personal info.
Kings Fan In Temecula Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 10:14 pm
@jess, haha
reminds me of the matrix, that this is all a dream lol
[Reply]
Stuart Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 11:23 am
@Kings Fan In Temecula, life is just a dream with the imagination of ourselvs…here’s Tom with the weather.
chip Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 11:20 pm
@Dom, I don’t have a passport, can I just provide you with a credit card, and the code on the back, and my SSN? Way better than having to have a Facebook account!
If this site uses Facebook’s as a login, I’m pretty sure that you just have to create a Facebook account (giving up an email address, oh gosh!) and then never going there again. Facebook will then know how many times you log into this site.
If more information than that can be extracted by Facebook, educate me.
I don’t use Facebook, but I do have an account. Created for a similar reason. I haven’t come to any harm, and my life hasn’t been diminished in any way. I do get emails from Facebook, but those can be dealt with by rules and filters.
[Reply]
Osaka Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 12:10 am
@chip, I don’t understand the fear about facebook either. You can give them as much or as little info you want. Open a free Yahoo or Google email account and use that as your facebook account. You don’t need to give them personal info. You are correct, all you need is an email to open an account.
I don’t know why people are freaked about facebook. “They have privacy issues” then don’t give them any info. I read one person say facebook is bad because people spend too much time on it. HUH?!?! It isn’t crack, if you don’t want to spend time on it then don’t. People spend too much time on the internet. Some of us spend too much time here. I respect everyone has different opions but I am not hearing real arguments against facebook. It really is benign.
[Reply]
Osaka Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 12:34 am
@Osaka, The guys that say they would be blocked access from work have a legit beef, I will give you that. Although there are third party websites you can use to log in, that is what they have to do in China since facebook is banned there. But the wife will know, friends will know, big brother, freedom, I am 007, I am Dwayne Dog Chapman and people will hate me….. is lame. How would facebook know your name, it is what you tell them. Kings fans and the communist government in China are affraid of facebook. Hummmm.
Nothing to fear but fear itself.
Zorzi Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 1:40 am
@Osaka, Well you made a great argument – against the use of Facebook!
Why use something where you need to register, manage, filter – for a “non-troll user” if it doesn’t prevent “trolls” from creating new free email accounts and then new Facebook accounts with which they can freely troll again.
For me this looks more like making it worse for majority with no real benefit.
I daily read posts from people like you who’s opinions I find very informative and I would hate to not be able to read them because some of you would decide that Facebook is not something you are comfortable with.
@Rich, if you want good suggestions you should write a post explaining all aspects of the problem (I’m sorry if you did that already and I missed it). Understanding the process behind would be beneficial to providing ideas for solution.
Osaka Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 3:16 am
@Zorzi, That is a valid arguement. I agree it would probably do nothing to stop the trollers. I just didn’t understand the hysteria. Maybe the extra step will make it not worth the while for some trollers. I guess there are some issues going on here for Rich to feel the need to take some actions.
Dom Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 8:36 pm
@chip, haha, sure! Hope you don’t mind me going shopping…..
Kidding, of course.
As I mentioned before, the idea of providing some sort of legit ID is what seems to work the best. The example of the german site that has successfully used a passport was simply a suggestion but it seems to work, so why not?
The other idea was this:
have Rich and his Team create a (online) form that every user MUST fill in, along with some sort of ID (up to Rich what level of security he wants) and then you can choose a username and keep posting….. and not just an e-mail address. You (again) add user-levels and buttons and you have a self-governing site that can be easily controlled by Rich.
The ID is key and I think that after the initial hesitation 99% of current users would sign up and find that NOTHING will happen to their disadvantage in giving their ID to a database controlled by Rich…..
[Reply]
Iris scans, finger prints, facial recognition software, dental records -don’t forget about a nat’l ID card and please give me permission to pull the chip out of my cat with a pair of pliers and cram it deep into my earhole so I can log into my favorite hockey blog haha.
[Reply]
nykingfan Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 6:02 am
@jess,
LMFAO
[Reply]
Kingsfanone Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 12:51 pm
@jess,
Unfortunately, that chip………..it don’t go in your earhole! Think lower…….and to the left! LOL!
I hope its a small chip and not a brick!
[Reply]
A Helene Elliott twitter conversation from earlier tonight. (Sincerly, NO disrespect meant to the LA Times HHOF journalist)
helenenothelen wrote: “Story questions partying habits of new King Mike Richards” latimesblogs.latimes.com/sports_blog/20… via @latimessports
LBLocal68 @helenenothelen @latimessports “Sensationalism from the LA TIMES. No surprise there!”
helenenothelen @ LBLocal68
“uh, LA Times didn’t write the original story. Philadelphia Daily News did.”
LBLocal68
@helenenothelen “Does it really matter who wrote the original story? This just reeks of tabloid media. As a HHOF member, U should avoid…”
helenenothelen @LBLocal68
“as for your original statement about sensationalism from the LA Times, i strongly disagree. i don’t deal in sensation, rumors.”
LBLocal68 @helenenothelen @latimessports
“Both rags are trying to sell print/ADS. Sensationalism does both. You’re better than that Helene.”
@helenenothelen
“If u think I deal in sensationalism u don’t read what I write. U are simply wrong on that charge. U can sell w/journalism. That’s what I do”
YOU GOT ME, HELENE! Subjectivity is an argument I cannot win.
gKg!
[Reply]
LBlocal Reply:
July 25th, 2011 at 10:03 pm
My apologies, I neglected to include this quip.
helenenothelen @ LBLocal68
“Phila Daily News is not National Enquirer discussing 7-headed babies. It’s legit newspaper, raised legit question, confirmed info w/Holmgren”
[Reply]
uknojata Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 12:15 am
@LBlocal, So I guess I’m not exactly clear on your point. You said “Sensationalism from the LA TIMES. No surprise there!” Do you see the LA Times specifically as a sensational publication, or just newspapers in general? Or maybe the press as a whole? If it is the Times that your singling out, what has been sensational specifically about their Kings coverage? Maybe it’s not specifically the Kings or overall sports coverage that your referring to, was it a news story? I’m not saying that the Times, or any other large metro paper, is immune to taking a sensational tone. However, Helene’s point that there is a difference between the Times and the Enquirer is well taken.
The fact that the story from the Daily News has players as sources, albeit unnamed, makes it worthy of publication. The lede in the original story has the two players saying that partying directly led to the management’s decision to trade both Carter and Richards. It goes on to say in the 3rd graph. “The two unnamed players said that the Flyers front office was disappointed in Carter and Richards’ longstanding party lifestyle and that teammates were concerned about the pair’s drinking.” Up until now you’ve had cell phone photos basically fueling a frenzy from the Philly media (in my limited understanding from the west coast). Now you’ve got two guys in the locker room saying that teammates were were “concerned.”
Are your saying that Dan Gross from the Daily News is flat out lying about his sources? Maybe that he acquired the information via phone hack? Or just the idea of young professional athletes drinking too much isn’t a story to begin with? That would be the idea that I’d be most likely to agree with. However in this instance, it’s newsworthy and most definitely worthy of Helene linking to it.
[Reply]
LBlocal Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 7:48 am
Two words… Journalistic integrity.
gKg!
deadcatbounce Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 8:07 am
@uknojata,I think his point is that nobody other than Rich Hammond is a legitimate hockey reporter.
Well, no one in my family has a passport. I think I know two freinds who have one. So, basically
I dont know anyone who has one. lol
They should just make a website similar to Facebook, but NOT Facebook. Still could be KINGS INSIDER.
We can give an email adress so we can login, then make a user name/nick name that CANT be changed.
We could add a picture for those people who mite want to meet up with a guy or girl or just to see
who we are chattin and postin with. Maybe a guy wants to meet up with a female for a Kings game and
viceversa for the ladies. Heck maybe some guys just want to do an all guys Kings game and as well
for the ladies, an all girls Kings game. We can even add pictures of a Kings games we’ve gone to.
For the people who dont want to be botherd and just for the forum… They can set their profile to..
THIS PROFILE IS PRIVATE. THIS PERSON MUST BE YOUR FRIEND TO VIEW HIS/HERS PROFILE. and no one will be
able to access your profile unless you allow them.
Just stay away from Facebook, because everyone on Facebook who’s into hockey will eventually show up
and most of them will be Kings Haters. Kings Haters will less likely show up if they have to join a
Los Angeles Kings website. Not saying there wont be any, just very few. Maybe they add a section where
we can buy and sell Kings tickets just like they do on the Kings official website. Heck, maybe some of
Kings players and coaches will sign up. lol very unlikely.
Just an idea. I’m sure they will come up with a sweet new KINGS INSIDER from all of our ideas. I know
we all appreciate the Hammers work he does for us. Rich is awesome at what he does, and I know he will
deliver! GO KINGS GO! CANT WAIT FOR THIS NEW SEASON!
[Reply]
Since our ID’s will be know soon I might as well out myself. I am the reason the Kings lost in the playoffs. I hope you guys will forgive me, I won’t do it again.
http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/blog/puck_daddy/post/Kings-will-win-Stanley-Cup-as-other-NHL-teams-d?urn=nhl-282316
Some of my buddies (and my wife) really ran with the Moby comment, nice stuff. If you can’t laugh at yourself….
[Reply]
Dominick Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 1:56 pm
@Osaka, Good stuff!
[Reply]
I’ve always posted behind my real name, for all time
In fact, just recently someone re-posted a thread from some Kings newsletter in 1996 where I argued with some idiot about how Vitali Yachmenev was not in the class of a Nedved and/or a Kovalev 
— I always feel I can stand by my opinions, and 15 years later I still get a laugh out of it.
[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 7:51 am
@Marc Nathan, Wow, I remember both Yachmenev and Yannic Perreault. They both looked like they were going to be real good and then they just flamed out…where are they now?
[Reply]
Has anyone considered how this will effect Mikus?
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 10:20 am
@nykingfan,
This will have no impact on JM. He can post anywhere at anytime using the power of his mind, sending hi post through the internet likes Luuuuuuuuuc snapshot.
[Reply]
Cynic Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 11:09 am
@nykingfan, A very good point and smart to have concern, but as DesertKing stated correctly, this will have no impact on Juraj Mikus. He invented Facebook in the 13th century by covering his victims faces with their own blood, jamming into a piece of paper, then displaying it on the sides of buildings of each town he visited.
This allowed the people to see who Juraj Mikus had been in contact with.
Zuckerberg is a thief and should be in fear for his life.
[Reply]
jess Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 11:21 am
@Cynic,
perfect!
[Reply]
Stuart Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 10:39 am
@Cynic, I must have misunderstood then when my 7th grade social studies teacher said that the Mikus (for he was an entity removed from human form at that point in time) would actually filet his victims faces and then slap the skins above the door of the preists home in each town he laid waste… too tired that day.
[Reply]
Don’t know if anyone has posted this yet…..
http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl;_ylt=AjoMhyqNeuAbZ.cdxfJPVcB.ppJ4
Worth a good laugh. Look at how low Kopi is ranked. Yahoo…..
[Reply]
Klong Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 7:06 am
@Klong,
http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/blog/puck_daddy/post/Looking-ahead-to-2011-12-Ranking-the-NHL-8217-;_ylt=AnZUjbQOEnDYfFr5h6ni7AN7vLYF?urn=nhl-wp9636
Sorry there is the right link
[Reply]
txkingsfan Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 7:31 am
@Klong, I actually think Kopi’s rank is pretty fair. if you look at who is ranked higher, these are high-impact players who can score at any given time. Kopi is not there yet. He still makes some stupid mistakes, decides to pass when he should shoot. But let’s not discount the fact that he really never has had a legitimate #2 center to take some of the burden off of him. I expect him to take another step forward this year with Richards taking the pressure off.
[Reply]
Klong Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 7:39 am
@txkingsfan,
I can kind of see your point, but I would take Kopi over Bergeron, Koivu, and Carter, all of whom are directly in front of him on this list.
I’d also take him over Backstrom who plays no D, as well as Brad Richards. In my opinion, kopi should be right around the 8-12 spot.
To be honest, he is also better than Kesler, who benefits enormously from the Sedins and all the depth Vancouver has had.
The system Terry Murray has installed here in LA does not exactly lead to huge point totals, and that combined with the fact that the Kings are a west coast non Canandian team, means Kopi gets very little exposure.
[Reply]
Bill M. Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 7:43 am
@txkingsfan, True that kopi still has another level in him for scoring consistency, but his ability to take over a game, and his two way game, justify more than what he got, given that some guys ranked higher are great scorers with little two way depth, and others are great two-way guys without the scoring ability of kopi. Plus if these are supposed to be rankings for the upcoming year, then I think a guy who is poised for another big step this year, and is going to do it playing with a real top six for the first time, might justify being in the top 15.
Oh, well. I have a feeling that this time next year he’ll be in the top 10.
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 1:09 pm
@txkingsfan, Backstrom ahead of Kopitar? That is a joke. Put him on a line with Brown and Parse/Simmonds ect and rotate them and see how Backstrom does.
[Reply]
bbb7 Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 11:42 am
@Klong, I havent seen enough of Mike Richards to judge, but if he IS a couple of notches better than Kopi we’re in for a glorious season!
I cant argue with many of their choices although, as always, I think Henrik Sedin is way overrated (and I think the finals proved that).
[Reply]
For all the American readers (and Canadian viewers that are unaware) TSN is holding an online poll of who you’d rather build your team around, focusing on only young stars in the league.
Drew Doughty was the lone King and blew PK Subban out of the water in the 1st round. In quarter finals, he is matched up against London, Ontario friend and San Jose Shark, Logan Couture. Doughty is blowing him away too at %85 of the votes for Doughty.
If (when) he wins, he will be matched up with either Duchene or Toews.
You can vote here!
tsn.ca/franchisefaceoff
[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 9:47 am
@kevin from toronto, Doughty…Canada’s most wanted ?
[Reply]
370455vinSD Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 11:47 am
@kevin from toronto, Just voted, Doughty is currently crushing with nearly 80%.
[Reply]
kevin from toronto Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 1:35 pm
@370455vinSD, nearly 80%??? He’s dropped 5% in the past few hours? Maybe there’s a Sharks fan infiltrating this site and brought back info to the home base.
[Reply]
Lilly Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 12:49 pm
@kevin from toronto, Yes, and Couture keeps bragging on twitter about how he beats Drew in everything (round 1 of playoffs, golf, etc) so go vote everyone!
[Reply]
kevin from toronto Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 1:36 pm
@Lilly, I bet the one thing he keeps bringing up is when Doughty went to hip check him in the playoffs, completely missed and went ass first in to the boards. Couture skated in an went 5-hole on Quick.
[Reply]
For those of us who do not want Facebook and Twitter, there is still the old-fashioned ways of social networking namely the telephone, e-mail and –egads– writing a letter, eh.
[Reply]
dMan Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 2:40 pm
@poe, yeah…sure, good luck with that.
[Reply]
At over 600 replies I didn’t get through everyone’s comments but it seems to me that linking through Facebook wouldn’t really accomplish anything. All you need to do to remain anonymous is sign up for a dummy email account and set up a fake FB account. Is there some layer of security that I am missing?
[Reply]
BrokeKingsFan Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 1:29 pm
@370455vinSD, Nope! you are 100% correct
[Reply]
There’s an irony that a thread about commenting etiquette has been amongst the most civil 600+ comments threads on this site supposedly with Rich away from moderating things (I’m assuming that Rich is able to take some time off from moderating while he is hiding in his secret bunker but I could be underestimating the behind the scenes work)
[Reply]
jess Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 1:32 pm
@Shakes,
I don’t think he’s on vacation at all. Yesterday I was walking back from the store with a sixer of nailhead light when Hammer dropped out of the sky in a black helicopter and started shooting at me with a tranq. gun. I’m not sure what happened next but ask you can see I’ve been released back into the wild, free to graze again with my fellow bloggers.
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 1:40 pm
@jess,
Ok jess back away from the railhead…..
[Reply]
jess Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 6:39 pm
@DesertKing,
Tt’s Nailhead –and yes, I made it all up;) but what else is new? Or should I just start posting average Joe Shmuckatelli stuff from now on?
DesertKing Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 9:23 pm
@jess
Really like all of your posts so keep it going but I wonder what it would take to get that Schmuckatelli guy on our team;)
jess Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 10:01 pm
@DesertKing,
Would be really hard to pull him away from his job which he takes seriously as
-’confused tire guy’
Shakes Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 4:58 am
@jess,
Jess I can see from your post that hockey-less summers are killing you more than me
[Reply]
Rich,
It has been a nice ride while it lasted. Squeezing Liberty out of the equation is an exercise in censorship. Opinions do not equate to censorship actions or they are no longer opinions, rather trite measured replies. Freedom lost is censorship gained. Freedom of speech is still on the books at last check, so why, with appropriate filters already in application, should there be need to narrow the narratives? Vulgarity, profanity, personal affronts and the like, have no place in this post under the classification of hockey talk doubtless! Proper IDs required remove the spontaneity and gives the illusion of recourse potentials, “The Big Brother Syndrome”. You have IPO addresses, all email nomenclatures and the reputes of each call name, what else is needed beyond being totally invasive. I do not choose FaceBook, my inalienable right. Consider the lost Freedom/Rights, in which and by which you have earned a paycheck in your own profession to date. Am I wrong here? I think Not! Post haste is a hasty Post!
[Reply]
Just curious, I haven’t seen many “bad” postings. Is there really a problem or does only Rich see it as he reads and moderates everything?
Thanks
[Reply]
Osaka Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 5:13 pm
@Weasel, Maybe it is because they have moderated the bad ones out. He could be getting more and more and it is just too much work to maintain.
[Reply]
Weasel Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 9:53 am
@Osaka,
Makes sense I guess. I wonder how Amazon does it — they have voting buttons that will hide a posting if enough people disklike it….
[Reply]
off- topic, here’s a new top 10 ranking of Kings prospects. http://puckprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=1030
He should’ve included Deslauriers, but there’s some interesting analysis.
[Reply]
LB Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 12:46 pm
@LB,
Also, it seems that he’s even higher on Loktionov than many of us Kings fans!
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 1:24 pm
@LB, I am gulity of not being sold on Loktionov yet. I think he just needs to put on some bulk and stay healthy though. He does have excellent vision on the ice when he plays center.
[Reply]
mcsorleyfan Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 9:33 pm
@KC23, with you on that.
jess Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 1:29 pm
@LB,
I’m a fan of lokti and think we will see him bounce back –pardon the pun:)
[Reply]
408kingsfan Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 4:16 pm
@jess, I agree, he was on fire at the beginning of the season and scored some very key goals
[Reply]
SLIM Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 5:16 pm
@jess,
I am also a Lokti believer…Size could be an issue..
But I remember him backing up defenders with his speed on his brief call up…
This alone made me think we just might have a bonafide fast skating center.
That can score..
[Reply]
Didnt see it posted yet….Heidi interviewed Mike Richards today. Probably one of her best interviews too, shes seems to be on her game.
http://video.kings.nhl.com/videocenter/console?catid=-6
[Reply]
jess Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 1:54 pm
@Sebastian,
Glad he is excited to be here. I’m excited to have him here.
[Reply]
brig33 Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 2:02 pm
@Sebastian, yea he looked excited about being here. I laughed because he cringed a little talking about the Dodger game tonight lol. I wonder what he’ll think seeing no one in the stands after seeing crazy Phillies fans for years
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 2:42 pm
@Sebastian, I’m just not feeling it with regard of him being “excited” to be here. Seems more like him describing how awkward it is to be here and how glad he is that he’ll be starting on the road. Makes sense and I don’t think less of him for it, but it to me it is definately not “excited” as in “it is so great to be here”.
[Reply]
Sebastian Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 2:53 pm
@KC23, i see where hes coming from. even when i played low level youth and adult league hockey, when i walked into a new locker room with new guys and didnt see many familiar faces, it was always a very weird feeling. you just dont have the comfort zone or camaraderie as you do when you know the guys and have been through a few season together. i imagine that is magnified 1,000 in the pros and specially when you have to move across the country and have to say goodbye to the friends youve made over the past 6 plus years. Best thing now is to get him out on the ice and do what he does best.
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 3:12 pm
@Sebastian, Exactly. I think most of us could relate when having to start a new job or school. Virtually always uncomfortable.
number 6 Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 4:02 pm
@Sebastian,
Perhaps, but he does know someone…. he knows Gagne, and he knows Justin Williams. He also knows Jon Stevens as he was his coach, and also Terry Murray. So it’s not quite like he’s coming in cold.
FKA PakiFro Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 3:31 pm
@KC23,
Early success will ease the awkwardness.
[Reply]
number 6 Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 4:10 pm
@Sebastian,
Thanks though for posting that. I actually quite liked the guy seeing him in the interview and it made me feel more comfortable wrt all the buzz surrounding he and carter.
[Reply]
Osaka Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 5:18 pm
@number 6, Go to TSN and check out the video interview they have with Mike, you will feel even better.
I did mention TSN a couple times today, sorry, I am not a troll. They just have a good video interview with Mike directly asking him questions about drinking.
[Reply]
number 6 Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 5:11 am
@Osaka,
Thanks Osaka
Osaka Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 4:20 pm
@Sebastian, No questions about dry island?
[Reply]
Osaka Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 5:08 pm
@Osaka, Mike actually answered questions about the drinking issue on a video on TSN, he handled it very well. The guys on TSN blasted the Flyers for even asking their players not to drink and for 2 players to talk about it. They say their dressing room is messed up when players are talking about what is going on in the room. Smells like Pronger to me.
[Reply]
SLIM Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 5:52 pm
@Osaka,
I’m not at all worried about how exited a two-way elite
forward is about playing for the Kings…I’m more worried about the world and real issues..
This guy plays like he wants to win at any cost…He will bring his “A” game with him..
especially vs the Flyers on the road trip, wouldn’t want to miss that game…
Should be a doozy….You know he want’s to score on Bryzgalov…Kings look extremely promising this year…
Off topic, saw Dave Taylor at LAX and he looked like he was off to start working in prep for next season–is he still working for the Dallas Stars?
We can still thank him for drafting Kopitar, Brown, and Quick.
[Reply]
jonsey Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 5:14 pm
@CupRun2012, And Frolov, Cammy, and co.
[Reply]
emb3 Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 6:33 pm
@CupRun2012, Last I heard was he was working with the Blues. And yes, he did good with those picks.
[Reply]
CupRun2012 Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 7:07 pm
@emb3, Yup, Director of Player Personnel for the Blues…good to see he’s still appreciated!
[Reply]
Mike Richards on “Dry Island” story:
http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=372507
[Reply]
mantooth Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 8:59 am
@Osaka, Thanks for posting the link
[Reply]
CRICKET…CRICKET…CRICKET… I don’t think Rich is coming back
[Reply]
jonsey Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 5:13 pm
@wideleft,
Too much to read! Lol.
[Reply]
I don’t have an ESPN insider account and I never will, but based on the leading blurb of the article found here:
http://insider.espn.go.com/nhl/story?id=6802964&_slug_=nhl-los-angeles-kings-trade-mike-richards-makes-mvp-candidate-anze-kopitar&action=login&appRedirect=http%3a%2f%2finsider.espn.go.com%2fnhl%2fstory%3fid%3d6802964%26_slug_%3dnhl-los-angeles-kings-trade-mike-richards-makes-mvp-candidate-anze-kopitar
It appears as though someone is actually suggesting that the kings offseason moves set Kopitar up for a Hart-worthy season. Too far? I sure hope not!
[Reply]
408kingsfan Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 4:59 pm
@Bill M., sounds reasonable, with the proper skilled players around Kopi he has the potential to score 45 goals easily.
[Reply]
Osaka Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 5:04 pm
@Bill M., There was talk about Kopi being considered for the Hart last year so not too much of a stretch at all.
[Reply]
broncokings Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 6:11 pm
@Bill M., did you notice that story of DD being a good fit for the wings….lol, i thought it was funny
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 10:20 pm
@broncokings,
I wonder how many teams DD wouuld not be a good fit? Detroit is hurting for defense though. I’m predicting a down year for Detroit.
[Reply]
WAKingsfan Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 9:47 pm
@Bill M., here ya go!
General Manager Dean Lombardi decided after a second straight early postseason exit it was time to shake up the Kings’ roster in an attempt to boost the offense beyond leading scorer Anze Kopitar.
The makeup of the forwards was completely different after a frantic 10-day span. Mike Richards and Simon Gagne were brought in to replace Ryan Smyth, Wayne Simmonds and Brayden Schenn.
Extreme Makeovers
• San Jose Sharks
• Minnesota Wild
• Los Angeles Kings
• Washington Capitals (August 2)
• Philadelphia Flyers (August 9)
The trade for Richards fulfilled Lombardi’s desire to get a strong second line center to back up Kopitar.
“Obviously the thought of having him and Kopitar down the middle, that allows us, I think, essentially to match up to any team in the Western Conference,” Lombardi said. “I think that was a big hole. So I think we’ve cleaned that up today.”
This newfound strength down the middle should help Los Angeles contend for the Cup, but can it also turn Kopitar into an MVP candidate?
Richards, one of the NHL’s best tough-minute players, served as captain of the Flyers for three years and was a member of the Canadian hockey team that won the gold medal at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics. He’s skillful enough to put up points at even strength and on the power play (23 goals and 43 assists in the 81 games last season) while providing the grit and defensive responsibility of a penalty-killing pivot.
Over the past four years he has had the lowest percentage of starts in the offensive zone among his teammates while playing against the toughest competition the opposition could put on the ice.
The more Kopitar starts in the O-zone, the more he lights the lamp.
Offensive zone start percentage looks at the number of times a player is on the ice for an offensive zone faceoff divided by the total offensive and defensive zone faceoffs that occur at even strength. Neutral-zone faceoffs are excluded since they don’t offer an inherent advantage to either team. Time spent starting in the offensive zone has a direct effect on points scored — as we’ve said before, it’s a lot easier to put the puck in the net when starting from only 45 feet away than it is when starting in your own end.
Will the addition of Richards give Kopitar a little more freedom offensively while alleviating some of his defensive responsibilities?
“Absolutely,” Lombardi said.
If Kopitar, who typically has half his starts in the offensive zone, sees just one more offensive zone start per game, it could mean an extra 15-17 points for him over the course of the season. Add in some puck luck on the power play (which converted shots at fewer than 10 percent last year after averaging almost 12 percent the three years prior) and we could see the 24-year-old contend for the Art Ross Trophy, given to the player who leads the NHL in total points.
Last season, conference rival Vancouver used this zone deployment strategy, in which Manny Malhotra alleviated much of Ryan Kesler’s defensive responsibilities, paving the way for Kesler to set a career high in goals (41) and earn a Selke Trophy nomination.
It’s an easy trend to spot; point production and offensive zone time are closely linked.
In Philadelphia, Richards’ stellar two-way play permitted former teammate Ville Leino to take almost two-thirds of his starts in the offensive zone against the weakest competition, leading to a breakthrough season of 19 goals and 53 points en route to a six year, $27 million contract with the Buffalo Sabres.
“It allows your coach to get the matchups he wants,” Lombardi explained. “It allows you to focus on a third line. It can maybe focus on checking instead of spreading your scoring. I think the centers, as I’ve always said, make other players better.”
Los Angeles also added veteran left winger Gagne, a seven-time 20-goal scorer who scored 17 goals last season for Tampa Bay. He played alongside Richards during his final three years in Philadelphia, scoring 34 goals in 2008-09. Together they were an integral part of the Flyers run to the Stanley Cup finals in 2010 and should bolster an offense that only managed 219 goals last year.
Perhaps giving up prospect Brayden Schenn was too high a price, but adding Richards and Gagne to holdovers Kopitar, Justin Williams, Dustin Brown and Dustin Penner — all of whom have posted at least one 30-goal season in their NHL careers — makes the Kings a strong contender for the Stanley Cup. They could see an MVP-caliber season from Kopitar to boot.
[Reply]
jess Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 9:54 pm
@WAKingsfan,
Now it’s posts like this that wet my appetite for some 2011-2012 Kings hockey!
October please….
[Reply]
On another topic, I was wondering if any of you posters went on the Kings cruise last weekend. The last I heard was the only current player on-board was Tervor Lewis. Did anyone go who can comment on it? I almost booked it this year but work got in the way. I guess it turned out for the best though all things considered.
[Reply]
Osaka Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 5:21 pm
@King Alex, Lewis is also going to Kings night at the Dodgers games Friday with Penner and Stoll. It would be kind of funny if Pens and Stoll canceled.
[Reply]
King Alex Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 5:27 pm
@Osaka, That would be too funny if Penner & Stoll “fogot” about the game. Lewis would be like that kid in the worm song. Nobody likes me, everyone hates me so I gonna eat some worms. On another note, I bet Lewis enjoyed the cruise because he would be hard to spot out of his Kings uniform!
[Reply]
If we can make a wish list of items for a revamped site, one of the things I would like to see on the site would be a Kings Community page on the sidebar. This would be used for us Kings fans to support one another in our chosen field. We could all register our services and the geographic areas we support. An example would be that if I need a plumber or a computer tech I could go to this sidebar link and look for someone in my area that provides that service. I would much rather use a fellow Kings fan and support his/her business than hire a total stranger out of the yellow pages or off the internet. These are tough times and I think it would be great to support each other. Just a thought to strengthen our community.
[Reply]
jess Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 5:56 pm
@The Realtor,
Pretty cool if you ask me. Only potential problem I forsee with this is that it could create some drama for Rich if an agreement between two parties went south for what ever reason and then was carried into this blog.
[Reply]
The Realtor Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 6:48 pm
@jess, Disclosure stating that there is no liability on the site. Just like the yellow pages.
[Reply]
jess Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 7:31 pm
@The Realtor,
Sounds good to me. I also agree with you about the “tough times” part and network models like this could really help some folks.
Chris Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 12:02 pm
@The Realtor, Even if Rich were to have a disclaimer on this site for operations like you describe above, we live in such a sue happy world (CA especially), that he would incur defense costs just getting out of the litigation. While I also like the idea, I would say it’s best done by an outsider who is not officially linked to the kings. I am insurance agent whose book consists of software/internet (blogs, social media, DiY) websites and it’s something I deal with on a DAILY basis. Let me know when that third party starts up, would love to blog those ideas (and insure the site) haha. GO KINGS GO!!!!! Longest off-season yet!!!!!!!
broncokings Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 6:13 pm
@The Realtor, hell let me know if you need an electrician, state certified
[Reply]
The Realtor Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 6:51 pm
@broncokings,
Even if we can’t get the site to endorse it maybe we can put it somewhere else.
I think this is a great idea.
[Reply]
doug Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 6:38 pm
@The Realtor
, Thats a great idea also for fans who are outside of Los angeles. I live in Florida and have been a fan since 1987. Whenever i go to panthers games or tampa games against the Kings there are some fans there. I’d like to know those people! Maybe they visit this site. Just a suggestion
[Reply]
The Realtor Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 6:49 pm
@doug, That would be great too.
[Reply]
Otto Ped Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 8:29 pm
@The Realtor, It would also help localized people to set up watch parties. That would be great
[Reply]
lakings.com already has facebook login to comment on articles.
[Reply]
CB14 Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 7:14 pm
@Osaka, It’s not looking good for the non-Facebook people like myself.
[Reply]
SLIM Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 8:22 pm
@Osaka, Ah Hah…Now its starting to make sense…LA times as well..
FB is taking over the world..That scares me..
[Reply]
Naturallawyer Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 11:36 pm
@SLIM, Facebook will merge with Disney, Oprah and Starbucks and end the world as we know it.
So what’s up with this dry island stuff? Hope to get more analysis from Rich on Richards’ interaction with media tomorrow.
[Reply]
SLIM Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 12:07 am
@Naturallawyer,
From what I surmise of this is that Laviolette is sober
and thinks others should be also…The NHL have a tremendous
Substance abuse policy, which as I have stated before I have had the
opportunity to work with…If there really was a severe problem he could
have advised the player[s] to seek help…Not ask the whole team to commit to
sobriety by the month….It’s a pretty bold gesture to propose…
I can just see the guys white knuckling while they play…
It’s a way to justify and spin the trade with Flyers fans…Not normal procedure..
Just my take on the situation…..
I’m thinking in dealing with my own situation that Rich has a harassment group that he has to deal with. Unfortunately, this is all part of the social media phenomenon where everyone has a voice. I deal with this everyday on my radio show that goes into national syndication on September 26th and will probably increase the aggravation! Personally, I’d keep this blog as is. It seems like it’s working well, but then I’m not screening everything. To me, it just seems real functional.
[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 7:44 pm
@Poorman, People harrass you? That’s interesting because I told Rich in the Hammond suites at game 6 that I felt you were harrassing me. Then I realized that I was wrong, you werent harrassing me at all, just irritating me, thats all.
[Reply]
408kingsfan Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 9:04 pm
@puck73, I just went thru annual harrasment training at work, so from now on I will be a much better blogger on this site.
[Reply]
tuan jim Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 11:56 pm
@Poorman,
You’re alternately a source of annoyance and pleasure — annoyance because of your opinions and general hysteria, pleasure because of the joy it gives me to badmouth you AND your opinions.
But I agree with you here: Rich should leave this site as is.
[Reply]
Shakes Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 4:47 am
@Poorman,
i know this is a dumb, but are you the original Poorman from Love Line before Dr. Drew basically took it?
[Reply]
Poorman Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 3:31 pm
@Shakes, Basically, yes. You are correct. I created Loveline, hosted it 10 years, and discovered Drew while taking a shower at a friend’s house. He wasn’t even on the show the 1st year. Then he took the program. We all know what’s happened with his career. Now you see what’s happened with mine: A King’s Blogger getting a hard time from a guy called Puck 73.
[Reply]
King Alex Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 5:14 pm
@Poorman, Drew blows. Congrats on syndacation! Where can I listen here in LA?
puck73 Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 6:51 pm
@Poorman, You call what I post about you abuse ? Alot of people on this site may not be old enough to remember KROQ back when it was called Roq of the 80′s, KROQ ! But I do ! And you can rest assured Jimmy that the mild kidding I have done with you pales in comparison to when you were verbally beaten down Monday thru Friday by People like Richard Blade and others who talked down to you constantly and made you out as some weak bafoon. Matter a fact, I used to wonder how you could take that type of verbal pasting day after day. I mean, how did you take it ? Was the money that good that you were able to just blot it out ? Anyway, you need to come to a Hammond event this season and tell me what it was really like back in that studio in Pasadena in the 1980′s because it does interest me.
Shakes Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 12:05 pm
@Poorman,
Dude that’s sweet, well congrats on the new show and for whatever it’s worth my brother & I used to listen to your show every night while doing homework. Plus in the days before internet it was…well… an ear opening experience
congrats on your new show!
Chris Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 9:43 pm
Poorman and Puck73 sitting in a tree…….
[Reply]
I think that you should require. A copy of birth certificate and drivers license
[Reply]
jonsey Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 8:03 pm
@linny, We’re not running for President here!
[Reply]
Otto Ped Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 8:32 pm
@linny, And possibly the rights to your 1st born
[Reply]
jess Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 8:43 pm
@linny,
When leaving or entering the country, yes.
When buying milk and eggs, No.
When putting your shoes on, No.
When participating in a hockey blog, No.
No, No and No. –Oh and one more thing, NO.
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 9:14 pm
@jess,
You forgot “when going to the bathroom – no”
[Reply]
jess Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 10:05 pm
@DesertKing,
You mean you don’t have the biometric probal verifier system?
Well bummer for you dude, that means any ole kook can just use your toilet..
DesertKing Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 10:29 pm
@jess
When my bathroom requires a Fecal Biometric (FB) identifier, then I know that FaceBook has gone too far.
jess Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 10:36 pm
@DesertKing,
LMAO –Tap Out –just pulled myself up from falling off my chair.
linny Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 8:59 am
@linny, fingerprins and 15 point facial profiling
[Reply]
When this thread hits 999 I’ll put in my $.02
[Reply]
Stuart Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 9:41 am
@Goring 19, and I’ll post right after you one thousand and FIRST! LOL
[Reply]
stoll got ripped off bad at nhl.com for best shootout
[Reply]
BrokeKingsFan Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 9:13 am
@nofreight, Seriously! i read that article yesterday
[Reply]
FiG17 Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 9:49 pm
@nofreight,
I think they analyze the player’s entire career. Stoll had one of the best single shootout seasons ever, but his career stats aren’t as good. Right before the vid they said this: “Performances can also vary from season to season — the biggest example is Jarrett Stoll of Los Angeles, who was 2-for-6 in 2009-10 but went 9-for-10 in 2010-11.” So they did give him a bit of credit for this season.
[Reply]
nofreight Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 8:42 am
@FiG17, didnt watch video just what was written…stoll needed love in print:)
[Reply]
Lets not stop at a Facebook login. Since people can create fake FB accounts. People can fake Drivers Licenses and Birth Certificates too so we can’t stop there. How about a urine sample? Or a Finger Print scan? What about a blood sample? Or a Face recognition feature like they use in the Vegas Casinos? Lets do the ultimate, a DNA test. We all go down to the police station and have them take a DNA sample from each one of us, the police station then issues us a User Name and Password that we use exclusively on LAK Insider with the Department of Defense as our security so that we make sure nobody hacks into our personal account database. That ought to handle it.
Or we can simply keep it the way it is and add a “report violation” button that any commenter can click on that once a comment recieves 5 clicks from different people, it is then sent to the “Awaiting Moderation” file to be determined by Rich if it violates the rules or not.
I like the idea in the second paragraph better than the first.
[Reply]
Ok.. off topic.
Westrn Michagan (where my friend’s sister attends) just got a new head coach for their hockey team.. Andy Murray.
I thought it would be interesting to get everyone’s opinion on him and his coaching abilities to share with her.
[Reply]
CB14 Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 10:10 pm
@LittleRhody, I hope they have a good Trainer! Seriously though, he’s a very good coach that prepares his teams very well. The problem with him is that he pushes his teams too hard and that creates too many injuries and thus player resentment because injured players can’t put up points and get paid. I think he’ll be a very good collegiate coach because players have very little say in who the coach is. Also the college season is shorter than the NHL so injuries will be less frequent.
[Reply]
Jon G Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 10:56 pm
@LittleRhody, Good for him! I liked him as a coach, although the players tuned him out after a while. I hoped that he would change his ways when he started in St Louis, but apparently not.
It’s a cliche now, but at that time the Kings were truly a hard team to play against. That certainly wasn’t the case during the Larry Robinson era.
[Reply]
KingMe20 Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 7:31 am
@Jon G,
But weren’t Murray’s arduous practice sessions also partly to blame for the huge amount of games lost to injury per player? I seem to recall that being the case.
[Reply]
Jon G Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 6:23 pm
@KingMe20, I agree. Eventually everyone just got worn down.
If commenting to this blog becomes Facebook-funneled only, I’ll not be back.
Oh well. One less diversion.
But, a couple of months from now, it all starts to crank up for real.
No more training wheels in LA. Making the post season isn’t the goal. Words won’t be adequate. Excuses just tedious. The pieces should be in place. Can LAK stay healthy, can Terry Murray coax enough from a legitimate contender?
[Reply]
I just checked out the KINGS Crown Club out of curiosity and WOW the cheapest price is 14K and Valet’s not even included. Cmon AEG! Because of that I wont even consider buying a membership <- yeah right, thats the reason why.
[Reply]
Shakes Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 4:53 am
@MrMister,
If the Kings are able to charge a small small minority of people an outsixed price for an incremental increase in access to help to the bottom line and either (1) help in the profitability of the team and/or (2) help keep the value of the franchise high by really not affecting 99% of us, then i have no probs.
It’s no different than what artists do for concerts by charging a few seats a large price which helps subsidize the other seats and keep prices lower. In this particular case I’m not saying the Crown Club’s revenues will be used towards keeping the other seat prices lower (I simply don’t know), but it’s no big deal.
Hey it’s a good sign if people/corps are willing to pay top dollar for Kings tickets as long as reasonable tickets are available
[Reply]
Shakes Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 4:55 am
@Shakes,
outsixed=outsized
(and upon further further review I did sorta get your tinge of sarcasm MrMister which I missed at first, so I suppose my comment is general comment on the Crown Club versus a direct reply/rebuttal to your post)
[Reply]
MrMister Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 8:56 am
@Shakes, I’m glad you picked up on my sarcasm. If I had 21k to blow I’ll be one of the first in line to getmy crown. But I agree shakes. Mo money mo money mo money
FYI… (apologies if this was already posted…too many to look through)
Heard on the drive home from work that Mike Richards and Stolly are scheduled to be “in studio” guests with Petros and Money (PMS) during the commercial free hour tomorrow.
[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 5:48 am
@kingskicka$$, Thanx for the heads up, I will definately be tuning in !
[Reply]
petemagoop Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 8:07 am
@kingskicka$$, do you or anyone else know approximately what time that would be on?
[Reply]
art Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 8:45 am
@petemagoop,
It’s the hour between 3pm and 4pm.
[Reply]
petemagoop Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 9:07 am
@art, thanks
petemagoop Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 9:14 am
@art, me again – sorry confused——->>kingskicka$$ says:
July 27, 2011 at 12:32 am
FYI… (apologies if this was already posted…too many to look through)
Heard on the drive home from work that Mike Richards and Stolly are scheduled to be “in studio” guests with Petros and Money (PMS) during the commercial free hour tomorrow.
I was just looking again at the above post and the time it was posted–the tomorrow thing kind of threw me off. Would that interview be on Wednesday or Thursday at 3pm.
Remember fellow Hammond fanatics, L.A Kings night is this Friday at 7:10 PM at Dodger Stadium. I know some of you will be out there, but for those of you who dont have tix, I have 2 free tix in the Loge Level for the 1st 2 people who respond. That’s right ! You can sit with @puck73 and his girlfriend for free…wow, such a deal, gee puck, how can I ever repay you ? Thats just it, you dont ! Anyway, contact me at @mikebrnstn@gmail.com and it could be you. For the rest of you…see you all at Blue Heavan ! P.s..Heck, even @poorman can cash in on this !!
[Reply]
Cry Baby Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 7:26 am
@puck73, That would never happen cause he’s the fake poorman..the poorman’s poorman, if you will!
[Reply]
OnTheFly Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 7:53 am
@puck73,
Thank you for the offer, Have out of town family visiting this week. Yes, Wings and Leafs fans. Can’t wait to win a Cup. See you and your lady in Vegas, and I’ll let you buy me a drink if it make’s you feel better. ha ha
[Reply]
IceGuy Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 9:33 am
@puck73,
If you still got ‘em, I’ll be happy to take ‘em!
[Reply]
Stuart Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 10:33 am
@puck73, maybe Hammond fanatics can call themselves Hammonites? LOL
[Reply]
Michael J. Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 12:40 pm
@puck73,
Have fun, I’ll honk as I drive past you on the 5.
[Reply]
700
[Reply]
We just lost Bud Holloway but I guess we retain the rights to him if he decides to return to the NHL since we gave him a qualifying offer and he turned it down.
Per Rotoworld:
Bud Holloway has agreed to terms with the Swedish Elite League’s Skelleftea AIK.
Holloway was presented with a qualifying offer by the Kings as a restricted free agent, but he turned it down. He had 28 goals and 61 points in 78 games with the AHL Manchester Monarchs in 2010-11.
[Reply]
EASportsMgt Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 12:17 pm
@Todd, THis is the same scenario for Elkins, who was also presented a qualifying offer but chose not to sign it. These players feel that they can play at a higher level than the AHL but cracking the Kings line up right now is not easy. Gaining experience overseas is not a bad thing either if they play for the right team.
I would say this is not necessarily a bad thing for the Kings as well. They obviously know what Elkins, Moller and Holloway bring, and it opens up roster spots in Manchester to give some of the younger guys some looks as well. I hope the negotiations didn’t leave off bad however because then it may make it tougher for those players to actually return. But I guess we will have to wait and see.
[Reply]
Token Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 3:09 pm
@Todd, Allot has to do with how ELC contracts are framed in the CBA.
Most of these kids get the basic $67.5k AHL salary plus another $50-$90k signing bonus for each of the three years. So ~ $100-$150k plus room, board and per diem meal plan ain’t that bad.
But after 3 years in the AHL, the signing bonus goes away and you get a pay cut down to ~ $70k per year if you don’t crack the big club.
That there is motivation to earn some Euros.
[Reply]
tornado12 Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 3:30 pm
@Token, if thats it, then why not just sign a one way contract and if he doesnt make the team, then go play in europe? is that simplfying it too much? I just hate the fact he didnt even get a chance to crack the lineup this year, when i and many others thought he had his first legitimate chance!
[Reply]
OT:
You think we get hosed by Toronto’s War Room?
Check this out to end a 19 inning game between the Braves and Pirates.
http://www.sportsgrid.com/mlb/video-wild-19-inning-game-ends-on-contentious-call/
[Reply]
NealyBoy Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 10:39 am
@IceGuy, I guess from the umps view it looked like he missed the tag. I don’t blame him. Just another reason why they need instant replays for stuff like that.
[Reply]
number 6 Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 10:48 am
@IceGuy,
Thanks for posting it. I’d heard about it and was curious. One of the comments left below was ‘bad call but you can see it looked like he missed’. Really?!!!!! Or is that Really???
Can someone then explain why they only have replay for home runs? I mean, this isn’t hockey. It crossed the goal line or it didn’t. Please.
It’s a nice bookend to last years no hitter that wasn’t. I mean bad enough to lose again in normal time cause of a lousy call…… but to lose a no hitter, and then another team to lose a Seven hour game.
Anyway, thanks again IceGuy.
[Reply]
Chip Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 11:27 am
@number 6, Small correction, although I agree with your point: last year Galarraga would have had a perfect game, the 21st in MLB history. The umpire, Joyce was in tears about blowing the call. Not defending it.
[Reply]
Stuart Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 11:41 am
@Chip, yeah, a no-no is great, but a perfect game is damn near divine.
number 6 Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 5:53 am
@Chip,
Yep. Thanks Chip. Just details huh…… (imagine happy face here…. I don’t like the way this site creates a strong yellow happy face….. rich should take note of that).
858King Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 9:45 am
@number 6, At least Detroit still one that game. Pittsburgh is in the middle of a division race and that one game could go a long way towards who wins the Central.
[Reply]
And the Angels win a no-hitter.
[Reply]
Too many posts for me to read them all but let me just say that being a die hard Kings fan that lives outside of the LA area, I have connected with so many Kings fans that I enjoy talking to on a regular basis by posting comments linked to facebook on articles and message boards from other sites. I for one would love to see this connected to facebook as it would definitely allow us fans to be more in touch with each other. And as far as I know I havent seeen a setup for a message board that used facebook that didnt also give you an option to use an account for that website.
[Reply]
Is it just me or is the sound incredibly low on the Richards PC?
[Reply]
KingTrojan Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 1:08 pm
@Niko, They just fixed it. Now it’s loud, ha.
[Reply]
Niko Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 1:11 pm
@Niko, fixed
[Reply]
I miss Rich.
[Reply]
Nick Nickson looks lost sitting in the last row. Makes me laugh, I don’t know why.
[Reply]
The only positive I see regarding this facebook thing is that the Ducks fans will think they have to one-up us and they will start posting on Bu++Book.
[Reply]
Why can’t our media ask questions related to hockey? Enough with these “how will it be not being recognized on the street” and “describe yourself for fans who won’t know you”. Seriously? There’s enough self-loathing, they need to stop.
[Reply]
Richards said Corey Perry is “a really good friend now”…
Come on man, really? Keep that to yourself!!
[Reply]
kingsfaninsb Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 1:23 pm
@Niko, he will wreck corey perry
[Reply]
This is a nice time to announce the Doughty signing.
[Reply]
Shakes Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 1:53 pm
@Who Knows?,
Doughty doesn’t have a facebook account, he is unable to comment.
[Reply]
jmsalsa Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 2:29 pm
@Shakes,
ZING!
[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 6:37 pm
@Shakes, Nice one !
[Reply]
nykingfan Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 5:23 am
@Shakes,
That’s funny!
[Reply]
Wasn’t there supposed to be a Stoll/Lombardi segment?
[Reply]
Apologies in advance if this is old news already – EJ Hradek tweeted an hour ago that “LA GM Dean Lombardi talked to Drew Doughty’s agent (Don Meehan) yesterday for 30 minutes. The result: very little progress toward a new deal” In a following tweet said “IMO, Doughty eventually re-signs in LA. He’s a unique player because of his age/skill at that position. It makes the talks more difficult” I guess we all know this, but I, for one, would enjoy the rest of my forced off-season knowing Drew was locked up. I’m tired of the annual Kings summer-time drama.
[Reply]
number 6 Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 5:51 am
@kingswings,
Oh, man, felt I should tell you about this so it wouldn’t wreck your summer. They’re essentially taking all these different summertime elements (Kovalshucks, DD contract, Sean Avery summer men’s wear and workout routine – while he was with the Kings of course, Dan Cloutier’s contract disputes), and they’re having someone in hollywood do a mix-up of all the details and turn it into a screenplay. I’m quite sure that when the movie comes out you’re gonna really like it.
[Reply]
Wasn’t Shea Webers arbitration hearing supposed to be today?
[Reply]
Zeley Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 3:21 pm
@LittleRhody,
from ESPN.com:
“An arbitration hearing for Nashville Predators defenseman and team captain Shea Weber has been scheduled for Aug. 2 in Toronto.”
[Reply]
emb3 Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 3:22 pm
@LittleRhody, Aug. 2
[Reply]
Sebastian Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 3:22 pm
@LittleRhody, i think it was supposed to be Aug. 2…probably in Toronto.
[Reply]
“World Teeters On Brink of Depression Over Aug. 2 Deadline”
…’cuz that’s the day Shea Weber’s Arbitration happens, with implications to the Doughty contract amount. Why, what were you thinking I meant?
[Reply]
Talk about timing..Interesting article about Facebook…
Just something to read and ponder…
http://www.globalpost.com/dispatch/news/business-tech/technology-news/110504/wikileaks-julian-assange-facebook-twitter-nsa-spy-video
[Reply]
Stuart Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 4:27 pm
@SLIM, OK, where is Gary’s response to all this? Sounds like a bunch of paranoid old people talk trying to keep the FBman down… oh wait, what am I talking about? LOL
Bots, the whole lot of them, BOTS!!! I’m going straight Morse from now –.- —. —- ..!
[Reply]
Osaka Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 4:48 pm
@SLIM, Dude, what information?!?! The government wants to know I didn’t go to Kendo practice last night but was drinking and eating at a yakitoriya? That is what I told my friends on facebook. That is the crap everyone post. Let them spy! Do you not pay taxes or have a driver’s license? The government knows where you live! Have you ever used a credit or debit card? They can track you. If the government wants to see pictures of my daughters rock climbing, by all means go to facebook. If I were a fugitive, terrorist, or Ted Kaczynski like recluse maybe I would think twice about revealing where my secret location was, but since I have bank accounts, insurance, utilites….. they know.
Right know your IP address is telling “them” where you are.
[Reply]
jess Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 4:53 pm
@Osaka,
So your solution is to give them even more information? Well, you go ahead and do that but don’t lecture us on how stupid we are for not wanting to roll over @ every turn and give up more of our rights for the sake of petty conveniences.
[Reply]
Osaka Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 5:04 pm
@jess, What information? What do you give up?
YoBro Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 5:11 pm
@jess, AMEN !
Go Kings
Osaka Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 5:19 pm
@jess, The only thing you need to give them is a name (how do they know if it is even a real name).
jess Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 5:20 pm
@Osaka,
I don’t really want to get into lecturing you on common sense but every time you connect a network with another network using the same verification tech which then leads back to one of the largest entities in the world (FB), information is then being centralized. Let me put it this way, look at mergers for instance. Every time two companies merge they then have progressed towards a monopolized power structure. This eliminates competition and creates higher prices and fewer choices for consumers.
So while I’m very much in favor of Rich improving the quality of all things Insider, I’m not in favor of rolling Insider into a macro data sharing machine like FaceBook.
There are ways to handle what he needs done without using FB tech.
Osaka Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 5:35 pm
@jess, You are right on bro, I agree. But here we are talking about a hockey blog and facebook. There is no information to get. I like the Kings. I like your thinking but the facebook insider link is benign to me. You don’t really have to give up any info. In the end I hope you at least look at facebook before you decide. You need to decide what is best for you, I respect that. I just hope I see you here when the puck drops this season. Let’s have some real debates on hockey issues like we have before.
PS Is that your car? LOVE IT! DAMN!
PSS How do you put that picture on there?
CB14 Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 5:45 pm
@Osaka, Use Gravatar.com for the picture. That’s how I got mine. You can use any picture you have on your computer, or any picture on a website of your choosing. I got mine from the Kings website.
jess Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 5:46 pm
@Osaka,
I really appreciate your reply and keep in mind that there are many here who have office jobs and these big macro FB type logins are blocked on their company networks like @shakes and many others here that love to hear from.
With that said, thank your very much for your sincerity. My car is a 1954 Chevy Belair customized in the ’50′s’ era SoCal, Barris Custom (led sled) tradition.
And yes, looking forward to the puck dropping and debating all of the bitchin problems our Kings will have this year.
Also the picture is called an avatar and to be honest I’m not sure where I got it but you can google avatar and I’m sure it will guide you to a place where you can create one.
SLIM Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 5:01 pm
@Osaka,
Slow your roll Moby….
Just posting an article, not looking to debate….
Of course THEY have my IP…Heck so do the Aliens..
For that matter….Different strokes for different folks…
Is that hard to understand?
[Reply]
Osaka Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 5:17 pm
@SLIM, Oh you got me with the Moby, ouch! Hahaha I understand different stroke bro, no worries. Just saying. The old fashion telephone books had more information.
I don’t want to lose any Kings fans here if it is avoided. Of course everyone needs to make their own decisions but I can see a lot have a misunderstanding or misguided fear. For those who know nothing of facebook this blog is not exactly fair and balanced. I would hope they would at least look into it before making a decision because there seems to be a hysteria. This will be a great season for the Kings and I hope to see everyone here.
Stuart Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 5:25 pm
@Osaka, and that’s all it is, a “hysteria” and the more people push for logical reasoning, the harder illogical pushes back, and sorry to say but illogical always trumps logic, and unfounded always wins out over factuality (see organized religion) but the fact of the matter is that people, in general, don’t like change and don’t like being told something is “safe” when they sense it to be otherwise.
If FB is the vessel that drops out of the sky and its members are the only ones “saved” then I’ll be here on earth with the vanquished because I’m not going to be part of it. For whatever reason, and “not cause i’m afraid” (said in Homer J.’s voice when he’s on the phone with a SBM) but because something in my nature doesn’t let me jump on every bandwagon that rides through town. Call me stubborn, call me old fashioned, call me whatever you want, just don’t call me late for dinner (or Shirley).
SLIM Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 5:55 pm
@Osaka
I believe it’s called Gravatar.com….
Enough FB..How bout all the Drugs and Alcohol
with players in the media lately…Richards and Carter
are alleged to party too much…Boogard overdoses…
Khabibulin goes to jail for 30 days…..
Slow time of year for media or is this a bigger problem then we know?
Also, what we are that we can stand together on is that we love our Kings..
Should be a hell of a year…Cheers…
DesertKing Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 7:00 pm
@SLIM,
Oh great, now we have to worry about aliens on FB also. Stand by for the cow abductions corm circles and weird probes.
I just don’t think people understand the ramifications of FaceBook;
The questiion is how will Lou Lamoriello fit FB in under the salary cap? FB is one-dimensional; zero defense. FB just wants to be the highest paid social media market in hockey. Plus, FB will never fit into a system like NJ uses, so either FB’s offensive production will siffer, or else the defensive structure will suffer. Also, I don’t like the whole idea of front loaded contracts, and FB demands to be sigend up front. This could easily be cap circumvention, but probably the league will have to let it go cuz they already let Pronger’s deal, and Hossa’s deal go through.
[Reply]
jess Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 6:33 pm
@Player-X, that is inventive and hilarious!
[Reply]
IceGuy Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 9:39 pm
@Player-X,
You gotta cut Lou a little slack. This is exactly the same kind of situation that Lombardi’s in with Cap Space. Sure Doughty’s getting all the headlines and speculation, but what about Cap?
[Reply]
Is Facebook gonna take my gun away? he he
[Reply]
Cortex949 Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 8:09 pm
@408kingsfan, Yes they will. They will also take your wife and horse
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 9:56 pm
@Cortex949,
Just as long as they don’t take my dog and my truck!
[Reply]
mcsorleyfan Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 7:08 pm
@DesertKing, If they do, just play the record backward…lol
Kenny44 Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 8:10 pm
@408kingsfan, I think Rich totally punked us with this parting post. I can see him snickering as he logged off and slapped his laptop shut. Good one, Hammer! Facebook – meh
[Reply]
Facebook’s Randi Zuckerberg: Anonymity Online ‘Has To Go Away’:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/07/27/randi-zuckerberg-anonymity-online_n_910892.html
[Reply]
Not sure if this has been posted yet, but here you go folks.
P & Money welcome two of the best LA Kings in our Burbank studios:
http://www.petrosandmoney.com/pages/mediavault/mediaplayer.html?uri=channels/347359/1424150
[Reply]
gmo Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 3:16 pm
@YHarry,
thanks for the link dude…..nice interview
[Reply]
Nice to see Deano in a solid ‘Forum Blue’ polo in today’s spectacle. “IT’S IN THE BLOOD”
Blackout, Schmackout… P=P=P!
gKg!
[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 9:42 am
@LBlocal, I have said it many times, but I will say it again, I could listen to Dean Lombardi talk about hockey for hours. Tim Leiweike and Phil Anshutz did us fans and themselves a big favor by making this guy President and General Manager of the Kings. When you look at what he has done with our farm system in 5 seasons, it is just unbelievable how much depth is accumulating here. Hopefully when the Kings win the cup, Dustin Brown will hand the cup to Dean and let him do a victory lap !
[Reply]
The Kings only have one player not from North America. When was this the case last?
[Reply]
Create accounts similar to the race-dezert.com forum.
[Reply]
Was listening to a Kings Podcast today and my worst fears are surfacing again…
Now that I have not only accepted, but have embraced the Richards/Schenn trade, the idiot on the podcast (Life in Hockeywood) is saying that trade will ruin the franchise. The trade will put the nail in Lombardi’s coffin… Just saying it was a terrible trade….
But this guy also pronounces Simon’s (Gagne) name, the same pronunciation as Simon Cowell.
I need a better Kings Podcast.
[Reply]
fsd1 Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 7:55 am
@kevin from toronto, I cant seem to find a KINGS podcast of this on the website, can you put the link up, seems to me that is one type of podcast that would not be on the Kings site.
[Reply]
kevin from toronto Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 8:11 am
@fsd1, In itunes, search: Kingscast & Life in Hockeywood.
They both suck though. The Kingscast hasn’t been updated in months, and the 2 guys from Life in Hockeywood sound like they’re doing it from their mother’s basement. They also talk like they know more than they actually do.
[Reply]
Shakes Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 8:27 am
@kevin from toronto,
sometimes i find that less information and commentary is more. at the end of the day we’re not really gonna know for a few months…that being said there haven’t been a lot of trades in the history of sports that have ruined a franchine. you can argue that the Oilers trading Gretzky, while unpopular, didn’t ruin them as they won a Cup a few years later
sure great draft picks have been traded away for less than their future value, but i wouldn’t say it “ruined” a franchise.
the only close thing to “ruining a franchise” would be if Simmonds and Schenn both became perenial all-stars to offset the all-star we got…
[Reply]
Smoke signals and beating on drums…
[Reply]
Shakes Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 8:32 am
@daves a mess,
please stop. you’re making it rain.
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 9:15 am
@daves a mess,
Me see-um heap a big cavalry on ridge where sun and moon rise. Must have seen smoke signals and heard drums announcing new deals at the buffet. Horseriders look like F-Troop or Vancouver Canucks. Can’t tell which since they are all gingers, keep falling down, whining and look like actors.
[Reply]
If you guys havent seen the Lombardi interviews on Kings Vision, check them out, they are great! Lots of good insight into a few different issues including prospects leaving for Europe, Doughty contract talks, Mike and Brad Richards, etc. Its in 5 parts, so be sure to watch them all. good stuff.
http://video.kings.nhl.com/videocenter/console?catid=-6&id=121310&navid=DL|LAK|home
[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 9:44 am
@Sebastian, Listening to Dean talk hockey is always reassuring !!
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 11:58 am
@Sebastian, DL was fantastic to listen to. He is fun to read because while he may be guarded as he should be with certain subjects he is very open with his mannerisms that purposely give away his true feelings on any particular subject. Sure was upset with Holloway. Sounds like Holloway might just be blowing his best chance at the NHL.
I could listen to DL all day … which is typically what you have to do if you give him half a chance.
[Reply]
Sebastian Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 1:30 pm
@Sebastian, the only part i didnt like what the look on his face when talking Doughty contract. He seemed very frustrated and disappointed.
[Reply]
Former King Aki Berg has retired.
Funny, I thought he retired in 2005.
[Reply]
Stuart Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 10:34 am
@Buster, where did berger retire from? McD’s?
[Reply]
Brownkingsfan Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 2:12 pm
@Stuart, Wal-mart. He was a greeter.
[Reply]
Shakes Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 11:32 am
@Buster,
i’m saving up my money for the Roman Vopat Legends Night (with accompanying bobblehead)
[Reply]
bryanagee Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 1:51 pm
@Shakes,
I have Roman Vopat’s (#12) Tip-A-King signed jersey LOL.
[Reply]
In rereading this thread here is a summery of what has been proposed
Login with:
Facebook
Twitter
Google+
LiveFyre
Disqus.com
Yahoo
VBulletin
Verisign Open Id
LinkedIn
Other thoughts:
Leave it as it is
Make commenting a “pay site” with small fee
Require Real Names not handles.
IceGuy on 7/23 had the following
“Allow anyone to stop by and read only, Log In to comment, Add a “Member Since” display, Add a post counter, Display “New” accounts with a handle in Gold for 14 days to help self monitor trolls, Add Mod’s”
Cynic on 7/24 had the following
“The crux of the issue here is personal information: Posters want to keep it private, Administration of the Blog wants to protect posters from trolls& the like. You’ll never get it 100% right no matter what you do.
I think there could be one solution that might be better for everyone, (Caveat)If Rich can somehow guarantee the privacy of personal information being shared: Have everyone sign up for an account that needs to have one piece of verifyable personal information attached: Cell phone #, Home #, Eamil (not Yahoo, Gmail ect.) Address, whatever. Have a code sent to that medium and the code neds to be entered to verify the account.
This information could be handy in sending out special Insider deals, meet ups, Suite nights, Ect. (people can Opt out if they don’t want the marketing) Just do not sell the info, not even to the King’s (unless agreed to by the poster) Keep the marketing to insider business only.
Guest Accounts can be made available with rules of moderation. All Guest comments are to be reviewed and approved before posting to the blog (TSN does this with all posts) Limit the number of posts per day, IP address is taken and if a comment is deleted for bad form, simply ban the IP address.”
If I missed any please do add.
[Reply]
bfarm Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 12:07 pm
@JWR,
I like cynics idea about the guest accounts. Most websites use that for their membership services already such as ESPN.. and unlike those websites, I would actually WANT to receive emails from Rich!
I don’t know why anyone would “pay to comment” though, which you listed as a suggestion from commenters on here…. that makes no sense to me
[Reply]
JWR Reply:
August 1st, 2011 at 8:34 am
@bfarm,
The pay to comment suggestion was only an idea as to how Rich could verify the actual identity of each and every commenter. Forcing one to give either a CC or Paypal could do that. I suggested a $5 fee that could even be directed to King’s care charity but even if it was 1ct it would still accomplish the same objective for Rich.
I think this whole thread is really just a big wall to throw ideas against to see what sticks best, Thats just one of many.
[Reply]
Player-X Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 3:39 pm
@JWR, Add button for “This offends me” or “This Violates Rules” so commenters and readers can call attention to objectionable posts; 3, or 5 or whatever, people click it and it goes to moderation for review and possible removal or reinstatement.
[Reply]
not that I wasn’t excited already, but I opened up ESPN/NHL and who is on the front page…..Anze Kopitar!
the anticipation for the season is unbelievable….I’m always fired up but this year almost too much to take. Kopi, MR, Stoll down the middle is overwhelming!!
GKG
[Reply]
Shakes Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 11:35 am
@launch,
on a sidenote, doesn’t he look fantastic in our “old” purple and white road unis…i think the new road unis look pretty great, but i sorta wish that our new 3rds (old homes) had more purple in them
[Reply]
Sebastian Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 1:37 pm
@Shakes, my first thought…damn he looks good in that jersey. i completely hate the white version of the old 3rd jersey. love the third jersey (now main i guess) but cant stand this new thing they came up with. i guess ill have to get used to it. Purple is the color of Royalty.
[Reply]
LittleRhody Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 1:53 pm
@Sebastian, +1
BrokeKingsFan Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 11:55 am
@launch, overwhelming? for other teams i say most definetly….for us Kings faithfull… damn exciting!!!! I have no doubt Stoll will be the best 3rd line Center in the NHL next year and I would take Kopi and Richards over any 1st / 2nd line center in the league( maybe im a little biased but whatever).
[Reply]
Kingstane9 Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 4:55 am
@launch, uuu thanks for the info, already on it.
[Reply]
I am fired up ! The 1st event of the season is tomorrow night at Dodger Stadium, L.A Kings Night ! We will be sitting in sec 157 row J, and I am taking @IceGuy and @ArmchairKingsfan as guests ! Cant wait to see alot of you tomorrow on the Loge Level around the patio area on the 3rd base side, it should kick some ass !
[Reply]
Shotongoal Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 12:36 pm
@puck73, cool, 157 row A, will be wearing either Brown or Quick jersey….representing!!!
[Reply]
Sebastian Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 1:33 pm
@puck73, I’ll be in left field pavilion cause im cheap and it only cost $10. GO KINGS GO! i mean Go Dodgers go? i still dont know whos going to be there from the kings. any players? probably just bailey and the ice crew.
[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 2:41 pm
@Sebastian, Meet up outside the Loge Level entrance on the 3rd base side between 6:30 and 7, thats where alot of us will be. I will be wearing a red Kings warmup jersey and even have my Hammond insider badge on so I should be easy to spot…see ya there !
[Reply]
So i was thinking.. yes, i know, amazing, right? I think it would be real fun if all of us insiders held a viewing party once in a while for away games. I know of a billiards hall that has a private room, that can hold around 20-30 people with a big screen and your own personal waiting staff.
Its only $35 an hour, and if we can get at least 10 of us in there, minus food and alcohol as that is an individual expense, just to watch the game would cost less than a beer.
I figured the players bond, why shouldn’t the fans?
Your input…
[Reply]
BrokeKingsFan Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 11:58 am
@Mikey, Im in! as long as it is within a reasonable distance from home
[Reply]
Mikey Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 1:10 pm
@BrokeKingsFan, Its located in Burbank. If its too far for the majority of the fans, i can find something within a do-able radius for all.
[Reply]
BrokeKingsFan Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 2:00 pm
@Mikey, Burbank is a little far for me. I will be there with you in spirit though. GKG!
Brewhemoth Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 12:27 pm
@Mikey, Sounds like it would be fun. Always looking to watch the game with some fans since none of my friends even like hockey.
[Reply]
Mikey Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 1:07 pm
@Brewhemoth, Oh i know the feeling.. you have to sell them on it, and show youtube clips of amazing goals and hits. The JJ hit where the Bolt went flying is the closing point in my pitch.
[Reply]
hockeyfanB4Gretzky Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 12:58 pm
@Mikey, I’m Down I am in the San Fernado valley.
[Reply]
Mikey Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 1:05 pm
@Mikey, sweet! The billiards hall i mentioned is in Burbank. Fantasia Billiards. We also have our own pool table and other amenities.
I usually rent it out for other sporting events like UFC and Boxing matches on pay-per-view, only $10 per person for those.
[Reply]
LittleRhody Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 1:56 pm
@Mikey, If the game is on a weekend, I would likely drive up from OC, although if anyone can organize watch parties in Southern Orange County, that would be great too.
[Reply]
Weasel Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 2:15 pm
@Mikey,
Only if the majority of folks actually want to watch the game. I hate superbowl parties for that reason, the majority come for the party not the game……
[Reply]
BrokeKingsFan Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 3:33 pm
@Weasel, My eyes wont leave the TV screen until the game is over(except for commercial/between period breaks)….. unless the cocktail waitress is good lookin! Im a dog… ill admit it!
[Reply]
Weasel Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 10:02 am
@BrokeKingsFan,
Well proportioned cocktail waitress waiver granted…… I’m on the Westside (basically Santa Monica) — Burbank would work a few times a year for me if you organize.
puck73 Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 2:37 pm
@Mikey, I am in the O.C but would be more then happy to go up to Burbank. Heck, we can even alternate locations in L.A and Orange County or Long Beach.
[Reply]
Mikey Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 3:46 pm
@puck73,
Yeah that would be great! I’m not familiar with OC at all really.. so if anyone is willing to organize those parties, it would be great.
[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 3:55 pm
@Mikey, Count on it, I know Orange County and Long Beach very well. As for L.A, you just tell me where you are having it, and a little advanced notice, and me and my Garmin GPS will be over in a jiff !
LittleRhody Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 1:16 am
@Mikey, Also, Buffalo Wild Wings in the Kaliedescope has pretty large TVs as well as a back oom that looks like it could be segregated off and reserved.
BrokeKingsFan Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 3:54 pm
@puck73, Long Beach would be awesome! Im just about 10 min north of Long Beach and wouldnt mind coming out to OC either. Anything 30 min or less drive time I’m good with.
[Reply]
launch Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 4:58 pm
@BrokeKingsFan,
I would love to do something in OC….the spectrum has a Yard House that will do Happy Hour specials for us.
over 180 beer taps
mcsorleyfan Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 5:51 pm
@BrokeKingsFan, I’m in as well. Burbank is good; I’ve done the Barney’s Beanery stuff. Long Beach isn’t bad either. OC may be iffy unless it’s a weekend I have opened, but those are few.
Mikey Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 5:53 pm
@Mikey, Man, now im more excited for the season to start.. i didn’t think that was possible.
[Reply]
was reading a few Dean quotes…he is pissed that Holloway went off with Moeller
[Reply]
FKA PakiFro Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 11:25 am
@Orphios,
Moreso with Holloway I thought.
[Reply]
BrokeKingsFan Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 12:06 pm
@Orphios, Link? I would like to read them as well
[Reply]
BrokeKingsFan Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 12:28 pm
@Orphios, just saw it on Kings vision. thanks though
[Reply]
BrokeKingsFan Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 2:15 pm
@Orphios, after watxching the interview with Dean its seems he is more disappointed and bewildered that he left not necesarily pissed. I cant really blame Holloway though! The guy has shown that he can get it done in the AHL and how long is a guy supposed to wait to get a chance with a big club. The Kings will be a hard roster to crack now and in the future and if Bud was in any other Org i think he plays this year in the NHL. I think we will see this happening alot more with our prospects in the near future(we have a ton of really good prospects and not alot of roster spots). Dean mentioned the $$$ factor and that does come into play for sure but i think there was more to it than that. Bud probably feels the level of players and competition is greater than that of the AHL over seas and doesnt want to stick it out playing in the AHL hopeing for something more.
[Reply]
Weasel Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 2:16 pm
@BrokeKingsFan,
Is he good enough to play for another team? If so, why not use him as trade bait?
[Reply]
fsd1 Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 2:31 pm
@Weasel, we have a set roster. Who do we need?
BrokeKingsFan Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 2:47 pm
@Weasel, as fsd1 said “we have a set roster”. Im not sure if your a Football fan (Soccer) but i liken it to Manchester city of the EPL. They have a squad of players that is so deep in talent that there bench is full of world class players that would be playing first team football in any other team out there (at least in the EPL). I realize you probably cant compare man city and the Kings but im sure you get my drift. Guys like Muzzin, Holloway, Moeller, Ect. are good enough to be playing on other NHL teams right now but are property of the Kings so unfortunatly for them thats not an option. It would be stupid to trade them away unless there was a need for more than what we currently have but thats just not the case at the moment.
Weasel Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 3:42 pm
I suppose it could just be for draft picks or a young reclaimation project. A player is a time sensitive resource, so if we can’t use Holloway but hang on to him his value will eventually evaporate.
Anyone know what date or approximately which weekend training camp will start on?? Anyone???????
[Reply]
How long is Rich’s vacation? lol
[Reply]
LBlocal Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 1:40 pm
Ends 9:00am tomorrow. =) gKg!
[Reply]
LBlocal Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 1:41 pm
Oops. 12pm
[Reply]
“Mr. Rich Hammond” (with apologies to Simon and Garfunkel)
And here’s to you, Mr. Rich Hammond
Your readers loves you more than you will know (Wo, wo, wo)
God bless you please, Mr. Rich Hammond
Your Blog holds a place for those who say
In reasonable wayyyy …hey, hey, hey
Where have you gone, Mr. Rich Hammond
We readers turn our lonely eyes to you (Woo, woo, woo)
What’s that you say, Mr. Rich Hammond
Commenter ID checks are coming here to stay
Hey, hey, hey…hey, hey, hey
But so it seem Mr Rich Hammond
Facebook linkage could shun people away (hey, hey, hey)
And so we hope a compromise is struck
Not for US debt but posting rules for us
Hey, hey, hey…hey, hey, hey
[Reply]
BrokeKingsFan Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 3:28 pm
@Shakes, Im waiting for Rich to “disturb the Sound of Silence”
[Reply]
jess Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 3:44 pm
@BrokeKingsFan,
He probably has a pool with his buddies on the thing going to 1000. Also he might just be observing the habitat to see what the critters do when left to themselves, whether there will be major evolutionary progressions or regressions. Me? I’m just a lung fish below the hard packed dirt of the serengeti waiting for rain so I can once again thrash about in the mud and yell “wooohooo” for a couple of precious moments. “the rain” would be the puck dropping in game one with a cold beer in hand but for now I guess a new thread will do:)
[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 3:47 pm
@Shakes, Meanwhile…..everythings the same back, in my little town ?
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 7:14 pm
@Shakes, I wish Rich waaaaasss ho hooomeward bound
[Reply]
sebastian Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 8:36 pm
@Shakes, great job man. chuckled at that.
[Reply]
Belexes Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 9:18 pm
@Shakes,
“Hello Hammer my old friend….”
[Reply]
Shakes Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 11:07 am
@Belexes,
“… I’ve come to comment here again…”
[Reply]
fsd1 Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 11:16 am
@Shakes, “If you dont come back soon we all will die”
rumpa#19 Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 4:14 pm
@Shakes, ” like a bridge over troubled comments”
Belexes Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 2:31 pm
@Belexes,
“lets give respectful posts another try”
[Reply]
KFII Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 7:23 am
@Shakes, I got a kick out of that. Very good. Of course I had to log on to Rhapsody to listen to some of the old Simon and Garfunke. after reading that. I still have a place in my heart for some of those old ones.
[Reply]
Shakes Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 8:35 pm
@KFII,
you know which song i really loved, “the only living boy in NY” which i thought was a super pretty song (sadly i had never heard it until watching a movie – was it “garden state” ?) and thought it was so sweet…and it was only recently that i learned the story behind it. quite touching
[Reply]
KFII Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 8:21 am
@Shakes, I never saw the movie and I don’t think I ever heard the song until now. Very nice! I love it. Thank you.
Eric K Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 10:02 am
@Shakes, I need Rich to ease my mind by letting me know that Doughty is locked up for nine years.
[Reply]
Are to 1000 yet?
[Reply]
Waiting on pins and needles on the outcome of this Facebook matter
[Reply]
Facebook blows…
Go Kings!!
[Reply]
hopefully we can reach 1000 comments before he gets back
[Reply]
BrokeKingsFan Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 3:35 pm
@steve, we are well on our way!
[Reply]
The Lombardi interview just gave me goosebumps. I’ve never seen him at a loss for words like when he was asked about Doughty being the highest paid King. Great to hear about Richards and Kopi putting the work in. I think all the players realize they have the pieces necessary to make a deep run, now it’s up to them to make it happen. All our patience has paid off, and we finally got the “right fit” players Dean has been waiting for. So glad we didn’t break the bank on Kovalchuck or Heatley, it seems Richards has something those guys don’t, he knows how to win. Does anyone else feel like everything is falling into place perfectly?
It’s been awesome watching this team grow to where they are now! The culture truly is changing, the Kings are winners and the organIzation has done everything it can to ice the best possible product. I say this every year, but I’ve never been more excited to start the season!! Thankfully I have burning man to distract me until September, otherwise I might lose my mind. GO KINGS GO!!!
[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 3:52 pm
@Niko, Yes, this organization is coming along rather nicely. Heck, we have enough depth right now that even guys like Moller, and Holloway werent confident enough to try their shot again this season so they opted for Europe. To all my fellow Kings fans I say get used to that kind of stuff because it is getting much tougher to make this club then it has ever been…thats how you can tell we are getting closer to becoming elite.
[Reply]
LittleRhody Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 4:29 pm
@Niko, (Doing my part to reach 1000)
I couldn’t agree more. There has never been a better time to be a Kings Fan.
The only dissapointing thing is that when they hang the Stanley Cup banner in Staples, it will most likely have the ‘Home Plate’ logo on it.
It won’t matter right away, but eventually, over time, it will bug me, lol. Oh well, small price to pay, right?
[Reply]
FiG17 Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 6:08 pm
@Niko,
The stuff he was saying about Kopi had me the most excited I think. I feel like he’s gonna come back so much stronger than he was before. This feels like the longest off-season in a really, really long time.
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 7:21 pm
@Niko, Like to give a little shout out to Stoll helping Brown out with some of the captain like duties. Brad Richardson also showing up to help the Kings front office with the Dodger connection. Lewis working hard on the beach with Penner and Stoll and being the only one to show on the Kings Cruise.
How about Mike Richards man-ning up and doing the beach work out cold right off the bat?
Look out Western conference … new sherrif in town.
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puck73 Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 8:11 am
@KC23, Good observations. On paper, we certainly look improved. Hopefully all the players buy in and function great as a unit.
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We need a new post…does anyone know when rich gets back?
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Does anybody know if Bud Holloway is still property of the kings, and if so does that mean the moment he wants to come back to the NHL it has to be with the Kings?
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I don’t mind saying I’m ready for Rich to return!
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Sebastian Swisher (@SubbySex) has shared a Tweet with you:
“MRichie18: The last 3 days all i talked about was my past in #philly, and not once was there a positive thing said. Everything was about off ice junk.”
–http://twitter.com/MRichie18/status/96754867120517120
“MRichie18: Not the way i wanted to be remembered but it is what it is and time to move forward. Look forward to a fresh start with the @LAKings”
–http://twitter.com/MRichie18/status/96755206557151233
[Reply]
KingTrojan Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 7:00 pm
@Subby, I don’t blame him. He was asked some really BS questions.
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Subby Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 7:51 pm
@KingTrojan, like what?
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jonjon Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 10:54 pm
@Subby, just all the same questions he was asked the day he was traded. the press conference was just a day for media to write a story. hopefully he’ll be better remembered after we win a cup =]
loved watching the press conference and deans interviews…doing my part to 1000
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Mike Richards looked so nervous at that press conference. Looked like he was ready for the Spanish Inquisition and as the question were pretty lite compared to the Philly idiots he is used to, you could just see it in his eyes, thinking to himself as he nervously kept drinking from his water bottle … “omg, this is it? This is all they’re going to ask me? Oh, I’m going to like this.”
The timing for the NBA greed fest/USC football fiasco is perfect for the Kings. The only game in town will be the Kings and they are going to be winners on and off the ice capturing up new fans by the bushel …
Hey, I can dream.
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Lombardi interview on tsn.com
check it out.
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KC23 Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 8:49 pm
@sebastian, Can’t find it?
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sebastian Reply:
July 28th, 2011 at 8:54 pm
@KC23, http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/
its the first video on the right side of the page titled “Lombardi 1-on-1
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 3:48 am
@sebastian, Thanks. BTW, if you let that DL video move on to the next segment they talk about goalies and one of them they talked about the most was Quick.
Sebastian Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 6:40 am
@sebastian, thanks, i missed that.
I just got up to speed on all of the interviews including the TSN one just a minute ago.
Everytime I watch Dean handle himself in front of the cameras, I feel safe and secure that we are in the hands of a rational, articulate and conscientious guy with a fantastic will to win. His ability to deflect anything from hard to stupid (questions) is unparalled, and he does it with class.
MR looks already comfortable to me –I mean talk about a soft landing! So IMO when he hits the ice we will see some great chemistry here.
The Kings will be electric this year.
[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 8:15 am
@jess, Dean Lombardi is a fine GM, but he will never be as brilliant as George Maguirre, the guy I played for, Sincerely Larry Murphy, Hall of Famer.
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DesertKing Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 9:46 am
@puck73,
Not only was he a great GM but he also makes great car care products
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So with this thread being so long I’d like to make a comment to everyone reading this on an iPhone.
Does it take you guys like 15 second and two fingers to scroll all the way to the bottom of the page now?… I mean come on! This is making my thumbs tired hahah
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Niko Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 10:39 am
@Cortex949, seriously, I must look ridiculous aggressively swiping my phone like that.
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Finally got round to watching the Lombardi interviews on LAKings.com.
I luff heem!
Poorman lives down to his name whenever he insists that a one-and-done post-season is grounds for burning DL or TM at the stake.
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Sooooo just wondering, is a sub out of the question while Rich is on vacation next year? Maybe one of the regular posters?
Just a thought.
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GKG!
Let’s hit 1000
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DB and MR are going to have “big hit” contests on each of their shifts. I would hate to be on the ice against those two.
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Cant wait for the dodger game tonight! Better get a go kings go chant!
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ok, because i put a link in it is awaiting moderation, so for reading today go to thefourtperiod and read the kings article on the front page, might make our day more enjoyable or at least help us reach 1000
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Stuart Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 9:33 am
@fsd1, good stuff. In Dean we trust.
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Check out nhl.com some more dought talk from DL saying dd getting closer. Sorry to beat a dead horse, but hey it’s something hockey to read
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A thread with this many responses reminds me of the Kovalchuck debacle last year. Lots of people wanted the “sniper” and many were trashing Dean for not getting the deal done. Im glad he didnt do it, this Kings team looks much better.
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Hmm… no sign of Rich. He is not on Dry Island.
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Random Question: Anybody remember Tomas Sandstrom? For whatever reason I thought he was the wildcard in the years he was here. He seemed to be able to make adjustments to his game according to the situation. And he was a great instigator as far as giving little elbows or facewashes when the ref was up ice.
I had kind of hoped that Schenn would be a more physical and more talented Sandstrom for the Kings. Do you think we have enough chippiness on the current roster? I’d love an Ott or a saner version of Avery for this squad — Am I nuts??
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 10:25 am
@Weasel, Whatever chipiness we lost in Simmonds we got back in Richards. Still don’t get why people are worrying so much about that. We got Clifford, Richards, Greene and Brown who’ll hit everything within striking distance. JJ can also be pretty hard hitting as well.
[Reply]
Weasel Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 10:53 am
@KC23,
It’s not just the chippiness it’s the also the intelligence. But, is Richards known as a chippy guy? I haven’t seen much of him — been trying to watch the playoff replays on NHL network to see how Richards/Gagne play.
[Reply]
Player-X Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 10:57 am
@Weasel, Some questionable blind-side hits, but no suspensions. Here’s a link to a hit on David Booth a couple years ago, Richards laid him out before the rule was changed.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cIXcGOr4-04
Player-X Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 11:02 am
@Weasel, Richards has hos own “hit parade” on the youtubes, mostly clean, but the guy can really deliver. Like I said above somewhere, the Kings needed grit, maybe Richards is a 40 grit when ideal would be 60 grit. Almost always his elbows are down, the stick is down, but he fir sure knows how to use the shoulder, and shoulder-cup.
KC23 Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 11:59 am
@Weasel, Richards is pretty much a Brown type hitter, but Richards will throw down the gloves where Brown virtually never does. If you want to compare him to what we lost in the trade (Simmonds) I’d say Richards is an upgrade in every catagory just because of his compete level. Simmonds compete level was pretty good two years ago, but last year was a pretty big drop off imho. Some say it had to do with Froloaf not being there, but I find that as some pretty creative thinking … one of those things no one could prove either way so why bother debating it.
PP Anybody? Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 11:11 am
@KC23, It’s funny that nobody seems to notice, but Doughty probably had some of the biggest hits on the team last year. I know he’s not particularly “chippy”, but he does look to give out the BIG hip check once a player enters our zone along the boards. He missed on Couture in the playoffs, but had he made that hit I’m sure we’d all be still talking about it.
[Reply]
tim chaney Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 4:01 pm
@KC23, good lord, that guy on a line with brown? the west has to be shaking in their boots! and wow, he can score too? i’m going to say it, we are going to win this thing!
[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 11:38 am
@Weasel, Roy Mlaker and Nick Beverly were genius when they traded Bernie Nichols to the Rangers for Tomas Sandstrom and Tony Granato. Those 2 players really made the Kings a better team. However, in Barry Melrose’s 2nd season with the Kings, he fell into disfavor and Melrose srarted benching him and he was really never the same again. Barry Melrose…..gee, I cant understand why Tampa Bay fired him after only 11 games.
[Reply]
Sebastian Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 11:51 am
@puck73, haha, i cant understand why TB hired Melrose in the fist place. the guy was great on NHL 2night though.
[Reply]
jet Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 5:07 pm
@puck73, Sandstrom got driven into the boards behind the net. His shoulder never seemed to be 100% again.
[Reply]
JWR Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 12:39 pm
@Weasel,
As one for whom Sandstrom was one of my favorite players on the King’s during that time I remember his play very well. I even have as the “crown jewel” of collection a Sandstrom game used stick signed by the SC finals team.
One thing I do rememeber is that both Sandstrom & Paul Coffey were both traded within weeks of “accidentally” hitting Wayne Gretzky in the head with pucks. I remember Wayne’s ear needed a lot of stitches after Tomas nailed him. Never hurt the “Defacto GM”.
[Reply]
tuan jim Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 4:30 pm
@JWR,
I liked Sandstrom a bunch. But he never could avoid injuries over the course of the season.
[Reply]
King Cobra Reply:
July 30th, 2011 at 8:28 am
@Weasel, Tomas Sandstrom was amazing! He was my favorite player even over Gretz. He had an awesome cover shot on Sports Illustrated. Not many Kings cover shots on SI, hopefully more to come soon…..
[Reply]
bbb7 Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 9:44 pm
@Weasel, Always loved Sandstrom (thus my screen name here), he was physical, had one of the hardest shots I’ve seen from a forward, and went to the dirty areas.
[Reply]
Rich,
Please climb out of the bunker. Nothing good has ever come from decisions made in a bunker.
[Reply]
Sounds like the DD deal is gonna get done very soon. http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=585456&navid=mod-rr-headlines
Clearly the offer of 6.5mil for 9 years is the King’s offer and DD is looking for a shorter time frame.
I’m gonna guess it’s gonna end up being 6.5 mil for 6 or 7 years or somewhere closer to 7 mil for the 9 years.
[Reply]
Here is a follow up to the lengthy post I wrote about the Kings soldi depth at Center:
Interesting stats on our threesome of Kopi, Richards and Stoll. I looked up the top three point-getters from each team for this past year, by their average point per game. So, Datsyuk missing games due to injury, for example, doesn’t hurt the Red Wings number.
Among the Kings three last year, of Kopi, Stoll and Handzus, the average point per game from the Center ice position was ranked 15th in the league at .6186 pts per game. Last year’s best were the Penguins at .9024, the worst were the Coyotes at .4375.
I then projected for this year with Richards on board. I acknowledge that this is potentially faulty; Stoll may not get as many scoring shifts/chances, but then again he will also at times play against weaker competition. Nonetheless, if our three performed to last year’s point per game average, they would total .7647 per game, to rank 7th in this years projections.
These projections include the personnel moves, such as Richards going to the NY Rangers and boosting them from 19th last year at .5933 to 8th this year at .7619, right behind the Kings.
Here are the projections for this year: Best is Penguins, static at .9024, worst is upcoming Coyotes at .3225 down from 30th last year at .4375.
Higher point-getters than the Kings who project to get .7647 are:
(1) Penguins @ .9024 with Crosby, Malkin, Staal
(2) Lightning @ .8676 with Stamkos, Lecavalier and Moore
(3) Blackhawks @ .8558 with Toews, Sharp and Bolland
(4) Canucks @ .8347 with Sedin, Kesler and Malhotra
(5) Sharks @ .8240 with Thornton, Pavelski and Couture
(6) Hurricanes @ .8000 with Staal, Skinner and Ruutu
(7) Kings @.7647 with Kopitar, Richards and Stoll
Lower Point-getters:
(8) Rangers @ .7619 with Richards, Dubinsky and Stepan
(9) Blues @ .7251 with Berglund, Steen and McDonald
(10)Ducks @ .7029 with Getzlaf, Koivu and McMillan
(11)Bruins @ .6808 with Krejci, Bergeron and Marchand (Absent Savard)
(12)Red Wings @ .6750 with Datsyuk, Flippula and Hudler
(13)Avalanche @ .6578 with Duchene, Stastny and O’Reilly
(14)Wild @ .6475 with Koivu, Cullen and Bouchard
Then come the Islanders, Senators, Capitals, Sabres, Canadiens, Flames, Oilers, Panthers, Flyers, Maple Leafs, Predators, Jets, Devils, Stars, Blue Jackets and Coyotes.
Of course, points are not everything, especially in today’s NHL and under Terry Murray. Quantifying defensive capability is harder, so I am gonna stick to the anecdotal and subjective. I think our guys will play better defense than Sedin, Kesler and Malhotra. Sedin is the weak link there when compared to the Kings, but not by much. I think our guys will play better than the Penguins defensively, better than the Lightning maybe (that 1-3-1 was new, maybe people figure it out and it is less effective this year), better than the Sharks and better than the Hurricanes. I think the Blackhawks might edge us out, I think the Bruins are under-rated somehow and could match us. Nobody else do I fear a comparison on defensive ability.
Overall, I think the Kings are, when adding the defensive component to the offensive production, going to be at least a top 5 team, and with the realistic potential to be in any spot among the top three.
Bring it on, October, we are waiting…
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 12:02 pm
@Player-X, Thanks for doing that, interesting stuff. Very few teams can match us in all catagorys top to bottom. I think our biggest weakness right now is debth at RW. I think we should work some low level deal to get a strong RW AAA prospect. We need as least one more in the system imho.
[Reply]
Eric K Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 12:24 pm
@Player-X, Interesting. I’d bet that either Williams or Brown will take that #3 spot this season, though I’m sure Stoll will see plenty of PP time. I’m also seeing people saying Kopi could break 100 this year with a little luck, more offensive zone time and Richards backing him up. That might be excessive, but 90 points is definitely within reason.
[Reply]
Eric K Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 12:28 pm
@Eric K, I should learn to read better. Skipped the whole “Center” part. But anyway, our big three’s totals should go up thanks to Kopi.
[Reply]
Weasel Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 1:16 pm
@Player-X,
Hmm, this is good stuff. Do your numbers allow you to do a comparison of points per game against in the same way? The ratio of ppg – papg would be interesting to see.
[Reply]
Player-X Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 1:49 pm
@Weasel, I am sure it’s out there but my eyes are still partially crossed from this one… Now, I really want to see it. Plus/Minus seems too vague or broad, so I ignored it. Someone should know how, maybe a volunteer?
[Reply]
I’m not sure if anyone posted this already as I don’t have the time nor the desire to ready 900 posts but with the exception of Kopitar, the Kings expected active roster going into the season is all US and Canadian born players. No Euros, and I think Kopitar’s play and character more closely resembles a North American type of player than your typical Euro player. Very interesting…(IMO)
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 11:53 am
@BobsYourUncle, I’m courious to see what they do with Loktionov. He’s got some talent and I bet DL is getting nervous with all this bailing out to play in Europe going on.
[Reply]
Bill M. Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 11:54 am
@BobsYourUncle, Noticed that just yesterday. It is very interesting.
[Reply]
JWR Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 12:20 pm
@BobsYourUncle,
I’m still holding out hope that Voynov snags one of the 6,7 D spots.
[Reply]
AZ King Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 12:53 pm
@JWR,
With DD, JJ, Mitchell, Scuds, Greene, and Martinez, the best Voynov could hope for would be the 7th spot over DD2. Even in that position I don’t see him getting much playing time in LA this season unless Martinez falls apart (in which case he can be called up). So which is better, have him sit in the press box most of the season, or let him play in Manch and be ready for a call up if the need arises?
[Reply]
JWR Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 2:07 pm
@AZ King,
Well Voynov was a AHL allstar last year and did win the fastest skater competition there. If he does have a good camp he just might pass Martinez for the spot next to Greene. Of course there is also the “possible implied threat” of him heading to the KHL if they send him to Manchester.
After Moller & Holloway heading to Europe the front office might not want to lose another prized prospect.
Token Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 2:37 pm
@JWR, Nope, he can’t bolt yet. He is under contract so if he bolts, Kings own him forever if he wants back to the NHL. He basically needs to wait ’til he’s RFA and then pull the Moller/Holloway maneuver.
Hopefully he kicks butt in training camp and snags a spot on the roster.
[Reply]
petemagoop Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 1:11 pm
@BobsYourUncle, further evidence of ‘Flyers West’?
[Reply]
Maybe we should all start guessing the date when Doughty signs?
I say August 1st. Wishful thinking? Maybe, but always possible
[Reply]
AZ King Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 12:58 pm
@KFII,
August 3rd, after Weber’s arbitration is settled.
[Reply]
fsd1 Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 12:58 pm
@KFII, aug 3rd
[Reply]
Player-X Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 1:50 pm
@KFII, August 19th, signs 11:30 a.m. but it’s announced at 1. Or not.
[Reply]
Dominick Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 2:28 pm
@Player-X, August 19th, 11:30 a.m. + 30 seconds.
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Player-X Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 5:12 pm
@Dominick, If you claim that then I think it should tound up your guess to 11:31. Hah!!
KDinUT Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 3:21 pm
@KFII, I figured they were waiting until Rich got back . . .
[Reply]
Rich, Please end this madness…..
[Reply]
This Blog needs a “Skip to Last Post” button
[Reply]
Harry Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 2:58 pm
@JWR, Not a bad idea, but you can just press the button “END” on your keyboard
[Reply]
Bill M. Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 3:02 pm
@Harry, Is that what that button does?
I’ve been pushing it like mad since the season ended and wondering why I’m still alive!
[Reply]
Dominick Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 3:58 pm
@Bill M.,
That’s what they make bullets for. You can’t use’em until the first losing season after we’ve won a cup though.
Kevin hoard Reply:
July 30th, 2011 at 8:54 pm
@Bill M., I keep looking for the ‘any’ key!
Belexes Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 3:04 pm
@Harry,
the last post is often not at the end of the page.
[Reply]
BrokeKingsFan Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 3:04 pm
@Harry, I knew that was for something i just never knew what. Thank you for that very helpfull bit of information!!! who would have thought that the end button would do such a thing. good stuff!
[Reply]
Parise signed a deal with NJ for a year while they work in a longer deal? Anyone have any details?
[Reply]
Bill M. Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 3:26 pm
@Brownkingsfan, Doesn’t look like they’ve released any details beyond what you stated, although it appears they have officially confirmed what you said (1 year deal and they are still negotiating for a multi-year.)
[Reply]
To all of you going to the Dodgers game tonight for KINGS Night, have a great time & represent us fans who are not able to go well! Getting ever & ever closer to 1000………..
[Reply]
Parise gets 1 year 6 million with the devils
[Reply]
Brownkingsfan Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 4:12 pm
@KH, If we could trade Penner and say Jones for Parise, what say you? Think the Kings could handle a contract to acquire Parise long term? With cap space considered and all the contracts coming up in the next 2-3 years?
[Reply]
rumpa#19 Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 4:18 pm
@Brownkingsfan, Randy Jones is back ? Please say it aint soo.
[Reply]
jess Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 4:48 pm
@rumpa#19,
“Why would you put Randy Jones autograph on a martial arts weapon?”
KH Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 7:19 pm
@rumpa#19, Pretty sure he’s talking about Martin jones…
tuan jim Reply:
July 30th, 2011 at 1:25 am
@Brownkingsfan,
Lou is gonna nail Parise’s foot to the floor like a Strassbourg goose. This is a franchise player we’re talking about. He won’t be coming to the Kings unless we trade the Devils our heart, our liver, and our –.
[Reply]
Rich,
Is that blue thing on the side really necessary? It only scrolls about a millimeter before it bottoms out. Maybe you can have the tech guys leave the original post with a comment counter under it, and have the scroll thingy actually scroll.
[Reply]
–Post # Blah Blah Blah
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40 comments to go ,keep on pushin boys.
[Reply]
60 comments to go .sorry bout that.
[Reply]
@Rich Hammond
I think we should ask Quisp what to do about this security problem, since he runs his own site -Jewels from the Crown
Why not make this site more like Facebook where you have more ways to login and build a profile so that Kings fans can see what you’re (one) are (is) all about.
I agree that letting older members moderate might relieve the stress of editing out my comments.
Also, maybe just dropping the posting and letting us read what you write and commenting on Facebook if we want to comment, but still reading here. So if we comment, we have to log into facebook, but to read, we still read here.
[Reply]
The guy who claims post # 1000 is gayer than a spring jaybird in sherbert colored striped shorts
[Reply]
Bill M. Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 4:28 pm
@jess, Not if he purposely claims it early in order to cause confusion and generally be a jerk.
which is why I’m claiming it now. WOOOHOOOOO! I’m the 1000th post!
[Reply]
jess Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 4:31 pm
@Bill M., haha yeah but yer rockin it GIT SUM –Friday -whooohoooo!!
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 5:52 pm
@jess,
I didn’t know that Richard Simmonds was an Insider.
[Reply]
jess Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 6:15 pm
@DesertKing,
He probably does lots of stuff you don’t know about.
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 9:02 pm
@jess,
Don’t want to know! You win!
Kings x Reply:
July 30th, 2011 at 2:28 pm
@jess, And you don’t get moderated for this comment. I did far less and was put on probation. Cat is away the mouse can play
[Reply]
jess Reply:
August 1st, 2011 at 12:48 am
@Kings x,
Please read my reply on this to @tuan jim a few posts down. I’m really not sure why people in modern society are so eager and willing to deem everything censorable over the most petty of criteria. It’s absolutely ridiculous and beyond the pale.
[Reply]
One. Thou. Sand. Posts! One. Thou. Sand. Posts! One. Thou. Sand. Posts!
[Reply]
Helene Elliott tweets:
“@helenenothelen Helene Elliott
Kings have filed formal grievance over Fraser’s fitness/injury.”
22 minutes ago
The final word is that Colin Fraser had surgery on an unhealed fracture in his ankle this week.
[Reply]
I wish I lived in LA! GKG!!!
[Reply]
Post #950
[Reply]
Who Knows? Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 5:14 pm
@Cynic, #951
[Reply]
Hockeyfan B4 Gretzky Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 5:38 pm
@Who Knows?, 954
[Reply]
drew doughty will be the #1000 post to announce he has inked his new contract
[Reply]
jess Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 5:32 pm
@jonjon,
That would be wonderful. If that was to happen I would curl my hair and apply lavender oils from france.
[Reply]
brig33 Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 7:44 pm
@jonjon, now that you said that someone will post that as the 1000th post pretending to be Drew lol
[Reply]
Some BIG meeting must have taken place with FB…
I have noticed that on a lot of newspaper blogs my FB
picture is already showing up allowing me to post…eg..New York Post..
I found it quite disturbing…This is almost nationwide..
[Reply]
SLIM Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 5:42 pm
@SLIM,
Google facebook connect to see the stuff happening…
and here’e a glich in the matrix…
http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2388066,00.asp
[Reply]
friarking Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 5:48 pm
@SLIM, Definitely not a fan of the FB requirement for posting. It’s way too invasive.
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 7:04 pm
@SLIM, I found it odd that my work also put themselves on the facebook track, but facebook is blocked. Weird world we’re living in these days.
[Reply]
i love this site and dont want to loose it post 957
[Reply]
Not a fan of Face Book , stick with what you got
[Reply]
Osaka Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 8:41 pm
@gene, Of course we all want it to stay the same, but Rich stated a change is needed.
[Reply]
GKG!!!
[Reply]
I’m sure now that Rich is just waiting for the 1000th post before he shows himself again
[Reply]
Per helenenothelen:
Kings have filed formal grievance over Fraser’s fitness/injury.
Twitter
[Reply]
MrMister Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 8:02 pm
@kluka68, yeah just saw this lets see how far this go
[Reply]
Yea!! Post 1,000. 32 comments were moderated.
[Reply]
CB14 Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 7:48 pm
@Guss, I think they were all mine!
[Reply]
I bet there’s more Kings fans than Dodgers fans in the stands right now lol. So sad how empty Dodger games are these days
[Reply]
There should be a prize for reaching 1000 posts… like cookies… not of the tracking variety.
[Reply]
Mikey Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 8:10 pm
@FiG17, more people will come of there’s punch and pie!!- cartman
[Reply]
Bill M. Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 8:20 pm
@Mikey, The less known saying “Less people will resist if you punch them in the eye!!” -Me, but it was me wearing a kings jersey (that guy is totally infallible!)
[Reply]
How do you keep someone busy????? ……………make them read a thousand posts!!!!!!!
[Reply]
This is why forums are so much better than blogs.
:{)>
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 10:23 pm
@Token, I agree. I much rather go to forum style than facebook crap.
[Reply]
Any new hockey news on the Kings?
[Reply]
So when it gets to 990 is there going to be a big countdown like on New Year’s Eve? Speaking of New Years what are the chances LA gets the Winter Classic next year? LOL
[Reply]
Who Knows? Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 10:44 pm
@PurpleRocks, Not gunna happen.
[Reply]
brig33 Reply:
July 29th, 2011 at 11:57 pm
@PurpleRocks, I wish they would!!! they should do it against the Avs or Blues, obviously we would be the away team lol
[Reply]
So when it gets to 990 is there going to be a big countdown like on New Year’s Eve? Speaking of New Years what are the chances LA gets the Winter Classic next year? LOL
[Reply]
I did only post that once not sure why it came up twice! But I guess it adds to the numbers
[Reply]
Look people, get a life (No. 984)
[Reply]
Did anyone go to Kings night at the Dodger game? How was the Kings fan turnout?
[Reply]
KingTrojan Reply:
July 30th, 2011 at 1:28 am
@puddle, Outnumbered Dodger fans. I didn’t go. I’m just positive we did.
[Reply]
988…Can we just get this over with already??
[Reply]
What? Kovaschmuck isn’t coming here? Boo Hoo.
[Reply]
Are we there yet?
[Reply]
Holy crap! I’m on an iPhone, and I just went all the way to the bottom to post, all the way back up to check the count, and then all the way back down again. I think I need thumb surgery!
[Reply]
jet Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 9:05 pm
@Bill M., push the top bar to move to the top
[Reply]
you want a 1000 i,ll help..scuderi scores 50 goals and westgarth leads team in time on ice ….all true…you cant make stuff like this up
[Reply]
nofreight Reply:
July 30th, 2011 at 12:22 am
@nofreight, almost forgot JJ leads the whole league in plus/minus
[Reply]
bryanagee Reply:
July 30th, 2011 at 4:48 pm
@nofreight, and Kopitar leads the team in penalty minutes with 423
[Reply]
who wants to be 1000?
[Reply]
LittleRhody Reply:
July 30th, 2011 at 12:30 am
@Brewhemoth, Apparently, no one, lol
[Reply]
Cortex949 Reply:
July 30th, 2011 at 12:38 am
@LittleRhody, I do I do!
[Reply]
#998
Here. I’m going to bed tho. Congrats to mr 1000. Rich come back. This site runs our lives. Even with no content we are sitting here discussing the lack of content. C’mon now
[Reply]
Ducati 999
[Reply]
Oh, what the heck? Rich, we need you!
[Reply]
Cortex949 Reply:
July 30th, 2011 at 12:47 am
@BringBackMarcel, boooo! You swooped it from my grasp by a few seconds. Hahah congrats. Now I’m going to bed for real.
[Reply]
Why are u still awake
1000!!!!!!!!!!!!
[Reply]
jess Reply:
July 30th, 2011 at 12:48 am
Repost:
The guy who claims post # 1000 is gayer than a spring jaybird in sherbert colored striped shorts
[Reply]
Cortex949 Reply:
July 30th, 2011 at 12:51 am
@jess, I’m laughing but some people might not appreciate that *cough cough moderation cough*
If only we had a Facebook login hahah jk
[Reply]
jess Reply:
July 30th, 2011 at 1:07 am
@Cortex949,
Oh well, I keep having to explain my dark sense of humor to folks but that’s ok, they’ll get it eventually
uknojata Reply:
July 30th, 2011 at 12:57 am
@jess, how oc of you.
[Reply]
jess Reply:
July 30th, 2011 at 1:05 am
@uknojata,
Well, I’m from LA and hate the ducks so… Get a new palm reader???
tuan jim Reply:
July 30th, 2011 at 1:20 am
@jess,
“. . . gayer than a spring jaybird in sherbet colored striped shorts . . .”
And I’M the one who gets censored.
Dis is an iniquitous arrangement.
[Reply]
jess Reply:
August 1st, 2011 at 12:42 am
@tuan jim,
As you know, gay also alludes to happy and there is nothing in the statement that is derogatory as the depiction is actually that of a “spring jaybird” and not a person nor does the statement distinguish the sexual orientation of the animal in question.
lol
[Reply]
This span of time between late July and rookie camp in September, the doldrums. I’m like 1006 or something, so I dont even have that going on anymore. rough.
[Reply]
2,000 here we come….
Rich, WAKE UP!
Must…have…fresh…DIRT!
[Reply]
Kingsfanone Reply:
July 30th, 2011 at 5:25 pm
@Cynic,
Geez, I thought that tasted like old dirt I coughed up!
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
July 30th, 2011 at 8:18 pm
@Cynic,
Is your real name Beatrice Kiddo?
[Reply]
Wanna thank all the Kings fans that came out to Dodger Stadium, the turnout was unreal all over the Stadium with guys and girls alike wearing Kings jersies, shirts, and hats. They were everywhere you looked in the Loge Level where we were sitting and some of us even got an occasional lets go Kings chant going. Also, it was my pleasure to have @Iceguy and his girlfriend, and @ArmchairKingsfan and his friend as our guests, and of course having a beer with one my favorite people on the site @Wavesinair was great as well. To the rest of you, hope we see you at training camp and fanfest in September. P.S the fireworks show after the game kicked ass !
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
July 30th, 2011 at 7:00 am
@puck73, Kind of ironic. Most would imagine that this marriage between the Kings and Dodgers would benefit the Kings more than the Dodgers, but it appears it is going to be just the opposite. Kings nearly sold out every game last year and almost certainly will sell out every game this year where most Dodger games appear like pre-season work out crowds these days.
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
July 30th, 2011 at 9:54 am
@KC23, My appologize to the McCourts for using the phrase “marriage”. :O
[Reply]
KFII Reply:
July 30th, 2011 at 11:08 am
@puck73, Sounds like everyone had a good time, especially with the Dodger win. I’d rather see the Kings associated with the Angels, but I know with the city name of Anaheim attached to them, it wouldn’t be right. I’ve always like the title California Angels best. Glad everyone had fun and properly represented our Kings!
[Reply]
rumpa#19 Reply:
July 30th, 2011 at 11:24 am
@KFII, So should Ducks and Dodgers fans show support? Sacreligius.LAAA & Ducks can stuffit.
[Reply]
KFII Reply:
July 30th, 2011 at 11:38 am
@rumpa#19, ?? Did you need an edit button? I’m wondering if you meant Ducks and Angels? Anyway, I support both of the teams I root for. I’m just glad I have another game I love as the hockey season ends. I would go crazy without a team to root for during the Summer. I’m aware a lot of hockey fans do not appreciate baseball. But to each his own.
KC23 Reply:
July 30th, 2011 at 1:40 pm
@KFII, I like the Angels a lot. I like their management team and with the mess the Dodgers are in it is a nice diversion.
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
July 30th, 2011 at 7:14 pm
@KC23,
Go Angels. Other than Vin Sculpt and Lasorda, the organization has never impressed as a fan. The kids and I are actually going to follow the Angels on their next road trip to NY and Toronto and catch the Hockey Hall of Fame on the same trip. The only bad thing about being an Angels fan is having to look at the Pond while we are at the game. Hoping to follow the Kings on a road trip this season also. GKG!
In case anyone missed it, here are two articles regarding the grievance filed with the league over “mulletgate”:
http://www.latimes.com/sports/la-sp-kings-trade-grievance-20110730,0,4822175.story
http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/blog/puck_daddy/post/Kings-officially-file-grievance-over-Ryan-Smyth-?urn=nhl-wp9927
Also, a bit from NHL.com regarding the Doughty situation:
http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=585456&navid=mod-rr-headlines
[Reply]
1017!!!
[Reply]
The trend continues. At least this time it isn’t a King prospect. The NHL better figure something out soon. http://aol.sportingnews.com/nhl/story/2011-07-30/rent-sopel-signs-with-khl-team-montreal-canadiens-chicago-blackhawks
[Reply]
Go Kings Go can’t wait for October
[Reply]
I just saw a photo of Doughty on another site wearing the #80 in a Kings uni. Could anyone tell me who was #8 on the team at the time…….?
[Reply]
What about this one???!!!: http://www.hockeyhotchicks.com/2011/07/more-doughty-rumors.html
[Reply]
OnTheFly Reply:
July 30th, 2011 at 12:26 pm
@outsider,
But Parise signed a $6M deal on a one year basis to avoid his pending salary arbitration next week.
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
July 30th, 2011 at 1:36 pm
@outsider, DD isn’t going anywhere.
[Reply]
broncokings Reply:
July 30th, 2011 at 8:07 pm
@KC23, i a gree with ya KC I dont see dd going anywhere, teams would have to give up too much
[Reply]
Bernie Nicholls is in top 50 all time pts. I wounder if he should have his number retreid by the Kings. Over 70 gls that one year was amazing. Some say he might be in the hall of fame in 2 to 3 years. Always like the guy and loved the way he played. Mr Pumper…
[Reply]
It’s never boring in LA
http://espn.go.com/los-angeles/nhl/story/_/id/6818834/los-angeles-kings-file-grievance-colin-fraser-injury-according-reports?campaign=rss&source=NHLHeadlines
[Reply]
Sammuch Reply:
July 30th, 2011 at 2:45 pm
@Subby,
The Kings should just say you can Keep Fraser, and take your 7th pick back and gives us a 2nd round pick or a 3rd round pick in 12 and a 4th round pick in 13
[Reply]
Can’t wait for rich to come back!
[Reply]
I think Rich signed with a KHL team……..
[Reply]
petemagoop Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 12:49 pm
@MrMister – funny
[Reply]
1028 COMMENTS!! ARE YOU SERIOUS? PLEAZZZZZZZZZZZZZZEEEEE RICH, WRITE SOMETHING! ANYTHING!!!
[Reply]
Rich, I must commend you for steadfastly keeping politics away from this blog. I’m as passionate as anyone, but love the fact that this place is sanctuary from the typical sniping. The vibe ks great here without it.
[Reply]
This just in…….
Rich Hammond has been abducted by Aliens…
Stay tuned for more information!
[Reply]
Kingsfanone Reply:
July 30th, 2011 at 7:28 pm
@SLIM,
I’ll bet Daniel Craig can rescue him! He has that weapon thingie on his wrist.
(or is that the wrong movie?)
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
July 30th, 2011 at 7:36 pm
@SLIM,
Damn, how did those Vancouver fans find him in the bunker?
[Reply]
jess Reply:
July 30th, 2011 at 8:47 pm
@DesertKing,
@SLIM
The green men part is obvious but one look @ the Sedin twins and it all suddenly starts to make sense.
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
July 30th, 2011 at 10:10 pm
@SLIM, More likely than some of the DD trade rumors I’ve read.
[Reply]
We gotta get me comments here than gretzky has points. Keep up the good work people.
[Reply]
I think its safe to say that without the supervision of the hammer, we’re a classy bunch that don’t really need to supervised .but when the season starts, supervision will be a must..
[Reply]
O.K. Kings Insider Army, Here is the Question of the Day –
What team do you Love to Hate the most?????
Is it Vancouver, the Ducks or Sharks or other? Feel free to factor in nasty arrogant visiting fans as well…
Answer :____________________
[Reply]
KFII Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 9:26 am
@King Cobra,
1. San Jose, but it’s a family rivalry thing.
2. Sucks
3. Vancouver
Go Kings!!!
[Reply]
Jon G Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 11:00 am
@KFII, Ducks and Canucks – nobody else is even close.
I have never disliked the Sharks even though they are from NoCal. I still remember how their fans gave Luc Robitaille a standing ovation in his last NHL game, which was a very nice gesture.
A friend and I had the opportunity to speak with Todd McLellan a few days after the Sharks were eliminated from this year’s playoffs. He was very personable and higly complimentary of the job Dean Lombardi is doing for the Kings. I hope they make it all the way to the Western Conference finals this year.
[Reply]
408kingsfan Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 1:32 pm
@Jon G, What?
jet Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 5:01 pm
@Jon G, I also would rather play the sharks then the nucks in the conf finals next season
FanoKings Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 12:31 pm
@KFII,
1. Vancouver diving team
2. San Jose Fans (I don’t have a problem with the team just the lame fans)
3. Ducks
[Reply]
Dominick Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 9:27 am
@King Cobra,
Last playoffs I didn’t hate them for being as successful as they were, because they fought hard and deserved to make it as far as they did. A lot of Kingsfans were jealous though, and used their teams cockiness and brash attitude as a reason to hate them even more. Vancouvers visiting fans have got the last laugh for the last few years. Seeing a Vancouverfan with his arms in the air triumphant in our building during the 2010 playoffs still sticks out as a sour moment for me, and last season a lot of Vancouverfans showed up in bus loads to support their team, and sadly they went home happy.
[Reply]
pk Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 9:50 am
@King Cobra,
Recently it has been San Jose but I have too many years invested in despising the Red Wings fans to completely change now. Class organization but the band wagon fans that show up for them? AUGH
[Reply]
OnTheFly Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 9:57 am
@King Cobra,
Wings>> due to family living out there.
[Reply]
MrMister Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 10:23 am
@King Cobra, I HATE FACEBOOK!!!!!! Oh wait, we’re not talking about that anymore?!?!?!?!?
Anyone in the western conference
[Reply]
jess Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 11:36 am
@King Cobra,
1.) Wings fans @ Staples
2.) The entire Vancouver organization, the fans the green men and every molecule of their existance.
[Reply]
King Cobra Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 10:37 pm
@jess, could not agree more with #2
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 11:40 am
@King Cobra, I grew up in an era that saw the Kings lose to the Flyers for 8 straight years. It was the Broad Street Bullies era and I can’t imagine hating a team any more than I hated them.
In my twenties at the time I would go to the Flyer’s game with a baseball T-shirt in the Flyers colors that read “Phuck the Flyer” on the front. There were always nearly as many Philly fans as Kings fans at the game rubbing it in our faces time and time again. After a Flyers goal thheir fans would stand and so would I … I’d wait for eye contact with a Flyer’s fan (especially the most obnoxious ones) and point to the front of my shirt as if I was cheering for the Flyers. I always got a kick at watching the smile melt away as they read my shirt.
With the whole Flyers west going on with the Kings its been especially weird for me lately. It appears the Kings have picked up several Flyer fans who hated to see Richards go and have found memories of Gagne. Instead of hearing the Flyer fans making fun of LA LA land they actually want so see us succeed it seems.
So right now Vancouver is at the head of my hate list with the Sharks right up on their rear bumper. I hate Burrows with a passion and dislike Shark fans (actually Bay area fans in general) with the same passion.
Strangely, I don’t hate the Ducks like most Kings fans.
[Reply]
petemagoop Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 12:47 pm
@KC23, Oct. 15th, Kings at Flyers —–>>> should be good
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 1:33 pm
@petemagoop, Yeah, that is going to be one heck of a hockey game. Looking forward to that one.
tuan jim Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 5:57 pm
@KC23,
“I grew up in an era that saw the Kings lose to the Flyers for 8 straight years. It was the Broad Street Bullies era and I can’t imagine hating a team any more than I hated them.”
I was already grown up by then. I was at the game that started that multi-year streak. I still have a betamax tape of the game in Philly where we finally ended it. And I was at the Forum the night we broke the streak at home.
So I understand — INTIMATELY — what you mean by hating the Flyers.
Oddly enough, I’ve transcended that hostility. But it lasted a lo-o-o-o-ong time!
[Reply]
tuan jim Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 11:16 pm
@tuan jim,
As far as NOW is concerned, I agree with the Wing-haters but MOST ESPECIALLY with Jess’ pointed remark:
“The entire Vancouver organization, the fans, the green men, and every molecule of their existence.”
tornado12 Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 11:21 pm
@KC23, I thought it was a requirement to hate the ducks in order to be a kings fan
[Reply]
rumpa#19 Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 12:30 pm
@King Cobra, 1ducks 2van 3sharks Fans in our building1NYR 2Detroit 3Colo 4Philly In 2001,2002 1Detriot 2Colo 3Ducks
[Reply]
LVKINGS88 Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 5:28 pm
@King Cobra, Ducks,Nucks,and the Blues,I’m still pissed at,I think it was G Courtnall running our goalie( Stauber or Storr,can’t remember who) and TURTLEING behind the net,while our D_Man was pummeling him.Oh and those annoying bells that sound-off when they score in their own building
[Reply]
Muelch Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 5:47 pm
@King Cobra, Gotta be the Sharks. They are so incredibly overrated, and yet I’ve never seen a fan base of any team that felt more entitled to a championship than Sharks fans. I think we all saw last year that the Sharks are a 1-way team. There is no substance to their defense and their goalie is mediocre at best. The only reason they got past the second round is because our already limited offense was half injured, and we still scored a ton of goals against them.
[Reply]
brig33 Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 6:39 pm
@King Cobra, Vancouver by a mile!!! hate them!!! I consider Chicago my second fav team just because they get under the Canucks skin so much lol. Hate the Sharks and Ducks equally after Vancouver, I think we need to start hating the Sharks more, we need more hate in our games. I hope the Kings start to build a little more rivalries, I know I love watching Pittsburgh play Washington and Chicago play Vancouver. I know once the Kings prove they’re a contender they’ll start to get into those chippy nasty rivalries. Can’t wait! GKG!!!
[Reply]
Bailey Fan Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 10:03 pm
@King Cobra, 1. Nucks 2. Sharks 3. Ducks. Anaheim has the worst and dumbest fans of the bunch by far though.
[Reply]
Ducks
[Reply]
broncokings Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 8:39 am
@broncokings, hate them
[Reply]
New Thread Rich just do it,
FEED THE CHILDREN.
[Reply]
So where does everyone see the Kings finishing this year in the Conference and the division?
I think Vancouver got weaker in their bottom six forward lines with Sturm replacing Torres. The team is a bit wimpier as a result. Their defense looks solid still. Vancouver’s division will have a slightly better Calgary and Wild, but Vancouver is still my pick for top in the conference.
I’m not sold on Chicago at all. They lost Campbell this summer and I still see them struggling.
The Sharks should be good, but I don’t know. They gave up a lot to improve their defense. I see them struggling more on offense. I think they’re going to be worse this year, but that may be my heart talking.
Detroit is definately hurting after losing 3 main stays to retirement with lots of experience going with them. Detroit’s defense is going to really suffer this year. I expect them to have a down year.
The Kings lost nothing on defense and goalie. Got a huge upgrade in their top 6 with Gagne, Richards and Penner in a contract year physically fit.
I pick Vancouver as top in Conference. It is a “pick em” between the Kings and the Sharks for best in our division. So either team for 2nd in the conference and the other ending up with the best 2nd place record in the conference giving them 4th seed in the playoffs.
I see the Kings winning the first round and 50/50 chance to get through the 2nd round and another 50/50 chance in the conference finals and the cup finals if they get that far.
[Reply]
rumpa#19 Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 12:38 pm
@KC23, Conference 1Van 2kings 3Detriot Van will beat us out because of there weak division. Division 1Kings 2Sharks 3ducks 4Dalas 5Phoenix
[Reply]
tuan jim Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 1:26 pm
@KC23,
I hope our loss of SIZE — and the Sharks gaining it — doesn’t settle any issues.
Of course, Richards and Gagne are offensive upgrades. But we got weaker and smaller on right wing and just in computing goals — which I admit is not an accurate way of deciding these matters — what we’ve brought on board doesn’t seem much different from what we’ve let go.
I like Richards’ scrap and hockey brains. He cost a lot but I suppose he’s worth it. And if Gagne can give us 70 games and be alive in the playoffs he’ll be worth it, too.
But I’m still festering over the single thing that may hurt us when the smoke clears — the absence of big guys up front.
I love speed and finesse and scoring skill. But there’s a lot to be said for brute force. You never know the value of it unless you’re the victim of it.
And I wouldn’t mind having a Danny Maloney or two to round out the squad.
[Reply]
kevin from toronto Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 2:49 pm
@KC23, I could see the boys winning the division!
San Jose, Phoenix and Dallas all got worse. Anaheim hasn’t really changed, but they weren’t good to begin with.
[Reply]
Dominick Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 3:33 pm
@KC23,
As far as the teams you’ve mentioned, I look at them this way,
Van-Was the deepest team in the league last season. Lost a little, but still deeper than most teams in the league.
San-Very solid system wise and relies on size, and strength. Well coached, and still the biggest threat in the Pacific.
Chi-I agree.
Det-Will struggle first 1/4 but has the money, and organizational wisdom to upgrade once weaknesses are identified. Will be a threat by midseason.
Kings-I absolutely agree on not losing anything, and upgrading at the same time to forward positions. Only threat I see with the Kings will be how they work their way out of adversity. The controversial issue of wether the Kings can adjust system wise quick enough is my key (although many disagree). This includes the power play. To me the Kings can be their own worst enemy if adjustments aren’t made quick enough (if at all, like on the power play).
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 5:17 pm
@Dominick, Not much mystery in what Detroit needs. They are very weak at the blue line. I’m thinking their bottom 6 forwards aren’t really proven either. I think they’ll be struggling to get into the playoffs this year.
I think San Jose will have a couple of good lines and good defense, but their bottom 6 will be weak.
I haven’t read many if any that would disagree about the question of our coaches adjustments. It could be argued that TM went with the system he had because of the lack of skill players in his top six forwards. TM has no such excuse this year. Same with the PP. If the Kings don’t make a marked improvement in scoring and the PP TM has no where to hide.
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Dominick Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 7:45 pm
@KC23,
At this point I can agree with you on Detroit also. I think where I see them setting themselves apart from the rest of the pack is the leadership there. Their coaching staff is top notch. They have lost Stevie-Y, but I feel confident that they’re management group, and ownership is solid enough to make proper adjustments. I fully see it being a toss up, but I think because of the experience, they can overcome any short comings to be a real threat.
I can also agree with San Jose, but I feel where their strength is, is in their belief in their system. They do play a certain way and all of them are sold on playing that way. It’s a stark contrast to the Kings players who at times get away from playing their game their way (especially like during that slump, or in the playoffs where they completely abandoned their game). If theirs one major complaint that TM has, it’s players playing the right way, or doing the things that brought them success.
That consistency at the moment is what worries me about San Jose, because regardless of their line up, or regardless of the tempo of the game, you know they can play it anyway you want too. The Kings haven’t proved that they can play the high tempo games and succeed yet, but they are good enough to play that grind game. If they show they can play that speed game also, I think we’ll pass them in the standings.
I believe we could take the division, but it will have to go through them most of all. The Ducks are going to be tough too, but there’s still a few question marks with them.
On the Kings, I think we’re seeing it exactly the same way.
Dominick Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 3:37 pm
@KC23,
Meant biggest threat to us with San Jose.
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Muelch Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 6:07 pm
@KC23, I agree Vancouver will probably beat us out because of their division, and we will get second. Outside of that, I can’t say the West is as competitive as years past.
In the central division, Detroit has a weak second line/pair (Filpulla and Ian White), not to mention goalie, but you have to imagine the first, third, and fourth line will get them a decent place in the conference. Chicago has lost some talent, and isn’t too great, but I think they’re better than most west coast teams. St. Louis is also pretty solid. I’d give the division to Detroit, but Chicago and St. Louis make it in for sure.
If Hiller returns in full form, Anaheim will still be a threat with a new third line center, a great top 6, and a well managed defensive group. Without Hiller, however, they won’t have the defensive mindedness to be a complete team.
San Jose is a threat, but if they don’t bring in another shooting wing to replace what they lost, I can’t see their offense being as good, and with that mediocre defense/goalie, I don’t see them beating us out this year. Handzus is their best defensive player.
Phoenix and Dallas are bad, so I’d give us the division, San Jose and Anaheim making the playoffs as well.
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KC23 Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 7:23 pm
@Muelch, Sharks defense got a big lift with that trade with the Wild. Their top defensive line will be improved.
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Dominick Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 7:53 pm
@Muelch,
Good call on Detroits goaltending. I think that’s my biggest question mark on them.
Good call on St.Louis also. I think their one of those teams that will surprise this season.
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Nice to see hockey talk. I don’t get to check in often but I check every day for a Doughty anouncement. The Kings look to be great…. maybe their best ever?. I’ll miss Wayne Simmonds but…oh well .Can’t wait to see this bunch play. GKG!!!
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DesertKing Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 6:43 pm
@Pili,
This is a hockey site? Damn I thought I was on Facebook.
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Dominick Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 8:02 pm
@DesertKing,
nice.
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Kingsfanone Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 10:00 pm
@DesertKing,
Bite your tongue!
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I get gamecenter and watched two the Kings better games last year. Back to back games in Washington and Philly. Couple of things really stood out to me.
Quick is definately better than Bernier.
JJ is better than I have been giving him credit for.
Simmonds was extremely inconsistant, but had his moments.
Zues was a major offensive liability and lacks any kind of quickness.
My goodness Ryan Smith is slow.
Lewis is as good as anyone on the PK.
Williams is amazing. Once he gets any kind of help around him he’ll be picking up a ton of points.
Clifford is the real deal and he’ll improve with a little help around him and one more year of experience.
If Westgarth can improve his skaking ability he could be very helpful.
Felt good watching the Kings again, I think I’m gonna watch some more.
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CB14 Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 5:49 pm
@KC23, I agree with pretty much everything you said, but not about Westy. He’s 27 years old, how much better can his skating get? I will say that his play towards the end of last year got better and he wasn’t a liability defensively, but he also didn’t provide anything other than his fighting ability. If he could throw his body around and actually hit somebody, I’d be ok with having him in the line-up. But he doesn’t hit people, and he doesn’t enforce anything. Most of his fights were staged fights with the other teams goons. Clifford was the guy protecting our players, not Westy.
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puck73 Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 6:41 pm
@KC23, JJ is better then you thought ? @Dominick, is this you ?
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Dominick Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 7:57 pm
@puck73,
LOL!
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jess Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 8:53 pm
@KC23,
Nice! You’ve inspired me to watch those games. Breakdown on the player btw spot on.
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So my gf has a new player on the kings she wants to hook up with over me. The saw the gagne video and was like “Oooooo he’s sexy”… Well at least she will be watching games with me
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brig33 Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 6:41 pm
@Cortex949, HAHA I said the same thing to my friend when he signed here. Always had a crush on him when I was younger lol. At least you made someone a Kings fan lol
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Cortex949 Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 7:01 pm
@brig33, she was a fan before but was into Richardson haha
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Dominick Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 8:00 pm
@Cortex949,
At least it wasn’t Richards. I think he’s single.
Cortex949 Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 9:36 pm
@Cortex949, yea I’d be in trouble then.
tuan jim Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 10:57 pm
@Cortex949,
If she drools too much just let her watch your reaction to Heidi.
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Here is an excerpt from a post I made at http://www.lakingsnews.com today. I am sure most of you have already seen the Surly & Scribe killer lion crown shield logo (if not it can be seen at LAkingsnews.com). If you agree with me, tell the Kings front office.
—————————–
“Unrelated question and comment – Hey guys, the work you do and the site is really great. I think your lion crown shield logo is amazing and it blows away the weak new home plate road sign nightmare logo the Kings have on their new black jerseys.
Would you consider letting the team use this logo (minus the surly & scribe) on their new black jerseys if they asked you??
Our team is amazing and they need to look amazing on the ice. I think they would with your shield logo on their new black jerseys.”
Regards
Erik (King Cobra)
Reply from Bobby Scribe (of LAkingsnews.com)
“Thank you for the kind words. The credit for the logo (and our custom crown) goes to http://sigmakappa.carbonmade.com. He is very talented and I have a knack for finding talent. We do own the logo but, yes, if the Kings came calling, we would let them use it.”
——————————————-
I just had the owner of this logo tell me they would let the Kings have it/use it on the jerseys if they just ask. All they would need to do is swap out the surly & scribe lettering out for the LA or Los Angeles font. I think with this alteration to the new jerseys we would have the best uniforms in the league.
Like I said, if you agree, tell the Kings front office!!!
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KFII Reply:
August 1st, 2011 at 6:34 am
@King Cobra, I love that crown! Best I’ve seen yet. Wish the Kings would use it.
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sorry about the double post, computer was locking up.
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The replays of the first rounds series on NHL network have finally come around to the Kings/Sharks, with the first game airing Monday night, if you want to relive that pain. I’m so starving for Kings hockey now I’ll watch and hope for a better result in game 3. :p
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jonjon Reply:
July 31st, 2011 at 11:55 pm
@bbb7, where’s the schedule posted?
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bbb7 Reply:
August 1st, 2011 at 12:02 am
@jonjon, http://www.nhl.com/ice/eventhome.htm?location=/nhlnetwork
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http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/2011/7/21/2286374/nikolay-zherdev-nhl-free-agency-khl-russia-philadelphia-flyers
wonder if dean read this. if any team can give a guy work ethic its the kings.
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Dominick Reply:
August 1st, 2011 at 12:53 am
@jonjon,
The rel/corsi numbers were impressive. He does have that sort of rep, so I could see the hesitation, but the numbers don’t lie. Maybe the rep is a little undeserved, unless there’s other issues that made him unplayable. Doesn’t make sense, but Frolov was pasted with the same stigma and he had incredible numbers for us on the 3rd and 4rth lines in 09-10.
Maybe it’s just a stereotyping that the NHL, and fans still need to break out of when it comes to certain players from certain countries.
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jonjon Reply:
August 1st, 2011 at 10:21 am
@Dominick, his offensive positioning is amazing. and if you look at the 3rd line, they have the potential to have the puck a lot because of stoll’s FO%, not a bad idea to but a goal scorer on that line. plus he’s butter in the shootout, stoll goes top glove, he goes tweeters. the more i watch his highlights the more i want him on this team.
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@bbb7, Haha I know I’ve been watching all the other series I’ll just change the channel and pretend the Kings won lol
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We give in Rich, do whatever, just let us do something! 1111 POSTS, we’re lonely.
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I just had a thought to who is going on what line. I noticed what makes a team deadly in the playoffs is versatility, more so being able to dump the puck in well and carry the puck in well. i.e. VAN’s dump and chase was nothing compared to BOS. By the 3rd game the Bruins forwards had wrecked the Canuck’s defense.
That being said, when you look and the King’s lines Penner could be good on the dump and chase and he, Williams and Kopitar can carry the puck in. Richards and Brown would be killer on the dump and chase or carry in. I havent seen much of his game, but Im sure Gagne has the skill to play puck possession.
Then you get to the bottom six.. I’ll go on a limb and say Richardson will take the 3rd RW spot, the problem with that is Clifford, Stoll and Richie are all dump and chase guys. It just takes away that extra threat in my opinion. And the same goes for the fourth line, Lewis has decent puck possession skills but i wouldnt bank on it. When you have four lines that can dump the puck in or carry it, I think that really makes a team playoff ready. Line after line that isn’t predictable, I hope we adjust our lines accordingly.
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Nothing to sum things up like a Wordle Cloud:
http://www.wordle.net/show/wrdl/3884197/Thoughts_on_Commenting...
The big message?
“Like”
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BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy Reply:
August 1st, 2011 at 10:20 am
http://www.wordle.net/show/wrdl/3884197/Thoughts_on_Commenting….
Needed that extra period…
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Glad you had great vacation! I was getting so desperate last few days I even went to the dark side website beginning with H and ending with Z! Thanks for doing what you do! God Bless Mike Richards.
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I don’t have, nor do I intend on creating, a Facebook account — in my opinion, too many security issues with FB. I do have, however, a Google+ account. How about support for _both_ Facebook and Google+ ??
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Rich,
I don’t have a FaceBook Account and don’t want one.
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