Here at Hockey Fest, Bob Miller just finished introducing the Kings team to the 3,000 fans in attendance. Well, most of the team. As expected, Drew Doughty was not in attendance. No players are compelled to attend events before the start of training camp, and while the rest of the Kings players were at Staples Center today, the fact that Doughty has yet to sign a contract for 2011-12 all but guaranteed that he wouldn’t be putting in an appearance. Dean Lombardi and fellow management members participated in a “state of the franchise” question-and-answer session with fans this morning, and afterward, Lombardi spoke in a bit more detail about the negotiations, with the caveat that he and Doughty’s agent, Don Meehan, have agreed to not publicly discuss terms, etc. Reports this week that Doughty’s representatives had rejected a long-term contract worth an average of $6.8 million were accurate, but that rejection also took place nearly two months ago, not recently.
Lombardi said that he and Doughty’s representatives have talked “three times this week, at varying degrees of length,” and Lombardi still had hope that Doughty would join the team for the start of training camp on Friday.
“I still have hope he will be here on Friday,” Lombardi said. “I don’t know if I expect it, but I have hope. That’s better than no hope. I sill have hope he’s going to be here.”
Lombardi indicated that he would talk to team ownership and formulate a negotiation plan for the final days before the start of camp. Lombardi said that any issues involving a no-trade clause haven’t even been discussed with Doughty’s agent.
“I intend to talk to ownership today and update Tim (Leiweke),” Lombardi said. “Anything we do, I have to have their approval or have them be on board. It’s fair to say that in the next 24 hours I’ll be talking to Tim and he will be talking to Mr. Anschutz. There has to be some finality in our approach.”
So…. is the kids Q&A going to be streamed?
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Drew, if you’re reading this, get it done now buddy. This team needs you.
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John Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 4:36 pm
@Belexes,
The team doesn’t “NEED” Drew. He’d be a great addition, but he is not “NEEDED”. we’re not desperate.
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Paul G Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 5:32 pm
@John, Voynov…
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CheezyPoofs Reply:
September 12th, 2011 at 7:49 am
@Paul G, ^this!
With Voynov, Kickey & Muzzin in the pipeline the Kings can play their hand a little bit stronger. If Doughty wants to get paid, he needs to skate. When he sees that the team will go on without him, he’ll sign. There is no one player that is irreplaceable. Will the person that replaces Doughty be of the same caliber? Definitely not, but Doughty needs to realize that someone else WILL play his position until he signs. The Kings aren’t going to dress 5 defensemen because Doughty won’t sign the contract.
centericeman Reply:
September 13th, 2011 at 9:36 am
@John, I agree 1,000 %.
If this kid can’t live life with 6.8 mil a year, then try working in the real world.
You know, I was hoping this wouldn’t degenerate into premodona status, but the degeneration has begun.
Drew, get real this country is sturggling and some people have no job at all. To turn down a 6.8 mil contract is GREED!!
How about the other players on the team, or is it just the Drew Doughty show?
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jeff Reply:
September 14th, 2011 at 8:49 pm
@John,
I totally agree. At this point this is getting ridiculous and Doughty either needs to get in or ????
We have a great young team and it would be great if Drew continued as part of the team but we do not need to go begging or give him outrageous sums of money would not be a good move for the team.
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Fireplug Reply:
September 12th, 2011 at 5:17 pm
@Belexes, I was at Toyota Sports Center to watch the rookies and in the other rink the rest of the LA Kings were going through a workout led by Matt Greene. They look great. Earlier they were all outside going through stretching and weight work. With each day, DD is getting a step behing the others. This team is really a team now, not a bunch of individual guys. With DD out we are not losing a 50 goal scorer, we are losing a cog in a well oiled machine. This year we have an awesome team that is going to be exciting to watch, with or without DD.
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Come home drew
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it is with a heavy heart and a huge amount of sadness that I write this….trade him….!!!!…
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Pesus Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 11:24 am
@peaches,
At least put his name out there and see what he can bring back. Like what bos is doing with Marchard
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outsider Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 11:27 am
@peaches, +1
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john Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 11:39 am
@peaches, I agree even if he signs he’s going to contaminate the locker room. DREW WE DON’T NEED YOU. HA HA
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USH#17 Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 11:51 am
@peaches, How’s This?
Drew, I understand your looking for the right deal. Why not ask for a trade to Edmonton? They can afford to pay you; Smyth, Fraser and Brule are off the table, so the negotiations can be quick, over before camp opens!
You won’t win much but can break training early, after just 82 games, in time for golf and the summer munchie season
Go short term…short enough to be traded to a team that can afford you for just the balance of a year…unless, of course you don’t show much in Edmonton beside potential… You know, like Penner…..
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peaches Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 12:06 pm
@USH#17, actually with further thought I absolutely think they should trade dougghty to the flyers for simmons and a first round pick!..a fair deal and god knows we love to trade with the flyers….no shenn needed by the way
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USH#17 Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 2:49 pm
@peaches,
And as a bonus they won’t have to change all those Simmmonds billboards along the 91 fwy!
Kings x Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 12:36 pm
@peaches, If he doesn’t make start of training camp his conditioning could be like last year. A step back instead of a step forward. Again. Smart kid
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Bama Kings Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 6:46 pm
@peaches, I don’t hate to say it, but I’ve said it for MONTHS. The best move is a move and at this point, we’ve lost a lot of leverage. So Kings fans aren’t going to feel like we got a big enough return.
If we had moved him two months ago, we’d be Cup ready.
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We are petty lucky to have management willing to open themselves up to questioning like that. Puck – where are you?
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Kingsfanone Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 11:27 am
@DesertKing,
I texted your locations, his cell goes straight to voicemail. I’ve done all I can do. Good luck & have fun!
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DesertKing Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 11:33 am
@Kingsfanone,
Thanks he is in LA Kings nirvana right now so he will get to it at his next bathroom break
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Kingsfanone Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 11:44 am
@DesertKing,
You & your son have a great time there!
We will meet up sometime, maybe a suite game? I look forward to talking with you face to face!
Enjoy your day!
Kingsfanone Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 11:53 am
@DesertKing,
I saw pics of new player session on Twitter. Only #8 jersey I saw was left side front row near that camera location. Kings are posting lots of tweets & pics on Twitter.
Talk with you later!
DesertKing Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 12:07 pm
@Kingsfanone
Found Puck and KC23. We are at CPK
.
Kingsfanone Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 12:28 pm
@DesertKing,
Excellent!
I am gps from afar!
DesertKing Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 11:49 am
@Kingsfanone,
For sure!!!
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Why is DD being such a brat? As a fan who wears his jersey its makes me question his value. We want people on the Kings that want to be on the Kings and win the cup at ALL costs.
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john Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 11:43 am
@TheRussianKing, I agree with you, I say trade him, even if we sign him his presence is going to upset other teammates and will affect teams morale. Remember Kovelchuck. DREW WE DON’T NEED YOU
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Kings x Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 12:39 pm
@john, DD thinks he’s the great8. Not quite there buddy boy. Can he buy beer yet?Sucks ebb a player puts himself ahead of a team especially this great team assembled. But what would you do if you were him?
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HockeyOnly Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 7:00 pm
@Kings x, Does he really need to make the cost of the tickets go up more for the fans that attend the games???
kevin from toronto Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 11:52 am
@TheRussianKing, Give the guy a break…
To you and I it seems unnecessary to argue over millions of dollars. Do you really think he should settle for a small <1 million $? Of course not.
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TheRussianKing Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 12:43 pm
@kevin from toronto, 6.8 is an amazing salary for someone who is performed up to his expectations in over a year. He’s a hot commodity because of sparks of brilliance he’s inconsistently shown in this past and his potential upside. He’s not really in a position to make demands that warrant him the highest salary on the team. He’s just being a Brat.
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kevin from toronto Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 12:58 pm
@TheRussianKing, He’s 21 and was nominated for a Norris trophy.
Also, the length of the contract is also a factor in this whole charade.
6.8 is not enough? I guess money talks even for this guy… who was supposed to be a long time Kings fan.
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Kingsfanone Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 11:38 am
@mrk,
I’m not siding with DD, but that $6.8 M figure was for long term, which we don’t know how long that means. It could just mean DL wants to lock DD up for a while, and DD feels he’d be worth more by then.
In any case, no one knows for positive what either side wants. It’s stated that what was reported as rejected only this week was actually rejected months ago.
Drew’s statement in that interview, which is old now, says it all. Everything we hear or read is not true. What does that tell you about any rumors we read about?
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broncokings Reply:
September 12th, 2011 at 5:12 pm
@Kingsfanone, thank you for being the voice of reason, i’m just as upset but trading DD is no where near what I want to see..I think he has so much upside that its sickening..yes we have tons of potential in manchester but I would hate to see DD go then all the others come to the end of their contracts and leave then we have a bunch of rookies on D. Were all anxious but need to be patient.
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rick Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 11:53 am
@mrk, Doughty’s camp may be figuring that $6.8 million several years from now – when Doughty should be entering his prime – will not be competitive. I have no way of knowing, but have wondered for some time now whether the Kings may be overreaching a bit on the length of the contract. At this point, I would rather see a shorter term deal done. Given the fact that Doughty’s career has already has had a few bumps in the road, seems to me that this would be a safer bet for all concerned.
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Hey Rich…..
I thought maybe I’d see you out there on the ice…
Will the Q&A be available on Kings vision at some point?
Thanks for all you do..
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These comments are hilarious. Do people really think Doughty is reading this site, or is watching live streaming of Hockey Fest? He doesn’t care that you wear his jersey, or that YOU demand players willing to win at all costs. Keep the faith
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Belexes Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 11:40 am
@Larry Braverman,
You may be right, but since some players have already admitted that they visit this site, you also could be completely wrong. May wanna hold the laughter.
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Larry Braverman Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 11:47 am
@Belexes, Laughter being withheld
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Kingsfanone Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 12:02 pm
@Belexes,
Can we kinda snicker, lightly and not in a mean way?
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kevin from toronto Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 11:53 am
@Larry Braverman, haha thank you!
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Trade him. He doesn’t want to be a King. That’s too bad.
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Trade DD to Colorado for Quincy and Jones.
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SLIM Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 11:48 am
@Elac,
Quincy Jones…I get it “check your ego’s at the door”…
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Ok, now I’m pissed.
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john Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 11:47 am
@Ike, Me too,
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I’m always amazed by fans who call players greedy because they try to get more money. Would you take less money to stay in your job if you think you can get more money out of your employer? Of course not. Drew Doughty’s not being a brat and he’s not being greedy. He’s being selfish, and he’s absolutely earned the right to.
Here’s what I think is going to happen this week. Either Doughty will sign by Wednesday or the Kings will trade his rights by Friday. They can’t go into training camp with this hanging over the team. They need a resolution. And if the resolution depends on the Kings going the extra mile to sign him….well…..I hope you’ll enjoy watching Doughty play for someone else. Since Gretzky the Kings have never shown that they’re willing to go the extra mile to try to win a cup. They know for the fans it’s just enough that they make the playoffs and lose in the first round. The fans don’t demand more so they don’t try to deliver more.
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Duckbasher Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 12:02 pm
@PaulHB – Hockey although passionate for those of us who watch (fans), is a business to those who have their money invested in it (AEG). And yes, winning equals a higher return. But even with Doughty, we are not guaranteed to be winners (remember these guys are injury prone… all of them). So let’s make sure to keep both side’s positions in mind. I could care less either way. He’s only one part of my LA Kings.
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number 6 Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 12:16 pm
@PaulHB,
Sorry Paul. I’m not quite sure how HE earned the right to be selfish. How exactly does anyone earn the right to be selfish. Selfishness, though we all possess it from time to time in our lives isn’t the highest of human attributes. And it certainly in my opinion isn’t something you earn. You earn a living. You earn money. You earn respect….. but not a right to be selfish.
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JDB Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 3:44 pm
@PaulHB,
How has he earned that? He’s earned N. Lindstrom money because he was up for a Norris two years ago??? Since when do you pay a player based on “how good he is supposed to be”? Ask the Flyers about Eric Lindros!!!! Whould I take less at my job???? NO…I wouldn’t. But I’d be pretty happy with TRUE market value and a salary that could take care of me and my family for generations to come. Yes, generations. It’s fair market, in fact more than market in my opinion for what he has done thus far. So another half million a year is going to make it that much sweeter so he signs???? THIS IS A JOKE FANS. TRADE HIM and let someone else over pay him.
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ike Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 9:51 pm
@PaulHB, I’d be totally happy with 6.8 million. I’m not going to cry because someone else has 7.2 million. Especially at age 23.
6.8 million. If he had to work a “normal” job with a good salary of 100k per year, it would take hime 68 years to earn 6.8 million. And that is just one year.
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Osaka Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 10:34 pm
@PaulHB, I think the fans who want the team to be financially responsible are true fans. We don’t want to see our team dismantled in a couple years because of salary cap issues. Worse would be the team moving like Atlanta because ownership loses too much money. Oh Phoenix is another nice example.
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K9Jeeper Reply:
September 12th, 2011 at 12:24 pm
@PaulHB, Exactly what has Drew earned? Two seasons ago, he was a Norris candidate. Last year, he and his wingman, Simmonds, would rather go bar-hopping and chase skirts. Drew needs to decide what’s more important… chasing “strange” and drinking or DOING HIS JOB. He doesn’t deserve to be the highest p[aid King until he shows us that he’s a professional hockey player on and off the ice.
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King Cobra Reply:
September 14th, 2011 at 8:14 am
@K9Jeeper, AGREE 100%
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Puckn-A Reply:
September 13th, 2011 at 8:48 am
@PaulHB, The difference is 99% of us fans hold no leverage over our employers, especially in this current econmy. Our employers would show us the door and hire an equally qualified employee at an entry level salary. Drew will get his money, but he has shown that he thinks he deserves to call the shots after 1 great year followed by an average year, to me that screams huge ego. I think he has hurt the team unless he does win the Norris or Helps us lift the cup, seeing as he wants to paid based off his potential.
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jason Reply:
September 14th, 2011 at 3:46 pm
@PaulHB,
Hey let just remember one thing about player some want to win some want what they can get. How much i hate to have to post this but look at a championship team like the detorit redwings everytime one of there player comes up for contract they can take less for a championship. Every person out there said dd was the next listrom now look. Listrom never miss any games due to contract or money. For dd to want more then Koptar is stupid and only looking out for his intressed. Hey I’m fine with player making money but at what cost. We have all the slary cap we need to to match an offer from any team.
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jason Reply:
September 14th, 2011 at 4:07 pm
@jason, hey miss click
I think it time to act like dd is hurt.We need look at one of our mancherster player to step up. He want to hold out fine shut down talks and let see where we are at the end of oct.If where clicking fine then guess what bye bye for the year and if not then lets give in to demands 5 year 1 million. Just remember hes still rfa for 5 years. so as long as we give him a small offer and we still hold his rfa staus. If he doesn’t play then dd has no power to complain no rights to demand any offer and we can look for a trade or whatever we want but its time to look at him done for the month or the hole year and figure out what else we have.
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If you are truly commitet to winning Drew and you are part of a TEAM that isn’t a pure EGO, you should fire “Don” Meehan and get a deal done before the start of the training camp.
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Big Man 81 Reply:
September 13th, 2011 at 2:56 pm
@andr3j, I agree, if DD was all about the team, he would have gone to DL once the Richards trade was done and signed his contract and told DL that the Stanley cup is on it’s way. If he wants to hold out, lt him, he only hurts himself, I think Voynov would actually do a great job, he’s no Doughty, but if given a chance he might be.
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you guys are crazy he wants to be a king and he will be for a long time! his agent is holding it up!! DL said he has hope and so do I!… DD will be there when it counts!
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john Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 11:50 am
@jpizzle313, I’ve lost all love for drew doughnut doughty I’m sure a lot of kings fans have too. I say trade him and get better prospects.
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SLIM Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 12:00 pm
@john,
I lost NO love for DD..So I’m not one of those fans you believe
have done so…These broad statements are YOUR opinion
which you are allowed to have…You know what they say about opinions..
I don’t give up on great players that want their just desserts..
Patience is a lost commodity in today’s society…
I want what I want when I want it…Seems immature to me..
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john Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 12:08 pm
@SLIM, even if we sign him don’t you think we will have kovelchuk situation. I’m not about to let one rotten apple (Drew doughty) ruin all efforts that this team has worked so hard to put togeather. if you don’t realise that you are blind. ONE MAN CAN’T WIN THE CUP YOU NEED TEAM.
Kings x Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 12:42 pm
@SLIM, People may be hating now but they will be chanting his name when he scores a GWG on the PP with a slapper in the playoffs. They will have forgotten all about it
HockeyOnly Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 7:08 pm
@SLIM, Sorry Slim, but when did Drew Doughty become “Great”??
AZ King Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 12:12 pm
@john,
Sorry I’m not so shallow to rest my love for a player based on contract negotiations. This is business, and emotion has no place in business. You want to call DD a rotten apple and a d bag suit yourself. Just remember that when he re-signs and plays a major role in leading this team to a championship.
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SLIM Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 12:31 pm
@ John…
What Kovi situation are you talking about..He played well..
But most of all he isn’t asking for 10 million…
Kovi isn’t a cancer and is liked by his player’s…
I’m not blind ..I see the actual situation which at this time
is in negotiations….To turn against a player when we don’t know the
actual situation is short short sited and asinine..
Osaka Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 10:21 pm
@AZ King, I don’t think it is shallow to turn on a player during contract negotiations, I think it is healthy. King fans should always put the team ahead of the player. Players come and go but the team remains, unless they lose a lot of money like Atlanta or Pheonix. A player with a big contract could hurt the Kings chances of making cup runs in the future (see NJ). A 21 year old who has played 3 years in the league turns down a contract that would make him the highest paid player on the team because he wants the big bucks on his terms, he wants a shorter contract so he can make even more money when the contract expires. Hmmmm he brought it on himself.
Shotongoal Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 1:04 pm
@john, I vote NO on your comments!!! Your out of your ever loving hockey mind if you think the Kings are a better team without Doughty. Please give me names of “better prospects” out there NOT named Doughty??!!
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Royal Purple Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 4:29 pm
@Shotongoal, I agree. Drew will sign on wednesday. Didn’t everyone read about the Bobby Ryan contract? His agent has done this before. He’s just hoping the closing window will put a few more dollars in his pocket. Maybe it will, maybe not. Drew will be a King this season and most likely the next few seasons. His team will not be effected by the nagotiations like us fans are. They all go through their own contract situations and understand the business aspect of it all. Us fans are the only ones who are sour about this situation. So don’t let me catch anyone Booing Drew on opening night because he waited till the last second to sign. You don’t boo a player for things like that. Now if he has to be traded boo him all you want. But you will all see come Friday everything is ok. Let’s just get ready to take the Pacific this year! GKG!
Funny how people get worked up about how “money must talk” for DD. Doesn’t it talk for all of us? Would you stay at your job if somewhere else was offering more? What about loyalty? Settle down fans
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5buckcolonnade Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 11:53 am
@Larry Braverman,
If my job was to win the stanley cup, I wouldn’t demand a crazy salary that makes it impossible to build and maintain a competitive roster.
As a FAN, I want the TEAM to win, not any one player. The fans’ interests are always aligned with management because management is trying to put the best product on the ice for our enjoyment. I’m not sure there are many Thrashers/Jets fans who are just happy for Kovalchuck that he got all that money. Not sure there are any Devils fans who are happy for him, either.
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number 6 Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 12:19 pm
@Larry Braverman,
Depending on the specifics, there are actually people who would stay in one position for a certain employer rather than go elsewhere even if the money were more interesting elsewhere. There are many other factors that go into it. That’s part of the problem….. money, money, oh, i forgot, and then there is Me, and of course Myself, and more money.
Your focus on money is your right but perhaps it’s not everyone that necessarily shares your opinion is all.
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HockeyOnly Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 7:10 pm
@Larry Braverman, NO it doesn’t.
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To say that Doughty rejected $6.8M a year without knowing the details of the contract is short sighted. There may have been language that was dubious or perhaps a lack of incentives, bonuses, etc. that were the reason behind the rejection.
Keep in mind Doughty is still very young and is most probably relying on his agent’s advice rather than having a strong opinion or interest in contractual/transactional matters. The ins and outs of contract negotiations and legal matters can be overwhelming to most laypeople for simple contracts; just take a look at any credit card or divorce agreements.
I understand Meehan’s approach and while I don’t agree with it, it’s what he needs to do to secure the best contract for his client. If Doughty doesn’t raise any objections or make his desires fully understood, as I’m assuming he isn’t, the outcome may not be what he really wants.
Lombardi mentioned “a final approach” with management. This can go both ways, but these talks surely involve and consider alternatives to a non-agreement.Should Meehan (oughty) reject what they consider to be their last ditch, best-effort offer, Lombardi will not hesitate to make a deal to send Doughty to another team. IMO, Lombardi will not allow this type of distraction to the team.
If it gets to that, Lombardi will inform Meehan that a deal will need to be done. Meeham will inform Doughty and this is when you’ll know whether Doughty really wants to remain a King and win a cup or wants to cash in.
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dMan Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 11:55 am
@dMan, I should also add that should a non-agreement happen, this would put Lombardi in another bad situation as he would be forced to deal a valuable asset at discount rates for the second time this year. Maybe he can throw Fraser in the deal.
Whoever said being GM was easy!
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Mickey Keenan Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 4:26 pm
@dMan, He will not have to dump him for discounted rates.. Remember he is an RFA. If another club offers him the money we wont, then he can sign and we will take the 5 1st round draft picks or whatever it is. Frankly the only teams that can afford his salary right now are teams with top 10 picks. Not a bad deal.
Second, he can ride the pine until we get a deal we want. We have the D prospects to help fill the whole. And if Voynov steps up and shines, then we are in a better position.
That all being said, I think he signs, I just hope it a 3 year deal or a 9…. I dont want to run the risk of FA taking him too early.
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BobKnob Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 12:01 pm
@dMan,
I’m pretty sure performance bonuses aren’t allowed (after the ELC?).
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dMan Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 12:37 pm
@BobKnob, not according to this:
http://www.nhlfa.com/CBA/cba_agreement36.asp
Rather interesting…
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It sounds like management is getting to the point of take it or leave it – which they should. I still hope that they can get him signed, but I am starting to get mightily PO’d that a year with such great promise is being impacted by this. Truthfully, I am not entirely sure who to be most upset with, but this situation must get resolved one way or the other – and SOON.
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Poorman Reply:
September 12th, 2011 at 2:45 am
@rick, There’s only 1 resolution: sign him. I believe that they will.
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Doughty is quickly becoming my least favorite King.
Yes he has great POTENTIAL and is worth gambling on, but AAV of 6.8 long term is quite a gamble considering his lousy year last year. He seems to want the kind of contract that superstar, proven UFAs command and he is not yet any of those things (proven, superstar, UFA). He’s crazy and this is not good for the team.
Since there is no way we get anything remotely fair for him, and then he would probably wise up after a trade, the only solution is to sit him. For the whole year if need be. Maybe none of the prospects are as good, but the difference between Doughty and his replacement is not THAT great, at least not right now.
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number 6 Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 12:23 pm
@5buckcolonnade,
I reluctantly agree with you. I have to say that I would be more inclined to sit him rather than trade him, unless I got a seriously good offer back for him.
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Deke'r Reply:
September 12th, 2011 at 3:30 pm
@number 6, Although I believe DD will get signed, but should this not happen, I agree with your evaluation. Let him sit and watch the Kings kick butt this year, after all it is a TEAM sport and at this level no one player makes or breaks the team (see New Jersey)
[Reply]
“There has to be some finality in our approach.”…
Possible translations:
“Next offer will be our final one. You’ve done enough damage already”
“It’s high time for someone to tell Mr. Mehhan and Mr. Doughty to go pound sand.”
“Poop or get off the pot, kid”
“Now or never, buddy”
“You’re not worthy”
“Gretzky was traded, what makes you think you can’t be?”
“No statue in any NHL stadium for you”
“Contract requirements to show up to camp in hockey shape will NOT be dropped”
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Kings Fan In Temecula Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 5:04 pm
@Gustavo, haha
ftw
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dump him, we can get mass talent in return, you cant have 1 great season and one so so season and demand big money, dont let the door hit you in the azz. GO KINGS!
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john Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 12:03 pm
@chuckrocks, I’m with you man this guy does’nt deserve to be a KING. He’s a dueshe bag
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tornado12 Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 12:13 pm
@john, we get it man. You dont like doughty. posting it 20+ times more than makes your point. And now you are throwing personal insults at him? you are showing why there has been discussion about changing the posting format! please keep it civil, this place is for all of us, not just one person.
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AZ King Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 12:07 pm
@chuckrocks,
See my comment right above yours. Why would we get “mass talent” in return if the guys is such a problem?
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AZ King Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 12:07 pm
oops, ended up 2 comments BELOW yours…
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john Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 12:16 pm
@AZ King, There might be some teams that will put up with a spoiled guy like DD. I heard if we trade him whoever gets him has to give us 5 first round picks. I’ll take that over this guy.
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AZ King Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 5:14 pm
@john,
Whoever told you that we have to receive at least 5 1st round picks for Doughty knows as much about hockey as I’m guessing you do.
I have so much more respect for JMFJ and a ton less for Dewy.
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I’m not going to pretend I know all the details of what’s going on, but I do know that this IS beginning to be an issue, and Doughty should really have no leverage in this situation, because he’s yet to really do anything, other than show up to camp out of shape, and take half of a season to actually start playing decent.
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@john,
Really didn’t need to post that twice…it was ridiculous enough the first time.
Answer me this. If Drew is as much of a problem as you guys make him out to be, why would any other team want him? No less for any kind of high quality player in return.
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If the Kings want the same or better caliber Dman. Shea Weber is the guy to target. Do a one for one deal and resign Weber to a 12 year deal worth $70 Million. Spread the money out.
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If he wants out that’s his right.
I’ll still be a Kings fan. No player is bigger than the team.
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Gustavo Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 12:13 pm
@Skooma,
Das right!!!
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King4Life Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 4:21 pm
@Skooma, Players come and go.
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HockeyOnly Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 7:16 pm
@King4Life, And the Fans stay through thick and thin.
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If Wayne Gretzky was traded in his prime, does anyone really think that trading this 21 yr old unproven prima donna is ‘implausible’, like yahoo calls it? One good year and he think he should be paid a la Webber? Such nonsense.
Pull the trigger, DL. We already have a solid blue line with Greene, Scuderi, Mitchel, Johnson & Martinez. Bring up Campbell, Muzzin or Hickey. Any of them can easily compliment that solid defense. Save the moola for a mega buster deal before the trade deadline.
It’s high time someone tell BOTH these bozos (Doughty & Meehan) to go pound sand. The last thing the LA Kings management, players and fans deserve and this late stage of this painful and multi year rebuilding process to create a contending team, is having a jackass agent and his prima donna immature client player try to throw a wrench in the program.
Doughty, get it through your thick skull once and for all…..YOU’RE NOT WORTHY !!!! You must first earn it.If you were deserving of better offers, other GMs would have presented them for your services already. Get off your high horse, grow some pelotas and fire your draconian agent. Learn from your mate JMFJ and negotiate in good faith with your employers.
You’re making irreparable damage to your career if you keep Meehan as your agent. You can learn from Kopi’s own experience. He fired him.
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poe Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 12:41 pm
@Gustavo, Hoorah! My sentiments exactly. No 21 year old should be allowed to hold a team hostage. That is plain thuggery. DD is not worth what is being offered, but his agent, the inestimable Meehan has him so convinced. Kudos to Kopi for having the smarts to fire Meehan. Meehan is also playing games with L Schenn. Having dealt with agents in the past, they have an aura of superiority about them, or so they think.Doughty has parents who should be involved with their son. POS did not! Can you imagine Kopi’s father putting up with this agents? NOT
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SJP Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 1:29 pm
@Gustavo,
Bring up Campbell, are you sure about that?? While I would be thrilled to have him gne from Manchester, LA isn’t where I’d picture him….more like the ECHL.
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kingrussell Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 3:31 pm
@Gustavo, Wayne was traded in his prime because the Edmonton owner,Pocklington,needed the cash,and by the time he was traded from the Kings he was no longer in his prime and wanted out because management at that time put crap around him.My guess is that Drew’s agent turned down the previous offers not because of money,but because of length of contract and perhaps other clauses.
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Stuart Reply:
September 12th, 2011 at 8:27 am
@kingrussell, really? the EDM team around Gretz at the time of the trade was crap? Let’s see, they won in 87-88 and 89-90 too, and the team continued to make the playoffs after the trade, to say that management started to put crap around him is a little inaccurate to say the least.
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Moondoggie Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 3:51 pm
@Gustavo, That was a pretty good oratory. I tend to agree with your summation. He’s a good defenseman, no doubt. But has he truly earned more than what DL has reportedly offered? No.
The Kings are stacked with good young defensemen just waiting for a chance. DD may get to help them and the Kings solve what is a huge logjam and at the same time pick up some assets for the future.
No, I don’t want to see DD get traded. But I abhor players and agents who believe they can hold teams and their fans hostage. I believe in DL and what he has done with the Kings. I think DD has a decision to make. He can either be a King for life, stay in Los Angeles like he said he wanted to do and be well compensated for his decision or he go elsewhere.
The decision is his to make….now.
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@john, John I agree with you totaly. We do not need drew. Not 1 player on a team sport is worth that kind of money. Drew if you read this. Go to a other team. We do not need you in LA. You to greedy for your age. Go walk the unemployment line if u think that is better to your liking. Your team players on the team are going to hate you if u sign. John
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I think it’s great that someone posting here today called me a troll a while back for questioning Drew Doughty’s commitment to the Kings. You should see what that SOMEONE is posting today. HE HE
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Doughty’s jersey sales are dropping day by day.
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After hearing Dean Lombardi speak at Hockey Fest regarding the Anaheim Baseball player taking less money to stay with the team makes me think DD is not really a team player… an will never be so!!!
Looking ahead. how can we see the Kings defense without him….. who in the organization can be brought up/in so we can have a cohesive team?
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It’s actually rather sad. Seriously, you are young, have loads of talent, play the game you started playing cause you love it and would play it for free….. It’s absolutely true that no one (other than those involved) know the specifics. Somehow I have to believe that while Meehan is clearly ———- difficult, if he negotiated for all his players in this way, he’d be out of business in six months. So it makes one wonder if Doughty isn’t being terribly helpful in matters. Again, don’t know, but certainly begs the question.
And as for DL, I have no reason to believe based on the info available that the Kings made them several insulting offers. It seems fairly clear that an offer of $6.8M for who knows how many years was made. Not exactly insulting it seems. And if it is insulting then I’d imagine one could say, fine I’ll take it for a year or two and show you that I’m worth far more than that.
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number 6 Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 12:31 pm
@number 6,
Hopefully clear what I was saying…. that evidently was offered $6.8M Per Year for x no. of years
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Patience! Meehan’s best leverage is right now. I’m sure Doughty will be in camp with his best deal.
DL said that he and Meehan have an agreement not to discuss terms in the press, and they are both living up to it. Honorable men will come to an honorable conclusion. Sitting out would be terrible for Doughty’s future, and trading him would be terrible for the Kings’ future. There is no impact if Doughty is at camp on day 1. Only us worry warts are impacted by this.
GET IT DONE!
Go Kings Go!
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Gustavo Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 12:54 pm
@JD,
There will be impact, depending on what size tire DD wears around the middle when he shows up.
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Dominick Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 1:00 pm
@Gustavo,
That’s assuming he even has one, since your comments not based on any real observation.
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Gustavo Reply:
September 12th, 2011 at 8:00 pm
@Dominick,
Believe me, nothing would give me more pleasure than say “Dominick, I was wrong, you were right. Let me buy you a beer”
I’m willing to bet you a pitcher of Arrogant Bastard that DD makes me right. But again, I hope he doesn’t
I think at this point — we can stop hiding behind the, “give Doughty a break, we don’t know the specifics of the negotiations” blindfold we’ve been wearing. He was offered 6.8m. It doesn’t matter if it was for one year or 20 years — or what bonuses may or may not be included. 6.8 is enough. He should have signed.
Also, the “everyone attempts to get as much money as possible from their job” argument needs to go away. People pass up raises or promotions all the time because they love their work. Countless people choose lower paying jobs (or even work for free!) because it’s something they believe in. I know it’s hard to wrap our hats around, but not everyone has a money first mentality.
In addition, I think we as fans are very confused about what Doughty’s job actually consists of — as skating around on a hockey rink is only part of it. He is also responsible for promoting and strengthening the Kings organization. A job he is currently failing at.
Six months ago he’s my favorite player in the league.
And now? Trade him.
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number 6 Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 3:08 pm
@CabbagesAndKings,
Cabbages is intelligent…. His post is intelligent. So for everyone saying how Doughty exposes to unimaginable danger in the face of flying pucks (I’d rather not go down that road on 9/11 thank you) or how someone above said he’s ‘earned the right to be selfish’…… that stuff gets my dander up so I’ll just close this out and not say anything further. Thank you.
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Osaka Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 6:56 pm
@CabbagesAndKings, Yep, our worst fears are realized, he DID turn down a 6.8 cap hit contract.
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HockeyOnly Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 7:24 pm
@CabbagesAndKings, My thoughts exactly. A $6.8 mill a year, just how much do I need to live life………. normally. Sounds like a huge ego to me.
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He doesn’t deserve to be highest paid King! Send him to Winnipeg for Kane or Big Buf! Don’t do it Dean. Don’t pay a 3rd year, not lived up to his potential more money then Kopitar.
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At this point, it’s still business. Meehan wants the most for his client. But, by Wednesday, Drew Doughty is on line with his team. Lombardi has put together a good, and by most accounts, near elite team. Gagne wanted to be here. So too Moreau. Even Penner seems to have gotten the message of commitment (physically at least). By NOT showing up for camp, Doughty is setting himself apart from the team. That’s not going to be a positive. Meehan is gambling on a contract. Doughty is gambling his career/reputation. The next three days will tell an interesting tale.
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Poorman Reply:
September 12th, 2011 at 2:43 am
@IceGuy, His career reputation? I don’t think so. If he keeps playing well, he’ll keep getting big $ offers.
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Let’s see what happens this week.This team is much better with Drew than without him.
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HockeyOnly Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 7:26 pm
@kingrussell, at times
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As long as he signs before Friday everything is fine.
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Everything is a negotiation. Anschutz is a billionaire. Doughty is an elite young Dman. He needs to be paid top NHL money. Anschutz wants to make the best deal he can. My own feeling is that the Kings are this close to a Stanley Cup run. Pull the money trigger with big $, sign him, and move on. If the Kings win the Cup, resultant $ will more than take care of DDs contract. If they don’t sign him…
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number 6 Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 4:29 pm
@Poorman,
Poorman, you’re absolutely right now that I think about it. How bout a five year contract (so he’ll be set to go UFA when he wants) for …… let’s see, do you think $10M a year would do it. Yep, that should get him signed. I’m quite certain he and Meehan will be ok with that.
What? A salary cap? There is? Oh, well then…. hmmm, well guess the Kings will just have to figure out how to get around that then.
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CB14 Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 4:54 pm
@number 6, What’a a salary cap? Sincerly Lou Lamorello, New Jersey Devils GM.
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number 6 Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 5:06 pm
@CB14,
CB….. Exssssellent!! Well played me lad.
I have a Doughty #8 autographed black home jersey, I am now to embarrassed to wear it. Thanks Drew
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HockeyOnly Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 7:28 pm
@Robert N, you could use it as a window shage as long as the crest was facing out and not the back.
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FabKings Reply:
September 12th, 2011 at 8:38 am
@HockeyOnly, Nice one!! Poor Drew. Apparently it really is,,,,Poor Drew!
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My son figured out why DD hasn’t signed yet. He’s waiting for training camp to be over so he doesn’t have to take the fitness test again
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CB14 Reply:
September 12th, 2011 at 8:12 pm
@KidsNoBest, Now that’s funny!
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I can’t wait to see my Kings play again, with or without Doughty. Until Saturday rolls around I will just assume he’ll be in camp with all the rest of the “team” and I withhold judgement on both sides until then.
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Silence Dogood Reply:
September 12th, 2011 at 12:23 pm
@Randy S, I agree with you, except the part about withholding judgment. Dewey has lost 50 points of respect in my eyes for his negotiating style (he is Meehan’s principal — DD controls). I will still root for him if he ends up a King, but not quite in the same way I did in the last 3 seasons.
Let’s Go Kings, with or without prima donna doughty.
Go Kings go!
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I remember a few years ago Robitaille said “When ever someone says it’s not about the money, it’s about the money. It’s always about the money.” So true Luc. You can say it is the years but that too is about the money, if Drew wants to be an UFA and not sign long term it is because of money.
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CB14 Reply:
September 11th, 2011 at 10:09 pm
@Osaka, Show me the Money. Show me the Money. SHOW ME THE MONEYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY. Signed, Drew Gooding Jr.
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They’ll sign him. Tomorrow? Next month? It’s out of our hands. They’ll get it done. Everyone wants to see him play and I am quite sure he wants to play.
Once he comes back and starts playing well, all of this hand-wringing over the contract and all these silly “trade him” comments will be long forgotten.
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Sean Reply:
September 12th, 2011 at 6:55 am
@Pumpernicholl,
I would trade him rather than handicap the team financially to meet his demands that he hasnt earned yet!
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Pumpernicholl Reply:
September 12th, 2011 at 10:54 am
@Sean, Trade him? I wouldn’t trade him. If he doesn’t sign, he sits – and watches his team play without him, and doesn’t get paid. Most players in his shoes will be taught to sign a contract when that starts to happen.
His contract won’t handicap the team. Kovalchuk, that would have handicapped the team. As long as the contract is in the Kopitar range and not in the Kovalchuk range I don’t see why we all have to lose our minds about this and resort to something too drastic like a trade.
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King Cobra Reply:
September 14th, 2011 at 8:31 am
@Pumpernicholl, I know those 60 + goals a year Kovalchuk would have scored would have really killed us. We Will be good paying DD almost that much for all those high profile goals against scoring turnovers. I would take Kovalchuk up on the wing with Kopi for 9 million a year over DD at 7 million a year any day!!!
To me it’s about Doughty believing he’s worth more based on last years playoffs and season. Well, if it is, he was sub par to say the least, he shined in Game 2 I beleive in SJ, but that must’ve been a fluke, because he went right back to being shaky Doughty again. People had made comments last year regarding his supposed “chubby appearance”. I can only imagine what those same people are gonna say this year????
Distractions, Distractions
Go KINGS Go!!
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Ok seriously….turned down 6.8 million long tern? Seriously Drew? Is this another Cammalleri? Drew – you are not worth that much (on any team in this league). Period. As much as I love Doughty I actually hope Lombardi doesn’t cave on him and give him more. I think I am nauseous.
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LUCKY Reply:
September 12th, 2011 at 12:04 pm
@Brian, agree
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King Cobra Reply:
September 14th, 2011 at 8:33 am
@Brian, agree, agree, agree……..
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He does not deserve as much as Kopitar, not even close. He maybe should get a little more than JJ if at all. I say start floating his name and see what we can get. It might be time to say good bye to Pudge.
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LUCKY Reply:
September 12th, 2011 at 12:05 pm
@johnjuan, i agree lets see what we can get
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K9Jeeper Reply:
September 12th, 2011 at 12:28 pm
@johnjuan, I would just HATE to see Detroit get Doughty though. Anyone but Detroit!
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johnjuan Reply:
September 13th, 2011 at 8:18 am
@K9Jeeper, Can they pay for him and what would we get?
I would miss his shot from the point but other than that, is he really that good on D yet? Martinez has a pretty good shot and JJ does too so I think if we got another weapon (or two) in trade we might not miss him as much as we think.
What would life be like if we make him the highest payed player on the team and he never really gets any better or worse yet gets fat and slower?
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Stuart Reply:
September 13th, 2011 at 8:43 am
@johnjuan, I think I would ask for Stuart, Abdelkator (spl?) and Filpula… for starters.
As always… Meehan’s work.
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While I agree that the Kings don’t HAVE to have him to win, I think we’re better with him than without. A signing is very close and we can get on with our counting the hours until the season starts. GKG!!!
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I am 40 and have had 3 negotiations in my job. When my contracts have run out I have come to work like normal and continued to do my job and I have let my agent handle the money part. He always knows what I want and need. Not showing up would only make it harder on the people I work with and make me look bad. Doughty could have garnered a lot of good will with the fans had he shown up at HockeyFest which is about the Fans. Management would have looked bad not having given him a deal yet. He would have looked liked the bigger person and most likely would get what he wanted. These players are constently getting bad advice. He should have gone but now that he didn’t and we see its all about him and not the greater good of the team or the fans I vote they just give him a 1 year deal and make him prove that last year was a fluke.
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fsd1 Reply:
September 12th, 2011 at 12:51 pm
@dan, Not all true, if you aren’t under contract you don’t appear at team functions. It’s a rule of the CBA if i’m not mistaken
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Looks like the fan base are becoming DD haters..calls to trade him are abounding. Sad to say that the Healthy Kings D is very rich…DD is not likely to be missed…
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Every team has a player who thinks he is abouve every other player. The player in that catagory for the LA KIngs is DD. Get rid of hime and lets find another D man who wants to be a Kings player and not a for me only player. DD yo ought to do what Brownie did and take the offer and get on with your career. Yo DD you are not worth the money your agent is asking.
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Weasel Reply:
September 12th, 2011 at 3:48 pm
@gene,
DD and Brownie are very different players. Brown as a forward is never going to be an elite forward. We often debate right on this site if he’s truly a 1st line or 3rd line player. DD is already considered to be an elite defenseman by neraly everyone. And potential does play a part in his signing. Since he started young this contract will cover his prime or at least a goodly portion of it. Never forget that at the end of the day it is a business.
I too hope he signs for something reasonable, but I won’t judge him until I see how it all plays out. Maybe I’ll join you in your opinion on Saturday if things still look bleak.
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I would like DD back as much as the next person but if he doesn’t get here for the start of camp then he’s NOT the team player this team needs. COME ON DD get here and let’s get this season rolling!!
~ Go Kings Go ~
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It’s a money game just like any other major sport. You would hope some players would not make that so obvious by holding out. I think this Doughty character ought to talk to Jered Weaver about money vs. love of the game. I think he would learn to have some humility and get a dose of reality in the meantime.
So, c’mon Drew…would love to see you back on the ice making your 7.2Mil per year as you flub a pass to the blue line, watch idly as a speedy forward grabs the puck and skates past you for a breakaway like you were tied to a post. The spectacle is worth every penny!
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So looking forward to OCT 18 when the starting line up is announced and after Drews’ name all you hear is crickets! GO KINGS!!
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What kills me is that these guys get all this dough (DOUGHty?) and they don’t play any better, sometimes worse. It’s like an investment prospectus: “Fund values are based on prior investment performance”. All players should be paid based on their potential to do well, just like any employee…and get rewarded IF they do well. Getting millions upon millions of dollars to play a stupid (albeit entertaining) game is an insult to our society where there are starving, orphaned, homeless, abused, estranged, depressed, terminally ill, aging, handicapped and just plain honest and hardworking people out there who would be thrilled to have a fraction of what these greedy athletes and entertainers get per year. And what do they REALLY contribute to society, anyway? Do yo go to them if you have a tooth ache, can they save your wife or girlfriend if they develop breast cancer…will they rush to save you from a burning building? No. They play a GAME. Time to get a perspective here, Drew Doughtys and their sympathetic fans of the world. GET A LIFE! Give your money to the poor instead of blowing $200 per game a Staples Center to see a bunch of half-witted morons like Drew Doughty chase a frozen puck around artificially frozen water…ridiculous! This world will become a much nicer place to live.
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Stang Reply:
September 12th, 2011 at 7:05 pm
@Rick, You are being to philosophical and emotional. The players deserve what the market bares. That’s where unions hurt us, they create a false demand thus increasing wages. All that said, you and I (the fans) pay their salaries. If we let him and management know that he is not worth what he is asking, then he will probably not get it. The problem is, fans cave in. Now, being that this game is purely entertainment and amusement, if you watch TV, go to the movies or seek any kind of entertainment what so ever, then you are the biggest hypocrite of all. Everyone seeks their own release but you condemn hockey fans their choice but don’t condemn your own.
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Rick Reply:
September 14th, 2011 at 11:22 am
@Stang, thanks for your note. I suppose emotions and philosophy go hand in hand, as does money and poverty. Poverty itself can have many meanings as well…poor of wealth, mind and spirit. At least with movies and TV, people have a choice to attend or to watch. The movie makes money based on it’s entertainment value, or a TV show stays on the air, people watch and advertisers make money, sell more product, stimulate the economy. I’ll bet you don’t go to movies that don’t appeal to you, or watch shows you find stupid or without merit (most of them). Then, we have a person, a player, who demands to be paid $7.5M per year to play games yet to be played, with no guarantee of individual performance, team or organizational success, that being a championship. No assurances, yet that person’s employer MUST pay that player $7.5M each year, no matter what. And we as loyal Kings fans MUST watch…or should we? Ask the L.A. Dodgers about the price of testing fan loyalty…everyone has their limits. So, with that, enjoy the upcoming season…think it will be a good one for the Kings…I would never condemn a fellow fan from enjoying the best spectator sport on the planet, while it is still available to watch and enjoy.
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I think we should trade Lombardi he can’t seem to get anything done and he has a terrible attitude
And the kings have made the playlets the last two year despite this guy there is a reason they ran him out of
San Jose.
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hmm….Nobady knows what is really going on and most of ataking DD ..for what (???) based on what kind of info are you doing this…stop your jugments…or trade him(nonesense)Nobady knows what is really going on. However ,we all know the history of LA Kinngs (?!?!?!) We all remember ,That So much neded Kovalchuk did not get The $$$$$$$ he was looking for ,because the Kings managment use well known excuse …Need $$$$$$$$$ for DD…We also know Kings (ONE MORE Time) failed on his high priorety to sign BRAD RICHARD !!!!!!!!!.We understand that New Richard was reletivly cheap and/but the Kings paid to much for him. For me that was OK (?????) deal.Time will show..if it was good idea to sucrafise two yeang talents …
Back to DD sitation…Today is 09/12/11….this date is already shows that DL is behind of scedule. This is unacceptable for me…!!! 6.8 m seams fair to me (if the # is true) but You know The Devil is in ditails !!!
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doughty signs. the team gives him a well deserved beat down…. life goes on and we win the cup
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Funny la times says DL was upset and wanted management to help with the signing of DD.. Two different reports. 1 week till training camp fans and the hammer can say it will happen as much as I want it, but if this kid doesn’t sign and becomes a distraction I say sign him for 1 year and deal with this drama after the cba. This is annoying screw DD fans, his AGENT, and most of all DD. jmfj looked better last season only getting 5 million and DD won’t sign for 7. What a joke. I rather trade him after this year if he doesn’t step it up. Look at simmer, he was great then a let down season. DL and management should do a 1 year with this RFA and deal with it next year. NO long term needed with this selfish brat. Go Rob Blake JR go!
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I think if he’s not signed by Friday they will move him. I also think he’s one more concussion away from losing millions in contract value. Better get all you can now before getting decked again.
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This is the problem signing a young, still not superstar proven player, to a long term contract.
Most talks have said Kings looking for a 7-9 long contract. It’s a very tricky situation.
Off cause DD isnt’t worth 6,8 millions/year based on last years performance, maybe not the next 2 years either ? Well thats fine, but what if he turns out beng a new Lidstrom within this time period? then all of a sudden he will be almost underpaid.
Thats the tricky part, foreseeing the future, will he be a Lidstom or a Redden ? Both Kings, DD and the entire NHL expects him to be “THE NEXT” D-SUPERSTAR, and if you have that i mind it’s now wonder negations easly gets stranded with a such young player with this great portion of talent.
It would have been alot easier to negotiate a short, lets say 2 year contract, because then you could base the salaries on his play the last seasons. Mush harder on a long term contract, he might not be worth 6,8 million next season, but who knows his value in 4 years from now ?
It a very great and very risky gamble yes, but i think with a player of Doughty caliber, its worth the gamble.
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Hail Kings Fans;
We don’t NEED DD until the first game of the season. Period.
The two sides are trying to get the best deal for themselves. Understandable.
What we think does not matter. At all.
DD is not yet a top tier D-man, yet wants to be paid like one. So the Kings are supposed to pay now for potential later. Not likely. Not with this team. Meehan is just trying to buy extra $$ in the future on other contracts.
I say, go the extra mile once, offer DD 5 years at an average of $7M per year. No no trade clause, no bonuses, no incentives of any kind. If $35M for 5 years is not enough, trade him for a young defensive d-man and a 2nd round choice next year and be done with it. And good bye DD.
Pair Muzzin with Scuds now and be done with it.
Send a message to the organization that we are a team on a mission; not individual players looking for a pay check.
See you all at training camp!
GKG
Goldentoe
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number 6 Reply:
September 13th, 2011 at 5:15 am
@Martin Hoffmann,
You said ‘I say, go the extra mile once, offer DD 5 years at an average of $7M per year. ‘
And I say ‘I am really glad you aren’t the GM of the Kings’. Thankfully. You give him a huge contract he hasn’t earned at all save one admittedly excellent year and at the end of it he can walk as a ufa?
That’s All for Doughty and A Nice Ride to the cleaners for DL. He wants to get his UFA right on the five year mark, fine. You gotta give up something, and getting $7M a year for five is not giving up something. I’d prefer to call it getting your cake and eating it too.
Stamkos got that kind of money, but Stamkos got progressively better every single season. You might recall that DD slumped badly last year based on the prior year… and his play in the playoffs was not sterling to say the least. Yes he had two goals in Game 2. He followed that up with a game 3 where your best dman needs to be your best dman, and his play lacked maturity and was all over the place.
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Gustavo Reply:
September 13th, 2011 at 7:46 am
@Martin Hoffmann,
WE (the fans) may not need DD until the first game of the season.
But the team does.
Players need to know they can rely on the who is playing next to then, in front of them or behind them. That’s a crucial ingredient to create the team cohesiveness that builds championship caliber performances. That chemistry is created long before Game 1 starts, even before training camp opens. Can anyone deny the positive impact Penner attitude towards summer conditioning has had on the rest of the team?
Knowing DD has a history of immaturity and neglect towards his conditioning, do you think we are the only ones worrying about it? Magnify that tenfold when it comes his teammates. He showed up fat and slow last year, then he got hurt almost right away. Coincidence? I think YES! And so far this year he’s not even showing up anywhere.
Would it hurt for him to tell his team or the media what he’s doing to stay fit until his contract situation is resolve, instead of fueling speculation of more ‘doughnut summers’?
The only ones rooting for DD to hold out or show up with an 18 wheeler size tire around the middle are the other NHL teams and their respective fan bases. Maybe Muzzin and Hickey, too lol.
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gene Reply:
September 13th, 2011 at 11:22 am
@Gustavo, Man you are so right, except I will take it one step further. Get rid of his lazy money first attitude and let a younger player who wants to play join the D.
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King Cobra Reply:
September 15th, 2011 at 8:05 am
@Gustavo, I agree, it is mind boggling that this kid is balking a 6.8 million a year after all he has NOT done!!!!
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5.5 mil 3 years if he wants a shorter contract or say goodbye.
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98 % of you are so naive. it would be a waste of time to try to justify what is going on with DD and the contract negotiations…. and dont say that what is going on isnt justifiable because if it wasnt then doughty would already be signed or traded. not the first time or the last time its happened. he isnt worth being traded nor will he. lets be real people!
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King Cobra Reply:
September 15th, 2011 at 7:54 am
@db23, There is no possible way in hell to “justify” paying Drew Doughty more than 6.8 million a year.
Drew Doughty needs to “justify” all this hype around him and play up to it and he has not yet.
This is keeping it real bro!
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This from ESPN
Tavares signs, 6 years, $5.5MM
I’m committed to Long Island and the Islanders. They’ve been great to me,” he said during an NHL media tour. “We have a great bunch of guys and I’d love to be part of turning this around from where it was and bringing us back to credibility, respectability and being a team that’s constantly in the playoffs and competing for the Stanley Cup.”
Snow said he wasn’t surprised to hear such comments from the young center. “That just reaffirms the fact he loves being part of the organization,” Snow said. “We love having him here, wearing our jersey.”
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Dear Dean Lombardi,
PLEASE do not pay Drew Doughty a cent more than 6.8 million a year. With his overall performance on and off the ice the last 3 years he has not earned the right to be paid even this amount in my opinion.
I would rather he sit out than see him get paid more than our best player Kopitar.
Stick to your guns on this one!!
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We dont need Drew let him go if he stays the team will be mess look at NJ Devils thy got the player that there ware after him thy ware the last place.LET HIM GOOOOO DON’T SING HIM
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Angry Kings fans are silly !!!!
Dreeeeeeeeeewwwwwwwwww !!!!!
GO KINGS GO
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