Here’s the transcript of my phone interview today with Dean Lombardi, in which Lombardi talks about the absence of Drew Doughty from training camp. [ESPN's Pierre LeBrun astutely points out that Doughty is technically an unsigned RFA, so please accept the term ``holdout'' in a colloquial sense...] In the interview, Lombardi talks about taking Doughty’s “holdout” into account in terms of further contract negotiations. Meaning (and this is my math, not Lombardi’s) if you use $6.8 million per year as a baseline starting point, theoretically that offer would be reduced by $24,727 (and 27 cents) today.
Question: You’re now basically in a holdout situation with Doughty. What kind of update can you give about his status and the negotiations?
LOMBARDI: “Obviously we’re very disappointed that he’s not here. I don’t think it’s any secret, what we think of this player and his abilities and what his potential is. So that’s certainly not an issue, as far as the quality of the player or the quality of the person. We hold both to high regard. That said, a couple things. I don’t want to get into the intricacies what we offered, in terms of the minute details. It’s safe to say that, as far as the big picture within the league, we certainly made him an offer that puts him amongst the top defensemen in the league. Then you look at your team. It’s no secret that he would be at the top of our team. Then, thirdly, even thought I think you know how I feel philosophically about paying for potential, it’s part of the system unfortunately. But the third thing that’s critical to us is the allocation. Where we’re at now, we certainly stretched the limit in terms of paying him amongst the top players in the league, paying him appropriately within the team’s salary structure and, most importantly, being able to keep this group together.
“So we are a cap team. This is not an issue of spending money. But what people sometimes don’t realize is, it’s easy to say, `Well, just pay a little more.’ Under this system, that can really hurt you, as far as keeping other key components of your team. So even though the number is still, I think, fair in terms of the league and the team, where we’re at now is the most we can and feel comfortable that we can keep all the pieces necessary to be a contender, year in and year out.
“The other thing that I think has happened here is, we were very aggressive in trying to sign Drew before July 1. There were three reasons for that. Number one, we wanted to get our payroll in order, to have some finality in terms of what we would have to pursue free agents. Number two, obviously, we were potentially concerned about an offer sheet. Three, I felt that my experience in this, when young players are not signed, and have this period of uncertainty, they don’t always focus on training properly. So we really got aggressive there, prior to July 1, and realized that we were going to have to pay him at the top of our team. So we did it then.
“Traditionally, it always goes down to the deadline, whether it’s the deficit ceiling or collective-bargaining agreement, but our deadline was prior to July 1. Now it is what it is. That said, it’s unfortunate. It’s uncharted waters for Drew, when you see a young player like this, and I think our offer reflects that. What we have (offered) is no doubt an expression of how we feel about him as a player and a person.”
Question: All that said, at the risk of asking a simple question, what’s next?
LOMBARDI: “The problem we have, and we’re going to have to see how this evolves, is that generally with a player, you establish his market value and he signs up for 275 days of work. That was the one thing that changed during the CBA, that players were paid during training camp. So, quite frankly, it’s the way we have to approach this. Let alone missing a day or work, as well as getting behind your teammates in terms of preparation. It probably makes this a little more difficult, but you have to factor that in now. You’re not getting a full year’s work as of today.”
Question: Meaning the offer gets reduced by however many days he’s not here?
LOMBARDI: “Well, as we talked about before, there has to be some finality, in terms of when the players are supposed to report. It’s no different, I think, than what the other teams have done. It’s, `OK, now we have to regroup here and see what evolves,’ and then I have to go back to ownership. It’s no different than anything else. You do this based on 275 days of work, and now it’s down to 274.”
Question: Is it accurate to say that there is not an offer on the table at this point?
LOMBARDI: “Yeah. Well, it’s not that one [previous offer]. It doesn’t mean, certainly, that there isn’t going to be dialogue. The point is that missing days of work has to now factor into this negotiation. There’s no doubt in my mind that this kid is going to play here and play here a long time. But now, like I said, missing a day of work has to be factored into this. It’s no different than any other player. The lines of communication are certainly open. There was a cordial discussion last night, and that’s it.”
Question: Were you able to talk to Drew directly?
LOMBARDI: “I just talked to him briefly last week. It certainly didn’t get into the contract, per se.”
Question: Is there any kind of light at the end of the tunnel here, in terms of different contract structure that you might be able to try in order to get this done?
LOMBARDI: “You’ve got to remember, we’ve been around this since June, with three trips to Toronto (to Don Meehan’s office). All these things you’re talking about have been discussed. It’s like a funnel effect. I can’t think of discussing something that hasn’t already been discussed. I honestly can’t. In June, we took an enormous amount of time, and then it picked up again in August. We’re probably just tapped out, even from talking, but it doesn’t mean we won’t. Don’t forget, with the CBA, this isn’t like the old days where you could do options and escalators and things like that. It’s very finite, the things you can do.”
Question: This doesn’t sound encouraging.
LOMBARDI: “Well, I don’t know. Like I said, there’s no doubt this kid loves the game and loves this team. It’s disappointing. It’s not that I’m not encouraged that he’s going to be here. Obviously there’s a great feel around camp. The players are excited. But let’s face it, Drew is a key part of this process. But right now, we have to focus on the team. The players, they understand what’s going on and they’re pretty focused today, as is everybody else. That’s the way you have to be. We have to focus on doing what we’re doing right now. Like I said, these things can change in a short time. It’s not that it’s not encouraging. It’s a little disappointing, but we’re also excited as to what I’m seeing and feeling downstairs. We see this kind of thing happen, and eventually it will be resolved. We can’t let this, in any way, derail us from the focus we need here every day.”
Question: The other day, you kind of rejected the idea of a short-term contract, just to get something done. Is that still the feeling?
LOMBARDI: “That was something that was talked about back in June, and neither side was really interested in it. That just goes back to what you asked me. We’ve looked at this every way. Even before we made our trade (for Mike Richards) and went through free agency, this was our number-one priority. This is a home-grown boy and a key part of this franchise.”
C’MON DREW DAMN!!!
[Reply]
DaveinSD Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:18 pm
@Trip, Everywhere he goes now in the NHL, he will be known as a holdout. I’m going to assume that DD8 acquired some gold teeth this offseason!
[Reply]
USHA#17 Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:13 pm
@DaveinSD,
“where we’re at now is the most we can and feel comfortable that we can keep all the pieces necessary to be a contender, year in and year out.”
–DL
Looks like the negotiations have gone public
[Reply]
O-Dawg Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 3:02 pm
@USHA#17, Sign Drew! Just do It!
Robert e Lee Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:34 pm
@Trip, EXACTLY…so we finally have a player who wanted to play in L.A. …and he tries to break the team, financially. Yup, gretzky really was his inspiration. I miss paying $18.00 to sit up front to see a game…not paying $250.00…keep holdin’ out Drew…show us what you’re really about…you weren’t THAT GREAT last year!
[Reply]
Trip Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:38 pm
@Robert e Lee, this is going to get real ugly!!
[Reply]
Robert e Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 9:36 pm
@Trip, I’m afraid you’re right Trip…and I didn’t think I’d feel so pained. But I really thought he wanted to play for us? And he wasn’t the best defense man last year. I mean, come on. He’s got lots of potential, but he also had a good share of giveaways and he ain’t no Bobby Orr…not yet, at least. So why must he be paid as such after only a few years? Gosh…
smp Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 6:08 pm
@Robert e Lee,
Its pretty clear that he doesnt want to play in LA. I dont care what they say, anyone thats offered 6.8milion or so to play on a cup contending team, and still declines it, he must REALLY not want to be there. I dont know if theres some kind of other issues going on with the team, but i truly dont believe that DD wants more money, i think he just want out, and the ‘more money’ thing is just a good way to play it off.
[Reply]
Cathy Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 10:09 pm
@Robert e Lee, I think the players forget where the money comes from to pay them and that the people that buy the tickets and merchandise for the most part don’t make 6 figures let alone 7. I remember the good old days and the prices at the Forum. Now I can’t afford to pay $250 to sit in the front. Hopefully, this gets resolved soon one way or the other so the team doesn’t have this hanging over them. They have to be focused on the task at hand and not let this affect them.
[Reply]
Sean Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:52 pm
@Trip, No doubt. I have been ‘ok’ with the negotiating process all summer, but now he is an official holdout. SUCKS! I do believe Lombardi that a deal will get done and the Kings will have an amazing season and playoff run. I am thinking this team (once it has Doughty signed) has a chance to make the WCF this year and maybe make the finals. Everyone has got to stay healthy, but if you look at the POTENTIAL of our top six forwards (plus Stoll centering a 3rd line), d-corps, and 2 up and coming young goaltenders – the Kings are poised to be a contender for years. GO KINGS!
[Reply]
EasyBob Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 3:19 pm
@Trip,
This sounds like a Rob Blake thing all over again.
[Reply]
4akingsransome Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 5:52 pm
@Trip, Play without him. The team is solid with or without him for the first half of the season. Meehan isn’t looking out for Doughty’s best interest. Missing training camp and a few games when DL and the Kings put a big offer on the table for a 21 year old defenseman that hasn’t proven he will show up game in game out is going to have his teammates looking at him sideways when he finally does show up. Meehan is being a meathead and Doughty is responsible for this deal in the end, but I remember being 21 and stupid about my future. Doughty could end up flat on his face for a couple years or have an injury that keeps him less than 80% for a season or two, then do the Kings get some money back to go out and add some help. NOT! The risk is all on the team. Doughty is guaranteed whether he shows or not. This could easily hurt the team if they get another fantastic prospect that has to be paid a big contract in the next four years. Aren’t we in a long term recession. Are you going to be able to afford next years season seats? Kopitar is proven and plays hard in both ends and could be in the top three in scoring with a left winger that can play. Kopi is still the top player for the Kings and has the attitude to prove it. I say let the kid sit out and see where he ends up. Lessons of ego and greed are hard to learn but last a lifetime. Just ask the guy who wore number 4 for the Kings twice, and why his jersey won’t be retired to the rafters.
[Reply]
TO Fan Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 10:44 pm
@Trip, He does not like us, he does not want to play for us, he wants $$$$. Screw him.
[Reply]
Hold out now official! Is DD a character guy afterall?
[Reply]
Gustavo Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:14 pm
@BrokeKingsFan,
Yeah!!
He’s a character, alright…Cartoon character, definitely.
[Reply]
Dan SanDonkey Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:15 pm
@Gustavo, fat albert?
[Reply]
BrokeKingsFan Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:22 pm
@Dan SanDonkey, Hey , Hey , Hey
Chad Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:52 pm
@Gustavo, He’s a clown!
[Reply]
KING-C Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:47 pm
@BrokeKingsFan,
No, JJ is a character guy. The way he did his contract and conducts himself. People this is not all about talent. It’s also about attitude. Do we really want this guy on our team?
[Reply]
AZ King Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:00 pm
@KING-C,
uh, yeah we really do. Whatever you might think of him he is going to be a elite d-man in the league for a long time.
[Reply]
johnjuan Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:07 pm
@AZ King,
Nothing points to that being true at this point.
puddle Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 3:15 pm
@johnjuan, Really, NOTHING point to that being true? You mean to say that being a Norris finalist at 20 years old doesn’t count as being something that points to him being an elite D-man for year to come? Or showing elite skills at a position where guys don’t usually develop until they’re in their mid-20s? That doesn’t count either? Neither does leading the team in TOI? Or playing a crucial role on Team Canada’s gold-winning team at age 20?
If anything, EVERYTHING points to that being true at this point.
KING-C Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 4:08 pm
@AZ King, We all saw him play last year. huge upside with no brains or work ethic is not worth crap. So the bum has talent and potential, so what? He lacks in character and putting the team first attitude. To me that speaks volumes. Like I said earlier it’s not just about talent or skills. It’s about character, maturity and being a team player.
Mongo88 Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:03 pm
@KING-C, You’re 100% right on. For all the crap JJ takes on this blog, I’d still want JJ on my team before Doughty. I know we will never ever have to wonder if JJ is in shape. I’m say it here and now. Jack MF Johnson will have a huge year and play solid D for us.
[Reply]
Trip Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:46 pm
@Mongo88, could not agree more!!
luc20rules Reply:
September 17th, 2011 at 12:23 am
@KING-C, Don’t forget how Brown, Justin Williams, and Willie Mitchell did their contracts.
The Kings have alot of team guys.
[Reply]
It seems unanimous, everybody thinks that Doughty and/or agent are asking for too much. Can someone please tell me what they know that we dont know?
[Reply]
Bama Kings Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:53 pm
@TurboLaserDavey, Time for the trade talks to get real, though our return is minimized at this point.
[Reply]
luc20rules Reply:
September 17th, 2011 at 12:31 am
@Bama Kings, DL will sign him keep him for this year, and then like Lubo, Cammi, & others that asked for me first contracts will be traded for max value. Dean already seems a little upset as to where the negotiations have gone. Although I guess the exception to that rule was Nabokov, but then again he wasn’t a San Jose’s GM long enough to trade him for real value. Just look at DL’s history with guys that are too me first in negotiations.
If Doughty truly likes being a King he better sign quick and get a no trade clause.
[Reply]
Bluecoconuts Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:55 pm
@TurboLaserDavey, they know that the Kings will probably get off to a rocky start with a European and East cost trip to begin the season, and if we start out slow, like most teams do when they go there, we might come calling for Drew and give his agent what he wants.
[Reply]
Deke'r Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:25 pm
@Bluecoconuts, ……..no deal!
[Reply]
BlueStang Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:43 pm
@Bluecoconuts, Don’t count on it. And don’t count on a rocky start either.
[Reply]
Stratedge Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:03 pm
@TurboLaserDavey, Two words… Don Meehan.
Look at negotiations gone bad and he’s probably the agent. See: Ryan Smyth.
[Reply]
JDBiGC Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:12 pm
@TurboLaserDavey,
It’s especially bad when you consider that the signing of Myers and Schenn have basically set Doughty’s value. Myers got about $5M per season. Doughty is probably a little north of that. This is not difficult.
[Reply]
smp Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 6:14 pm
@JDBiGC, You cant be serious, can you???
Schenn is a defensive defenseman that gets about 20 points a year, and Myers isnt even close to Drew offensively either. With DD you have an elite defensive defenseman, and one of (if not the) top offensive defenseman in the league. we’re talking 60+ points probably. Schenn and Myers are good defenseman, Doughty is in the superstar category. its not even a close comparison.
[Reply]
Big Man 81 Reply:
September 17th, 2011 at 3:32 am
@smp, Myers contract is where Doughty should be, in Myers first year he had 48 pts and last year he had 37, while at the same time Doughty had 59 and 40. Myers won the Calder and is going to be a great defenseman, maybe not at the level of Doughty, but he could be. Doughty needs to take the offer that LA has given him. This is why no one has offered him a offer sheet, they knew about the deal LA offered and when he said no, red flags popped up in other GM’s heads about Doughty, all about himself and not the team. Let him sit, Voynov will get his chance to shine.
OK, I’ll start. I had a feeling that Dean was making sense before. I read his comments (good interview RIch)…… and he makes sense. Every single answer made sense.
[Reply]
Token Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:05 pm
@number 6, I’m waiting for Quisp to put a twisted interpretation on it.
[Reply]
mcsorleyfan Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 4:10 pm
@Token, Yeah, ditto… and to make MORE sense in the process..
[Reply]
geeze…i’m exhausted
[Reply]
Ok it’s official: HOLDOUT.
Meehan needs to go with Luca Brasi…
[Reply]
Alex Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:47 pm
@Stuart, so is drew.
[Reply]
This just makes me sick to my stomach ,pass the Kool aid please
[Reply]
I’m still drinking my six pack and waiting for the good news!
[Reply]
They (DL and Meehan) need to step up and become deal makers instead of deal breakers. None of them seem willing to make this happen
[Reply]
Trade his rights…he no longer deserves to play in a Kings uniform. His offer was to be over paid for his numbers. He’s coming off a mediocre year at best and will report to camp if signed just like last year out of shape and not ready to play. Grow up Drew you are over paid now and would have been grossly over paid had you signed and now ungrateful…Remember what the beach is like in Manhattan Beach with the sun and fun as you freeze this winter in the great white north… please see the meaning of team player…before signing the greedy contract.
[Reply]
Damn it!
[Reply]
I knew it. I predicted in one of my replys about Drew long ago that he would be a holdout.I don’t care if it’s 1 day or 100 days, he is officially a holdout. Many people here said that he would sign before camp, so much for that.
Can we trade him for Parise and just get this over with.
[Reply]
Elac Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:15 pm
@spidey35, Hold out Doughty for Parise, straight up. Let’s do it. Oh yea, I think New Jersey might have to go along with that deal. Not likely.
[Reply]
JDBiGC Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:14 pm
@Elac,
Parise is a UFA at the end of the season. New Jersey would need to come with a heck of a lot more than that.
[Reply]
EJ Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:16 pm
@spidey35, what makes you think that DD would be willing to sign with NJ, and what makes you think that DL could manage to sign Parise? There are not many teams that can afford either guy at this point in time.
[Reply]
SDGolfer Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:21 pm
@EJ, well it worked on NHL ’12
[Reply]
SpreignedAnkle Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:15 pm
@SDGolfer, Hahaha, nice.
DanD Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:16 pm
@spidey35, might be one of the most idiotic things I have ever heard someone say.
[Reply]
spidey35 Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:00 pm
@DanD, Really? it’s not any different than what everyone else is saying about trading him, I just put a name out there to trade for.
[Reply]
nykingfan Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:18 pm
@spidey35,
good idea and how do we handle his upcoming UFA nezxt season?
[Reply]
spidey35 Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:02 pm
@nykingfan, Without Drew, we have the cap space.
[Reply]
E-Man Reply:
September 20th, 2011 at 9:35 pm
@nykingfan, ummmm….structure a long term deal and sign him!!!! Am I missing something here…LMAO
[Reply]
E-Man Reply:
September 20th, 2011 at 9:35 pm
@nykingfan, Parise I mean
[Reply]
kennynakamoto Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:30 pm
@spidey35, No way, he only signed a 1 year contract that would be a horrible deal. He will probably fire his agent and hire Meehan and bamb! here we go again LOL =D
[Reply]
kingfish Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:55 pm
@spidey35,
Thats NOT a terrible idea spidey. actually something to think about if this keeps going. NJ needs D and we need 1st line LW, NJ has two of them
[Reply]
Deke'r Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:36 pm
@spidey35, When did Parise become a defenseman? And if you’re aware of that how does it help our defense? And if we have plenty of D-men to fill the spot what’s your point?
[Reply]
spidey35 Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:43 pm
@Deke’r, I think you made my point for me…we are deep at defense and I never said he was a defenseman.
[Reply]
My biggest takeaway from this interview: I think Dean Lombardi is completely aware that most of the fans are on his side.
[Reply]
Anjin Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:16 pm
@Eric K, I hope he continues to play hard ball.
I’m getting to the point to where a trade might be the best option IMO. Let Drew make 8mil a year on Long Island.
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:20 pm
@Anjin, I almost posted the exact same thing this morning, but I decided to give “Dru Blood” one more day in my mind to grow up and take charge of his life. Instead DD let his agent’s ego trip play out against DL at his expense.
[Reply]
Kyle Kveton Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:30 pm
@Eric K,
Fans are on DL’s side. I’ve been a DD fan (and occasional apologist for his latest antics) but enough is enough. He has a chance to be part of something special here, and if he doesn’t want that, maybe he’s not as smart as he thinks he is. He can make millions in an empty Nassau Coliseum and get creamed by the NY media every day he doesn’t play at Lidstrom-like levels.
[Reply]
WOW, I’m stunned.
This is even more ugly than I thought.
Without saying the exact numbers…he pretty much spelled out everything he has done since June.
Meehan is not going to be happy about this.
[Reply]
Brownkingsfan Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:12 pm
@deelo, Who gives a crap at this point Meehan isn’t doing anything good for Drew. Too bad. Drew Doughty has lost faith from the fans, and many of us have grown bitter toward him. Everyone loses in this non-deal. Pissing off Meehan is the least of our worries.
[Reply]
Mongo88 Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:10 pm
@Brownkingsfan, You say that now, but wait til he’s hitting game winners and carrying us in the playoffs. Then this whole holdout will be a blure.
[Reply]
Gclem Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 3:11 pm
@Mongo88,
Yep, just like last year when logan couture blew by him in the playoffs.
E-Man Reply:
September 20th, 2011 at 9:38 pm
@Mongo88, Don’t forget those missed assignments and lazy showboating turnovers in our own zone. I love this guy but come on…..he is not ELITE. IMHO JJ had a better overall year as he was much more stable and reliable which is what our goaltenders need.
Gustavo Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:18 pm
@deelo,
Pissing off Meehan worries you ?????
Focus on the team, not some malicious agent with an agenda to hurt the TEAM
[Reply]
Alex Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:29 pm
@Gustavo, Well Meehan is from Toronto…. Burk, Meehan…working together to get DD into toronto uniform…maybe????????
[Reply]
nykingfan Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:19 pm
@deelo,
**** Meehan! that’s a 4 letter word that I know would get kicked
[Reply]
Kaiser Soze Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:52 pm
@deelo, Screw Meehan. Sounds like he has a history of having his players hold out. Time to bring in Jack Bauer to finsh up the contract negotiations.
[Reply]
Great. Good to hear from DL straight up, and the honesty is always appreciated. But 3 things from his words stand out to me. 1) Now that it’s an official holdout, individual missed days of work are being counted against any contract. When that minutiae is paid attention to, it can never be good. 2) There is no contract on the table at the moment. 3) This was the #1 priority since the end of the playoffs and we’re still at this point today.
No bueno, but whatever. Let’s now focus on the team that’s training in El Segundo.
GKG
[Reply]
Dom, what say you? Will DD still sign before camp starts?
This blows!
Stay in Ontario Drew.
[Reply]
Well from that last question and comment it is kind of apparent that the problem is DD wants more money and to be honest I’m glad DL isn’t budging and is setting the max at $6.8 AAV. The TEAM is more important that Doughty. If offering him more money, which to be honest paying him as much as Kopi is wayyyy more than generous, is going to prevent us from making this team better, whether it be free agency, trades, or offering new contracts to current players, than I say let him hold out. He sounds like a greedy little punk to me. Meehan sounds like he sure as heck isn’t helping the situation at all and just making it worse by telling DD to hold out for more basically. Makes me sick that a 21 year old that hasn’t proven anything is demanding this kind of a salary. He obviously isn’t team oriented at all, and certainly doesn’t show he cares about winning. If he did he would sign the contract that is paying him way more than what he should be getting paid and he would understand that that is as high as DL can go while still being able to give us some flexibility financially and make this team a contender for years to come.
[Reply]
SDGolfer Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:28 pm
@OCKingsFan, you know i wish people quit saying DD hasn’t proven anything. we all know this isn’t true.
[Reply]
Nanette Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:07 pm
@SDGolfer, I totally agree with OCKingsFan. DD is good player, but he isn’t great. He didn’t step up the way he should have last season, especially during playoffs. And that should have been the key factor of showing what he got’s since he knew as well as his agent that contract negotiations would be happening after the season. Its sad and pathetic that he thinks he is worth more than the other players on his team and league for that matter. When all he is claiming that he has the “POTENTIAL” to be great. And that is why he worth the money he is asking for. But that’s all he is potential. He still hasn’t proven himself to the team as well as the franchise that he is worth what he claims. Sounds to me like our little golden boy became alittle to “HOLLYWOOD” with his fixated thoughts of entitlement on money, and forgot why he came here to begin with. To play for his favorite team. After all isn’t that what DD always claimed? That he always dreamed of playing for the KINGS. With that kind of money DL can find the same talent @ half the cost with a newbie from the minors that has triple the drive to prove himself half the cost. I say let DD walk…..
[Reply]
SDGolfer Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:44 pm
@Nanette, you kinda were making some good points until you said “I say let DD walk”
LOL.
also, please tell me who DL has in the minors with the same talent as DD. and if there is, why haven’t they been playing on the Kings already?
OCKingsFan Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:42 pm
@Nanette, I meant let him holdout for as long as he wants…sorry bout that…If he doesn’t want to sign for $6.8 mil a year and put us in a bind financially, which DL already eluded too then let him holdout…from all accounts it doesn’t seem like his agent is communicating all that well…and there isn’t anyone in the minors with the same talent as DD, but I don’t recall ever saying that there was or that we would be better off playing someone from the minors instead of DD…I am simply trying to say that if $6.8 mil dollars a year over 7 to 9 years is not enough for him, even though that contract offer would put him in the top 5 highest paid defenseman in the league, then let him continue to holdout and don’t up the offer because all it is going to do is put us in a bind financially for the future and not allow us the opportunity to pursue certain free agents, make certain trades, and sign in-house players in the future and that is exactly what DL has said in his interviews.
HG21 Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 9:17 pm
@Nanette, didnt DD have a concussion..?
OCKingsFan Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 3:02 pm
@SDGolfer, What has he proven exactly? please enlighten us…if it isn’t true then give some examples…and I’m not talking about winning a gold medal 2 years ago, I’m talking about in the N.H.L. He’s proven that in his sophmore year he can go from a Norris candidate to dropping significantly in his point totals and to be honest it sure looked like his defensive game was not nearly as good as it was the year before. He blew a lot more coverages, had a lot more missed assignments, a lot more lapses in judgment, and was out of position more than I had ever seen since he came into the league 3 years ago. That is why he hasn’t proven anything yet. He is a 21 year old kid that is still figuring out the N.H.L game and that is completely expected as it is with every other young kid coming into the league, but that is why it is shocking to me that he is asking for more than what we have already offered him. IMO $6.8 mil AAV for 7 to 9 years is paying for not only his current stats, but also his potential and then some. If he is indeed demanding more than that, hence this lockout, then why the heck would you want DL to offer him more than that when he has clearly stated that it would put this team in a financial bind for many years? Is the team more important to you or is DD playing at all costs more important to you? I would much rather see the team have flexibility to be able to do all they can to help us win Cups, than I would see one player get paid more than we can afford.
[Reply]
SDGolfer Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 9:27 pm
@OCKingsFan, LOL. You want me to show you what DD has proven, but you tell what me facts I can and can’t include?
I didn’t know this was your court.
OCKingsFan Reply:
September 17th, 2011 at 12:28 pm
@OCKingsFan, Dude I said you can’t include the Olympics and that was it because it is completely irrelevant to his contract negotiations with the Kings! Please, I would love for you to give me some facts and dispute my argument as to why he isn’t proven, but you just keep blabbering on instead of actually giving facts. And ya it is my court you are replying to my post last time I checked. I gave you facts of what he has done in the N.H.L. and how he shouldn’t be getting more than 6.8 mil a year, odd that you are arguing with me on paying him more because you believe he’s such an accomplished and proven player at 21 when in fact he isn’t. You really like to stall and point out that I said the Olympics don’t make you an accomplished player, and spending 3 years in the league having an up and then down season don’t make you an accomplished player, having a 20 point dip last season doesn’t make you accomplished and sure as heck doesn’t allow him to demand more than what we offered. It’s really funny that you are arguing this point and giving no facts at all and it’s even funnier that almost every Kings fan on here agrees that he is not yet accomplished and doesn’t deserve more than the contract we already offered, hence the poll that Hammond posted earlier.
OCKingsFan Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:31 pm
@OCKingsFan, The other OCKingsFan completely agrees with everything you said!
[Reply]
Bleedblueking Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:42 pm
@OCKingsFan, you dont pay for performance alone you also pay for pottential and Dd’s pottential is limitless, lombardi drafted doughty hoping he would turn out to be a phenom of great talent, now that he has turned into just that you dont want to pay him like one? How does that make sense?
[Reply]
Cry Baby Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:52 pm
@Bleedblueking, What has he proven? Because of his limitless potential the kings haven’t made it past the first round.
[Reply]
noonch Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:55 pm
@Bleedblueking, Nice try Don Meehan’s assistant.
[Reply]
Michael J. Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:03 pm
@Bleedblueking,
He is offering to pay Doughty like a “phenom” – FYI, that’s where the $6.8M comes in.
[Reply]
Deke'r Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:44 pm
@Bleedblueking, LOL….
[Reply]
jet Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:52 pm
@Bleedblueking, how many times is his name written on that round shiny, silver thing?
[Reply]
jason Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 8:13 pm
@jet, hopeflly never kings need 1 thing mirror leauge talent to step up and everybody in the league wants some of are defencemen talent from down in manchester so it time to bring it up and show what we have.
yes losing baby dd will hurt a little but i think our new forwards can make up for what he brings 40-60 points
let him hold out all season long the team will go on and we can sign him for 1 year and trade for a great draft pick
so as i said doesn’t have his name on the round shiny sliver thing yet and never as a king unless he learn how to sign his name on that dotty line thing
OCKingsFan Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:48 pm
@Bleedblueking, When did I say I didn’t want to pay him $6.8 mil? I said it was a very generous off by the Kings that shows their commitment to him. The problem is he wants more than that, hence this entire holdout situation, and also DL has made it very clear in his most recent interview that they will not go above the $6.8 AAV with Doughty because it will put the team in financial handcuffs and DL is not willing to do that and you shouldn’t want that as a Kings fan. Yes, I want DD on this team and paying him $6.8 mil a year for that long is paying like a superstar! It is the same fricken contract that Kopi has and Kopi is already a superstar! But I side with DL on this one, I would have no problem with DD signing for the contract that we are offering, but DD is holding out because he wants more and whether or not you agree that is complete greed on his part period. If he truly wanted to win and play for a team that wins, he should sign a superstar type contract, which we are already offering, and allow the Kings organization to still have financial flexibility to make the team better now and in the future.
[Reply]
i agree with DL that the focus has to be on the team now. It’s just so unfortunate, that this has to happen. I posted earlier, that DL should just get it done. I now know there is a lot more to it than that. It will get resolved I’m sure, i just hope it is not a distraction which I’m a afraid it will become. Drew, sign how much money do you really need?
[Reply]
As a gm once said, “That kid’s potential is going to get me fired.” I am with DL on this all the way. Too bad it had to end up like this. The poll ended up the way it did because DL appears to have bargained in good faith; DD and his sidekick DM, not so much.
[Reply]
So, who is going to Toyota Center tomorrow? We long distance kings need updates.
[Reply]
Dan SanDonkey Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:17 pm
@Token, Not Drew
[Reply]
kennynakamoto Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:38 pm
@Dan SanDonkey, lmao!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
[Reply]
Of course when the Kings are poised to compete, this happens. Really sucks being a Kings fan sometimes.
[Reply]
Luuuuuuuuuuc! Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:50 pm
@Dave,
Sometimes???? This is our lot in life.
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:26 pm
@Dave, Don’t know how long you’ve been a King’s fan, but trust me … this crap has been going on since 1969 when I first started following the Kings.
[Reply]
Thanks Rich! Exactly what I wanted to hear by my question on the last post. A Holdout in today’s economy will not sit well with the public. I’ve been out of work since May. DD has made his bed and now has to sleep in it too.
[Reply]
i’m taking down my doughty poster until he’s signed.
[Reply]
lame! he needs to sign already. makes no sense for him to be paid MORE THAN kopi who is undoubtedly the best player on the team right now!!!!
[Reply]
Trade him!!!!
[Reply]
Alex Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:33 pm
@Rocky in Castaic, With you 100%. Trade him, get a good return. He will realized what he and his agent did when every year come April DD will start practicing his golf swing.
[Reply]
Jack The Lad Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:48 pm
@Rocky in Castaic, If we trade him, you’ll regret it for the next 15 years.
[Reply]
johnjuan Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:16 pm
@Jack The Lad,
Trade Him !
He is not worth 5 mil much less 6.8 There are many D-men better than Drew right now. The future is promised to nobody.
[Reply]
E-Man Reply:
September 20th, 2011 at 9:49 pm
@Jack The Lad, If we sign him for what he wants, we will REALLY regret it for the next 15 years. Not being a homer when I state that this is a very good team “WITH OR WITHOUT” Doughty. I love this group of guys, and ANYONE that messes with the chemistry we have going needs to be dealt wioth accordingly….I don’t care if he thinks he IS the second coming of Bobby Orr…I doubt the defensemenn for Detroit and Boston etc. are losing any sleep over this guy.
[Reply]
Can someone help me sharpen my pitchfork?
[Reply]
Dave Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:10 pm
@KH, Only if you help me light my torch.
[Reply]
BrokeKingsFan Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:13 pm
@Dave, Ill grab the dogs and the sawed off!
[Reply]
E-Dog Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:46 pm
@KH,
Uh oh lynch mob time. Forget the pitch fork. Grab your sharpest hockey stick.
[Reply]
After getting out of the hospital, reading this makes me sick all over again. DD should not become a distraction to the rest of the team. I can’t believe this is happening when we have a legitimate chance at a deep playoff run & possible chance at the cup. I was always behind DD but he is just wrong to do this. DL, do not offer 1 more penny at this point. Let DD hold out all year & take away his livelihood. Let DD play far away in Europe but do not trade his rights. No NHL for DD until he gets his head out of you know where. I think it’s time to set a deadline for DD to sign or he is OUT of the NHL for the year & we as a team can move on & this can be addressed again next off season. GO KINGS GO!!!
[Reply]
Jack The Lad Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:50 pm
@King Alex, It’s really not a distraction to the players. There still going to do their jobs. It’s a distraction to the fans.
[Reply]
King Alex Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:03 pm
@Jack The Lad, It will become a team distraction when every player is asked about the DD situation through camp & the season. LA media might not bring it up much but in other hockey cities they will.
[Reply]
Michael J. Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:06 pm
@Jack The Lad,
It’s a distraction alright. The players are saying all the right things, but we have to know that they know that Doughty is screwing up a good thing.
[Reply]
He can be replaced just as everyone else in the league can. Just as someone had posted yesterday … he is now becoming more of a distraction. Do I hope he gets signed sure but not at the cost of the disruption of the rest of the team. It can’t help team chemistry either.
[Reply]
how many times have i seen players, just recently in football, a player signs late into training camp, and almost immediately gets injured. i hope not.
[Reply]
Sounds like the Kings are willing to pay high dollar amount for short or long term contract, whereas Meehan wants midterm (quickest to UFA) and likely still, top dollar.
If everything adds up the way it appears based on everything we’ve heard before along with this recent interview, it’s hard to be on Doughty’s side with this one.
Screw you Yzerman!!
[Reply]
number 6 Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:25 pm
@Helvetica,
Helvetica…. really like your post. It’s what I’ve thought all along. Just didn’t get the problem with Yzerman. Is it because Stamkos signed for five years?
[Reply]
Helvetica Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:15 pm
@number 6, yeah, i was mostly kidding with the screw you Yzerman comment, but the small bit of truth to it, is that i think it sort of opened the possibility for the short line to UFA while still getting high dollars. Basically, Yzerman caved and now were feeling the ripple effect. I’m thinking that Stamkos contract wasn’t important because of the dollar figure (as a lot of people discussed), but because of the length of the contract.
At the end of all this, i dont think the dollar figures were all that much effected by the Stamkos and Webber deals. I imagine Lombardi knew the amount he was planning to offer well before hand (as evidenced by his claim of pushing hard to sign by July 1st). What meehan was waiting for was for Yzerman to cave on the Stamkos contract length so he could use that as leverage on the Doughty deal.
[Reply]
I have a feeling this has not so much to do about Drew and his commitment to the team but perhaps more about a pissing match between DL and Meehan. Meehan screwed with DL before and he’s doing it again…maybe only for his own (Meehan) personal gain. Drew needs to step up and do the right thing, unless of course his dream of playing here was all just a bunch of B.S.
[Reply]
RobSD Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:50 pm
@blueliner,
DL is thinking long term and has offered what is best for the team, which is plenty of money for DD who could potentially play like ass the next 5 years. Ryan Leaf? He is fat and likes to party. Isn’t committed to the team. DL and DM certainly have a history that could be coming into play. But what it comes down to is that DD makes the final decision. DM works for DD. If I was already a 21 year old millionaire and with the talent he has, I couldn’t wait to get on the ice. Especially with this new team. I miss playing in my Tuesday adult league when I miss the games. Just the comradarie and fun. This is just really sad. It really makes me question DD’s future as a King and his dedication to the game and winning. As good as he might be, I would rather take a guy with heart and a little less skilled than a fat, lazy, spoiled kid who has everything handed to him. I of course want him to play but am against any trade. Make him sit like a bad kid. Make him lose out on millions because he is being childish.
[Reply]
Deke'r Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:53 pm
@blueliner, Don’t think Drew will, he’s a kid and all he sees is $$$$. His pick up line of “I’m a pro hockey player” didn’t work so he’s thinking “I’m the highest paid player on the team” will.
[Reply]
Let Doughty sit out. The Kings offer is more than generous for this guy. He’s 21 years old and, although he has shown signs of brilliance, he’s not consistent. I think that most everyone will agree that he took a step backward last year and made a number of mistakes that cost the Kings goals. At this stage, he’s not worth what Kopitar is making and the fact that he’s demanding that kind of money is insane. Put up several years of incredible numbers and THEN try to get your huge payday. Teams should not have to pay for potential. Moreover, the Kings are going to have to resign Quick and Bernier in the next year or two and who knows what the cap will be after this season. Let Doughty spend his season eating Big Macs and watching hockey on tv if $6.8 million/season isn’t enough for him. I hope that DL doesn’t cave on this one.
[Reply]
RobSD Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:52 pm
@Jeff,
I couldn’t agree more!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Bear claws and crillers for that greedy pudger
[Reply]
Agents doing their job for the Player – but forgetting to consul them on the big picture once again.
The Player has to consider what it means for him and his team and teammates and fans, to hold out.
Drew is really really young still – I don’t know if he is getting solid advice from good people (other players) or if he is listening to too much chatter from agents.
As a whole – Hockey is stacked full of character guys – guys who love the game, love to compete and love the team and fans and who are thankful for the opportunity to just play at this level.
When a Player behaves like Drew is behaving – no matter how legit he might feel his behavior is – it stands out as an example of bad behavior especially in the NHL.
In the NBA and the NFL it’s typical behavior Holding out. But it really is rare in Hockey and it sucks that Drew is being shortsighted – I think he was going to make more money than he probably ever imagined he would have if he signed any of the deals before him.
To hold out just to have the badge of the Highest paid King – that just rubs it in the face of his teammates and the fans.
No matter how political his teammate are with their comments – I think there is no doubt some of them are looking at him going – “Man – what are you looking for – why don’t you just sign and get here and start playing”.
Drew is already losing the fans (note the poll earlier) and if he loses the lockerroom – then he is not going to enjoy his paycheck as much as he would have if he signed two weeks ago – no matter how much more he makes.
And you can be sure any mistake he makes on the ice – will be magnified by the press and the fans to the 10th degree if he holds the team hostage much longer.
I want him to be a part of the team – but Alec Martinez did fantastic – JJ is amazing, Clifford stellar – what can I say – Greener, Scuds. I mean we’re fine without him.
Better with him – but Not bad without –
I just hope he sees that.
[Reply]
Just printed my 5 tickets for Frozen Fury and i’m stoked. I have friends from Chicago, LA, and San Jose all meeting in Vegas. It’s a tradition we all started 7 years ago. Anyway, back to Doughty.
[Reply]
BrokeKingsFan Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:35 pm
@408kingsfan, Cool! See you there
[Reply]
jet Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:58 pm
@BrokeKingsFan, wow, a house on the sand in redondo beach, and now flying off to vegas for the week. how do you do it broke
[Reply]
BrokeKingsFan Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:23 pm
@jet, I wish i had a house on the sand in redondo! I live in Lomita to be exact and im not sure if your familiar with the area but not exactly beach city caliber(still a nice place to live though with decent rental rates). Im driving to Vegas with a car full of people whom i had to share/split lodging with just to be able to go and not have to spend the night on the vegas streets. Make no qualms about it……..I am Broke but make things happen when needed, especially to see our KINGS!
DD and his agent have big egos … They need a reality check.
[Reply]
number 6 Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:27 pm
@jofa6000,
you think?
[Reply]
jofa6000 Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:12 pm
@number 6, its really sad to see greed play such a big roll.
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:36 pm
@jofa6000, I think this is more about ego than greed. DD is a pawn for Meehan’s “big picture” not DD’s big picture. Meehan is sending a message to all the owners in the league with this one. DD’s just being used by his agent as a small pawn piece of agent’s own agenda.
Great interview Rich.. DL stand your ground. DD does not deserve more than $6,000,000 a year. Trade him and get someone who wants to be a King in training camp. Look at Shenn, he wasn’t signed till tihs morning but showed up in Toronto early this week to be with the guys in town. DD grow up and be a team player not a money hungry greaty player. Your agent is ruining your reputation. Why don’t you talk with the pitcher Weaver on the Angels roster. He gave up $10,000,000 because he wanted to be with LA and be a team player. The true DD is now coming out.
[Reply]
What’s sad is that Drew is probably not the one who is really holding out. I see his agent having more of an incentive to hold out, but Drew is going to receive all the backlash from the fans. WHen he does show up, he will have to be at a new level to get people back on his side.
[Reply]
I’m over it. Trade him.
[Reply]
DD is a big diva, who doesn’t want to get paid $25000 per day for the next 7 years but thinks he needs $26000! what an a…
[Reply]
These guys always talk about winning the cup. You can get you due but you need to leave enough to have quality players around you. He can’t even use the “I got to take of my family” line! Sign already
[Reply]
What I want to know is how Don Meehan became all these different players agent.
[Reply]
number 6 Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:28 pm
@Subby,
He read Scott Boras autobiography.
[Reply]
WhatHappendedToKingston? Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 6:04 pm
@number 6, I’d like to see DD do to Meehan what A-Rod did with Boras. Fire the greedy agent, sign a reasonable offer, and win back all the fans in the process.
[Reply]
I’m loving it!
Even without Doughty we are a serious cup contender, plus we will contend with over $9m in the bank for mid-season additions.
I don’t think any club has been knocking on cup contention without pegging the cap.
This is an extra spicy season!!!
[Reply]
Jack The Lad Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:55 pm
@Token, I agree, Voynov can take DD’s spot on the roster. Then with the extra cash we can pick up an experienced Dman at the trade deadline if we need to.
[Reply]
crazy Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 6:08 pm
@Jack The Lad,
Don’t forget about Drewiske.He does a pretty good job on the 3rd D pairing.
I’d really love to hear that DD fired Meehan, hired a new agent and signed a contract.
[Reply]
Deke'r Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:00 pm
@Token, That’s what I’m talkin about…
[Reply]
i am getting more angry by the minute, i think im going to just go about MY BUSINESS just like DL said we all should and focus on the season ahead.
So that being said, who fills DD’s spot? Voynov may have the edge because he plays a similar game, but who else would be a candidate here? Ive heard Voynov is the fastest player in the AHL and the new NHL is all about speed. Hickey should be ready to prove what he has and might be a good fit, but I dont think he has the offensive upside and QB ability that DD has. Muzzin is NHL ready, but again may not be the mold to fill this hole. what you all think? who will make the roster?
[Reply]
Token Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:32 pm
@tornado12, Who is a right hand shot?
Voynov is for sure. Anyone else?
[Reply]
tornado12 Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:56 pm
@Token, does it have to be a RH shot? I think he is the only one that might be ready. in fact, I cant find another RH shot in the mix…anyone?
here is what hockeys future has to say about him
21 y/o
5’11″ 193 lbs
History
2007-08: Built on his successful 2006-07 Super League debut with a strong 2007-08 Super League season. He also continued to play for Russia’s U20 squad at the World Championships and helped Russia win the silver medals at the U18 World Junior Championships. The games against the Canadians during the Super Series and in the U18 WJC finals were the main dark spots on Voynov’s resume. However while there is little excuse for what happened at the U18 WJC, the young defenseman was one or Russia’s brighter spots during the Super Series, as he was able to match the Canadians physically and control the game better than some of his teammates.
2008-09: Signing with the Kings shortly after being drafted, Voynov was assigned to Manchester of the AHL where he would spend the entire season as one of the best defensemen for the Monarchs. A rare 18-year-old in AHL, Voinov more than held his own and was occasionally the best defenseman on the ice for Manchester in leading all defensemen with eight goals and 23 points.
2009-10: in his second season with the Manchester Monarchs, Voynov posted 10 goals and 19 assists in 79 regular season appearances. He also played in 9 playoff games for the Monarchs, posting 1 goal and 3 assists.
Talent Analysis
A talented universal defenseman whose offensive abilities have been compared to that of Kiril Koltsov, but also possesses defensive responsibility, something that Koltsov lacks…an above average skater with good technique, but has only average acceleration and needs to improve his first step…a capable puck handler, capable of bringing the puck up the ice…doesn’t shoot the puck as often as he should in the offensive zone, but does have a decent slap shot from the blue line….capable of quarterbacking a powerplay with some nice feeds and calm puck management…capable of playing physical hockey and taking the game to his opponents, even if he is smaller than them in stature…capable of making nice open ice hits, but doesn’t hit in the open ice as often as he should…strong positionally, but at times can be caught out of position, especially in the neutral zone if he decides to take a chance on the play and create an offensive chance for his linemates…not very big, thus putting to question his ability to fully adopt his skill-set to North American hockey, though he has proven his ability to play well in traffic and under pressure…very mature for his age, getting significant minutes against professionals in the Super League from the age of just 16…sees the ice very well and understands the game, making very good decisions with and without the puck
[Reply]
Token Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:03 pm
@tornado12, Two years in a row to the AHL allstars is a pretty good indicator. Great +- also, at +21 he is the anti-JMFJ.
GP G A PTS +/- PIM PP SHG SOG SH%
76 15 36 51 21 36 7 0 189 7.9
RobBordson Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:57 pm
@Token, I think Martinez will get more minutes, which is fine by me.
[Reply]
kingfish Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:53 pm
@tornado12,
Heard Muzz didnt look so good in the game last night, looks like he needs another year in manch. probably voynov
or hickey
[Reply]
tornado12 Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:05 pm
@kingfish, he looked good in stints last year and im sure had improved since with a solid year in the NHL. again, is he the mold we need at that spot?
[Reply]
tornado12 Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:06 pm
@tornado12, NHL=AHL
Token Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:48 pm
@tornado12, Nah, mildew maybe, but not mold.
Token Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:57 pm
@tornado12, Here is my take on things: Rotate the rookies as needed with Drewiskey, and bring up Muzzin & Deslaurier for a few cups of coffee to figure out the two keepers.
CAPGEEK.COM CAP CALCULATOR
FORWARDS
Dustin Penner ($4.250m) / Anze Kopitar ($6.800m) / Justin Williams ($3.650m)
Simon Gagne ($3.500m) / Mike Richards ($5.750m) / Dustin Brown ($3.175m)
Kyle Clifford ($0.870m) / Jarret Stoll ($3.600m) / Scott Parse ($0.900m)
Ethan Moreau ($0.600m) / Brad Richardson ($1.175m) / Trevor Lewis ($0.725m)
/ / Kevin Westgarth ($0.525m)
DEFENSEMEN
Jack Johnson ($4.357m) / Rob Scuderi ($3.400m)
Willie Mitchell ($3.500m) / Vyacheslav Voinov ($0.816m)
Alec Martinez ($0.737m) / Matt Greene ($2.950m)
Thomas Hickey ($1.316m) / Davis Drewiske ($0.616m)
GOALTENDERS
Jonathan Quick ($1.800m) / Jonathan Bernier ($1.250m)
CAPGEEK.COM TOTALS (follow @capgeek on Twitter)
(these totals are compiled without the bonus cushion)
SALARY CAP: $64,300,000; CAP PAYROLL: $56,264,643; BONUSES: $635,000
CAP SPACE (23-man roster): $8,035,357
[Reply]
Tullskull Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:03 pm
@tornado12, I have not seen much of Voynov, but an important issue to consider is what is his patience level? Will he become frustrated if he has no real chance to play in the NHL for several more years and wants to go back home? I know he was committed in the past but a player needs some hope and this also goes for Lokti. These guys need to know that the Kings have real plans for them.
That being said Tornado, I think you might be mistaken regarding Hickey and PP-QB ability. He is solid. Easily one of the best in the organization. Maybe THE best. I know many have written him off but this guy has heart and character and integrity that does not show up on the score sheet. I am still confident that he can be an asset, especially for his ability to QB a power play.
[Reply]
tornado12 Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 5:05 pm
@Tullskull, well taken tullskull.
I agree about giving some of these young guys a taste to prove what they got, look what happened to Bud Holloway. I really wanted him on our club this year and i believe he had a great shot.
RE- TH. i like him and believe he will play in the NHL, but frankly the offensive production is not there yet (24 pts in 77 games last season). I mention his QB ability because it is touted as one of his strong suites, yet he had 0 goals on the PP last year. albeit he has had some injury issues that have hampered his development. He was also a plus player last season, is a strong skater and has high hockey IQ IMO. As my friend puck73 has also reminded me, he has been a leader at every level including captaining the world junior gold medal championship team in 2009.
[Reply]
It seems like DL & the execs are physically and emotionally tapped out with this entire situation. I’m sure everyone shares the same feeling of can we please just get this resolved and move forward. I personally think the Kings have offered Doughty a deal that is more than fair. I really want to believe that Doughty isn’t the one holding things up and that Meehan is the one being firm, but either way the fact remains that Meehan works FOR DD. If Doughty truly wanted to get this over and be a part of this team from Day 1 of training camp he could have told Meehan to accept the offer at any time. No doubt that Drew is an incredible player and may some day be a legend, but he’s had one good season and he still has to do the work to show he deserves the cash. Please Drew, don’t make this any worse… I really want to move on and rinse this bad taste out of my mouth. Let’s Go Kings!
[Reply]
I sincerely hate having been right all along….what a waste of talent!
[Reply]
Just trade him and get it over with, i’m tired of these games he’s playing, or his agent, either or/one and all, he obviously doesnt care about the team as a whole, get somebody who does
[Reply]
anyone wearing a doughty jersey to wednesdays game at staples, please feel free to wear a brown paper bag over your head. luckily for me i decided to spend my money on a quick jersey
[Reply]
Lewes Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 4:34 pm
@KH, Mines heading closer to the trashcan every day.
[Reply]
I do not not know why, but this reminds me Kovalchuk….Greedy….6.8Mil, take and play unless you want to be Kovalchuk “highest payed player in NHL”
[Reply]
Subby Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:30 pm
@Alex, Doughtychuk? ahah jk
[Reply]
Alex Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:35 pm
@Subby, You got it.
[Reply]
agree with just about everyone, but i don’t think the kings are “fine’ without him. Doughty is a huge part of this team. And will be for a long time (hopefully).
[Reply]
Caleb C Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 4:18 pm
@smiley,
how is he a huge part of this team? he barely helped at all last season
[Reply]
if doughty wants to be locked up for even 7.2 over 7-9 years, I do believe thats a good contract. 5 yrs, no way. However, sign him for 5 if you must(Schenn Stamkos). But the salary cap increases every year, and while the new CBA looms, lets not kid ourselves, the state of the game is strong(Forbes Magazine). U dont win Stanley Cups without that go to dman(Niedermayer Pronger Chara Lidstrom Gonchar). As strong as our d is, Doughty is that go to guy. He had a slow start last season, but a strong finish, and the consensus out there is that he is one of those special dmen that are few and far apart. How many dmen have put up close to 90pts over a two year period?? forwards come and go, and the elite forward pool is significantly deeper than the dmen pool. Vancouver with all the offense in the world couldnt get passed a bunch of middle of the pack forwards with solid dmen patrolling and of course tim thomas. And why does everyone say that you cant pay a player based on potential, but in the same breath you want him to sign long term with a team that has huge potential. LA KINGS zero cups, awful winning percentage, and no real dedication to winning, until now-hopefully. Suddenly we act as if we are the Red Wings and players should know that(Hossa? Heatley? Chara? Gaborik? Kovalchuk? Brad Richards?). Maybe we should win before we boast such a chip on our shoulders. You really think Mike Richards would have signed a 10 yr 5.5 Mill per year deal with LA? Youre dreaming. While Im super frustrated about this, I am frustrated with both parties. As team mgmnt, its your job to lock up the franchise dman. Take a lesson from Stevie Y…You get it done. The future is now in Los Angeles, we have waited too long, we have the best team we’ve had in years, maybe even ever. Sign DD, win a cup, maybe two, and see then if he wants to dedicate his career to the crown. You dont trade DD, and you dont let him sit at home. People say he is becoming a cancer, we are terminal without him.
[Reply]
Alex Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:38 pm
@justin, I do not believe he is worth that kind of money. And now that he is showing how greedy he is and what his priority’s are. Take the offer from the table. We have enough talent in the minors.
[Reply]
justin Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:49 pm
@Alex, is chara worth it? Maybe Ottawa thinks so now that he has his ring. Hypothetically, what is the league’s best dman worth?? Remember now, dfense wins championships. Who’s gonna eat up all those minutes, and pp minutes? dont tell me JMFJ and his perennial minus play
[Reply]
Brooklyn KIng Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:00 pm
@justin,
All ‘Stevie Y’ did was give himself the biggest headache he’s ever had after the 5 years. He’s stupid, not visionary. Why in the world would you let your potential franchise player hit free agency his first year eligible. The Schenn and Stamkos contracts are bad for their respective teams, and bad for the NHL.
[Reply]
justin Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:11 pm
@Brooklyn KIng, bc they realized they were handcuffed, and hope to prove their potential to the respective players within that 5 yr window. The kings are in a far better position to do so than the lightning and leafs over a 5 yr window. If DD isnt interested in that hometown discount yet, ask him again after we finally win something. We can win the cup with DD, soon real soon. And maybe even more than one, we are poised to be good for a long time. Prove it to him, then get your discount if thats the way he wants it. DL did pay Kopi for his potential, he put up the points, but had a down 2nd year, and was a liability defensively up until this year.
[Reply]
justin Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:25 pm
@Brooklyn KIng, whats worse the lightning with stamkos now or without him
[Reply]
Brooklyn KIng Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 3:10 pm
@justin, A little short term suffering is a much better option, than losing the face of the franchise in 5 years. I’d rather go shorter term, less money, and get another RFA contract negotiation in before I’d let ‘said’ player walk/negotiate his first year eligible. It’s a bad offer, plain and simple. Great for the player, bad for the fans/franchise.
Brooklyn KIng Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 3:13 pm
@justin, Also, if you are dilusional enough to think DD is going to give any sort of hometown discount after this fiasco, you are wrong. The kid is looking for top dollar having barely proved anything. You think if we win a cup, he’s going to look for less, or even a fair deal. Forget it.
justin Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:17 pm
@justin, oh well i guess its back to video game stanley cups…where i locked up drew for 8 yrs at 6mill….sucka!!!!
[Reply]
Belexes Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:42 pm
@justin,
Finally someone who gets it. Thank you for your well thought out, and accurate post because I’m just getting real tired of the Doughty hate.
[Reply]
From what I have read the only reason why this is a holdout is a frigging $200K/year? I’ve read that Kings offered 6.8M a year while Doughty and Meehan wanted 7M/year for 7years..I have alot of respect when it comes to DD as a player but holding out just because of 200K/year diffence is not even funny..I still cant believe that $200K is preventing him from playing his favorite sport and playing for the tean that he really love..
[Reply]
colo king fan Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:29 pm
@lakingsphan0427, make no mistake. its about term. drew wants the one term that the Kings wont give him.
[Reply]
BrokeKingsFan Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:40 pm
@colo king fan, like they say “you always want what you cant have”
[Reply]
colo king fan Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:49 pm
@BrokeKingsFan,
“you cant always get what you want”
I like the Stones one better.
Caleb C Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 4:20 pm
@lakingsphan0427,
that $200k is the money that he has to pay Meehan
[Reply]
Neither side is blameless in this mess.
When DD signs, he’ll be welcomed back with open arms. Nobody should be faulted for wanting as much as they can get..nobody should be faulted for wanting to keep the budget within reasdon.
Everybody’s at fault because training camp started today!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The whole thing just pisses me off to no end!
[Reply]
dang. Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:27 pm
@nykingfan, thats the thing. he isn’t gonna get any more money. enough is enough. he needs to sign already.
[Reply]
number 6 Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:33 pm
@nykingfan,
Hi Man. I have to say that I agree/disagree with you. Sure no one should be faulted for asking $15M per year if you want. But if it’s Meehan it’s being totally inflexible (which seems the case) but the buck really stops with Doughty as Meehan works for Doughty.
Depends how you want to see it. It’s not even like ‘in this economic environment …. blah blah blah’. Most people don’t make $6.8M in their lifetime…… and especially while doing something they love to do.
It’s not pretty.
[Reply]
Brooklyn KIng Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:04 pm
@nykingfan,
Nobody should cheer or boo Drew. Whenever he eventually plays, and scores a goal, the whole arena should just go quiet in protest to Drew’s behavior. He frankly doesn’t deserve the money or accolades at this point.
[Reply]
I’m over this crap! Enough is enough. I used to care how long the contract was going to be (either 2 year or 9-10 years, didnt want a 5-7 year). My Doughty jeresey will not leave my closet this year or next year or the year after that.
[Reply]
the 200,000 dollars that is keeping doughty from signing will be gone with 8 days of holdout from him.
[Reply]
Head + Wall = Me with headache. Make it stoooop Drew, sign! heh.
[Reply]
Howe 9 Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:32 pm
@TheCrazyWhls,
What did you say?
[Reply]
Head + Wall = Me with headache. Make it stoooop Drew, sign! heh.
[Reply]
Howe 9 Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:33 pm
@TheCrazyWhls,
Oh, thanks.
[Reply]
puddle Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 3:22 pm
@Howe 9, LOL
[Reply]
It really comes down to a very simple question: is any single player worth mortgaging the team’s long-term future and salary cap flexibility? To me, the answer is definitely no.
Drew Doughty is a great defenseman to be sure. He has serious potential to become one of the top players in the NHL. But Dean Lombardi should stand his ground in these (stalled) negotiations. Doughty is still young, has shown some inconsistency, and has had some injury and motivation issues. Lombardi should give him a drop-dead deadline and then explore trade possibilities. The Kings have enough talent on the roster and in the system (not to mention what a trade might bring) to compensate for losing Doughty. We don’t want to end up like the Blackhawks, essentially going all-in for one shot at the Cup and then face losing multiple key components of the team. Long-term success in the NHL requires careful planning, acute salary cap manipulation, and a commitment on the part of the organization and players to sacrifice in both the short- and long-term. The Kings are on the verge of being that kind of team. Let’s not blow it now by breaking the bank to sign Doughty.
Don’t get me wrong–I would love to keep him. It would make the Kings a major factor for the Cup…not just this year, but for the forseeable future. Let’s just hope this gets resolved one way or another by the time the season starts. We don’t need any distractions right out of the gate.
Three more weeks…
[Reply]
justin Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:36 pm
@AJ, dd is in a class by himself which is why negotiations have stalled so badly…the only way u trade a DD is for a stamkos crosby malkin or ovechkin. he is that important…youll see, and hopefully youll see it in a kings uni
[Reply]
Deke'r Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 3:09 pm
@justin, I doughty it!
[Reply]
Have you noticed more and more bloggers are no longer in DD’s corner? DD your reputaion is dropping by the minute to being recoganized as a money hungry little imature child. Grow up and understand making $6,000,000 a year is not bad. There are alot of Americans who would love to make $50,000 a year. You have become a pure bred joke.
[Reply]
justin Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:45 pm
@gene, but you applaud dbrown for taking a “meager” 3.5 million?? your beef is with pro sports…chat it up with the commisioner.
[Reply]
Brooklyn KIng Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:17 pm
@justin,
Dustin Brown took a contract that was very fitting of his experience at the time, while taking a bit of a discount for the security of the length. That’s exactly what most hockey players do. On Brownies next contract he will be rewarded for his free agent years, level of play and dedication to the team.
So ‘Pro Sports’ MIGHT be to blame for an individuals greedy actions, but this is hockey. A traditionally blue collar sport, filled with character guys, passion for the game, and strong family bonds. To be a childish prima donna in a world of warriors, you are going to look like an ass. How many fan’s do you think Kovalchuk has right now? More people revel in his failure now, than appreciate anything he’s done in the past.
[Reply]
justin Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:23 pm
@Brooklyn KIng, ovechkin with 9+ cap hit has plenty of fans right now
E-Man Reply:
September 20th, 2011 at 9:55 pm
@justin, Ovechkin……REALLY???? Drew Doughty can’t carry Ovechkin’s lunch!
gene Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 5:22 pm
@justin, Have no clue what you are talking about. D Brown signed a very fair contract and has proven to be 100% king. Unlike DD who is only money hungry and doesnt care about being a king.
[Reply]
kennynakamoto Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:58 pm
@gene, I’m almost at the 50k mark maybe i should holdout at my job and see how far it gets me =D
[Reply]
gene Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 5:21 pm
@kennynakamoto, Before you do that, need to hirer a greedy agent.
[Reply]
“Well, I don’t know. Like I said, there’s no doubt this kid loves the game and loves this team. It’s disappointing.”
BS he loves money over the game or the team. DL is doing his best not to throw DD under the bus. I agree with DL, there’s a season coming up around the corner with a couple of games in Europe. There’s the team’s prep for the upcoming season. The offer’s are out there and they’ve spent tons of time on this egomaniac kid. It’s time to get busy for the season and if he wants to come on board, great but you gotta get ready for the season and go with plan B which is not having DD on the blue line.
[Reply]
Its been sooooo long since this team has been considered a cup contender…and now this ! After a summer of expectations its so dissapointing to have this happening. It just seems like we cant ever get things going. I know this…if Doughty doesnt sign soon and the team struggles early on…he will find himself in Rob Blake territory. A great player whose contract issues hurt his team and turned the fans against him. It may not be fair, but thats the way it seems to go here.
[Reply]
Is it too late to trade him for Lubo?
Just kidding.. sorta.
I hope a deal gets done quickly. I hate the idea of a guy waltzing into the locker room after training camp has ended.
[Reply]
Caleb C Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 4:21 pm
@jordan,
I love Lubo! lets pick him and someone else up hahaha
[Reply]
These negotiations are not between Drew and the Kings but between Drew’s agent (who has every incentive to ask top $$$ for a number of obvious reasons including his current and future stable of players) and the Kings management. That being said, I don’t think Drew is a player who lacks heart (remember him on the backend of Team Canada??) or character.
[Reply]
justin Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:59 pm
@Justin, agreed…DD at 21 was guilty of turning the puck over only because he was trying to put the team on his shoulders, which he was green lighted to do. he’s only beginning to find his game, and we havent even sniffed his true potential.
[Reply]
E-Man Reply:
September 20th, 2011 at 10:01 pm
@justin, Putting the team on his shoulders??? LOL….Dustin Brown, JJ, Kopi, Quick, JW, etc etc etc….you know THE VETS & THE TEAM Players may disagree that he “carried the team”. Constantly utilizing the “SPINNERAMA” and not looking before making a pass is why he turned the puck over. He is a defenseman, Not Kopi. Get the puck out and make the good first pass…not that difficult. If he could stabilize his play, then MAYBE he will live up to some of that potential. But judging by his lack of team play with this contract situation shows me he has learned NOTHING!
[Reply]
Jumblehead Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:57 pm
@Justin, It may just be me, but I am really tired of hearing about how well the player played in the olympics. The international ice surface is huge, which let him exercise his skating and stick handling abilities in ways that just don’t translate to the NHL game. Besides the fact he was on a team of superstars that would beat an all star team from any other or all the other countries 6-7 times out of 10. Of course he was able to shine in that enviornment. It does not translate to how his game will,over time, mature into an NHL style game. Or for that matter, how the player himself matures into a man. His play in the olympics should in no way be used as a negotiation point in this contract, because it doesn’t have anything to do with how the player can contribute to the LOS ANGELES KINGS!!!!!!!!!!!!
[Reply]
Holy crap, in two days he would be making more $ than the majority of people in the US do in a whole year (without the summers off). Sorry, I realize that player salaries are all relative, but man, it is hard to feel bad for professional athletes these days.
/non sequitur
[Reply]
It all boils down to the character of our athletes. There are the Kopitars, jack Johnsons, and Jarod Weavers of this world, who take fair money to stay with their team. Then there are the Doughtys, Kovys, and Texeiras who are all about money and greed, who create problems for their teams that they supposedly love. This is such a disgrace. I thought Doughty would be better than that. I was wrong. Looks like another of our prized prospects is about to be let go.
[Reply]
Kings Fan In Temecula Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:39 pm
@Jadedtool, yeah and remember, JJ went and negotiated by HIMSELF and did what he thought was for the best and it ended up working to everyones benefit, ya gotta love that can do attitude
[Reply]
RobBordson Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:10 pm
@Kings Fan In Temecula, I actually thanked him for that at Hockeyfest when I saw him. I told him that he earned the respect of a lot of fans.
[Reply]
BrokeKingsFan Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:43 pm
@Jadedtool, seems your not so Jaded afterall! I agree 6.8mil%
[Reply]
Doughty: We want 5 years so I can cash in my UFA payday as soon as possible.
Lombardi: How bout 6 years?
Doughty: 5.
Lombardi: Well, how bout 9 then, and we’ll pay you well for them.
Doughty: My wallet, err, my agent.. still says 5.
Lombardi: 8?
Doughty: 5.
3 months later…
Lombardi: You get a chance to mull over that new offer? We think the terms and money are very generous.
Doughty: That one, that isn’t for 5 years? I saw it. And the answer is still no.
Lombardi: Fine. Go **** yourself.
(note: that last line probably didn’t happen, but I wish it would.)
[Reply]
If you read comments from lots of other hockey fans besides kings about the situation they all used to regard Doughty as so high and great of a player but everyone has been saying”they’re losing respect for him”
Another interesting thought to throw out… what teams would actually pay Doughty 7mil+?
[Reply]
colo king fan Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:37 pm
@Subby, dumb ones. so that leaves the New York Rangers.
[Reply]
justin Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:01 pm
@colo king fan, try the detroit red wings who would jump at the chance to replace Lidstrom with him.
[Reply]
colo king fan Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:04 pm
@justin, DD is NOT Nick Lidstrom. Not yet, anyway..
E-Man Reply:
September 20th, 2011 at 10:05 pm
@justin, The wings are very good at FINDING talent and grooming a “work ethic” they do not need to pay so much for a guy with great “POTENTIAL”. I am hoping the KINGS are building towards the same thing.
justin Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:14 pm
@colo king fan, and the kings arent the red wings, not yet anyway…Ken Holland was quoted as saying DD is poised to be the next Lidstrom. Thats pretty strong words from the Red Wing GM
[Reply]
colo king fan Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:18 pm
@justin, so you handcuff yourself with his salary, and then what if he just takes the money and phones it in – you get last years drew doughty against a 7M cap hit? That sounds great. Jesus himself could come down from the clouds and anoint him the next bobby orr but until you see it on the ice you don’t mortgage the rest of the team for one guy.
justin Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:30 pm
@justin, in DD’s short career, hes had a slow half, that was it. he was a warrior in the playoffs both years, and is only 21. its not 2005 7 mill does not mortgage a team. Our ENITRE core is locked up and we still have ten mill in cap space.
You know at first I wasn’t worried about the signing…I thought maybe Drew was trying to get a long-term contract and perhaps LA wanted a shorter one. You know Drew saying “Hey lock me up for 20 years at 20 million with an absolutely no trade to any team what so ever contract, I love this team and grew up a fan of Wayne Gretzky and LA so I want to always always play on this team and win a cup for them.” And LA saying “Well Kid that’s great but 20 years is too long and we need to keep our options open.” And then after a month or two with the unveiling of the new jerseys ( which I have mixed feelings for…I think they should have brought back the silver and black jersey instead of trying to modify it)I thought maybe Doughty wanted that part of his contract…”OK guys what if I sigh a shorter contract but we bring back the retro 90′s jersey we use to actually win in with Gretzky…” and then LA saying…”OK that works out but we still need to finalize some things…”. But now Doughty wants a lot of money and all this time I thought he wanted to be a team player.
I’m guessing this has something to do with idolizing Rob Blake I bet :S
Oh and another thing from me way up in the hometown of Doughty (a.k.a London)…
I use to prefer Doughty over Johnson and wished Jack Johnson would improve his game like Doughty but now its reversed…Johnson seems to be a better player and I wished Doughty would take a lesson from him.
[Reply]
colo king fan Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:55 pm
@Christopher from Canada,
If the idea of doing something that even 99 couldn’t do – bring a cup to LA – isn’t enough motivation for DD then I’m not sure I want him on the team at all.
[Reply]
E-Man Reply:
September 20th, 2011 at 10:09 pm
@Christopher from Canada, Wow…had a hard time understanding that rant…lol. But I did pick out that you prefer the Silver & Black. I myself never was a fan as it lumped us in a bit locally with the Raiders, and I would much rather see fans and other view the Kings as a much more CLASSY organization in the future.
[Reply]
Dark clouds outside and a dark cloud over the Kings on this Friday in LA… Rats, I REALLY hoped this would have been done by now…
[Reply]
I am begining to feel alot of the same feelings and regrets as a King fan as I felt during the early Larry Murphy years. Larry was a high choice and yetdidn’t develope as fast as some coaches or fans wanted and was sent out of town for an average defenseman and a enforcer with a bad back. Several years later he started to become the player everyone expected and the rest was history.
If Kings fans are one things they are elephants with their memories and we have many bad trades we will never forget.You truley can count the great 1st round picks in Kings history on one hand. Late round picks have always been our best.
I do not want to loose DD but I don’t and will not support him if he holds out. Three years does not a Hall of Famer make! And his numbers don’t compare to Stamkos and his all around play does not yet deserve Chara or Weber pay. Meehan has a bad history with DL and it is showing again. We can not afford to let this be a distration to this season. Maybe it’s time for us fans to let Mr. Meehan feel and hear our opinon on this matter….. Just saying…… we do have some power and a voice.
[Reply]
GregDM Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:54 pm
@Mark1967, Well, here is the number to Newport Sports Mananagement: 905-275-2800.
[Reply]
Mark1967 Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:43 pm
@GregDM, Thank you. I will call.
[Reply]
Let Doughty walk if he doesn’t want to sign something like a 5 year deal @ 6 Million…With this money, the king could pick up a pretty good D-man plus a high scoring forward…Drew your an idiot
[Reply]
crazy Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 6:43 pm
@Jimmyo777,
give DD 2 options:
1) 5-years @ 6 million/yr
2) 7-years @ 7 million/yr
you get 5 years or $7 mill/yr. give an answer by “x” date or you sit out all season
[Reply]
Rich, Is it possible for you to interview Drew in the next couple of days and ask him what his problem is? At this point DL still wants DD to sign and I’m sure DD would say he wants to sign, but it looks like things can digress real quick to the point where the fans won’t want him to sign at any amount of money because we think that cash is all he cares about.
[Reply]
I remember Drew whinning to the media about the “boo’s” the team got last season for their crappy play,just wait for the boo’s he’s gonna get this season.Whatever happens with Drew is not my problem,I don’t believe he is bigger than the team,and the team is all I care about,plus I wouldn’t mind seeind Muzzin,Hickey or Voynov.
[Reply]
gmo Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:58 pm
@LVKINGS88,
great post man………….
[Reply]
This link just got posted on TSN and RT O_O we’re gonna get a lot of traffic lol
I had no idea so many people came on here.
@TSNBobMcKenzie: Depending on Doughty camp’s reaction to this tactic, this is where, as I said last night, it could really go off the rails.
@TSNBobMcKenzie: Good read from @lakingsinsider with Lombardi transcript on Doughty. Standing offer apparently decreases by $25K for every day he’s not there
[Reply]
Chris Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:05 pm
@Subby, felt the same way.
[Reply]
New favorite King to hate: Drew Doughty. Penner you’re off the black list.
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:56 pm
@Brian, Didn’t think of that, but you’re absolutely right.
[Reply]
crazy Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 6:44 pm
@Brian,
Only way Penner gets OFF the list is to actually play…he might be dropped from the top of the list, but he’s still on it
[Reply]
This is what happens when someone gets a Norris nomination too early in their career. Saw this on the Royal Half earlier, it made me feel better. Here is a link to the original article back in 1999:
http://articles.latimes.com/1999/oct/02/sports/sp-17885
[Reply]
I have to wonder on two points:
First, why do these negotiations take so long, if they were really i terested in working this out, they wouldnt take days, weeks, months to make counter-offers. Sit in a damn room together and get it done.
Second, how much is Meehan gonna make off this contract? Doughty has to take that off the top, so in reality he isnt going to make the full amount. Too bad Doughty didnt solicit advise from JJ.
[Reply]
seabass Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:52 pm
@Scott h,
Some negotiations need a deadline to get to the actual negotiations. Just like some people actually finish a project, others just run out of time.
[Reply]
…meanwhile Jack got his deal done without the use of an agent. Saved himself some money while signing a long term contract at a reasonable rate. Putting the team above himself, but still getting paid what he’s worth to the team.
I like JJ better every day.
[Reply]
gmo Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:56 pm
@seabass,
Agree with you
[Reply]
I say sign him to a term that allows him to get his UFA / prime years.
But, do NOT be generous with an NTC.
Meehan and DD get their wish for UFA money, we get a great d-man for 4-5 years, and if he slips, we trade him out.
It seems obvious – DD seems to only care about cashing in on UFA in his prime. So let’s do whatever we can to cash in on him in the mid-term.
[Reply]
“I like the way Drew is handling this”
- Rob Blake
[Reply]
Christopher from Canada Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:51 pm
@colo king fan, My thougths exactly if you didn’t get a chance to read my post.
[Reply]
tbrads Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:53 pm
@colo king fan,
That was funny bro! LOL.
[Reply]
Things that rhyme with “Drew”: “Screw You”, “Through”, “Boo”, “Doo-Doo”.
[Reply]
That’s it. After work I’m going to the grocery store, buying a carton of eggs and giving my best Randy Johnson at Meehan’s office window.
[Reply]
colo king fan Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:52 pm
@kevin from toronto, I already mailed him a dog turd… okay, no I didn’t, but I should.
[Reply]
Mark1967 Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:55 pm
@kevin from toronto, I’ll send you $20.00 bucks for a couple dozen more…LOL.
[Reply]
colo king fan Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:57 pm
@Mark1967, we could start a fund, quick someone make a paypal acct for it… well call it the eggs (and possibly dog turds, were not sure about that part yet) for newport sports fund.
[Reply]
kevin from toronto Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:01 pm
@Mark1967, Done. I’ll write ‘Mark1967′, ‘colo king fan’ and ‘Hat trick’ on them before heaving them at the window!
[Reply]
Mark1967 Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:50 pm
@kevin from toronto, Put me down as Frank McCourt instead … LOL
Hat trick Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:55 pm
@kevin from toronto,
That would be hilarious!
[Reply]
IceGuy Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 5:01 pm
@Hat trick,
That’s it!
Trade Doughty to the Dodgers!
[Reply]
I have to agree with DL on this one. As much as I want DD to play for us I don’t want to be the team that spends so much on one player that we handicap ourselves. I am really beginning to not like this Meehan guy. He seems to encourage greedyness
[Reply]
kevin from toronto Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:02 pm
@kingsfan1000, Of course he does. He’s Luke Schenn’s agent too… who is in a similar situation as Doughty (Doughty is way better though) and he also hasn’t re-signed.
[Reply]
E-Dog Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:09 pm
@kevin from toronto,
Schenn signed this morning. It’s on TSN.com
[Reply]
Lime Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:08 pm
@kingsfan1000,
*Cough* NJ Devils
[Reply]
After everything that’s gone on all offseason with this I’m pretty much done. If he’s here great, if not whatever. I root for the Los Angeles Kings regardless. Might be a longshot, butI would love to see Jack Johnson fullfills his potential and becomes a Norris Trophy Candidate this season and one of the kids (Voynov, Hickey, Muzzin) step up in a big way this year. Cross my fingers………GKG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
[Reply]
all i can say is that DL has to do what is best for the team….you dont want to overpay and handcuff your team financially…..i love DD but if things cant be resolved trade him or do whateever is right. the team doesnt need this distraction ……….and even if he signs late into camp or after the season has started he might be all sour grapes….this is a TEAM and at the end ill love my KINGS as a team more than an individual player…
GO KINGS GO
[Reply]
Kings Fan In Temecula Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 12:58 pm
@gmo, nailed it
[Reply]
LVKINGS88 Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:28 pm
@gmo, Hear,Hear.We also have the other DD,and he played okay last year,I want to see some of the defensemen rookies we have.
[Reply]
Deke'r Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 5:26 pm
@gmo, …as it should be, that’s why there is no name on my jersey.
[Reply]
Well, the folks who said it would get done before camp were apparently being too optimustic.
DD, you’ve just lost a ton of respect and good will that you had with the fans. Good luck with your next team. We only want players who want to play here, not those only looking for the Benjamins.
[Reply]
hockey junkie Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:01 pm
@vplaza,
i think you are in the minority…. DL is building a Cup team, Doughty should want to be here!!
[Reply]
vplaza Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:11 pm
@hockey junkie,
Not sure if that reply was meant for me. I’min agreement that this team is being built. For the cup. But DD doesn’t sound like that’s as important as being the highest paid King.
[Reply]
The solution seems obvious to me- 1) Fire Meehan which eliminates his portion of the pie (let’s assume 10%). 2) Doughty represents himself and accepts the previous 9yr $61.2mil offer which leave him with an effective rate of $7.56mil/yr ($68mil total). This assumes of course that Doughty has the option to fire Meehan and represent himself.
[Reply]
Michael J. Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:26 pm
@MattM,
The day of the agent earning 10% is long passed. Agents today make less than 5%.
[Reply]
MattM Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:28 pm
P.S. Drew, if you decide to take my advice, I’d appreciate a 0.1% commission ($68,800). Thanks!
[Reply]
More and More I respect Jack Johnson, for his commitment to the team..
[Reply]
lilsunshine Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:00 pm
@Vahe, agreed. The guy would probably play for free if he was still able to…
[Reply]
E-Dog Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:05 pm
@Vahe,
Jack is now my new favorite Defensemen. He really wants to be here. I will be cheering my loudest for him…..gotta grab me a Johnson jersey from Team LA store to show my support.
[Reply]
Brig33 Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:33 pm
@E-Dog, This was their master plan. JJ needed more jersey sales once they sell enough DD will sign lol
[Reply]
Christopher from Canada Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:07 pm
@Vahe, Yes Jack is a quality player…still growing and learning but comes out determined and always lives up to his name…Jack Mother F#$!!ng Johnson while Doughty is living up to his new nickname Drew EFD Up Doughty
[Reply]
Let’s send Don Meehan and Newport Sports Management some love:
http://www.thehockeyagency.com/index2.html
Click on contact. Send him your comments.
[Reply]
Mark1967 Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 3:09 pm
@Send ‘em packin’, I sent a email….. Come on people share your voice…. Let them hear it.
[Reply]
I just don’t think this situation is right. Someone who supposedly loves the team and fans and game should have told Meehan to shove it a while ago. You have great defensive players that aren’t prancing around for more money, that actually showed up for work today. I want to believe DD isn’t the jerk in this situation and that he’s being led astray by a money hungry agent with a grudge, but the truth of it is that he could have done what Weaver did with the Angels. That’s a dude who took LESS than was offered just to stay with the team. He even said he’s got enough money to take care of himself, his family and anyone else who comes along. Now I’m a Dodgers girl when I watch baseball, but that was one of the classiest moves I think I’ve ever seen in professional sports.
Seriously. Is that extra money really worth losing everyone’s respect? Meehan doesn’t have to deal with the people who are going to get rid of Doughty jerseys. He doesn’t have to get booed when he comes on the ice. He needs to remove himself from DD so the kid can play.
[Reply]
Here’s an example of a Agent only worrying about one thing, MONEY!! I sure hope Drew doesn’t miss a lot the training camp, because it’s hurting him more than it’s hurting the Kings. If I was the GM, I would take the deal off the table and leave him with his qualifying offer of $826,875.
[Reply]
For those of you who think Doughty is great, did ou not watch an games last season? Yes, he is good, but needs seasoning. His demands are not warranted by his play and for my mnoney, he can just unilaterally fornicate.
[Reply]
AZ King Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:07 pm
@poe,
Sure he needs seasoning, but name a 21 year old that doesn’t. You have to take his entire body of work into account. By Drew standards he had a sub-par year last year, but most teams would have been happy to have his 40 points and +/-. How bad of a year did he really have? Yes he made mistakes, but again he’s only 21 years old. What about the 2 years prior to that where he was great? What about during the Olympics, when people were upset that he was picked over other players, and he ended being a key component to Canada winning gold? All of that must be taken into account.
[Reply]
I haven’t read through every comment on the innumerable threads on this topic, but it seems to me that if Drew really wanted to end this thing, and be here in training camp, he would have accepted the offer and would be here. Is there a contractual obligation between Drew and Meehan that the latter has to approve the deal? Why can’t Drew just say, “You know, I’m done with this. 6.8 for 5-6 years is just fine for me. I don’t need 7. I want to be at camp with the guys.” Either A, he is personally holding out, or B, he is stuck with whatever his agent wants to do. This agent/player relationship has never been clarified as far as I know. It would be very enlightening to know what Drew’s true options are at this point. Can anybody chime in on this and say with authority that Drew is at the mercy of his agent, or does he have every right to blow Meehan off and accept the offer? I want to know exactly how much of this is Drew and how much is his agent, or the contract with his agent, before I decide to open the floodgates on my frustration and disappointment with Doughty, because if it does turn out to be all on him, you can bet I’ll be there at warm-ups, telling him exactly what I think of his behavior.
[Reply]
red49er Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:11 pm
@Datacloud, There must be some sort of formal (contract) agreement between the two or else all the players would let the agent do his thing, fire him at the last minute and pocket the 5%.
[Reply]
Datacloud Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:34 pm
@red49er, Yeah, I get that much, but does Meehan have a say in how much Doughty gets paid? Is it Meehan saying 6.8 is no good, no matter what Doughty thinks? Does Doughty want to go ahead and sign but through some obligation to Meehan has to get his approval as well? I want details on how the relationship works. Time to go Google I guess.
[Reply]
Dear Drew Doughty – If you have any character, you’ll get on a plane to Los Angeles. This is the best looking team that we have had (on paper) in years, and we are poised to make a serious run at the cup. You are messing that up with your greed! Nothing short of that. Hockey is about the team, not the player.
I know that professional athletes work hard to get where they are, but damn it so do the rest of us in our professional fields, and most of us, will never make money in our careers like you’re looking at for one year. I can only speak for me, my 60+ hour weeks to make sure the products that I work on meet their requirements and serve the people of this country, saving lives everyday. It seems to me that you have completely lost touch with reality and take forgranted how lucky you are to have the talents to play at the level that you do, and to be paid millions to play a game for a living! Don’t forget – You had ONE good year! That does not equate to a great career.
I have no idea how I’m going to explain to my son, who thinks you are the greatest, why you’re not a camp, why you may not play this season, and why you might be boo’d. Thanks for that.
[Reply]
rabidhockeyfan Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:02 pm
@rabidhockeyfan, Rich – Thank you for taking the time to interview Dean on what is a rather emotional issue.
[Reply]
For those of you who think Doughty is great, did you not watch any games last season? Yes, he is good, but needs seasoning. His demands are not warranted by his play and for my mnoney, he can just unilaterally fornicate.
[Reply]
Eric Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:04 pm
@poe,
The more plausible scenario would be a one year contract. But, as we all know, neither side will agree to it…
[Reply]
colo king fan Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:05 pm
@poe, Unilaterally Fornicate! hahaha!!!
wasnt that the title of dick cheneys book?
[Reply]
seabass Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:09 pm
@poe,
mmmmmm, seasoning
[Reply]
so my guess is there’s gonna be a lot of JJ jerseys in the stands this year lol
[Reply]
justin Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:44 pm
@brig33, ill be sporting 8 just like i sport 24 at lakers games.
[Reply]
red49er Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:14 pm
@justin, only time i’ll ever sport 8 is …..
[Reply]
So if DD holds out all season, and next year there ends up being a lockout with the CBA expiring, In theory DD could go two years without making a dime in North America. He really needs that $7 mil/per I guess.
[Reply]
The maddening thing in all this is that we know what the team’s offer is (more or less) and has been for quite some time. We also know that Lombardi and his staff have worked hard to get a deal done since the end of last season, prior to free agency in an attempt to budget and plan adequately to ice a competitive team.
It certainly looks like Lombardi has been forthright in his desire to keep Doughty and work out issues early and has offered what appears to be a very reasonable offer money and term wise to a young developing player with great upside.
The maddening part is that we don’t know why Doughty and Meehan have rejected the offers and can only speculate that it’s about the money though term was mentioned as one point as too long.
So if it is money as most of us assume, what’s his asking price? Is it very unreasonable or is Lombardi being stubborn? Did Meehan really have to push these negotiations till training camp?
[Reply]
Understandably, Doughty wants to get the most money he can possibly get. However, has he ever heard of a home-town discount (No, I’m not talking about a home-town buffet discount)? If he wants to be part of this potential powerhouse team for many years to come, then he needs to suck it up and take a couple hundred thousand dollars less per season and man up.
Heck, who thought Jack Johnson would be easier to deal with with respect to signing an extension?
[Reply]
E-Dog Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:07 pm
@Eric,
Jack is the main man now on our D. Pulling for him to have a great year.
[Reply]
Lime Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:20 pm
@Eric, In light of what DL said about JJ, ‘off the record’ of course, you bring up a good point.
JMFJ doesn’t move during the national anthem but DD doesn’t move during contract negotiations.
[Reply]
vplaza Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:24 pm
@Eric,
I’ve always liked JJ and the fact that he handled his contract without issues makes him even more of a favorite for me.
Not so much for DD anymore. He lost some lustre last year when he showed up in camp woefully out of shape. Those eroded it even more.
[Reply]
@TSNBobMcKenzie: Drew Doughty’s agent Don Meehan declined comment when asked about LAK GM Dean Lombardi’s comments.
@Real_ESPNLeBrun: Worth noting that technically speaking, Doughty is not a holdout , he’s an unsigned RFA. Not that Kings fan will feel any better
[Reply]
dMan Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:16 pm
I tend to believe Lombardi and his legal affairs staff whose job is to know the definition of holdout and how it affects the distribution of money based on CBA rules.
[Reply]
dMan Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:17 pm
@Subby, Wonder if this is going to start playing out in the media
[Reply]
vplaza Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:19 pm
@Subby,
Meehan can go to hell.
I think Meehan thinks he’s got DL’s number, but I also think that DL is saying ‘not this time’s.
And not being on camp=holdout, right? It’s just semantics, but the bottom line is he’s not here when everyone is supposed to be.
[Reply]
The only side of the story we here is from Kings management. If there is one thing I know, its don’t trust what management has to say. They say what everyone wants to here. Its not always as black and white as they make it seem.
[Reply]
Lime Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:22 pm
@Lee S, Well at least they’re saying something, anything…
[Reply]
Lee S Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 10:09 pm
@Lime, they are obviously saying things the fans want to hear. What goes on in negotiations should stay behind closed doors.kings management is looking for sympathy. Don’t buy it for a second.
[Reply]
Great interview Rich.
Just one request. Can we focus on the players that are in training camp and want to be Kings. Why are we even talking about what’s is name….starts with a D…? I mean the selfish out of shape greedy dude…
I think it’s disrespectful to the team playing, hard working, professionals we have in camp to aim the spotlight on this loser.
I hope we trade his fat behind to some God forsaken dump with no chance of winning.
[Reply]
Send Drew to the Jets for there first round pick, it will be lottery one,
[Reply]
KH Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:12 pm
@insider001, throw in bogosian and its a deal
[Reply]
insider001 Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 9:41 pm
@KH, that is fine, or give us big buff, at least he can git in abd get dirty
[Reply]
insider001 Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 9:42 pm
@insider001, sorry can’t spell tonight and
am bored of Doughty lest talk about hwo the team doing
[Reply]
gmo Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:17 pm
@KingsFanFTW,
yes …..im expecting bigger things from the team with or without dd…….go kings go
[Reply]
As a metter of curiosity, Don Meehan and/or Pat Morris of Newport Sports Mgmt represent the following Kings players:
Drew Doughty
Matt Greene
Trevor Lewis
Ethan Moreau
Mike Richards
Brad Richardson
(Ryan Smyth)
Jarret Stoll
[Reply]
colo king fan Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:23 pm
@dMan, Of that group, how many have/have had contract issues? I think you guys see what I’m driving at here…
[Reply]
poe Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 3:10 pm
@dMan, Mabe it’s time for you all to sign with another agent
[Reply]
I love DL’s approach on this. If Doughty misses time he won’t get paid for that time when the contract is finally signed, whether that’s in a week or a month. If money is Doughty and Meehan’s concern that’s how you have to play the game.
I am 100% behind DL on this.
[Reply]
RobBordson Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:35 pm
@Dave, +1
[Reply]
This is why I hate sports agents!
Drew Doughty just needs to sign already! We need him! His stupid agents just needs to make a deal already!
[Reply]
gmo Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:24 pm
@Dannah,
agent can be very toxic
[Reply]
I my mind DD is not welcome in LA anymore go please and dont come back
[Reply]
Lee S Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 10:12 pm
@LUCKY, you’ll be the first one to pat him on the back when he gets back. Don’t kid yourself.
[Reply]
tsk tsk tsk…. DD, a few words if I may… make like JJ and take matters into your own hands and drop your money hungry agent. Your “character guy” image is as good as **** now, thanks to him!!! I know one thing, Im one out of thousands, but DD, I will never respect you as a player no matter what pinnacle you may achieve with this organization. when people ask me, ” who is your favorite Laker of all time?” i say Magic Johnson, Kobe Bryant, as sick as he is, is just too arrogant…. well, DD you fall into this category for me… TARNISHED!!!!
[Reply]
Was it nobokov that MEecham had hold out in San Jose? And where is he now? We keep saying Doughty has the potential to be a Franhise Player. I remember Nobokov being called the goalie that would put San Jose over the top.
Doughty show the results earn the cash.
Kings Rule
[Reply]
There is no secret here. Luke Robitaille said it best, “No matter what any player or agent tells you, it’s always about the money.” In this case, DD and Meehan want a contract that gets DD to UFA age no further. DL and the Kings want to get their money’s worth and value out of the contract by keeping DD at least 2 years beyond UFA age. Unfortunately, the longer this goes the more leverage DD gains because it will be difficult to move him and get some value in return. Most teams can’t afford his type of contract under the cap, plus they know he is not willing to sign a contract that will take him past UFA status.
[Reply]
Doughty is great!! Cant wait to cheer you when you hit the ice Drew!!
[Reply]
More stuff..
@Real_ESPNLeBrun: Just got off phone with Kings GM Dean Lombardi. Reiterated that he feels Kings have made their best possible offer (7 years x $6.8 M AAV)
http://tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=375938
[Reply]
gmo Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:31 pm
@Subby,
DL offer is great don’t really understand what the dd camp really want……..i would love to find out what they really want…..
[Reply]
Subby Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:38 pm
@gmo, if its just 7mill I am going to be a little upset.
Heres where I am confused… how is this deal ever gonna get done with DD losing money now? If it’s about the money then him losing money isn’t gonna really help this situation ;/
[Reply]
Stuart Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:54 pm
@Subby, it’s not, hence say bye-bye DD for this season…
Subby Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:57 pm
@stuart, it has to be years then. Isn’t holding out a tactic for less years? Correct me if I am wrong please. Lets just give him the stupid years he wants and sign him for less.
Thanks for the update Rich……and my respect for Dean has increased logrithmically.
[Reply]
Screw Doughty and his agent. I really don’t care anymore. Stick Voynov, Hickey or whoever steps up in the lineup and let’s go.
[Reply]
show this kid the door. his value system is all screwed up and its only going to get worse.
[Reply]
OMG…I just went back and read DL’s comments about reducing the offer by $25,000 per day. If you read this and don’t think that DL is the problem then you need your head examined. He really doesnt get it. He is so arrogant. If he talks to the agent of our biggest RFA that way of course they don’t get along. If DD is not signed soon we need to fire DL or get someone who knows how to talk to people to do the talking for us.
[Reply]
Subby Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:38 pm
@tony, um.
[Reply]
gmo Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:39 pm
@tony,
fire DL? i rather DL stay as he is building a great team…he has turned the organazition around since taking over and now you want him fired for not giving in and overpaying for an unproven player? wow!!!!!
i totally respect your point of view but wow
go kings go
[Reply]
fsd1 Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:45 pm
@tony, insert head back into sand……
[Reply]
jess Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:47 pm
@fsd1,
haha um… thats not sand:)
[Reply]
puddle Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 3:29 pm
@jess, LOL
jess Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:46 pm
@tony,
I think you may be overlooking a little thing called team spirit
[Reply]
tony Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:56 pm
@jess, You are all missing the point. He is saying he is going to reduce the offer by $25,000 per day. Is that really productive? Or is that just showing you how arrogant he is? SEriously read the quotes and THINK about it.
[Reply]
jess Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:02 pm
@tony, I’ve given it plenty of thought. DD is buzz killington and he has yet to live up to his true potential. His greed is taking precedence over the welfare of the team as a whole. Show him the door. Next case.
dMan Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:05 pm
@tony, he’s not reducing the offer, he’s reducing the paycheck.
The offer is for $6.8M dollars for 275 days of work which includes training camp per CBA.
Drew simply does not get paid for any day he misses work – simple math.
puddle Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 3:31 pm
@tony, $6.8 million divided by 275 days is $24737 per day, hence the reduction in the contract of about $25k per day.
NOT IMPRESSED Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:57 pm
@tony, I see where you are coming from, but when I read Dean’s comments, he is bending over backwards trying to not offend Drew. Dean’s talking about how much Drew means to the team while over 75% of the comments here are “get rid of the bum”. So, I respectfully disagree with you. The problem is not Dean at all.
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 3:09 pm
@tony, I’d rather lose DD than DL and I doubt that I’m alone that this.
[Reply]
I came across an interesting article in Grantland by Chris Jones. It was talking about Stu Grimmson and the enforcers role and this past summers deaths. I also read another article about Barry Zito and his big contract a few years back http://www.grantland.com/story/_/id/6832278/the-end-barry-zito. Not trying to compare baseball to hockey, but more about the individuals and look at Doughty’s circumstances. Anyways it gave me a break from the drama for now.
[Reply]
A guy I’m sure most people wouldn’t expect to have a holdout did and his name was Jarmoe Iginla, Not once either he did it twice, his agent happens to be Don Meehan. Something tells me Meehan is being his typical goofball self and handling all negotiations.
[Reply]
fsd1 Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:46 pm
@Just My $2 Cents, tell that to tony
[Reply]
Subby Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:46 pm
@Just My $2 Cents, and how did those end?
[Reply]
jess Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:50 pm
@Just My $2 Cents,
he has the power to override his lame agent at any time
[Reply]
Well, I’m here to eat a lil’c crow.I posted earlier in the week that I thought both sides would get their act together and get a deal done before camp started, in a few different threads. Looks like I was wrong. From what DL said above, seems like a reasonable offer for the player all things considered. See ya when you get here Drew. Or not. Time to look forward to who IS here, and get excited for the season !!! GKG !!!
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 3:11 pm
@Jumblehead, Unfortunately you’ll have to share that crow with several others including me. I thought DD would step up like an adult, but instead he is being led by the nose by his agent’s agenda.
[Reply]
Drew is pulling an Eric Lindros…so let him. Trading Eric was the best thing QUE/COL ever did. So let’s just deal him. Why hasn’t any other team tendered an offer sheet? BECAUSE HE ISN’T WORTH THIS MUCH MONEY.
[Reply]
LUCKY Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:49 pm
@Send ‘em packin’, agree
[Reply]
Iam burnt out with this crap lets focus on our team and look for a great year
[Reply]
Brig33 Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:04 pm
@LUCKY, Amen
[Reply]
Dollars and contracts aside, the real damage here is fan perception. Especially here in Los Angeles where we have waited a very long time to be in the position we are currently in. Any disruption to the agenda of a serious cup run is not going to be tolerated by either the team or the fan base. We elephants that have been watching and waiting to get to this spot as a team for longer than Drew has been alive, well… you know what they say about elephants and memories. I would highly reccomend Mr. Doughty get wise and quickly sign.
[Reply]
Mabey DL should sweetin the pot and give DD a life time of free donuts along with
the $6.8 mil. contract. lol just kidding GO
[Reply]
Kings 4 Life Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 1:50 pm
@Kings 4 Life, KINGS GO! oops ↑↑↑
[Reply]
Camp starts tomorrow with 63 players. Doughty has chosen not to be one of them because apparently he can’t sleep at night unless he makes more money than Anze Kopitar? So at this point what Dean should do is pull the existing offers off the table and replace them with a lower one and then treat Doughty like a spoiled child and ignore him. Lombardi should decline questions about Doughty and direct the team and TM to do the same. No one should even speak his name, and we should take the ice with a VERY good hockey team, reel off about ten wins in a row and never look back. If Doughty wants to sit on his butt in Saskatoon drinking Molsons, so be it. I’m convinced we don’t need him. And when we’re in first place in the west, and the right team makes the right offer we should wash our hands of him and his agent. How great would it be to see Jack Johnson or Alec Martinez have a Norris candidate year? And with that, as long as he holds out I shall no longer speak of Drew Doughty and I think the franchise should do the same. We’re busy now and we’ve no time for him,,,,, it’s hockey season!
[Reply]
200K or nothing? Sugar coat the fiscal responsibility anyway you want it, but you pay 600K for a guy who will sit on IR for 3 more months, and draw a line in the sand with DD over 1/3rd that. Now I’m just pissed. This is ridiculas!
[Reply]
rick Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:51 pm
@Dominick, With you on that. This is about ego at this point. This is the Kings’ version of the debt ceiling debate. Everyone comes out looking stupid in the end.
[Reply]
Dominick Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 3:08 pm
@rick, The difference between 6.8 and 7 mill is less than what we pay anybody in the minors. The Kings probably spend more than that on toilet paper per year.
[Reply]
CB14 Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 3:34 pm
@Dominick, That’s why I think it’s not just $200,000. I think it’s a combination of what you’ve claimed, Drew wants a 5 year deal, and what I’ve claimed, Drew wants more money. I think the 7 million dollar number is what Drew wants for 5 years, not 7 or 9. Dean doesn’t want to give Drew more than Kopi per year, and definatly doesn’t want to give Drew a 5 year deal. So combining those 2 problems are what’s keeping this thing far apart. Dean would probably be willing, IMO, to give Drew 7 million for 7 or 9 years, but absolutly not for 5 years. That’s why Dean wasn’t optimistic that Drew would get signed before training camp when he spoke last weekend. If the difference was only 200 thousand, I would think Drew and Dean could bridge the gap between them. That’s just my take on the situation, and I could be way off, but as you said, it’s ridiculas that our best d-man would sit out over 200 grand.
Even when he comes back and starts playing its gonna take a lot for me to start liking him again..this is so pathetic
[Reply]
Drew – After you’ve helped the Kings win the West or at the very least, win the division, you can hold out all you want. But newsflash for you: You’ve done diddly squat. Sign the max offer and prove your worth on the ice.
[Reply]
OMG DD just signed here… http://www.mrsub.ca/default.asp?contentID=10
[Reply]
Subby Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:00 pm
@Dan SanDonkey, >:/
[Reply]
Dan SanDonkey Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:04 pm
@Subby, http://www.mrlube.com/en/about-mr-lube/careers.aspx Better?
[Reply]
Subby Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:10 pm
@Dan SanDonkey, oh my
Sebastian Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:05 pm
@Dan SanDonkey, STUPID
[Reply]
Hey Rich, tell Dean if he needs somebody to just hold Doughty’s spot in training for a few days, I’m available. Since I’m in my late 60s and not a great skater, I won’t need that $24 thou and change. We’ll prorate it and I’ll do it for $5,000 a day plus insurance.
[Reply]
Simple solution, if DD wants more money, fire your agents and keep the 3-5% they charge, look at JJ and Ovechkin they both did it.
[Reply]
dMan Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:09 pm
@xrosczech, have to wonder why Ovechkin fired Meehan/Newport.
[Reply]
dMan Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:13 pm
@dMan, never mind – he fired Meehan so his mother could handle him. Yikes.
[Reply]
I just read what Lombardi said. If Doughty was a true team player, he would sign the deal that the Kings have been offering him since June, let the Kings move forward and focus on building this team to WIN! All players should leave their selfish acts and thoughts outside of this team. He should have in his thoughts to win a cup, not $$$ right now. He is young and believe me, if he had thought team 1st, you all will be seeing the Lord Stanley Cup here alot sooner than later. Anyone else want to add to this, feel free. Doughty will be paid accordingly to the success of his individual play and the teams play at the end of the season, there is plenty of time.
[Reply]
It’s not about money…well just yet. It’s the years.
Doughty has money in the bank and millions more coming to him throughout his entire life.
He isn’t asked to be paid for potential. He is asking to just be a free agent during his prime so he can get top $ during that time period.
When that time comes and he asks for that money we would probably not pay it but as of now we need him for the cup team we have now. So just lessen the years and the $.
Both sides need to be flexible. A deal is negotiating and each side giving something up to gain so thats what it has come to.
Again.. I don’t think its about money currently. Just years.
[Reply]
Dominick Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:22 pm
@Subby,
neither side wanted short term back in June, but did that change at all after July 1rst? If they went the whole summer without talking about shorter term than this, and the 2 sides are only seperated by 200 thou a season, then this is absolutely ridiculas for both sides.
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 3:15 pm
@Subby, I hear and agree with what you’re saying, but money is definately directly related to money.
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 4:57 pm
@KC23, *years = money
[Reply]
danglebagel Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 9:10 pm
@Subby, I read the kings were open to 6 to 8 years on the contract. 6 years would put Doughty right up at UFA, so if it were years this would/could be settled already. Then again it’s hard to see this all happening over $200,000. So the kings offered 6.8 for 6 years and thats not good enough? I get the feeling there’s something major we don’t know going on behind the scenes.
[Reply]
IMO forget him, I have been hoping, but I agree with a lot of people on here.
Get out Drew, let a youngster fill your spot, lets get this exciting season going!
You can tell DL is doing the same thing from his comments.
I believe he is saying, hey here is the deal, were going to play and win>
When you decide to sign the contract, get out Mehanns Calculator, take your first years 6.8M and then take the number of days you missed, Multiply that times 24,727. Subract little number from big number and that your new deal.
Ohhh, and if you come in fat and out of shape, these fans are going to roast you, have a nice non-season
[Reply]
I guess it’s not about money anymore. He just doesn’t want to be the King. Thet’s the saddest thing. Already lost most of his fans (me either) and he’s aware of it. If he would realy wish and expect something to be done with his contract, he would definitely be in LA these days… I think he would even like to be traded as soon as possible. Please DL, do him the final favour straight away and move on!!! GKG
[Reply]
guys relax, he will sign the day after thanksgiving for 2 years at 5.5 million. he will have 4 months to get into shape for the playoffs. some young dman will get 20 games experience. It is a win-win. If we can sign weber next summer, then he is traded. it is a shame, but it is what it is. the kid is young and there is no way he can see the whole picture.
[Reply]
Dan SanDonkey Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:18 pm
@jet, And you are ok with this?
[Reply]
jet Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 6:30 pm
@Dan SanDonkey, I have to be because Drew is in charge at this point. he has his heart set on living large. What can you do?
[Reply]
Ok had enough…planet earth has well over SIX BILLION people…there are 180 defenman in the NHL using the math 30 teams, 6 defenseman in lineup at gametime.. Drew Doughty is qualified to do this job.. In fact being a top 2 pairing defenseman leaves only 60 people on planet earth who are qualified to do this job…this all being true, stop bad mouthing our best defenseman!!! what AEG wants AEG gets…WE all want to win, lets puLL together and SUPPORT DREW DOUGHTY!!!!!
[Reply]
Brooklyn KIng Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 3:19 pm
@nofreight, BOOOOOOOOOOO, BOOOOOOOOOOOOO
Sorry to boo you, but DD get’s no support from Kings fans. Rob Blake will be forever hated by the majority of die hards, because he was never a team guy, regardless of his individual accomplishments. Rob Blake looks out for himself only, and now he gets booed. Even as a retired player, we still boo him. Do you think Drew is above that. I could care less how good he is. WE pay his damn bills.
[Reply]
nofreight Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 3:43 pm
@Brooklyn KIng, no WE PAY AEG…corporations get what they want…let a MAN live…you get along with your boss everyday???
[Reply]
Dominick Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 4:14 pm
@nofreight,
I don’t specifically blame AEG because DL did state that he would have to get their blessing, which means they didn’t negotiate this and are just going to have to back DL’s decision to hardline. I think the same is true on DD’s side, and DD is going to have to back Meehans decision to hardline. Judging from DL’s discription of things and the confirmations on what is offered, and what is asked for from both sides, the difference is very small, and this is something personal between DL, and Meehan.
vplaza Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 4:43 pm
@nofreight,
He doesn’t have my support. If he signed what appears to be a fair offer before camp, sure. But not now. Sorry, but he showed that it’s not about winning the cup as much as it is about being able to say you’re the highest paid player on your team.
[Reply]
here’s an interesting article on our favorite man of the hour and sports agenting in general:
http://sports.nationalpost.com/2011/07/21/20-questions-nhl-super-agent-don-meehan/
[Reply]
Helene Elliot sheds some more light:
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/sports_blog/2011/09/kings-drew-doughty-dean-lombardi-don-meehan-nhl-hockey-.html#more
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 3:24 pm
@dMan, WOW, that is an interesting article. I’ll laugh me rear off and forgive DD immediatley if he eventually fires Meehan for Kopitar’s agent.
[Reply]
Based on Elliot’s article, Meehan may just want to stick it to Kopitar for dropping him and of course Kopitar’s agent Pat Brisson for recruiting him.
If this is the reason Meehan won’t settle for $6.8 instead of $7M, he’s a child.
[Reply]
number 6 Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 2:36 pm
@dMan,
No dMan. There isn’t much ‘complimentary’ that I personally can say about Meehan at this point. It APPEARS to me ( i could be wrong) that he carries grudges.
But the best bit was from your link from the interview above.
19. Do sports agents have an image problem?
Meehan I think some of them do, and they should really have an image problem.
Wow, look who’s speaking. Is there a mirror in your office?
[Reply]
Maybe DD signs in the KHL next! J/K
[Reply]
Does anyone want to trade my #8 jersey for a #11? I’ll even throw in $50.
[Reply]
puddle Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 3:44 pm
@Kaiser Soze, I’m guessing you’re joking, but if you’re serious, I will be happy do so. I happen to have an extra #11 jersey hanging in my closet.
[Reply]
disappointed in drew, thought he was a smart kid
[Reply]
Although none of us know the direct figures or years exchanged, or even if Dean is being honest, but let’s assume the Kings are prepared to give this guy north of $50M.
I’ve withheld judgment during this process, but it’s becoming increasingly difficult to have ANY sympathy or really have any understanding on why Drew wouldn’t sign this deal. I know it’s a matter of posturing and respect, but dude…for real…you’re getting $50M to play hockey for the team you grew up rooting for – how could you possibly complain? Not only is the money good, but think of all the perks this kid gets. Seeing the world, getting hot chicks because you’re famous, the cars and houses you’d be able to afford…
I’m beginning to have much more respect for Jack Johnson as a result of this. Guy negotiates his own fair contract, get millions and long term stability. Doughty goes through Meehan and now we’re at the point of no return.
Lombardi mentioned things during the State of the Kings Q&A at HockeyFest that you can’t put a dollar amount on – well, how about the respect of your teammates? Your image to the fans? I can tell you right now, I will never think the same of Drew as a result of this and there will be some hard feelings in the locker room when he returns. Is a year or two, or 3% of your salary really worth it? Right now Dean is embarrassing you in the media by telling everyone you’ve been offered a fair deal – they don’t have to tender you a contract, and they could very well ship you off to the Islanders, so you have little leverage in this case…the team can and will win without you.
I’m beginning to think that there’s more to the issue, like Drew wants out, that he doesn’t like the coach or Dean, or perhaps even his teammates. Something other than money has to be keeping him away, or maybe Meehan is giving him a load of crap when relaying negotiations. Other teammates have take less money to keep this team (larger than the individual) intact.
Drew Doughty, you are now the turd in the punchbowl, the downer then the team is on the up and up. Sign and get your arse (which better be in shape) in camp.
[Reply]
I skipped through the last hundred or so posts, and I may not know a lot about contracts under this CBA, but couldn’t they tack on bonuses to DD if he hit certain targets (PTS, +\-, etc)? That way it’s up to himself to become the highest paid player on the team.
[Reply]
It boggles the mind that when fans talk about our awesome defensive corp they snub Mitchell. Are you even watching the game?!?!
[Reply]
gene Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 5:25 pm
@ToughD, Great Blog, he is tops in my list for D man. Gives it his all, just like Greener does. To hell with DD.
[Reply]
I have been a Kings fan since 1973, at the age of 7, we finally have a chance at something, and this little kid is going to ruin it for everyone. I hope he realizes what Kings fans can be like when they are upset. We do not need another O’Sullivan, trade him and send him north.to a place where he will never win or let him sit for a year. This is a joke. We havc a coach that carss, as well as an owner, president and GM, of whom I beliece is doing a great job. Lets win this without him.
[Reply]
Drew and agent are losing a unique opportunity in LA.
Since the NBA is locked out there are certain companies in LA looking for athletes to endorse their products. Drew has a chance to make big on some of that coin with his mainee idol looks and personality. Wise up Drew..sign the contract and take advantage of your endorement opportunities outside the rink if you think you’re not getting what you deserve from the Kings.
There’s plenty of momney to be had in this city and get this..there isn’t a cap on how much you can make!!
[Reply]
Hi everyone. I’m a long time reader but a first time poster.
I think DD8 is a great player but we dont need this for our team. This is how the rest of the negotiations should go
Dl – “were gonna pay you 6.8 for 7 years. You reject, and we trade your right to a bottom team in the east coast and next summer we go after Shea webber.” looking forward to you reply. Best regards DL
[Reply]
Trade him here to Toronto for Schenn, we’ll take him. He’ll make even more in indorsements here where hockey always has been and will be the number 1 sport. Shenn is signed for 5 yrs, hes big strong and can shut down anyone.
[Reply]
jet Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 6:49 pm
@Rob V, that would be really cruel. think they might throw in a couple of 1st rounders
[Reply]
Rob V Reply:
September 17th, 2011 at 8:14 am
@jet, if you think some first rounders should be tossed in then you are getting a real deal at DD’s asking price…..forget it straight up. We don’t need to improve our defense we need goal scorers your team is the one with the holdout.
[Reply]
He’s asking for too much too soon. He’s a good player but the kings are being asked to pay high dollars for potential and that seldom works out. He had an up and down season last year and played well in the playoffs, but is now a concussion risk (probably one of the reasons he’s asking for so much, possibly anticipating a short career). He’s reckless with the puck at times and tries to be too fancy in his own end. I think maturity will solve some of the short comings and I don’t question his offensive prowess – he is very good. Unfortunately for kings fans like myself, we’ll likely have to watch him emerge wearing a different jersey. My guess would be Philly. Either way, the kings will be very strong with or without him.
[Reply]
Drew, go hang out with the grocery workers if they go on strike as well. You’ll have a lot in common. They want fair benefits for medical insurance, fair salary, etc. Even though many of them only have a high school diploma, they work hard and should be taken care of by the money mongers who own the stores (no I am not a grocery worker). You have a high school diploma, want a fair salary, but your medical benefits are better than most in the world. They’re looking for $15-40 an hour or something along those lines, you’re looking for over $85,000 per hour of actual game time pay. We won’t count practice time or gym time because you shouldn’t be paid to workout. See how much in common you have with the cashiers at Vons? Maybe you can work there as a scab while they strike. You’re gonna have to pay the bills somehow, may as well find out the common man tries to scrape by.
[Reply]
gene Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 5:23 pm
@camarillo andy, Right on great blog
[Reply]
Luke schenn
[Reply]
Rudedogg Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 6:29 pm
@Rudedogg, now it works okay lets try this again short short version Luke schenn has really made Doughty look awful. why? because he has the same agent as Doughty but he still got his contract done before training cmap like he said it would. This kid repeatedly told reporters that his contract would not affect the team he even showed up to skate with his teammates even without a contract. What i learned today was that Doughty really doesnt care if he is a king or not as long as he gets paid. He doesnt believe in the team because if he did he would of agreed to a contract that fit within the team structure. Ive already been burnt once with Blake aint happening again move him if its in the teams best interest!!!
[Reply]
jet Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 6:53 pm
@Rudedogg, you are not really that rude,actually rather on point. I guess onpointdog doesnt sound as good.
[Reply]
Seriously, they need to resolve this soon! If they just got to trade DD to end this B.S then
then just trade him. Sitting him part of the season or the whole season will not help the Kings
at all. He’s really getting on my last nerve, but still, I would love for DD playing for the
Kings, as I’m sure he would be a big part in bringing Lord Stanley to L.A. GO KINGS GO!!
[Reply]
As a longtime Kings fan I’m excited to see Doughty develop and play and come into his own professionally and personally. But turning down these numbers leaves a bad taste in my mouth. If I was GM I honestly don’t see how I could pay this guy more than Kopitar, which would be beyond the offer on the table which DD turned down.
At this point, it’s betting on the potential of a guy who had flashes of greatness, but was inconsistent, and (big one) had a concussion which took him out of the lineup. DD is not a big man, and a longterm contract COULD be terrible for the team if, perish forbid, DD gets more of them.
IMO too many people ballooned his head by saying how great he WILL be… DD needs to play and prove himself and earn the money he makes with results, not the potential for them. That said, though I like DD and I recognize he is young, he does have a prima donna streak and is a whiner on the ice, which I’m hoping will fade as he matures. He often looks like he knows all eyes are on him so he’s trying to be something he isn’t. He needs to sign on, focus on the puck and his team, and leave all this behind.
That said, A compromise of 7 years wouldn’t kill anyone now. Let’s make it happen. Because frankly, I don’t think anyone else in the league would offer more than we have.
[Reply]
So, here we are once again in the middle of another off-season problem. A couple of years ago it was O’Sullivan who held out the entire training camp, signed, and was traded during the season. Last year, the Kings put all of their eggs in the basket trying to land Kolvusuck, and we all know what happend with that. On a side note of that, I have never heard any one person booed so loudly at the Staple Center, when the NJ Devils came to town last year. Now, Doughnut is on the outs and is considered a holdout. For what, a 2.5% more than what is offered. Get real. He is asking for money than anyone on the team and he is not the highest scorer on the team. He is asking for money on what he could possibly do. Will he be the great d-man of the future. More than likely he is going to be, however, he has not proven that he is yet. Now, some people are blaming Meehan for Doughnut not signing yet. I agree that Meehan is a jerk and is trying to stick it the Kings because of DL. However, Doughnut does not work for Meehan, Meehan works for Doughnut, so if Doughnut does not take the moeny, it is his decision and not Meehan’s. I am sure that Meehan is telling Doughnut to ask for more, but to Meehan’s benefit and not Doughnuts. This is an emberrasing situation for Doughnut and not the Kings. I truly hope that the Kings will stand their ground and not budge. If so, and Doughnut walks, then IMHO he truly never was a true King.
[Reply]
I can’t believe DD grew up as a Kings fan, gets to live his dream by playing for the team then won’t sign. Did someone hit him in the head over the summer or can someone please smack him for me?
[Reply]
doughty needs to stuff his agent in the closet and take the 6.8…….this agent is milking him for his own bank account …wake up drew and get back to playing hockey and you can have the good life too with the 6.8……………..get it done
[Reply]
SDJ73 Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 11:27 pm
@king fisher, Agreed …. to me it sounds like his agent is looking more for a bigger payday for himself than for DD I’m curious if his percentage is based on the overall dollar amount of the contract Drew signs or on the yearly figure. Like does he maybe get 6% as opposed to 5.5% if Drews contract averages over 7 million per season. Just a bit of curiosity
[Reply]
Rob V Reply:
September 17th, 2011 at 8:23 am
@SDJ73, just how much more do you think Meshan will get from all this? This is just a kid wanting to be told he is the best nothing more nothing less……he has some growing up to do, but then again he is giving up on 2 yrs of free agancy.
[Reply]
It sucks DD has chosen not to accept an offer. I really am not to worried about losing him though. If another team was going to make a serious play for DD. It would have already happened. No team is going to sit around not having their team nearly set with camp starting while they wait to make a play on a greedy 21 year old. DD is just hurting himself at this point.
[Reply]
In defense of DD: No he shouldn’t earn more than Kopi, and no he shouldn’t take up so much cap space that he hurts the team’s competitive edge in year’s to come. But he is a franchise player, and whatever has happened this off season, don’t forget all the heart he shows on the ice. He’s usually the firs guy in any goal celebration and the first to race onto the ice after a victory to celebrate with the goalie. He has a strong competitive drive. Remember, the game after couture blew by him? Didn’t DD get a whole bunch of points right up there with the best of any kings defensemen in the playoffs? and as fans, we love to watch the kid push the envelope. This is the flip side of that. DL is going to sign him, so don’t poison he well with a bunch of bitter comments. This kids going to help lead the kings to the cup…and that defense of DD comes even after the bitter realization that a 21-year-old earns more in two days than i do in a year…whatever…GO KINGS!
[Reply]
Robert e Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 9:45 pm
@paige, Good points paige…but “this kid” also has few miles on him and is-either by choice or via his agent-coming off as an egoist in lieu of a team that has been growing up together. We’ve had others moved in the past and I won’t ever miss cammaleri, o’sullivan, blake…they wanted to be out…so? Yet some 20+ years later, I regret having supported the Kings GMs for letting go of Butch Goring, Ross Lonsberry, Bill Flett, Billy Smith. In fact the list is so long, I wonder why I bothered to ever follow them? But yes, I do still have my shirt and stick from the first two Kings giveaway nights. I think Sawchuk was in goal for one of those wins…and he wanted out of L.A. too. Alas…
[Reply]
We of course don’t have all the facts, but shame on DD if he’s been convinced to hold out for 200,000 thousand a year. After taxes, it’s beer money!
After last year, he’s got to prove he’s essential. I really don’t care whether he comes back or not. Muzzin can do the job.
He’s a fool right now.
[Reply]
ok here’s stupid, fan math here..The “stupid fan” being ME…
-275 work days for at $7mil a year contract(or just more money than Kopitar so it seems to this “DUMB FAN”(me that is).
-That’s $7mil divided by 275 days=$25455 dollars a day( this includes training camp according to DL).
-SO if you miss 7.855 days of camp, let’s say 8 days of camp you’ll miss out on approx. $200,000 of pay or $6.8 mil paid for 2012 season.
-Subtract 1 day, ($25455 bucks) and now we are at $6.975mil if he signs TONITE and in town tomorrow FOR WORK..
- I guess the question is,,, IS IT WORTH IT DREW? AT SOME POINT YOUR TEAMMATES ARE/WILL/ OR maybe already have develop negative team chemistry stemming from your HOLDOUT…
-to the common man(like myself) , Not showing up to work with out an ideal worth fighting for is just sick to me..
- take a page from Justin WIlliams Drew, now there’s a standup cowboy with a class act.. go kings!!!
[Reply]
Yandle, cough cough
[Reply]
@justin, Maybe Stamkos, maybe the new concussion-head crosby, but not malkin, and definetely NOT ovechkin. DD is not there yet, not sure he ever can be.
[Reply]
C’mon Drew. Don’t be selfish and ruin your relationship with the fans by being a young greedy punk. A few hundred thousand dollars is what i sholding you back from signing? Think about the fans – you’re going to lose them each day that passes. Sheesh you’re a good player but still young! Looks to me like you still have a lot to learn.
[Reply]
DD get rid of your agent. Do what JJ did. Sign for a little less and keep all of the money yourself. Show everybody you are really a team player. Otherwise don’t let the door hit you in the **s on your way out. Muzzin, Voynov, and Whiskey are ready and willing to take your spot if your agent isn’t willing and smart enough to settle. GO KINGS!
[Reply]
I get this feeling that triple D is not happy with Simmonds trade and does not want to play for us. He should be traded now because he is gonna have a short career,anyway. He and his family have a weight problem and that’s not easy to handle.
Trade him to Flyers for Schenn and Giroux!
[Reply]
Drew Doughty has now become a distraction for our team as they prepare to win the Stanley Cup. If he doesn’t want part of this team for what has been offered, ask to be traded, so we can quickly get a player who thinks more about “team” and “winning” than the almighty dollar. This, coming from fans who clearly make peanuts compared to most NHL’rs. Stop being so greedy. Prove your worth by leading this team to a Stanley Cup before demanding more money. Frustrated with you Drew…
[Reply]
Dewey says it’s not about the money?
What IS it about, then? Wheaties box tops?
[Reply]
What sucks here is that he will sit and sit and wait and wait, And not get his way and what he wants. THen he’ll want to be traded, ONLY no one will pay him what he wants anyway or someone would have made an Offer Sheet already…
Drew take the best offer and move forward already.. Ponitless to sit and watch your teammates get ready while you try and blackmail your team, That’s what your doing. If your so great get your Agent to add in Bonuses for getting so many goals,points and so on.. Prove your that great dude..
We all know you read these boards, Grow up and be a man. Everyone here whould take half of what you make (some would do it for FUN) to be a king and play..
Your Agent is now costing you money, Telling you what he thinks you should get isn’t making you money…
[Reply]