Yesterday, we discussed the dwindling number of actual training-camp days, and just to drive home the point even further, some deep roster cuts are expected soon, proabably by the end of the weekend. The Manchester coaches and staff with be leaving Los Angeles on Monday, and the Kings’ staff also leaves Monday for the two-game exhibition trip to Kansas City and Denver. With 53 players still in camp, and probably only 35 or so making the exhibition trip, time is running short. Consider, though, that San Jose — which doesn’t have an abbreviated camp — is already down to 39 players.
Because the Kings are starting their season in Europe, they will be allowed to bring an extra goalie, for emergency purposes, and also expect them to have a full complement of 23 players on the active roster. Still, time is running short. The Kings play exhibition games next Friday (in Anaheim) and Saturday (in Las Vegas), but by then the roster will essentially have to be set, because the team is leaving Saturday night for Europe.
Just to clarify, here is the lineup for tomorrow’s game against Anaheim…
Penner-Kopitar-Williams
Gagne-Richards-Brown
Clifford-Stoll-Parse
Richardson-Loktionov-Westgarth
Mitchell-Voynov
Martinez-Greene
Drewiske-Hickey
Quick
Bernier
I GOT ONE MORE FREE TICKET FOR SUNDAY !!!…WHO WANTS IT SECTION 114. KINGS SHOOT TWICE
(FIRST
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Hockeyfanb4Gretzky Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 2:57 pm
@Gustavo, I do
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Gustavo Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 3:14 pm
@Hockeyfanb4Gretzky,
OK. It’s yours. Meet us at 6:00 in front of the Gretzky statue. The game is at 6:30 PM. My fiance and I are both well over 6′ tall and we’ll be wearing black blank home jerseys.
Keep in mind there is a triathlon in downtown LA tomorrow. Some of the streets and parking lots will be closed. Check the LAKING site for more details.
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Hockeyfanb4Gretzky Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 3:22 pm
@Gustavo, Will do and Thanks
Michael J. Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 3:45 pm
@Gustavo,
Way to share the love dude
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puck73 Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 5:12 pm
@Gustavo, Atta boy! The spirit of the insiders has continued to grow over the last year and I am glad you decided to chip in as well, nice job.
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#1faninVegas Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 7:18 pm
@puck73,
I know all about the love amongst fans!
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Moondoggie Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 8:06 pm
@Gustavo, Nice job dude….cool!
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Gustavo Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 8:28 pm
@Moondoggie,
Thank you, guys. I’m just trying to build good karma for the team. That’s all. Like I said before, I much rather give it away for free than sell it to a potential Quack fan.
Now, if anyone tries to take my regular season tickets away form me, they’ll have to come up with a lot hard cold cashola..:)
GKG!!!
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jet Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 8:31 pm
@Gustavo, any chance you and puck could combine to give DD an extra million
Sean Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 11:01 am
@Gustavo, Very cool Gustavo. That is the way Kings fans should treat each other. Has Stolly played wing in his career? It would be pretty cool to see Loki center the third line with Stolly and Cliffy on wings. I REALLY hope Penner comes to play, he has a lot of incentive this being his contract year. Can’t wait to get this thing started. See you at opening night!
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Is there anything wrong with Scuderi?
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tornado12 Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 3:07 pm
@Gustavo, there is no reason for him to be in there tomorrow and risk injury. We already know what he brings and that he will be paired with JJ (that chemistry has been established). TM wants to see what else he has got here.
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TwoFootAfro Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 3:09 pm
@Gustavo, They probably want to take a look at both Voynov and Hickey so Scuds is sitting out to make room. That’s my guess.
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emb3 Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 3:23 pm
@TwoFootAfro, I beleive you’re right, It’s going to be one of the two taking Doughty’s spot. The test of the D is set.
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Dominick Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 4:15 pm
@Gustavo,
The Kings need probably need a good look at Whiskey also. I would imagine if we went a full compliment, JJ would be in the top pairing, and Voynov, and Hickey with the Kings making a choice between 1 or the other for that 3rd pairing. If both are close, that puts Whiskey as the odd man out for the 7th position. TM does like to pair a stay at home with a puck mover, so Whiskey would have to show cause why he should be there ahead of Voynov, or Hickey. Scuds just gets in the way of determining all that right now, because Scuds position is already determined in the line up.
Interesting thought on those 3 though is that Voynov and Hickey don’t play left side (I don’t think), and niether is a stay at home (but Hickey has been more assertive physically this camp).
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Token Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 7:26 am
@Dominick, Hickey is a left shot.
Voynov, DD and Green are the only right-shot defensemen in the system.
Murray also loves to pair the left-right shot on D.
The only wrench in the gears is our lack of big-body D in the prospect pool that are anywhere close to being ready. Muzzin got creamed and appears injured (I’m speculating here) and Whiskey is subject to waivers. Deano will have to carry Whiskey in the press box.
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Dominick Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 12:05 pm
@Token,
That’s what I keep telling everyone that wants Voynov over Whiskey, but no ones listening. The Kings out of camp will not just waive Whiskey to play Voynov because they’ll get nothing for Whiskey if they do. If anything they’ll look to sit Whiskey as a 7th while they find a trade, if Whiskey even becomes expendable.
Moondoggie Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 12:02 pm
@Dominick, Excellent analysis as always. Honestly I hadn’t thought of both Hickey & Voynov making the team but it does make sense. Both have looked good early. It could truly leave DD2 as the odd man out. Voynov has looked very good; I love his skating ability, great speed and puck handling plus he’s not afraid to shoot the puck, something we will sorely need without Doughty. Hickey is probably one of the smartest hockey players I’ve ever seen in terms of ice vision, he’s rarely out of position and he is also very good offensively.
It’s certainly Whiskey’s job to loose but at this point Voynov and Hickey would be a serious upgrade on D. The next question will be, does TM want to carry two rookies on the blue line? There is no question that Voynov and Hickey are ready for the NHL.
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Dominick Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 12:09 pm
@Moondoggie, Good problems to have, and I think those 2 are very close. Hickey is NHL ready, his only problem is he’s owned by the Kings, and is burried in an exxtremely deep prospect pool that also has Whiskey, Voynov, Muzzin, and deslaurier.
Looks like lokti is back in. Last chance for parse.
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Fourth!
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We had an issue in our LA Kings Insider (non-official) Fantasy Hockey League and may have a slot or two opening up. If you’re interested in getting on the waiting list, email me: john@frusterio.com
Thanks and GKG!
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I like the looks of that lineup, especially getting Hickey, Voynov and Loktionov in for a good look at them.
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Substitute Lewis for Parse, and Moreau for Westgarth, and our forward lines are set. For as much skill as Parse has, he hasn’t proven anything yet. People thought guys like Purcell, Moulson and Boyle weren’t worthy of keeping around, and yet Parse is much older than either one of those guys were when they were let go, and yet Parse is still around. Get rid of him and let Lewis show what he can do.
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No Moreau, Lewis, Hunter or Tofolli?
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So glad to see DD sitting and eating his potato chips…
Really like what I see in Hickey, Voynov looks like a future star dam he can shoot and skate.
The future looks bright for Alec,Voynov and Hickey. Let DD sit watch the Kids make you beg to come back as you are watching the kids in Europe.
I think Loktionov and Kozum should also go to Europe, but I think Loktionov should stay on the Kings he looks good this year…
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kinginsaltlake Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 5:35 pm
@Sammuch, I wanted to reply to your earlier post. I like you grew up in the South Bay. Went to Avation High. I became a kings fan while going to a game at the tender age of 10. I went with my brother. He spent most of the evening chaseing beer and women. I sat alone and watched most of the game on the edge of my seat. Been a Kings fan ever since. I don’t root for any other team but the Kings. Sure the game as a whole is much better then any other of the major sports and yes that enclues the NFL. When it comes to the Kings there is nothing better then watching the puck hit the back of the net. Thanks for your earlier post and maybe we can hook up for a beer next time I’m back in the South Bay.
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Sammuch Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 5:54 pm
@kinginsaltlake,
Sounds like fun, we will have to meet and watch a game at some hockey bar and have some good cold beers the first time we meet. Here is my email address usamasam@att.net , Look forward to meeting you.
PS I also went to Avaition high strange how hockey brings people together.
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MadMatt Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 6:26 pm
@Sammuch, All of us South Bay Kings fans should find a cool local place to watch games and have some beers. That restaurant in Redondo that host some events in not great for viewing. Any suggestions for this years new Kings game hang? Let’s get it going…go Kings!!
westcoastbias Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 2:53 am
@Sammuch, The resturaunt your refferring to is the redondo beach cafe with pictures from rogie vachon to dustin brown. their canadiens fans but an odd bunch as oddopted kings fans. one of them was my weighltifting professor at cal state long beach. good guys good food good hockey… go kings go looking forward to seeing gagne today!
LGK Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 9:48 pm
@Sammuch, DD can also watch reruns of Oprah in the afernoon.
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Hate to even say this but I was discussing this yesterday with my brother…..
We are in a great position even without the services of one Drew Doughty….look at that roster!!
Can DL wait for us to win a couple, ten games and watch DD back down from whatever stance he’s holding to…am I crazy?
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Sammuch Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 4:02 pm
@launch, I agree, tell the kid to go eat chips…
Lets see, DL offer is now 6.5 mill cap since he missed 2weeks of camp of 6.8 cap he was offerd.
If all goes has plan, 10 missed games he will be at 5.5 mil cap.
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emb3 Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 5:21 pm
@Sammuch, If Doughty doesn’t sign before Voynov or Hickey play ten games I beleive we have another problem. They can’t be sent to the minors without clearing waivers. Then what?
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Sydor25 Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 6:33 pm
@emb3, Both are still waiver exempt.
jason az Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 1:16 am
@emb3, The bigger problem is they get one year of nhl contract taken off but hey dl going to tell O whats his name talk to you next year hold outs are great when the prospect look so good
bye bye o what his name
King Cobra Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 11:29 pm
@Sammuch, 5.5 million is actually what he should be paid. Duncan Keith makes 5.5 long term and he has actually won a Norris and a cup. It is baffling to me that Doughty actually thinks he deserves to be paid more than 6.8 million friggin dollars per year. The guy is on another planet and has no clue of reality.
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Sean Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 10:55 am
@King Cobra, Everything I am hearing is that it is about length. I know about the 7 million thing and the 200,000 difference, but DD keeps saying it is not about money. If that is true, offer him 5 million for 4 years. In 4 years we see if he has become a true professional (coming to camp in shape, not potato chippy) and we wouldn’t have to worry about trying to sign him and Kopi during the same off season. Just a thought that could work – if it REALLY is not about the money. DD DOES NOT deserve/earned 6.8 million. (much less 7)
KingTrojan Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 11:38 pm
@Sammuch, It wouldn’t be a $5.5M cap hit. Only this season gets pro-rated and the cap-hit his determined off of the average of the total contract, not per season.
Also, I’ve read that the pro-rated theory is wrong, stating that it would only start to be pro-rated and cut in salary after the opener in Stockholm. But I’m not a CBA expert by any means.
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swap Lewis in for Parse and that lineup if flawless!!
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KingSurfer Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 4:08 pm
@KingSurfer, to add to that… I didn’t realize until just now that Lewis had assists on all 3 goals in Phoenix on Wednesday night.
I really hope he is not playing because the coaches need more time to look at Parse. And I also really hope that Parse continues to suck it up so that we stop giving him chances and solidify Lewis with a spot the entire year.
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Michael J. Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 4:35 pm
@KingSurfer,
I don’t think Lewis is going anywhere. He will skate every night. Watch for him to break out this year to somewhere around 12 goals and 30 points.
As far as Parse goes, I really hope he stays healthy and gets a chance to prove himself. Like others, my fear is the=at the kings trade him for a 6th or 7th round draft choice and he goes Ray Sheppard after the Rangers
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rumpa#19 Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 9:45 am
@KingSurfer, he is out for a longer look at Loktionov’s improvement.
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Belexes Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 6:20 pm
@KingSurfer,
Lewis has already made this team.
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They don’t want to alienate Doughty. The last thing they want is a guy with his talent making $6+ mill a year, doing a Dustin Penner, showing up sometimes, not others. We don’t want a good Doughty, we want a happy hard working Doughty. It’s a fine line to walk, glad it’s not me making those decisions.
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HockeyOnly Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 4:56 pm
@Donald_S, You’re right, we seen that show last season.
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That looks sexy!
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Since '67 Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 6:27 pm
@It’s over Johnny!, Yeah it’s good to go from the “sexy pick” to now with the ‘sexy team’. Hey maybe I started something there.
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Re: Doughty Situation
I wonder of all of Meehan’s clients who have “held-out” for any length of time, how they fared after their return?
According to Wikipedia: When he finally signed a contract, he [Nabokov] struggled to regain his form. Later, he remarked that holding out was extremely unsportsmanlike, and that he would never do it again. He held to his word when he avoided arbitration by signing a two-year deal worth US $4.425 million per year in 2004, even when players comparable to him were getting more than US $6 million per year.
Other interesting note: Brad Stuart who was a hold-out during Lombardi’s time in SJ was repped at the time by Pat Brisson, the agent Kopitar left Meehan for. Small world.
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Dominick Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 4:41 pm
@dMan,
A point that I think applies here is that 99% of Meehans clients don’t hold out, and that since the lock out very few have. Nice point on Brisson. That gave me a thought on studying who the agents were for all the hold outs over the last 10 years. I suspect that its happened with quite a few agents, not just Meehan.
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dMan Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 6:03 pm
@Dominick, A couple of other trivial notes: With SJ Brad Stuart scored two goals within 17 seconds which apparently is the fastest time between goals for SJ. The opposing team was the Kings.
Brad Stuart was one of three players traded to Boston for Joe Thornton. One of the other players was Marco Sturm. Both Stuart and Sturm would eventually play for the Los Angeles Kings but not at the same time. Stuart played one season (07-08) and was traded to Detroit for a couple of draft picks while Sturm also played one season (10-11) and was placed on waivers. Stuart went on to win a Stanley Cup with Detroit that same year.
In any case while Stuart was a hold out in SJ under Lombardi. As Kings GM, Lombardi brought him to Los Angeles in 2007, perhaps proof that Lombardi may not be as vindictive as some claim when it comes to hold-outs.
One last note: In Aug 2008, The Sport Business Journal listed their Top 20 Sports Agents; Brisson was listed #12 with up and coming players like Sydney Crosby and John Tavares while Don Meehan ranked #13.
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Dominick Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 9:30 pm
@dMan,
Absolutely outstanding work. Love the attention to detail.
MadMatt Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 6:29 pm
@dMan, Kopi left Meehan? Now I loke Kopi even more!!
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KingTrojan Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 11:41 pm
@MadMatt, Rumours have swirled that Meehan is playing hard ball because he lost Kopitar, who was influenced by Luc.
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King Cobra Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 11:34 pm
@dMan, It is one thing to hold out when you deserve more money, but in this case DD clearly does not. That is what makes this so frustrating!!!!!
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KC23 Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 9:20 am
@dMan, BTW, DD is NOT a hold out. A hold out is someone that HAS a contract, but “holds out” to try and get a better contract. Hold out means something a whole lot worse than what DD is involved with. Basically, if you’re looking at all the true “hold out” situations it has zero relavence to DD situation.
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dMan Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 10:16 am
@KC23, You are absolutely correct.
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Dominick Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 12:22 pm
@KC23, Excellent. Nothing like pointing out the obvious.
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Another defenseman question. I don’t know the contract situation, is it possible that Drewiske doesn’t make the team?
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puck73 Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 5:17 pm
@Donald_S, with all the depth we have, anything is possible. Bottom line…Drewiske will have to earn a roster spot like several others in this organization.
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Moondoggie Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 8:12 pm
@puck73, Gotta concur. With as good as Voynov has looked and Hickey finally coming into his own, DD2 very well may be on the outside looking in come the roster cuts….This is a HUGE game for Drewiske.
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KingTrojan Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 11:43 pm
@Moondoggie, I’d rather Drewiske make the team as the 7th defenseman, than anyone else. He can survive as a healthy scratch, while Voynov, Muzzin and Hickey should be playing and not sitting, no matter what level they’re at.
KC23 Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 9:24 am
@Donald_S, Voynov hasn’t proven a thing. Still hasn’t seen one single regular season game. Voynov has a lot more to prove than DD2 tonight. DD2 has played many regular season games and has done pretty well. Just so happens we have a deep talent pool at defense.
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Token Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 11:39 am
@KC23, There are also the pesky numbers. Whiskey is one of two big-body defensemen available, Muzzin being the other.
Whiskey is not waiver exempt, Muzzin is, plus he appears to be out with the “Sore Neck” and didn’t really impress in training camp.
Kings current depth is in mobile puck-moving defensemen. We got plenty those that can play right now. We don’t have allot of stay-at-home big body D. Some say Campbell is getting there slowly, but he is not there yet.
Given all that jazz, odds are good DL hangs on to Whiskey for the duration of his contract, even if he stays in the press box. Two more years of Whiskey.
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tornado12 Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 12:04 pm
@Token, good point dude. I think, unfortunately you are right. We are thin of players that can come in and effectively fill in if a scuds or Mitchell go down to injury. On the other hand, as much as I like Whiskey, I think his upside has been maximized and DL may risk exposing him because there is always the option of trading one of our many assets to acquire someone else of that ilk should such a need arise.
There needs to be a balance of veterans getting the job done and at the same time allowing for much needed experience for our next crop of younglings.
Wow, these are good problems to have. Someone pinch me because I dont ever remember being in this envious position in my many days as a long time kings fan. I am so giddy right now! Lets get this season started!
Really….when you think about it, what does DD bring? Offence? (Gunna have lots without him)
Defence?.(Gunna be fine without him ) Fill his spot with Voynov and let the selfish SOB sit until he wakes up and figures out that hes not the be all and end all he thinks he is
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King4Life Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 5:41 pm
@roger, Couldn’t agree more.
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chip Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 2:39 am
@King4Life,
I agree…
…Then he is traded, then he has a HOF career with another team. That’s the problem, he could be that good.
Tough call.
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mash-ola Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 3:38 pm
@chip, Hopefully, I don’t think they’re quite at the trading state. I think they should have a face-to-face and get it done.
The Kings traded away another defenseman early in his career. He was too slow, too awkward and his defense was suspect.
He went on to win two or three Stanley Cups, played over 1,000 games, got over 1,000 points and, I believe is well on his way to the Hall Of Fame if he isn’t already there.
His name was Larry Murphy, and the Kings traded him away for an aging Brian Englbom, Ken Houston and Craig Laughlin. Terrible, terrible move that may have hurt the franchise more than you can imagine at a time when they could have been rebuilding…
Just sayin’… I’m upset with Doughty just like everyone else. But you have to take it as just business and hope something gets settled. Making it personal will only make the Kings do something rash (like trade him too early) and have it come back to haunt them later…
GO KINGS GO!
Token Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 11:48 am
@roger, If you look at the uber geek stats, DD brings 27 minutes of ice time per game against the opposition top lines. Defensively he has improved against much tougher opposition last year.
There is no doubt based on the numbers that DD is awesome on actual defense.
Where he stepped back a bit was goals and assists, and then there were high profile gaffes, like the ones with Coutoure and Benn. Folks tends to remember those items more than the less than glamorous yet equally important defensive play that has excelled.
Kind of analogous to Quick. He is a monster in the net 99.9% of the time, but then he does some crazy stick-handling miss-play, or lets in some bizarre soft half-pass shot from the point that baffles. Yet at the end of the season, we all love Quick and can forgive and forget.
Vagaries of perception.
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tornado12 Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 12:10 pm
@Token, vagaries huh? i learned a new word today!
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Just noticed that the Hawks placed Cristobal Huet and Brandon Segal on waivers. Also hitting the wire was Wade Reddon. And James the jerk Wisniewski is suspended again. Ya gotta love hockey season!
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Moondoggie Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 8:13 pm
@edwood2, Both former Kings…We’ll wish them the best….
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Going back to Cali to move some of my stuff,but I’ll be back in LV for Frozen Fury on Friday morn,hope to meet up with some of the Insiders friday night,can’t wait.I was thinking on changing my “Insider” handle,Las Vegas Kings 88,but now that I’m moving back to the OC I think LoVeKINGS88 will work out fine.Can’t wait for FF,suite night against the Lanche,the fricken season to start and meeting some of my fellow LA Kings Insiders!!!,I feel giddy like a little school girl.
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What is this love affair with Westy, all you get is a descent fighter. Put Moreau and Hunter on the checking line and you get beef and fire power too.
Penner Kopi Williams
Gagne Richards Brown
Cliff Stoll Lewis
Moreau Lokti Hunter
Substitute Richardson and Parse in where needed.
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I get a kick out all of the courageous talk on here about Doughty. “We don’t need him”. “Let him eat doughnuts”. “Voynov can take his place”. Sorry folks, but that is emotion, not common sense, talking.
DD is a tremendous talent at a very important position. This team needs him. We are not going to be the same team without him. Do you really think that the Kings don’t fully appreciate that given the money they have already put on the table???
While I think Doughty and his agent are being a bit ridiculous, I also think that the beloved DL has screwed this up as well. Take it or leave it negotiations – which seems to be DL’s style in difficult negotiations – doesn’t work. It is absolutely absurd to me that DL has publicly gone on record saying that he will make no further offers. It is a rookie mistake that no experienced GM should make. Getting into a public game of chicken with your star young defenseman is an egregious error which I am hoping the organization can recover from.
DL – put down your damn pride, pick up the phone, and find a way to fix this. That’s why YOU are paid big bucks. Earn them.
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HockeyOnly Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 5:01 pm
@rick, About your last sentence, I would have to say this…… DD put down your damn pride, pick up the phone, and find a way to fix this. THEY WANT to pay you the big bucks. But you’ve got to earn them.
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Moondoggie Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 2:59 pm
@HockeyOnly, Here, here!
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CB14 Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 5:12 pm
@rick, Just thought you should know that Drew doesn’t play for any team other than the Kings. The Kings own his rights for the next 4 years. The Kings play with any defenseman, Doughty or no Doughty. Dean is doing a great job not giving in to Drewhann’s contract demands. I’m sure Drew’s agent has been looking for Offer Sheets from teams all summer, to no avail.
Overpaying for 1 player is an egregious error that cost Chicago some of their key role players that helped them win the Stanley Cup. DL, keep up the great work!
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Bonvivant1 Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 5:19 pm
@rick, Nicely said. DL has some culpability in this whole situation. There are some other contractual concerns that he is going to have to deal with which is why he is not trying to be short sighted. Is Doughty selfish? I can’t speak to that but anytime you negotiate salary with an employer it always comes down to what is best for you.
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Sammuch Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 5:20 pm
@rick,
DL put that phone down, let DD call you and say ok I’ll take that 6 mil cap this week, before it goes to 5 mil.
What DL is trying to do make sure we have a team 3 years from now and not start a 5 year plan again.
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LGK Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 10:03 pm
@Sammuch, very well said, DL as bad as he needs to have DD he is not going to gamble and loose with Kings future just to save one D man.
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KC23 Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 9:00 am
@Sammuch, DL offered a reasonable offer. I know it, DL knows it, the league knows it, Meehan is just being a arse and DD is being led by the nose by a high powered agent.
Sooner or later it’ll dawn on DD his agent is using him as a pawn for a personal vendetta against DL. This thing has already hurt DD and now its about to start to hurt the team as a whole. I’m thinking DD won’t stand for that long.
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puck73 Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 5:22 pm
@rick, Yah, that DL is an idiot. This situation requires somebody with forward thinking, a visionary, a man who will spend what it takes…I give you…Bruce Mcnall(coin collecter, bank defrauder extraodinaire).
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CB14 Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 6:20 pm
@puck73, No Puck73, Bruce Mcnall was an owner, not a GM. What we need is a GM like Darryl Sutter. A man who always gives into what agents and players want. He put together a Calgary Flames roster that failed to make the playoffs the last 2 seasons, all while being in the top 10 in player salaries each year.
And oh yeah, the most important part, he gave No Trade Clauses to ELEVEN of his top TWELVE paid players. Virtually assuring their new GM has no chance to improve their team by trading away players. 11 of 12, UNREAL. He probable sounded like Oprah did when she gave out free cars to everyone in her audience, “You get a NTC, you get a NTC, you get a NTC, you get a NTC, you get a NTC.” Dean Lombardi, on the other hand, has given out ZERO No Trade Clauses to this current roster, but he did recieve one when he traded for Mike Richards. Enabling him to trade away players if necessary without the deterent of a player refusing to waive their NTC. Also a sign that he doesn’t let agents determine what contract their player recieves, especially the players whose rights that Dean owns.
Come on everyone, lets realize Dean Lombardi knows more about negotiating contracts and putting together hockey teams than anyone on this site, and most other GM’s. He’s seen the repercutions of what happens when you overpay just 1 player, cough – Brian Campbell – Chicago cough, and he’s determined not to do the same.
That last paragraph wasn’t meant for you Puck73, I know you realize what a godsend Dean Lombardi has been for this organization, even if others don’t.
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tornado12 Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 12:30 pm
@CB14, very informative post..thx.
Gets me thinking though, maybe Mr Doughty was telling the truth. Maybe the hold up isnt the money or even length(money). Maybe DL wont build in a NTC once that becomes available to him. If thats the case, then I think it would put a whole new spin on this whole thing. Does anybody know when he would qualify for such a clause. I believe it was mentioned before but Im just that good with that kind of minutia.
I do believe though that puck73 realizes Mr Mcnall wasnt a GM, but he just cant resist any chance he gets to mention his favorite owner of all time
CB14 Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 12:43 pm
@tornado12, I believe the NTC couldn’t kick in until he’s eligible to become a UFA, but don’t quote me on that, but it’s not an issue in the negotiations. Dean said 2 weeks ago, “Lombardi said that any issues involving a no-trade clause haven’t even been discussed with Doughty’s agent.” http://lakingsinsider.com/2011/09/11/lombardi-update-on-doughty/
By bringing up the Calgary situation I was just trying to show what happens when a GM gives in to agents/players by giving them whatever they want. You’re right, Puck73 loves Bruce Mcnall. LOL
rcinscv Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 5:55 pm
@rick, Why has DL made a rookie mistake? If he has already made the best offer he’s willing to make, what else can he do? He has more concerns than a spoiled 21 year old who has shown flashes of brilliance as well as some bonehead plays. Do u mortgage the future for one player? I don’t think so. DL has made the business decision he’s paid to make, in the best interest of the TEAM. If one is going to argue that the doughnut is making a business decision, why not turn it around? Would the Kings be a better team with DD? Perhaps. Will they be OK without him? We all hope so. It is a business, though.
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rick Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 6:17 pm
@rcinscv, My biggest issue with DL is the way he has handled this publicly. When you tell the whole world that you ain’t moving, you really have nowhere to go. That eliminates your options, and reduces the flexibility of the other side, since no one wants to be perceived as “giving in”. I just think it is a poor way to negotiate in a situation like this, I am not a big fan of ultimatums, and certainly not public ultimatums, and hope like heck this one does not backfire.
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Belexes Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 6:27 pm
@rick,
“My biggest issue with DL is the way he has handled this publicly. When you tell the whole world that you ain’t moving, you really have nowhere to go.”
Rick, you are a wise man.
CB14 Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 6:33 pm
@rick, It also tells the other side, We’re really not budging on our offer. Dean didn’t give Drew an Ultimatium, he’s consistantly said this will get done eventually and that he’s not trading DD. He never said sign it or i’m trading you, or sign it or you sit out the rest of the year because i’m pulling my offer off the table.
Cutty Sarkn3ss Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 9:58 am
@rick, I don’t agree, this isn’t the NBA or NFL, he’s an RFA which basically means if he wants to play, he’s going to take less money . that’s just the bottom line, when did 60+ Mil become chump change? When he hits UFA, than he can go after being the highest paid D-manin the league . . he should do that cause he would’ve earned the right to do that . . being 21 and requesting that kind of contract is total BS. We have the best D-prospects and a stacked team . . you picked the wrong season to play hard-ball Doughty . . .
bmova Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 8:17 pm
@rcinscv, With regards to the boneheads plays, who can forget all the times that DD was falling over JQ and JB while the opposition was scoring!!!
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dMan Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 6:19 pm
@rick, I don’t agree that Lombardi has made a mistake, and a rookie mistake at that. He is on record as having made multiple offers over the course of 6+ months to please a player he both needs and covets as well as build and maintain a competitive team for many years to come.
In order to be successful, contracts and negotiations between parties must be reasonable, palatable to both sides, have a certain degree of compromise on both sides and primarily made in good faith. Based on what we currently know, I believe Lombardi has lived up to that.
Unfortunately, we do not know why Meehan and/or Doughty have rejected the offers.
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Rick Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 6:57 pm
@dMan, We are going to have to agree to disagree. Public ultimatums are neither palatable nor reasonable – no matter what the underlying details are.
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dMan Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 8:49 pm
@Rick, While I do not think negotiations should ever be made through the media, I would disagree that Lombardi used the media to declare an ultimatum.
The reason it has become public is BECAUSE there was an impasse. After months of ongoing negotiations, the media and fans started asking questions and in turn deserved answers; our money funds their operations, seats, food, parking, etc. Management owes fans an explanation when issues are not resolved. This does put them in a difficult position; one in which they have to explain themselves openly and publicly.
I would also say that the player also owes his fans and the media an explanation. This has not been forthcoming from Meehan’s camp and I believe one of the reasons why the vast majority of fans are so vehemently furious at Doughty at this time.
Should Doughty make his position public and appear to be a reasonable in his reasons for rejecting management’s offers, this could incite the fans to pressure management to cave in. The fact that we do not know only adds to the perception that Doughty and Meehan are being unreasonable in their demands.
You may not like the fact that this has become public, but this is part and parcel of sports and the entertainment industry that is directly supported by the paying public.
Bingram Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 7:40 pm
@dMan,
I believe DL has gone on record stating he made a mistake by offering DD8 his best offer as an opening bid. I think DL feels it a fair and generous offer. I dare say, I believe DL was shocked, the offer was rejected.
I’m a DL fan. I’ve been a fan of the team from the beginning. This Kings team is as strong from top to bottom (including Manchester’s ability to provide support) as any, and will only getting better. We have DL to thank for that, and you don’t have to look to far back in our history, to see iust how fortunate we are to have him.
As for Mr. Doughty its time for him to start participating in his chosen field of work. From and economic stand point, he might be at the point that he is risking (and loosing) more than can be recovered in future contracts. Especially if this incident damages his reputation in the League.
For now I’ll concentrate on the Kings on the ice. Can’t wait for the regulare season to start.
Go Kings, go
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Gustavo Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 8:52 pm
@Bingram,
All the pro DD and anti DL armchair negotiators in here fail to acknowledge that at some point there is always a FINAL OFFER. This particular final offer took several months to reach.
I see nothing wrong with DL going public with his side of the process while at the same time respecting Meehan’s request not to disclose what DD is asking for. DL played the fan based like a master symphony director.
Even the voting options survey Rich posted in here last week was a touch of PR gold on their part to gather unpaid for support for the team’s position.
My biggest concern is the potential for DD to become a poison pill in the locker room, much like the ” wrath of a scorned woman” if he does not get what he wants and lets his 21 year old immaturity get the best of him. That’s why, I would much rather see an offer sheet and take 4 first round picks than let this drag deep into the regular season.
In my business and personal life I have done fairly well by “cutting the cord at the weakest point”. I know DL does not agree with that and keeps praising and encouraging the kid to sign. Teammates are talking to him, as acknowledged but most of those being interviewed. That is a blatant admission the situation is, indeed, a distraction.
dMan Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 8:58 pm
@Bingram, I posted some time back about Lombardi dealing with integrity and reason and expecting others to do the same and that this honesty may be what causes him trouble.
From everything that I know so far, it would appear that Doughty is being unreasonable, but I don’t know the details.
It seems clear to me that the Kings have made their best offer and the ball is fully in Doughty’s court. Both are playing wait and see at this point. The more this drags out, the more it hurts both Doughty and the Kings as even a resolution may harbor ill-feelings towards the team.
Dominick Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 9:49 pm
@Gustavo,
Sorry to say, but the Locker room loves DD. Those are true friendships that have been built over time, and DD is a big part of that. These are Players who understand what it’s like for another Player to go through negotiations because they’ve all gone through them, not Kings executives who only care about the Kings side of those negotiations. No one in the locker room is going to look at him not being there as something personal, and start hating DD for not being there. Even if they start losing, they will look at it as their fault their losing, not DD’s. Same if they’re winning.
You should know that the voting options on JJ weren’t to favorable when everyone believed DL and JJ hated each other. Everybody was overwhelmingly wrong about JJ.
LGK Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 10:09 pm
@Bingram, well said
HockeyOnly Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 9:30 am
Dominick , You said THEY all have gone through this negotiating process? Who is “THEY”? It seems to me that there weren’t any problems when Kopi, Brown and JJ were negotiating their contracts. So who had the problem?? Oh I know Cammy who also thought he was the big dog on the team and that it revolved around him. Do you think he is a HOFer also?? Not!!
Dominick Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 12:20 pm
@HockeyOnly,
C’mon man, really? They are all players, who understand what players go through. If you think our locker room is that frail, as too let someones contract effect them personally, then you don’t understand the make up of our locker room. The guys will focus on the things they can control, and will welcome DD back with open arms when he returns.
Shotongoal Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 6:23 pm
@rick, I would agree that I’m kind of sick of some of the comments some here make about Doughty, and there is NO way the Kings compete for the Cup this year without Doughty, and anyone who thinks any of the rookies will compare to Doughty overall this year are sadly mistaken. With all that said, I can’t really blame DL from what I’ve heard and/or read, it sounds like a pretty darn good contract offer so it really comes down to BOTH sides getting together to hammer this out, or Doughty sits. Both sides need to earn their money on this one. But, I don’t think the fans are helping by ripping Doughty, it kind of shows an “emotions over reasonable thinking” on people’s part.
My thinking along has been that this is a business decision and it needs to play itself out with the parties involved. I’m not ready to change my feelings. Sure, I’d like Doughty to be in camp, but if the delay gets the right deal done for bith sides than so be it. It would be nice though if some people here would not take this negos personally!
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King Cobra Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 11:47 pm
@rick, I am not one of the DL can do no wrong in DL we trust insiders. The only thing DL has done wrong in this DD matter is offer to much if anything. All emotion aside Doughty has not earned the right to demand to be the top paid player on the Kings. Anyone who has objectively watched him play over the last 3 years knows this. Love you DD, but let’s stay on planet reality….
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jason az Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 1:37 am
@rick, I ask one question if O whats his name got hurt for the season blow up his knee are you say this team should just pack it up and call it a season.
DL has been fair giving top dollor to a great player if he contunes to grow.
I like how this is going two great things He shelved himself now mirrors can step and see what we have. When O whats his name does sign on the dotted line he will be well behind the curve and playing catch up atleast this team now know what it has going forward and can make moves around that
DL has said enought is enought
Mabey its a high wire act but hey at the end of the day to make money u have to play not sit
Its time to say DD is hurt and the team can move around that
BREAKING NEW DD sign 1 week proir to season start and will miss first 5 games
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Rtwing7 Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 9:36 am
@rick, It’s called transparency Rick. Agree or disagree, but hockey is in the entertainment industry. It’s sole reason for existence is to entertain it’s fans (aka clients). You, me and everyone else on this blog are the clients, When you clam up and keep everything behind closed doors, you create distrust and alienate your clients. If DL kept his mouth shut this whole time I guarantee many of us here on this blog and most of all the other Kings fans would be coming down hard on DL for not getting this deal done. I think for the most part, Kings fans believe DL has done a pretty darn good job of building this franchise into a deep, solid hockey club capable of contending for the cup. Without going into the nitty gritty details of the contract, or exposing your player to legal liabilities, I think it is perfectly fine with going on the record and stating the clubs position. I as a fan (client) am glad to hear what the Kings’ position is in this matter. It makes me feel confident the future of the team is in good hands.
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tornado12 Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 11:24 am
@Rtwing7, strong post. I dont know what Mr Doughty’s camp has to gain by keeping their silence. It leaves us fans in the uninformed position to speculate about hose reasons. Unfortunately for Mr Doughty right now it leads most to believe that the reason they are holding back is for selfish reasons. This hurts his PR image as evidenced by the pole Rich did earlier. Once again proving that this holdout is hurting Mr Doughty more than the Kings, at least for now.
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Just out of curiosity, but any word on Trent Hunter? I am kind of hoping he makes the squad as maybe the RW4 with split time with Westy
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gene Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 5:16 pm
@TradedForADraftPick, Man I agree 100%. Notice he and Ethan are not playing tomorrow night. Hope Ethan makes it also.
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CB14 Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 6:36 pm
@gene, I believe Ethan Moreau has a guaranteed contract, so he’ll be with the Kings for sure.
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Moondoggie Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 8:19 pm
@TradedForADraftPick, I was wondering the same thing about both Hunter & Moreau. Both have played well; the Kings are certainly a better team with both. Gotta keep our fingers crossed for them but what an amazing dilemma this team hasn’t had in a long time. There are only so many slots to fill. Personally, I think Parse is on the spot right now. He still hasn’t impressed, granted it is still very early in the year.
DL & TM will have some tough calls to make this week but what a great position to be in.
Way to go DL, again!
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TradedForADraftPick Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 12:43 pm
@Moondoggie,
Ideally the bottom six I have envisioned is:
Clifford – Stoll – Lewis/Parse
Moreau/Richardson – Richardson/Lewis – Westgarth/Hunter
but hey, that’s just me
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Moondoggie Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 2:49 pm
@TradedForADraftPick, I know I’m kinda alone on this (well maybe not) but I’m still waiting for Parse, something, anything. No, no one wants to see another Moulson/Purcell giveaway but both had their chances to make the Kings, albeit small. DL & TM believe Parse is the true sniper in the Kings system but he’s done so little so far. And I like what Moreau & Hunter bring to the Kings in terms of depth and experience. The conventional thinking is that Parse won’t pass through waivers. Hunter isn’t signed and can go elsewhere if he doesn’t make the club. I’m guessing Moreau wouldn’t make it through waivers either although I doubt the Kings would expose him, you never know.
I do like your bottom six with Lewis on the RW, Richie at center on the 4th and Moreau & Hunter on the wings.
Yeah, I agree with you Rich, DD is almost irreplaceable for the Kings, but he’s not here and why not? As far as DL playing a game of chicken, he’s much more serious and responsible than that. Maybe the Kings have no more room in their cap. Who knows but it seems like it is DD’s move cause the Kings are moving on.
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Glad to see DD not here, he can stay home and eat his chips and burgers. Get rid of him.
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puck73 Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 5:24 pm
@gene, You wanna get rid of him huh? I am not 100% opposed to moving him, that being said, if you were Dean what would you want in return for a 21 year old franchise defensemen?
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Sammuch Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 5:33 pm
@puck73, Not that I want DD to be traded but if it does, make a trade for Breden Schean and Simms and a 1st and 2nd pick in 2012 draft
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puck73 Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 5:40 pm
@Sammuch, That sounds great except for one little thing, you now have created a hole on your defense. I have a better idea, how bout trade him to Nashville for Ryan Suter and some picks. Suter is an outstanding defenseman with experience, and a guy that is dominant in his own zone, can anchor a powerplay, is a plus player, can kill penalties, and can move the puck out of his own zone. If your thinking about Webber< it will never happen.
puck73 Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 5:51 pm
@Sammuch, BTW, Suter is only 26 so he fits the core, and was a plus 20 last season. Also, in the 12 games that he missed last season, Nashville’s defense was terrible, even with Webber in the lineup.
tornado12 Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 9:10 pm
@puck73, you might be on to something with Suter. Would be a great fit. But i would still prefer Mr Doughty.
CB14 Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 5:55 pm
@puck73, James Van Riemsdyk, Claude Giroux, and Matt Carle for DD, Martinez, Richardson, Westgarth, and Parse. Then we’d really be Philly West. Although he’s playing Center this year for Philly, Giroux played R.W. his first year in the league.
Van Riemsdyk – Kopi – Giroux
Gagne – Richards – Brown
Penner – Stoll – Williams
Clifford – Lokti – Lewis
Moreau – Fraser – Hunter
Carle – Johnson
Mitchell – Voynov
Scuderi – Greene
Drewiske – Hickey
Quick
Bernier
Lokti starts the season with the team until Fraser is healthy, at which point DL determines if it’s worth keeping him with the Kings on the 4th line, or send him to Manchester. If they keep Lokti, they release either Hunter or Fraser. Or send Fraser to the minors.
That would give the Kings 3 legitimate scoring lines with 9 top 6 forwards, three balenced defensive pairings, and the best goaltending tandem in the league. It also fits under the cap. If Penner stinks again this year, you let Clifford take his spot, or Lokti if they feel he’s capable of playing L.W. Personally I feel he’s better used at Center. Plus this off-season they could let Penner and Stoll leave via free agency if DL wants too, and have Clifford and Lokti fill their spots without the added pressure of playing on a top 2 line. JMO
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Sammuch Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 6:04 pm
@puck73, Suter would be great! But Nash will need to give us more for DD?
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puck73 Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 6:19 pm
@Sammuch, Of course, not just Suter, but a 1st rounder to go with it. another reason I like Suter is that he is an assistant captain and a guy that plays top 2 minutes for a defensemen. this is a guy that not only do I want on the ice in crucial moments like Scuderi and Mitchell, but just as important he is a character guy that I want im my locker room as well.
Shotongoal Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 6:33 pm
@Sammuch, c’mon guys, really? Suter? Not saying anything against him but, do you really want to get rid of the teams franchise D-man for a really good D-man who is 5 YEARS OLDER??? Ugh, can you guys please stop letting your emotions on this holdout affect your reasonable thinking? This is getting kind of ridiculous! Let’s freak out if it gets close to Dec 1, deal?
Rtwing7 Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 9:09 am
@Sammuch, Nice idea, but the Preds would never go along with that. They can’t afford Shea Webber, they certainly won’t be able to sign DD the kind of money he wants, only to loose him in 5 years to UFA. Unfortunately for DL, every GM in the league can see what’s going on here, that’s why you don’t see any offer sheets. No one wants to take on the risk at this point in the season. If this drags on to the trade deadline, then maybe you might see some action from a team that is making a run and needs one more piece to the puzzle.
ta Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 8:14 pm
@puck73, Puck how about one of the best LW in the NHL Parise. He’s young and would fit nicely into our core of players. Plus insurance in case Gagne gets hurt or Penner doesn’t pan out.
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KC23 Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 9:27 am
@puck73, I’d take Weber straight up.
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Remember its a buisness to the players, and each player is his own buisness enterprise in the entertainment buisness. DD maybe holding out however given the profits of the team you really do wonder what he’s worth?
When some actors make $20 million for a movie and it may take up to a year to make, what then is the real worth of a DD when he is one of the leading actors on the Kings?? Crazy buisness likely…….
But from a fan perspective, get back to work DD and the longer you hold out the less likely anyone will forgive any mistakes in your game.
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dMan Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 11:01 pm
@Harty, Unfortunately, we really can’t compare athletes fees versus actors fees.
A motion picture has several windows of revenue over the course of 4-5 years; from theatrical box office rentals, VOD, retail video sales and rentals, premium cable, network TV and syndicated showings, and non-theatrical (planes, cruises, prisons, etc.) in both domestic (US and Canada) and foreign territories. An actor who can “open” a picture can really be worth his fee even if the picture does so so business (studios can still “package” a so-so film with other better performing films in their libraries and collateralize the revenues). Many stars rely on their appeal in international markets to justify their fees and studios are more than willing to pay it.
No such luck with athletes as the product they sell has virtually no shelf life and few windows of revenues outside of ticket sales and broadcast licensing fees, a reason owners also rely on a portion of concessions and parking though some star players can still make some money with endorsements. Compared to other US sports notably football, baseball and basketball, the NHL is much more limited in appeal and overall revenues.
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There’s nothing more we can say about the Drew thing. We don’t know what goes through a 21 year old head. He wants what he wants and the same goes for the Kings. I’ve let it go,{except for checking the web everyday for any news} it’s all any of us can do. I’m excited about our first game against the Rangers. What a match-up. Both teams have made some good moves and both teams are looking for bigger outcomes this year. It’s all about one game at a time and let the chips fall where they may. The good thing is that we the fan base are excited about what the Kings are doing. Here’s to all King fans who have stayed with this club through some lean years. Dean has made us winners, now let’s win the Pacific then march on towards the Cup.
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puck73 Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 5:53 pm
@kinginsaltlake, nothing more to say? Trust me, there will be plenty more to say about it on this site as long as he doesnt have a contract.
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kinginsaltlake Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 6:17 pm
@puck73, This is true. Yet it’s worth saying, there’s little we can do. Better to let the Big boys in the front office handle things. It is good that we have a place to release our emotions, feeling and yes even our anger. You know I’ve often wondered if anyone is listening to us insiders. Many of us have good ideas and words that are backed by facts. Yet who listens. See Puck I listen more then I talk. My knowledge may not be as others, but one thing is fact. I Love this club. I’m still learning about this game and I hope that it never stops. There has been so much said about the Drew thing. I say move on and just see what happens. I know that won’t happen, but it’s just what I do. Basically you can bitch all you want, but that’s not going to get the deal done.
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Shotongoal Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 6:46 pm
@kinginsaltlake, well said throughout this entire post saltlake! Let the players play, the coaches coach, the managers manage, and the holdouts sit! Bottom line is the PLAYERS and COACHES need to step up and and move forward, just like they would if a key player was injured. The fans need to support them and when Doughty DOES sign and DOES what he has done as a player those rips will turn into cheers and the season will roll on!
Kopi Bryant Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 7:02 pm
@kinginsaltlake, Basically my stance on the situation.
IceGuy Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 8:57 pm
@kinginsaltlake,
See, you’re learning already!
Its the years not the amount…give DD less years and then trade him before he hits FA…
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Gustavo Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 9:00 pm
@neil,
DL will not do that. He wants him here for long years. And I respect DL for it.
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Rtwing7 Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 9:01 am
@neil, DD/Meehan won’t accept a 2,3 or 4 year deal,,,,that still doesn’t get them to where they want to be. He wants a contract for 5 years and only 5 years, no more, no less. He wants his final year to make him eligible for free agency so he can get the big fish. Guaranteed whatever conclusion he comes to, he won’t be a King at the end of this new contract. Either DL will cave and give him the 5 years he wants, and the Kings will subsequently loose him to the free agent market, or DD will give in to a shorter term and the Kings will trade him before the end while they still have leverage to get something in return.
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Parse and Westgarth?? Seriously coach? Put Moreau in for Parse and Hunter in for Westgarth.
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LicoriceBiscuit Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 6:37 pm
@Hat trick, I agree with Parse, but Parros will most likely be in the line-up, because McGrattan played against SJ. So we will need Westie to suit up.
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Gustavo Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 9:04 pm
@Hat trick,
Do you really want George Parros and cowards like Perry, Getzlaf and the rest of the quack goons running loose taking cheap shots at Kopi, Richards and Williams without our own heavyweight to balance things out there?
NO, Thank you.
As for Parse, I think he is still under the microscope and is given the opportunity to swim or drown. I hope he does well.
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chip Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 2:53 am
@Gustavo
Richards has a history of taking care of Perry.
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gene Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 9:14 pm
@Hat trick, It never ceases to amaze me why bloggers say let someone fight other than Westy. So now you dont want westy to dress and you want Clifford and Hunter to have to fight Parros. That is absurb. You put westy in to protect the scorers so they dont have to fight unless it is absolutely necessary. YOu keep the scorers on the ice not in the penalty box or even worse getting hurt.The quacks have some of the most dirtiest players in the league starting with Ketsloff and Perry.
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CB14 Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 12:04 am
@gene, You don’t HAVE to fight the heavyweights like Parros and Shelley. The NHL has the instigator rule, and unless you’re playing a dirty team like the Islanders, you don’t have to worry about other teams Heavyweights fighting your smaller players. Plus our Heavyweight, Kevin Westgarth, doesn’t enforce or protect anything or anyone. He had 15 fights last year, 7 of those were staged fights directly after faceoffs. 3 others were after the whistle had already blown, and the other 5 were during the course of action but had no purpose what so ever. He never fought anyone after that player had cheap shotted one of our players, he also never fought someone directly after that player had a big hit against one of our players. All of his fights were against other teams Heavyweights, none of them were against “dirty smaller players” like Bobby Cryin or Matt Cooke. The guys who were protecting their teammates were Kyle Clifford and Wayne Simmonds. They were the one’s standing up for a teammate who had recently been cheap shotted or drilled by a big hit. Furthermore, he takes a spot away from someone who can actually contribute more than 5 minutes a game, and provides something more than the ability to fight.
“So now you dont want westy to dress and you want Clifford and Hunter to have to fight Parros.” Uhhh, Clifford already fought Parros last year, and did a much better job against Parros in 1 fight than Westy did in 2 fights. Ohh, and Westy played in that game.
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KC23 Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 9:38 am
@Hat trick, There aren’t a lot of teams you need a Westgarth for, but the Ducks are one of them.
Don’t believe me? Take a look at the replay of last nights Duck Vancouver game. Someone p1ssed off Getzlof and Getzlof sent in Parros to fight his battle for him and Vancouver had no answer, they just stood there are watched while Parros beat the crap out of their player.
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You got to give it up for Brown, JJ, Kopi for giving the contracts they did, all three them could of got more dollars, but they had a vision and saw what DL can do.
We seem to forget JB and JQ have to be signed to and the salary they might be making in 2 years, might only be room for one.
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Hat trick Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 6:22 pm
@Sammuch, The odds this year for the SC have the Kings basically tied with SJ and Detroit. So for the West the favorite is Vancouver followed by LA, SJ and Detroit where SJ may have the slight better odds but it’s very minor. Then followed by Chicago.
We need to beat 3 teams to get to the cup finals. So if the odds are right we’ll have to face SJ, Detroit and then Vancouver in the Western Conf finals. I think we have an excellent shot to beat Vancouver.
On the other side, the Caps are the favorite to win the Eastern Conf. and they are basically tied with Vancouver to be in the SC finals. No doubt the series will craziness but no doubt doable.
SC Finals here we come!!! So with D “not about the money” D having no contract at this point, kinda makes me wonder if he even really wants to play at all.
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kinginsaltlake Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 6:26 pm
@Hat trick, I got 4-1 odds on the Kings winning the Pacific at Las Vegas Hilton last week.
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Adamic39 Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 7:21 pm
@Hat trick, Cool. We have JMFJ and hopefully DNATMD. Haha
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kinginsaltlake Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 6:24 pm
@Sammuch, That’s just it, we do have loyal players, much more the reason why We need to see these guys win a Cup. I’ll be back in Manhattan Beach the week of the 17th. We are working on a house on the strand. Maybe we can meet up at that bar called The Shark Tank. It’s on MMblvd. Still can’t understand why they call it The Shark Tank. I just shake my head driving pass it. oh went to Aviation, Class of 82
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Doc Allen Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 10:45 pm
@kinginsaltlake, Shark Cove, Just left it.
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Sammuch Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 8:16 am
@kinginsaltlake,
You have my email,? send me yours and we can talk. sounds like a plan…
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What was Westgarth averaging in minutes last season about 4 or 5? If an avg NHL shift is about a minute how many times is he on the ice? Richardson and Loktionov can play!
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CB14 Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 6:26 pm
@Hat trick, Now i’m no math wiz, but I think the answer is 4 or 5 shifts a game.
In addition to Richie and Lokti, there’s also Moreau, Hunter, Fraser when healthy, Clune (Clune is better than Westy people), Kozun, and I think Andrehof as well. ABW – Anyone but Westy.
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Belexes Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 6:33 pm
@Hat trick,
But the real question is, can they fight?
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Kenny44 Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 6:54 pm
@Hat trick, More like 3 min. A full minute is a long shift these days. TM will have Westie dressed against any team that carries a heavyweight. Westie always seems to be in the lineup against ANA
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chip Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 2:59 am
@Kenny44,
Coaches like a Stoll, Coaches like a Westie. Face off experts and Heavyweights let the coach get into tactics, not just the overall strategy.
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KC23 Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 9:43 am
@Kenny44, The teams you’ll see Westy in … Ducks, Hawks, Stars, Pens, Calgary. Teams he won’t play against Wings, Edmonton, Vancouver.
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TradedForADraftPick Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 12:45 pm
@KC23,
Simple enough setup.I hope they carry Hunter for games like those
why the hell is drewiske and parse in, they both suck
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Happy that DL hasn’t given in to DD’s demands . . let him sit
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Hat trick Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 7:34 pm
@Cutty Sarkn3ss, DD…”I keep telling everyone it’s Not about the Money…I wish all this back end stuff gets out in the open because I Really Wanna play for the Kings!”
Mr. Doughty did you want your new Ferrari in Red or Black?
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edwood2 Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 9:45 pm
@Hat trick, excuse me for being the devil’s advocate, but I do believe it is not about the money. DD had a very average year last year, and 6.8M coming off an average year is not peanuts. I am pretty sure it is length. Whether it is the upcoming CBA, or DL feeling he cannot sign Kopi and DD in the same year, or something else we know nothing about. Whatever it is, it must be important!
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LGK Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 10:23 pm
@edwood2, I believe Brown and Kopi, any one of them, are far more important to us than DD. Don’t get me wrong DD is very important too but not on the expense of Brown or Kopi.
jason az Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 2:04 am
@edwood2,
So its not about the money NOW it about the money he can make on his next contract got it So basicly ITS ALL ABOUT THE MONEY
did i miss something
Rtwing7 Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 8:53 am
@edwood2, Defining the term is still “about the money.” It just when the money comes, at what variables (I.e. front loaded, back end loaded, evenly spread out) and in DD’s case, not going beyond 5 years so he can become a UFA and play the market for even more money. In the end, it’s still about the money.
KC23 Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 9:47 am
@edwood2, It’s always about the money, unless DD wants out which he has never given any indication of such. It may not be directly about the money, but UFA years equates to money so it’s a matter of sematics really.
Eric Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 10:30 am
@edwood2, I can only come to two conclusions. It’s either about money or about getting out of LA.
If he is concerned about the term with respect to UFA years, then that is clearly about money.
If he is only concerned about term, and not money… what does that mean? I hope I’m wrong, but I keep coming back to he wants to leave LA. (Anyone) please provide me with an alternate conlusion here.
I would really rather it be about money, because I’m guessing that can be worked out. I’m hoping his “it is not about the money” comment was personal defense in response to all this DD is super greedy spoiled delusional kid talk.
pr0cess Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 10:40 pm
@Cutty Sarkn3ss, AEG will do him wrong, its what they did to Blake, but im sure you all think he walked away from us right? Think again. Liewikie only cares about money not the team.
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Cutty Sarkn3ss Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 4:06 pm
@pr0cess, LOL, not sure if SRS . . You have no idea what you’re talking about . . .
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are they televising any of these pre season games??
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Clifford’s meteoric development from 18 yr old “project” and “reach” draft pick to skating an effective regular shift in the NHL as a 19 yr old has been very impressive. He steadily improved his game even through the playoffs. Eventually a Clifford/Richards/Brown could be a solid contender for league’s toughest line to play against. Invaluable in the right circumstances, like wearing down opposing lines in the playoffs.
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Dominick Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 11:16 pm
@billanthony, I don’t see Clifford as having enough offensive savy to play with those 2, but many have argued with me that Brown never had any to begin with. So, you never know.
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KC23 Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 9:55 am
@billanthony, Clifford’s developement is off the charts in my book. He has no business accomplishing what he’s already accomplished at his age. No way I’m gonna predict any limitations on this guy. Skys the limit in my book. He went from under 20 points in the regular season to nearly a point a game in the playoffs? Why? Simply because TM asked him to. Wouldn’t surprise me one bit if he gets over 30 – 40 points this year.
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Hmm, looks like Doughty has a decision to make …
http://www.flickr.com/photos/57135815@N04/6180372714/in/photostream
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Dominick Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 11:11 pm
@Oscar Moller’s Beard,
I don’t quite conform to popular public opinion, and actually think there’s more to it, but that’s not to say I don’t appreciate a good joke. Very funny!
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chip Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 3:02 am
@Oscar Moller’s Beard,
Most people have the same decision, except that the balloon on the left says “children”.
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For those uncompromising fans willing to trade or sit Doughty, here is something to consider: Doughty is very much a face of this franchise, along with Kopitar, Brown, Johnson, Quick and now Richards.
Lombardi knows this. Meehan knows this.
When you think of the Stanley Cup winning dynasties like Detroit, who do you think of? Shanahan, Yzerman, Lidstrom, Federov, etc. Not one player, but a group of players, a core group that represented the team and a winning tradition.
Make no mistake about it, Doughty is a franchise player and that is why he is so important to Lombardi and to the Kings long term plans. To trade him or sit him provides no value to the Kings. This is what Meehan is gambling on. We’re not just talking about a player’s current ability or potential, but also his branding value to the team over the long haul.
Some will bring up Edmonton trading Gretzky. But keep in mind they had already won several cups and Gretzky really had nothing left to prove in Edmonton. Going to a supposed non-hockey town like Los Angeles and turning them into winners would be the ultimate challenge. He took it and the rest is history.
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Dominick Reply:
September 24th, 2011 at 11:39 pm
@dMan,
Those who want to trade DD are on their own agenda. They use DL as their justification, but then turn around and throw out his statemeant that there’s no way he would even consider it. They trust DL to a point then the truth comes out when they throw that trust out the window to put their own solutions out there.
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jason az Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 2:08 am
@dMan,
One thing DETORIT PLAYER ARE STILL WILLING TO TAKE LESS TO WIN
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Dominick Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 12:47 pm
@jason az, Here’s a perspective for you. Detroit would gladly pay DD 7 mill and build their D around him for the next 10 years. And they could afford it.
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Now I remember where I’ve seen this whole Doughty thing before,,,, Ahem
( In a good ‘pack of Camels a day’ voice)
Hey Drew, Why haven’t you signed yet?
Oh, you’re agent told you not to, I see.
Well, who’s your agent?
Wait, What?,,,, DOOGER”S your agent?!?! BWAHAHAHA
Go Kings
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Hey all; hate to sound dumb, but is there any possibility that Rob Scuderi does not make the team? I’m bidding on one of those special jerseys they had at fan fest, got a picture and autograph with him and my son, but do not see his name on the roster…bottom line is that I do not want to spend 300 bucks for a guy (albeit seemingly nice), who is no longer on the team.
Anyone know anything?
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TradedForADraftPick Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 12:37 pm
@Stephen Urquidez,
Trust me, Scuds is going to be on the roster
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While I love the fact that Murray is putting out a NHL heavy team out there tomorrow (since it’s being streamed), I don’t understand why there are 53 players in camp and they’re only looking at 2 of them on the ice, tomorrow.
Shouldn’t Toffoli be getting another look, right now? Maybe instead of Parse, who looked very mediocre the other night? What purpose does it serve to put Loktionov and Westgarth together unless he has the notion that the kid could get a crack at the 4th line (which I wholeheartedly disagree with) during the season?
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xeropoint Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 1:15 am
@xeropoint, To add, many others have mentioned having Loktionov center Stoll on the third line. It’s a very interesting idea to me. Stolls line, as it’s comprised now has zero playmaking ability.
I don’t think they would be an ideal unit to play against the top opposition lines, though. It would be more like a 3rd scoring line.
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tornado12 Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 11:48 am
@xeropoint, Normally I would agree RE Lokti. One of the problems here is that there is a real threat he could bolt to the KHL if he doesnt make the roster. In addition it would seem he is ready to make that crucial jump to the NHL. He apparently has added some bulk this offseason which should make him at the very least more apt to endure the physical rigors of the NHL. He needs to be in a position where he can contribute to the team but not be overexposed and at risk of being a high cost to the teams overall success. He needs to continue to gain invaluable experience only acquired by playing at this level in order to mature.
If he does make the team, he would be best utilized as a center as evidenced last year. I say surround him with some “heavy” veterans like moreau and hunter or westie (when needed) who have the ability to finish as well as dig in the corners and “protect him” in a sense. I would much rather see our team have the ability to roll 4 lines fairly equally, much as DET has been able to in years past. If there is an injury to a kopi or richards he would be that more prepared to step in as well.
just a few thoughts here.
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Question for Rich or anyone in the know. Are the Kings or Ducks going to stream live video of the game tonight???
Please let us know, thanks.
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LF13 Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 8:59 am
@King Cobra, and is it going to be available to watch in Europe? I would hate to wake up at 4 am just to figure out I can’t watch the game…
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OnTheFly Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 9:15 am
@King Cobra,
Yes.. Kings vision. I’m sure rich will supply the link later in the day with any updates from the day.
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Token Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 9:20 am
@OnTheFly, But only for folks in the local coverage area per the NHL broadcast agreement.
Big bummer. I’m forced to go see the Sharks play Vancouver here in NorCal.
At least I can boo both sides equally.
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OnTheFly Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 9:24 am
@Token,
Yes, your right. Only local coverage. Im not sure how that works to make it only local, or if there’s a go around with your IP address since its over the internet. I always thought if its on the internet, the world can see it.
6 days until Frozen Fury! 6 days until the Kingdom comes together! I don’t know how I am going to survive next week at work.
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408kingsfan Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 10:21 am
@DesertKing, I’m stoked, hey any plans for people to meet up before the game in Vegas.
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puck73 Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 11:00 am
@408kingsfan, some of us are going to try for Friday night somewhere out on the strip. Here is my email address mikebrnstn@gmail.com. Go ahead and email me, and I will pass on my cell number, and you can call me or text me and we will talk about putting something together. It should be easy, I have over 25 phone numbers on this site, I think something can be arranged.
Also, tomorrow is a pizza get together in Costa Mesa. I will be posting about it all day starting tomorrow morning, talk to ya soon.
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408kingsfan Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 11:44 am
@puck73, Thanks will do. I’m up in SJ now so no pizza for me. I lived in HB for 25 yrs real close to Costa Mesa
Kingsfanone Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 11:49 am
@puck73,
Can’t wait to see Mike makin’ us lasagna tomorrow nite! (inside joke!)
Let’s beat Quack tonite & enjoy some pizza tomorrow, I always say!
Tonight’s Game Live on LAKings.com cant wait. go kings go
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scott Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 11:27 am
@scott, Please note that only fans in the LA market will be able to watch the live stream.
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kinginsaltlake Reply:
September 25th, 2011 at 12:56 pm
@scott, This is Lame what about us the out of towners. Listening to the radio I guess, but you can beat I’ll be listening.
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Any word on how Shaun Heshka is doing with his tryout? Any chance he will get signed and sent to Manchester?
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