Drew Doughty has not yet officially been cleared for game action, but that is considered a formality and Doughty is expected to play tomorrow night against Phoenix. Doughty has made it through three days of contact practices, and barring any surprises, will be removed from injured reserve at the same time Slava Voynov is assigned to Manchester of the AHL. Terry Murray said Doughty “has come through the practice feeling good. He did some extra work at the end of the practice, down at the far end, 1-on-1, pushing and battling, and he came out of that fine. He’s ready to go. He will play.’’
Here’s what Doughty said about his return to game action…
DOUGHTY: “I felt good. I’ve felt good for a while now. I’m ready to play whenever. It’s just up to the training staff, up to the coaches, to put me back in the lineup.’’
I (jokingly) asked Doughty whether he was concerned about getting his lineup spot back after Voynov’s two-goal, one-assist effort last night…
DOUGHTY: “He’s been playing well. He obviously played well last night too, and he showed that he can compete at this level. I think he has in every game that he’s played. So he’s been playing great, but at the same time hopefully I can get back in the lineup. [laughs]’’
Voynov certainly made an impression last night in Dallas, but in the end, the Kings decided not to alter his development track. Management feels that, in the recent past — most notably with Oscar Moller and possibly with Kyle Clifford — they have pushed prospects to the NHL and risking stunting their development a bit, and they would prefer to see Voynov go to the AHL and play consistently and play well until the next opportunity comes up. I asked Murray what his message to Voynov would be after this five-game stint with the Kings…
MURRAY: “I think what he’s got to know, from the coaches, is that he’s an NHL player. That’s the bottom line on it, summing it up in a nutshell. He played very well every game. He’s showing the intensity, the readiness every shift. He has come to the practices with the NHL attitude of learning something every day. He’s now, to me, based on what I’ve seen — and that’s all I can base my opinion on — he’s an NHL player.’’
Hmmmm bye bye someone in the off-season
[Reply]
What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 3:52 pm
@bringbackbutchgoring, I’m thinking trade deadline.
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Bluecoconuts Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 4:03 pm
@What’s the frequency, Kenneth?,
Martinez maybe? I love the guy, but Voynov seems to be better overall. It’s hard to pick, we need to move to European rules so we have have 4 defensive pairings instead of three to keep all of this talent.
[Reply]
tornado12 Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 4:12 pm
@Bluecoconuts, and theres even more in the pipeline…we are stacked!
Caleb C Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 10:41 pm
@Bluecoconuts, I wish we could keep 4 pairs instead of three!
Alex Reply:
October 29th, 2011 at 10:35 am
@Bluecoconuts, Packaged Martinez, Drewiskie to who ever for a decent power forward…i prefer Hartnell from Philadelphia. U will get 4.2mil. cap hit for Hartnel, Minus Mirtinez and DD2. So in actuality we will only be getting around 2.5mil cap hit.
Seems A Good Fellow Reply:
October 29th, 2011 at 7:55 am
@bringbackbutchgoring, This may be the toughest decision the Kings have to make next season! VV won’t be up this year unless there’s an injury or AMart falters but this off season big time decisions will need to be made by DL. If Scuds and Mitchell both want to play in LA uniforms (IRS believe both are FA’s next season?) we will resign both I believe. CC is clearly a top 4 SLam though and I can’t see him in the AHL next season. The depth on D and in net on this team is ridiculous!
[Reply]
wow, KC got called out by name? I guess we aren’t the only disappointed bunch in his play.
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lakingsfan10 Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 3:11 pm
@Stuart, Really? I am not disapointed with his play at all.
Playing 4th line minutes and has 2 points. Shooting % is 20%. That doesn’t seem so bad in 9 games.
Plus management never called him out or said anything about Kyle Clifford..
“most notably with Oscar Moller and possibly with Kyle Clifford”
That’s Rich’s opinion.
You guys should stop looking at Westgarth and Clifford… How about taking a look at Trevor Lewis, what has he done so far this year? Nothing!
[Reply]
Crown Royal Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 3:17 pm
@lakingsfan10,
Lewis is doing what he’s capable of doing. Anybody who thought Lewis was going to be a goal scorer before he was drafted needed to have their heads examined. He was overrated but has developed into a reliable third or fourth line player. He needs to improve on his faceoffs or ultimatlely moved to right wing.
I have no issue with Lewis or his game. He gets better on the draws or moves to the wing. That’s his story.
[Reply]
Stuart Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 3:17 pm
@lakingsfan10, I never said management, in fact I never said Rich either…
And by disappointment, I mean that plenty o’ folks have wondered what has happened to his physical play (which has picked up a little bit in the last few tilts) and I think his offensive explosion at the end of last season led some to believe that he had that in him ready to be unleashed on the league… In fact, I think it’s been Hardy (maybe wrong) that felt that he has some untapped potential that TM is not using correctly.
And I’m just one person, not “guys” just sayin.
[Reply]
David Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 3:26 pm
@lakingsfan10, Trevor Lewis is an energy guy. He’s on the same level of Brad Richardson IMHO. I think he’s great for the PK Unit and I think he’s great when the top two lines need some rest.
[Reply]
BigMikeonD Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 3:39 pm
@David, Isn’t Lewis the fastest guy on the team? I have seen him turn on the Jets and pull away from people. He just needs to get his scoring touch and he will light the lamp.
tacomakingsfan Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 3:42 pm
@David,
+1
Ryan Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 3:27 pm
@lakingsfan10, how about the job Lewis does on the PK. The guy is a monster out there and poses as a real threat to get a short handed goal with his speed. The guy is very dangerous and will continue to get better over the course of the season. He is interchangeable and can play on every line. So far I have been disappointed with Cliffy. Lots of upside, but things are not coming to him as easily as they did last year and he has struggled with earning consistent ice time and getting into the game when he gets his chance. Still both kids will be around for a long time.
[Reply]
David Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 3:50 pm
@Ryan, exactly….you can’t coach speed and you can’t force effort. It’s a long season and I expect Cliffy to improve and Lewis to do the same.
KingsGuy Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 4:02 pm
@lakingsfan10, Good call
[Reply]
jet Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 5:10 pm
@lakingsfan10, At the start of last season, I was the lone voice in sending KC and Schenn down. I finally conceded given the room he gave other on the ice, but he is struggling a bit now and what do you do without affecting his confidence? We have enough talent to let the young players become great players without worrying about a small incremental help to the team.
A few years ago Quisp said, the Kings need to let the kids percolate, and that was his greatest insight to this blog.
I just do not know how you can bash Lewis. He played less than 10 minutes, yet every time I look up he was first to the puck, hitting someone, or in front of Let-in-one. I wish Lewis could do that every night. We would be a great team.
[Reply]
Deke'r Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 5:37 pm
@jet, Yeah but Lewis hasn’t scored any goals man…..LOL!
TheAcaciaStrain Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 5:47 pm
@lakingsfan10, he is one of the BEST penalty killers the kings have, he plays high on the blue line and knows how to deflect shots really well, and he’s really fit and if you watch him play, he plays entire shifts in full sprint sometimes and you never see him tired, that doesn’t make him a star player by any means, but he certainly has earned a spot on this team.
[Reply]
Christian T Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 11:01 pm
@lakingsfan10, Let’s not call out any of the above mentioned. They are doing the jobs they are supposed to do and that is why the Kings are doing well. Everyone has a role and I’ve seen nothing but good from KC on the 4th line. Plus Westgarth is even playing well. As for Lewis he is doing just fine. He is not supposed to score.
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Seems A Good Fellow Reply:
October 29th, 2011 at 8:01 am
@lakingsfan10, I have to disagree. Lewis is a 4th line guy. I think our 4th line has played great all season, probably as good of a 4th line as we’ve had in years! They’ve created a little offense and haven’t been a liability on D. To be honest, I don’t think the Kings as a whole have played their best hockey but there isn’t one person on this team that has stuck out as being a player that has done “nothing”.
[Reply]
Eggplant Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 11:42 pm
@Stuart, I don’t think his play has dropped considerably. At the start of the season he was a bit quiet, but lately he’s really picked up his physical game. It’s fun watching our 4th line out there, causing havoc when bodies fly around. They’ve kept the play in the opposing team’s end more than any other line, except maybe Kopi’s.
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If he’s an NHL player why is he being sent out of the NHL? The Kings could send Hunter down for now, move Drewiske to the wing where he’s already played some for the Kings, then alternate Voynov and AM for ahwile. Even better yet get rid of Greene.
Voynov is totally ready now for the NHL. Sending him down is just messing with his potential. He’s already too good for the minors.
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PRMan Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 3:25 pm
@Crown Royal, Greene has played great. You don’t get rid of green when you could waive DD2 or trade him for a 5th or something (some teams are desperate for NHL-ready D).
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Crown Royal Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 3:33 pm
@PRMan,
Sorry but Greene has never played great. He was brought in to L.A. when the defense was a disaster. He started as a top four guy and has been moved back to the third pairing because he has very little talent. He is no longer needed. He gets paid WAY too much money because DL signed him to a bloated contract out of desperation. Now there is much more talent available. Greene will fail in the playoffs this season as he did last season. He needs to go the sooner the better.
[Reply]
jet Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 5:15 pm
@Crown Royal, W is no where close to being able to replace what Greene brings to this team. If you cannot see this, then sit with someone who has played the next game you see live.
second the contortions you suggest to get W 15 minutes of play time wvery other game are not worth it. Let W lead Manchester to the playoffs and past the first round. Then he will be ready in all facets.
Crown Royal Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 6:43 pm
@Jet,
I have watched hockey in four different countries with NHL scouts, professional coaches, former NHL players, and have conducted hockey coaching seminars in Europe myself. My son currently earns his living on a pair of skates with a stick in his hand in Europe as well. I appreciate your suggestion “to sit with someone who has played” but honestly I don’t think they’re going to point out anything regarding Greene I haven’t seen myself. In fact, if you watch a game with me where Greene is playing, I think I can point some things out that he’s doing that you may have missed.
Don’t take this personally. I do appreciate your trying to be helpful.
jet Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 10:34 pm
@Crown Royal, We place a much different value on what he brings to the table. I still believe DD, JJ, big Willy, Scuds, Marty and W would be too small to match up for an entire season. Let alone, playoff time. If we played on Europeon ice, then I would agree with you, but on NHL ice the muscle and imtimidation pieces are invaluable.
RobSD Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 4:30 pm
@PRMan,
Greene has played great? Are we talking about the same Greene? Greene is a tough guy and apparently a good personality but he is the weakest link in our D.
[Reply]
BringBackMarcel Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 3:38 pm
@Crown Royal,
I think Voynov has the maturity to give his best in another Manchester stint, a la Bernier behind Ersberg, after two shutouts in ’09. Down there, Voynov can become a leader and develop that aspect of his game.
…And Greene? What Kings team have you been watching? That dude’s a beast. Lose Greener and the whole complexion of our blue line changes. I have no complaints about Voynov, but he does not bring what Greene brings. Having a level-headed wrecking ball back there to embarrass the opposition in the crease and the corners is not something we want to tamper with…
[Reply]
Crown Royal Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 3:47 pm
@BringBackMarcel,
I’ve been watching the same team you have. Greene is without a doubt the most overrated player on the team by the Kings fans.
I’ve posted exactly why so many times I’m getting tired of doing it so if you want to think he’s a good player go ahead and think it.
[Reply]
Qmungous Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 4:04 pm
@Crown Royal, take a puck to the face (twice) and get back to us
bobknob Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 4:05 pm
@Crown Royal,
He’s a likeable guy and player. But I agree. I think it makes sense for a lot of reasons why he should be traded, if possible. Cap hit, making room for vv, resigning Mitchell, etc.
jet Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 5:18 pm
@BringBackMarcel, Thank you, someone who has been there and understands Greene’s true value.
[Reply]
pitty Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 3:50 pm
@Crown Royal, Messing with his potential is why he is being sent back and anyone who wants to get rid of Greene should talk to other Kings players about what they feel he brings to the team. I bet it’s a lot more than you think.
[Reply]
Crown Royal Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 4:01 pm
@pitty,
Your comment was more relevent two or three years ago. I have no doubt Greene is popular with his teammates. He just isn’t as valuable now on a more veteran team which has gotten better and wants to make a run for the cup. He simply doesn’t have the talent.
[Reply]
pitty Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 4:09 pm
@Crown Royal, You need a hell of a lot more than talent to win the cup. Talk to anyone who has served in the military, the popular guy is not the fastest, strongest or even the smartest it’s the guy who will do anything for the guys around him. Pick someone on the team that fits that bill. Hmmm Matt Greene maybee
RobSD Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 4:33 pm
@Crown Royal,
Totally agree. Good guy, players like him but he is the odd man out in our current 6. Resign Mitchell and trade Greene and DD2.
jet Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 5:25 pm
@Crown Royal, Marty and W would make a great pair, let’s put them out to start our PKs. Greene is one of the hit leaders, and his hits have an affect. Our PK is in the top 10 again. He has mentored our newest Dmen since his arrival. He has shown over and over that he will do whatever is necessary to win. You cannot put a price on what he brings every night, don’t try.
Crown Royal Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 4:07 pm
@Qmungous,
I’ve been in the war and been shot at dozens of times. Would that count in your book?
[Reply]
pitty Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 4:11 pm
@Crown Royal, Glad your still with us brother
fsd1 Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 4:17 pm
@Crown Royal, calm down dude
Crown Royal Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 4:23 pm
@fsd1,
I stay calm until I think people are starting to get personally insulting. I understand others may not agree with me which is fine. When people make comments that are negatively directed at others I think that’s not appropriate. That’s why I made that response.
jet Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 5:31 pm
@Crown Royal, okay, that explains a great deal. Look, was there not some other service member out there with you that was not the fastest guy, not the best shot, maybe not the straightest barrel out there, but you knew if a granade came into your group he would be the first guy to fall on it? Value comes in many forms, and you need many different skills to win the war and to win a cup. Keep posting my friend
LAPD Line Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 5:41 pm
@Crown Royal,
You are so right Crown Royal, so many times I read comments that basically say, “here is my opinion, anyone who doesn’t agree with me obviously doesn’t know what they are talking about”. Come on people, there are a lot of hockey smart people on this board who aren’t always going to agree on everything. If anyone here knew all the answers they would be in the front office, or behind the bench. As for Crown Royal, thank you for your service my friend. Anyone who willingly puts is ass in harms way in some dirt hole on the other side of the world, so my family and I can live a free life, is a hero in my book. I hope to be able to buy you a drink at some time.
Forum67 Reply:
October 29th, 2011 at 4:46 am
@Crown Royal,
I would say that folks that have an opinion that differs from yours about Greene would probably be better served not to call into question your expertise. Particularly given your vast experience and background with hockey and the military.
Hate to say it but DD2 will not be in a Kings uniform next season. Our DMen have to be in the top spot once Slava comes up. Now we have to stop with some of the mental mistakes and running around. when that happens, we are going to be frustrating to play against. I’m thinking along the lines of a Detroit during their Cup years. now we just need the scoring and we can have a run like that.
[Reply]
he didnt call clifford out. He just said that they feel they might have made the wrong decision in terms of developing him. Where would clifford be this season if instead of playing with the team last year he was a 40+ goal scorer in junior hockey ? Murray isn’t saying Clifford is playing bad or he needs more from Clifford, management is just speculating that maybe Clifford would be more prepared to take on that 3rd line LW role they were hoping he would be able to if he were returned to juniors last year as opposed to 4th line NHL minutes.
[Reply]
Capt Jam Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 3:37 pm
@typicaljs,
Neither management nor the coaches referred to Clifford above. Only Hammond did as an example of prospects who have been fast tracked into the big club.
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okay none of u guys are getting the picture..Voynov will stay in the minors because all the TM and most like DL told him he is ready to play with the big boys but there no room for u.Soo what that means whenb Mitchell contract is out Voynov will take that spot or even DD#2….Because for right now Martinez has earn his spot and hasnt messed up to be put on waviers or get trade and even DD#2 so what he in the dog house but he has proven that he can be useful..
Trading or putting on waviers so u rather have Martinez sit because Voynov doing great right now?? What if Martinez get back on his game but not has to waste his time sitting out thats Dumb.
Voynov now knows if someone gets hurt he be the first to get that call and he be still playing hockey so his talent wont be waste but he knows he should get the call up for next year and he sure will earn that spot
[Reply]
Sorry but sending Voynov back is the wrong move by the Kings. I do understand all the reasons for sending him down, mainly that the other guys would have to go through waivers. However you need to put out the best team on the ice. It is pretty clear that the best team the Kings can put on the ice includes Voynov rather than Martinez or Greene. Terry Murray agrees with that if you look at who he played the most minutes out of these 3 players.
This reminds me of 2 years ago when they kept Ersberg and sent Bernier to the AHL, when clearly everyone knew and i think they admitted that Bernier was the better goalie at the time. It cost the Kings several games that Ersberg played poorly and then Quick was over tired late in the season and because the coach did not trust Ersberg was overplayed. Quick wasn’t playing at his best and it cost the team in the standings.
[Reply]
tacomakingsfan Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 3:41 pm
@LB,
Correct me if I’m wrong but the reason Ersberg stayed in was to have Bernier develop more in the AHL. He maybe have been the better goalie but his attitude was not all there. He even stated himself that he acted a bit immature due to not getting the role. It’s not always about being physically ready but also mentally ready too. That is far more important.
[Reply]
LB Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 4:01 pm
@tacomakingsfan,
Well Voynov sure seems ready physically and mentally.
My Bernier situation comparison was that this was another time that the Kings did not put their absolute best team on the ice and it hurt them.
[Reply]
tacomakingsfan Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 4:08 pm
@LB,
Voynov is better off in the minors right now. It’s going to be a long season and I’m sure this is not the last time we’re going to see him up here this year.
Slava Voynov has 2 goals and 1 assist and is +3 in 5 games
Alec Martinez has 0 points and is -3 in 8 games.
Enough said.
Waive DD2 and sit Martinez
[Reply]
bringbackbutchgoring Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 3:27 pm
@lakingsfan10, AM is a solid plus player for his career and he will be a solid plus player this year as well, I would bet. DD2 is a role player and it accomplishes nothing to get rid of him now or the offseason. The smart move would be a trade of DD for a top 3 scorer or a trade of JJ for a top 12 scorer. VV can not replace DD obviously but the defense will still be top of the league quality and we add a 35 goal scorer with no loss of cap space
[Reply]
tacomakingsfan Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 3:35 pm
@bringbackbutchgoring,
Yikes! Talk about bad business! We just signed DD to a long term contract and now with the success of VV you want to trade him? Don’t get me wrong I think VV is NHL ready but as far as potential… DD has way more of an upside. DD2 is cheap, not waiver exempt and is a substitute for either Mitchell, Greene or Scuderi if they were to go down. Best thing to do is, as much as all of us Kings fan hate to do, is to send him back down.
[Reply]
bringbackbutchgoring Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 3:42 pm
@tacomakingsfan, I wasn’t thinking short term but down the road. I’m just suggesting to get a legitimate 40 goal scorer (Stamkos, etc) you have to part with something equally worthy. Our offense will gain way more than our defense will lose by trading Doughty for Stamkos for example. I love DD and know how great he is. Also realize that VV belongs back in Manchester. I’m talking about next year. PS Also realize a DD for Stamkos trade is not going to happen…I just don’t want to get rid of AM for nothing. I think AM is going to be a very good player.
tacomakingsfan Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 3:50 pm
@bringbackbutchgoring,
IC.. I guess I must of missed the short term part. I would rather get rid of Penner or Stoll in some type of package to get a scorer because this maybe their last year here.
RobSD Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 4:42 pm
@tacomakingsfan,
This may be their last year here? I would bet on it. Penner could get resigned for the league minimum but I doubt he will take that deal. I like Stoll but we have to make room for Lotki at some point.
Andrew: the second coming Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 4:34 pm
@bringbackbutchgoring, If Tamba wanted Doughty they would have took him instead of Stamkos.
[Reply]
Andrew: the second coming Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 4:35 pm
@Andrew: the second coming, Tampa*
bringbackbutchgoring Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 4:43 pm
@Andrew: the second coming, I was just comparing the quality of player we could receive for Doughty. It doesn’t do much good to try to trade for a 20 goal scorer. We have plenty of those. We need a real sniper and then everything will open up for the rest of the players.
to be honest, i’ve kept an eye on the NHL “transactions” today, with an outside chance maybe the Kings made a trade (to make room for VV- or is it SV?). with all the teams out there so-called needing NHL Dmen, i gave it a small chance that Kings Dmen #5 or #6 or #7 may have been on the move.
[Reply]
Sounds to me like Terry Murray wanted to keep V.V.
I would have rather sent DD2 down and set the defense up like this
Johnson & Doughty
Mitchell & V.V.
Scuderi & Martinez or Greene
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KingsFanFTW Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 3:24 pm
@NOT IMPRESSED, have u seen yesterday game why sit Greene? he a stay a home Defense not meant for scoring goals he meant for stopping goals..
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Crown Royal Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 3:35 pm
@KingsFanFTW,
Greene is only effective at stopping goals on the Penalty Kill. The rest of the time he’s a liability out there.
[Reply]
KingsFanFTW Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 3:43 pm
@Crown Royal, okay not checking the crap out of players not acceptable for u?? He effect u guys are expecting him to stop every single goal and u all know thats not likely to happen so if he great on a PK then he great for 5 on 5.Like i said again he is a stay home Defense not meant for Scoring.He can block shots and check people.
Yea Voynov is a great young defense guy but he has to go down this year.
CB14 Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 3:49 pm
@KingsFanFTW, He does a great job in the defensive zone AFTER the opposing team has entered and set up their offensive system. He is too slow to go against other teams top players on the rush. They go around him because he’s not quick enough to keep up with them. If you don’t believe me, go back and watch the Philly game. After DD got injured, Greene was forced to play against the other teams top lines and his lack of speed was very noticable.
Don’t get me wrong, I love Greene. There’s no one I’d want on the PK more than him. He’s a beast, but he’s not a top 4 d-man, and thus might be expendable.
Crown Royal Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 3:52 pm
@KingsFanFTW,
He’s not great 5 on 5. He’s a poor player who should be playing in the minors or with a team who has no chance to win the cup.
I don’t expect him to stop every single goal. However he gets shown up when he has to play against speedy, talented, players. Scuderi never scores goals but I have never bashed him even once on this site since he joined the team. The difference is Scuderi is a good player, Greene isn’t.
KingsFanFTW Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 3:55 pm
@CB14,Yea i know he slow but he sure still can do the job am not like saying he the best that what u guys are trying to say but sit him out even dumber he only has about 3 more years with the Kings not saying we going to sign him again but he sure useful he a Vet and Voynov is a rookie which one u want to use for when i comes to playoffs time a Vet that can handle the pressure or a rookie that u dont know if he can handle a 82 games int he season??Guess what i would of choose Greene..
Am tired of people trad ehim Martinez or anyone because a player ready but we sure dont want to waste our Depth yet.
We get Depth seems to be dangerous
KingsFanFTW Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 4:01 pm
@Crown Royal, yea okay this is why Depth is dangerous we just throw people under a bus because one Great Offense/Defense player has one great game.
Poorly to u because u expect soo much out of players..To me if he hitting and he seems to be the only one that knows how to check people then u want to true our team to push overs then go for it.
KingsFanFTW Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 4:02 pm
@Crown Royal,i mean turn
Trip Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 3:36 pm
@KingsFanFTW, Even if its with his face!! MG is a neccesity.
[Reply]
KingsFanFTW Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 4:09 pm
@Trip, yea i know he gets hit with a puck in his face and sacrifice his body to stop a goal.but yet people throw other defense under a bus
Crown Royal Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 3:25 pm
@NOT IMPRESSED,
Agree strongly with your D ideas but would have moved Drewiske to the wing and sent Hunter down. That way the Kings keep Drewiske. He’s played there some before and did Okay.
[Reply]
CB14 Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 3:44 pm
@Crown Royal, I thought the same thing the other day. Hunter needs some playing time to stay fresh, and DD2 needs to stay on the roster in case WM, RS, or MG get injured. Plus, as you said, he can play wing too.
[Reply]
Why can’t we just keep him and rotate him in with Greene like Westgarth rotates in? Maybe like every other game or every 2?
The kid can play, he’s got a great shot, skates very well, good defensive instincts. He’s not as strong as Greene but with his other abilities he still comes out on the plus side. Sending him back down is a sin.
[Reply]
To all those who wished that DL trade Jack Johnson because of his rotten +/-,
Well guess who leads the Kings in +/- now? Jack Johnson with +6.
[Reply]
Capt Jam Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 3:48 pm
@NOT IMPRESSED,
My favorite moment from last night’s telecast was when JJ told Jim Fox, “Well, that’s my job,” in response to Fox’s comment about JJ playing solid D to start out the season.
[Reply]
What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 3:59 pm
@NOT IMPRESSED, I hope he keeps it up.
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puck73 Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 4:11 pm
@NOT IMPRESSED, Lets see what happens when Doughty gets back if JJ can keep this up, then I will be sold on him.
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KC23 Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 7:07 pm
@NOT IMPRESSED, saw a lot of people, including me complain about JJ plus/minus, but I don’t remember many saying they wanted to trade him.
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Hadley Reply:
October 29th, 2011 at 6:43 am
@NOT IMPRESSED, with his burst of success this season, JMFJ has skyrocketed up to Number 514 on the Kings’ all-time plus/minus list. That’s 514 out of 525. So he had a horrific four years and a decent nine games. JMFJ is worth a veritable ton in the trading market and I would trade him in a heartbeat for a high-end forward.
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Hadley Reply:
October 29th, 2011 at 11:15 pm
@NOT IMPRESSED, No offense, but JMFJ was his old self tonight — an awful game by any standard — it was like something out of “The Exorcist.” His Minus Three tonight means he no longer leads the team in Plus/Minus and I think he has gone back down to 516 of 525 on the Kings’ all-time list. That puts him in some really vile company in the bottom ten.
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–Was watching King’s Vision replay from last night’s game again and admiring VV’s unique slapshot. Things will settle in, adjustments will be made and he will be back sooner than most of my fellow KF’s think IMHO.
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The Kings can get some nice return on some of these guys in our system.
DL better get ready to pull the trigger come trade deadline/draft because some of these guys are ready to make the jump to the NHL and you can’t hold them back forever.
Glad DD is back!! Now let’s tear this league a new one!!
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KingsFanFTW Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 3:44 pm
@KOHO, yea but he can wait into someone cntract is up just this year he has to wait.plain and simple
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KOHO Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 4:22 pm
@KingsFanFTW,
??
That’s why I said trade deadline/DRAFT..he has time but not much to make that decision.
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KingsFanFTW Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 4:25 pm
@KOHO, well Mitchell wont be with us next year or DD#2 so Voynov will be that guy. yea if we trade someone then trade someone that can get a draft pick with a another prospect maybe to get Voynov but then again u never know into the seaosn at the middle
RobSD Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 4:49 pm
@KOHO,
I think there is a trade on the horizon. Management has shown they want to win and they want to win now. “The Time is Now”. With the acquisitions of Richards and Gagne, this team is obviously at a higher level than last year. Management and coaching sees the same things the majority of us see.
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Jon Quick on NHL Live right now
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In the future, I wonder if the kings will keep an even split of offensive d-men and defensive d-men (3 & 3) or if the future holds 4 offensive d-men and 2 defensive d-men.
A top 4 with DD, JJ, & SV … wow! The potential there.
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CB14 Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 3:51 pm
@BringBackKingston, I think in the near future we’re going to see JJ and DD on the same line.
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Anybody else think that Doughty is overpaid and the Kings don’t miss him that much.
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What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 4:00 pm
@Bill, No
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tacomakingsfan Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 4:00 pm
@Bill,
Right now he is but HOPEFULLY soon he can show why he deserves 7 mill.
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jess Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 4:05 pm
@tacomakingsfan, I have wondered the same thing but have been quiet about it. Just a wait and see type deal, its a lot of pressure he put upon himself and hope he lives up to it.
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fsd1 Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 4:20 pm
@Bill, nope
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RobSD Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 4:51 pm
@Bill,
He is 21 years old. Most NHL d men don’t come into their own until 25. We have him locked up until 29. He is only going to get stronger, smarter and better. I think right now it might look that way but this team is going to be a force for years to come.
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colo king fan Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 5:23 pm
@Bill, you always miss a player of Doughty’s caliber. always. Especially a defenseman of Doughty’s caliber.
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KC23 Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 7:09 pm
@Bill, Not really.
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DL is clearly licking his chops at the increased value of Voynov. Sending him down now won’t hurt his value. I’m just as happy knowing he’s there in the wings, ready to fill in for our next injured blue liner as I am to think that he could be parlayed into our next great young forward.
How about trading Parse and Voynov for a new serious upgrade of a young (read “inexpensive”) winger?
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KingsGuy Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 4:04 pm
@BringBackMarcel, Ya, I say talk to MTL.
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David Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 4:10 pm
@BringBackMarcel, What logic would there be in trading Voynov? I understand trading Parse, but why trade a blue chip defenseman? What Schenn was as a offensive prospect for us, Voynov is for defense.
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colo king fan Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 5:22 pm
@David, Voynov is even better than Schenn (at least in terms of where voynov is right now vs where schenn is right now).. roster ready D-men with game like that are not to be traded.. not until they’ve matured to the point that you get back all your value and not by a team ready to make a cup run.
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Kings + depth = Fans throwing everyone under a bus.Which means Bad news.
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Andrew: the second coming Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 4:58 pm
@KingsFanFTW, Lol only the ones with too much time on thier hands.
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I expected Voynov going down.
With the current plan of having 1 Offensive D man (DD , JJ , Martinez) paired with a Defensive D (Mitchell, Scuds , Greene) the only one he could replace would be Martinez.
DD2 is a defensive D and is ticketed to replace a more physical D in case of injury. Thats why Voynov was brought up to fill in for the injured Offensive D.
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Re Voynov going to Manchester: if you really are honest with yourself you knew this was going to happen.
I have really enjoyed watching him, and I hope the Kings can straighten out this logjam at D. In my opinion, and in the opinion of a lot of us here, Voynov is one of the best 7 Kings organization defensemen without question.
My main concern is for Voynov not to bolt for Russia. Bottom line is that the Kings have at least 10 defensemen who are too valuable just to lose them for nothing. So whatever it takes to either keep them here, or trade them for useful assets of equal value is what I support.
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Question is, would have we won last night without Voynov??
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CB14 Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 4:12 pm
@jess, No.
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jess Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 4:16 pm
@CB14, yeah it’s a real noodle-baker. Did you see his slap shot? Kind of a sidewinder looked really different to me was wondering if anyone else noticed –I know letinin did lol
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CB14 Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 4:31 pm
@jess, Yeah I did notice that. I also liked how he was looking for a back door pass on the PP.
fsd1 Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 4:21 pm
@CB14, should i buy ibm stock tomorrow? lol
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CB14 Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 4:28 pm
@fsd1, Ask again later
jess Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 5:13 pm
@CB14, yup and MR is the man for the job. I think pens can be that guy too, he just doesnt know it yet
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Deke'r Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 6:04 pm
@jess, Sure as long as someone else scored 2 goals. What kind of question is that?
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jess Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 6:41 pm
@Deke’r, well that is the question, would someone else have scored two goals? Your assumption is someone would have and I’m not so sure. It’s a mind bender and not necessarily meant to be taken seriously.
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In my twitter feed :
Hammond : doughty to play, voynov slotted for AHL.
The very next item is…
Hockeybreak : the Tampa bay lightning are looking to add an additional defender, have spoken with the Carolina hurricanes.
Plz call dl and ask about greene
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JWR Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 5:15 pm
@bobknob,
If for some reason Greene was traded his spot would be filled by Muzzin not Voynov.
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Some real good arguments… Here’s my two cents,
VV goes back to Manchester
DD gets going quickly
The “A” needs to come off Greene
Mitchell is a stud… Sign him for another Two years
Martinez we are watching you closely
Scuds = Studs
DD#2 Trade him/ wave him
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kinginsaltlake Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 4:21 pm
@kinginsaltlake, JmfJ is one bad ass dude!!!
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Wow. Some of you guys are a bit testy about VV and Greene! Please remember, it is not just about who is playing well. VV is the only D that could be sent down without clearing waivers. They are not going to let 44DD go for nothing, just to have AM or VV riding the pine. And I do not anticipate any changes up front. KW is a role player, TH is cheap insurance, and Sparse is able to move into a top 6 role, something KW and TH can’t do. Its a long season. I expect to see VV and Lokti here again before it is over. But the sky is not falling yet!
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LAPD Line Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 5:51 pm
@edwood2, The refreshing voice of reason..
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Deke'r Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 6:07 pm
@LAPD Line, …and common sense…
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Ok we all know VV is ready and is a TOP 4 dman. Not a bottom pairing Dman. Which is why he is not still on the roster he needs minutes to do what he does best and our bottom pairing just isnt going to give him that.
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I would like to see Voynov stay. He not only adds to our offense but is effective on defense as well. Greene takes stupid penalties at times, isn’t a good puck handler, and is not an effective offensive threat. He should be traded. I would think it would be between Greene and Drewiske as potential trade bait. Maybe Martinez as well but would much rather see Greene or Drewiske go.
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I can’t believe the hate Matt Greene is getting. He is a 5/6 defenseman on the team, and while not without flaws, he’s hardly the pylon some are making him out to be. Some of you just be hatin’
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JWR Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 5:30 pm
@Whodawat,
Some were not around to watch the “escort service” that was Charley Huddey and Darrel Sydor.
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Whodawat Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 5:37 pm
@JWR, maybe the impact of Denis Tsygurov and Steven Finn raised their expectations… ?
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jesse Reply:
October 29th, 2011 at 12:54 am
@JWR, Like I was. Great point JWR
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bbb7 Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 6:03 pm
@Whodawat, Also, he blocks a LOT of shots, and if you watch a team like Dallas one of the things that makes them so good is they BLOCK A LOT OF SHOTS! You need stay-at-home guys who arent afraid to sacrifice their bodies, especially on the PK … aka.. Greene.
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LAPD Line Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 6:03 pm
@Whodawat, Just because you put forth the idea of trading a guy where you have a surplus, in order to shore up a weaker area of your team does not mean you are a hater of that person, or throwing them under a bus. I love Greene’s attitude and work ethic, but he is beginning to slow down. He kind of reminds me of Sean O’Donnel now. You can’t doubt that he is a warrior, but if you can upgrade your team by trading him, we gotta look into it. I hated the thought of losing Simmonds and Schenn, but I think MR was worth it. If we traded Greene, we could have (Doughty and JJ), (Mitchell and Voynov), (Scuds and A-Mart). Not too shabby, especially if we could get someone decent for him plus shed cap space to help us sign Quick and Mitchell.
Just my two cents…
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Whodawat Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 6:22 pm
@LAPD Line, go look through some of the comments about people saying Greene sucks, he’s a liability, only good for blocking shots off his face, etc.. and you tell me that isn’t hating on him.
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Whodawat Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 6:24 pm
@LAPD Line, Also, my memory may not be up to speed at the moment, but the Doughty/Johnson pairing was a disaster at even strength. I’m all for them together on the PP though.
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Deke'r Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 6:11 pm
@Whodawat, “Some of you just be hatin’”…..isn’t that what blogs are for?
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You may be right about Doughty and Johnson not being able to play on the same line. Eventually, though, they will be paired together again and given a long look. I think both of their games have improved in a way that it may work sooner rather than later. If trading Greene enables us to sign Mitchell or Quick long term, it seems to me you would have to consider it.
On your other point, about the haters, again you may be right. I tend to stop reading some of the nastier posts after a few lines. I don’t want to hear it. What I was talking about was people being overly sensitive to any comments of their favorite players. Saying you think Quick is clearly our number 1 goaltender doesn’t make yo a Bernier hater. And saying you think Bernier will eventually be our number 1 doesn’t make you a Quick hater. Now I definitely think there are some Doughty haters, and some Westy haters…
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LAPD Line Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 7:12 pm
@LAPD Line, Sorry, that reply was for Whodawat…
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LAPD Line Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 7:19 pm
@LAPD Line, Just thought about all the Penner haters too. Come to think of it Whodawat, you are so right… some hatin’ goin’ on in here…
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Whodawat Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 8:01 pm
@LAPD Line, You might be right about a Doughty/Johnson pairing now.. especially with regards to JJ. He’s slowly becoming a top notch all-around defenseman. My only problem is that they both like to rush the puck and jump into the play. Playing together might limit their ability to do so consistently. That is why I like TMs philosophy of pairing an offensive minded dman with a stay at home guy. I could be wrong though and they may very well compliment each other quite nicely.
Also, I think you and I are on the same page. I totally agree that saying Player X should be traded if it makes the Kings stronger is not hating, but as you mentioned above, some of the comments regarding certain players are just plain foolish. That is what I was referring to in my original post.
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LAPD Line Reply:
October 28th, 2011 at 8:21 pm
@Whodawat, Having forwards who are responsible defensively, especially our centers, will also allow JJ and DD to do their things offensively.
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Hey, is this Dan S?
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i think im gona have to grab VV next year on my fantasy team to be a bench warmer to start the season but as soon as he starts to play consistently like last night in Dallas, he gets top spot =)
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This is simply about options – Voynov has them and no one else does. At this point in the season you don’t want to lose guys for nothing. DL will explore trade options and see if he can get an asset for someone before waiving anybody.
Voynov is much better served playing 20+ minutes a night in Manchester than in the press box in L.A. Hopefully he doesn’t pull a Loktionov and get hurt down there.
I think he’s proved enough to earn a spot on this team long-term.
I like Martinez but he’s the guy I would look to move, possibly with Parse. Teams are always looking for a puck-moving d-man, especially at his low cap hit. I would think DL should be able to get at least a nice pick for Alec.
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I think this is a good situation to be in. Having some depth defensively bodes well for what looks to be a very competitive season in the West.
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I read something about Boston maybe wanting to shake things up because of their Stanley Cup hangover. How about Penner and Martinez + maybe a pick for Brad Marchand? The kid is a pure scorer and he was magical in the finals last season. I love Martinez, but Voynov is just as good already and seems to be getting better every day.
Dunno why Boston would make that trade but hey, I can dream, right?
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