The first calendar month of the Kings’ season is now in the books, and 11 games seems a fair total to evaluate, in terms of where the Kings stand in the league in some major statistical categories. This year’s totals/averages and rankings are in bold and, for comparison, last year’s full-season totals/averages and rankings follow, in italics…
Points earned/game: .636 (T-8th) — .598 (12th)
Goals/game: 2.36 (T-21st) — 2.55 (25th)
Goals against/game: 1.91 (2nd) — 2.39 (T-6th)
5-on-5 goals for/against ratio: 1.14 (9th) — 1.05 (13th)
Power-play percentage: 23.1 (6th) — 16.1 (21st)
Penalty-kill percentage: 86.1 (T-8th) — 85.5 (4th)
Shots/game: 28.3 (T-9th) — 28.8 (T-23rd)
Shots against/game: 28.3 (T-9th) — 27.9 (3rd)
Penalty minutes/game: 11.3 (13th) — 11.7 (T-14th)
Hits: 260 (6th) — 2,127 (5th)
Blocked shots: 154 (14th) — 1,032 (27th)
Faceoff percentage: 49.1 (19th) — 51.1 (10th)
Looking good actually
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KingsGuy Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 2:23 pm
@kingo, I don’t know if goals and shots look all that great…
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Harty Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 3:58 pm
@kingo, with some easy challenges by the coach and we improve big time………
Penner play hard or sit in pressbox
Doughty stop being a liability or you will be used very little
Kopi, Richards, keep it going
Williams, Richardson, Gagne, lets pick it up
Clifford, Hunter, Brown more banging and crashing around the ice
D overall play better in our end with the puck, too many turnovers at our blueline
Goaltenders keep it going
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Cowboy Bill Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 4:26 pm
@Harty, did you see the HockeyBuzz rumor about Penner maybe heading East???
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408kingsfan Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 4:39 pm
@Cowboy Bill, sounds good to me Siberia maybe?
Oscar Moller's Beard Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 10:51 pm
@Cowboy Bill, Headed east to Manchester maybe…
CTD Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 11:07 am
@Cowboy Bill, god I hope that is true
Tommy Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 8:17 pm
@Harty, I agree with you on everything Harty. I think westy needs to back and playing we need a ton more banging and grinding out there. It seems like are hitting is down and when we need a spark we aren’t getting one. I hope westy gets back in the lineup soon cause clifford/hunter/brown aren’t hitting out there.
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Duckbasher Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 8:27 pm
@Tommy,
Westy needs to be playing in a pick-up league. Can’t hit, can’t skate, can’t score and worst of all… can’t fight.
39scars Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 10:10 am
@Tommy, Last game, big hit, big fight, and an assist
ScottP Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 6:41 pm
@Tommy, All good points… but whatever the rankings are today, you can be sure they will change. For the last 3 or 4 years now, we have started the season very strong, and ended much weaker. We also tend to see stronger play on the road than at home. Maybe the guys get too comfy when they are at home and need to stay at a hotel before a game?? Just Sayn’.
this is by far the best! Power-play percentage: 23.1 (6th) — 16.1 (21st)
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USHA#17 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 2:14 pm
@Matthew Motush,
Your right about the penalty kill but the power play is nothing to write home about…unless you want to tell you mother your cold, broke and hungry.
Keep in mind that two power play goals were 4-3.
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USHA#17 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 2:30 pm
@USHA#17,
I take that back…wrong column, read it backward…nonetheless, the comment was clever!!!
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Hmmm that should quiet some of the Chicken Littles out there, especially that 5-on5 differential number. The team has in essence played 8 road games and only 3 at home and still are on a pace to surpass last season’s point total. Yes, there’s room for improvement and we need DD to get up to speed, but so far it’s fine.. Oh, except for Penner.
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fsd1 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 12:27 pm
@bbb7, should calm alot of people down….+1
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pnm Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 12:35 pm
@bbb7, If I may, Quick is the main reason so far for that 5-on-5 number.
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Crown Royal Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 12:52 pm
@pnm,
Excellent point!
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fsd1 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 12:58 pm
@pnm, he isnt a part of the team? Could he have done it without any defense in front of him? Just asking…..
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KingsRule99 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 1:04 pm
@fsd1,
Great point. I’m tired of hearing that our great start is solely because of Quicker. He’s obviously doing a great job, but something should be said about the solid defensive system that Murray has in place.
pnm Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 2:19 pm
@fsd1, He is certainly part of the team, yes. And in fact, most of those saves he was forced to make were made with that same defense in front of him. (With an average goalie in net, we have a different record thus far.) The story of this stat so far is this: we have not allowed teams to score more than we have. Which says nothing at all for our offense. That is more to the point. We cannot rely on this all season long, so I would suspect this stat to drastically change as the season moves along if something is not changed with this “system” we are playing in.
jet Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 1:10 pm
@pnm, but, Quick is a team member
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DLB Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 9:26 am
@jet, look at the history of all goalies since the lockout; even with a great defensive system a number that high is not sustainable.
PP Anybody? Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 12:58 pm
@bbb7, The 5 on 5 differential number just means that we hardly ever score 5 on 5, but that we let our opponents score even slightly less than we do. It’s not indicative of any 5 on 5 scoring increase on our part. It does not show how we stack up in terms of how many goals the Kings score 5 on 5, and how many goals other teams score 5 on 5 vs. other opponents.
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bbb7 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 1:11 pm
@PP Anybody?, Granted, but I’d much rather have a 1.14 differential scoring 1.55 5-on-5 goals a game (which is where we are now) than a .9 differential scoring 2.5 a game.
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kingszzz Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 1:13 pm
@bbb7, still a long way to go to compete with the likes of San Jose / Pens / Caps / Wings / Sabres / Bruins/ Chicago en route to being a true Cup Contender IMHO. Glad the season is a long one.
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KC23 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 5:35 pm
@kingszzz, Pens, maybe. The rest, not so much.
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Lake Forest Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 1:20 pm
@bbb7, THANK YOU!!!!!
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Michael J. Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 1:30 pm
@bbb7,
A nice thought, but c’mon! If the Kings were 9-1-1 they would still be complaining about something.
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Very interesting. Now let’s start scoring more please!
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LGK!! Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 7:28 pm
@- ViC -, yeah! And would fans rather have Penner or Frolov? I’m curious to know!
Personally, I’d like a gifted slacker better than a non-scoring one
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Duckbasher Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 8:29 pm
@LGK!!, Dude… I get you. The Fro would be a welcome site over the Penner.
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5/5, pk and pp are all very good. Yet we are still 21st in goals per game.
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RobSD Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 1:08 pm
@Krash,
Yes but we are second in goals against!
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Faceoff percentage needs to improve. That alone can have a positive impact on many other statistical categories. Other than that, I’m pretty pleased with what I see there.
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FKA PakiFro Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 2:16 pm
@Gabby,
Given Kopitar, Richards, and Stoll are routinely at or above 50%, it makes you think that the other guys (Lewis? Wingers when the center is kicked out?) are losing a vast majority of the few draws that are left over for them.
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TYLER Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 9:56 am
@FKA PakiFro, recently kopi and stoll have been below 50%…
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FIrst month is an underachievement… what happened to our high powered offense? Our play looks sloppy in the nuetral zone and the only bright spot is the PK. Solid up the middle yes…the wings look to be non exisitent. time to shake things up with a roster move. Seems like the Penner experiement is a total bust and look for him to be traded for a very low round pick if someone is in need of a giant sea slug that lacks heart. Time for Cliffie, Lewis and Richardson to shine as there are spots for them to flourish. Time for this team to step up and look like the contender that they have been billed to be. TM shaking the lines up like you have has done nothing to acheive the goal…figure something else out.
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nykingfan Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 1:05 pm
@kngfan004,
I’ll disagree with some of what you said.
I don’t classify them as underacheiving, but i think a lot more is still to come.
As far as the line shakepups…a couple of points.
Part of it is because Gagne has been out the last 2 games. that forced TM to move Penner up to the top line. He switched that line on Saturday and moved Ritchie and Hunter(?) with Kopitar. If TM doesn’t make that move, I’m not sure we get a point out of the game.
As much as you’d like to have set lines thoughout the season, that’s just not realiztic.
Not only due to injury but also do to play. If it’s not working, try and shake things up. Sometimes it helps.
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KingsFanFTW Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 1:09 pm
@nykingfan, If its nto working then try to fix it by switching it up but not by ruining the second line.That line is kinda clicking means almost getting their chemistry..But by flopping the 3 and 4 lines around to see what works for Kopi..
But Williams hasnt been him self those last two games
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nykingfan Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 1:44 pm
@KingsFanFTW,
I agree about JW. His play the last 2 games has been subpar for him.
All season defensively he’s been off, but the last 2 have been noticeable.
How can you argue with the way the line looks right now with Richards/Brown/Parse.
I didn’t think he switch that line up.
Duckbasher Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 8:30 pm
@KingsFanFTW, Maybe he misses his buddy Gagne?
kngfan004 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 1:36 pm
@nykingfan, Penner can’t fit the bill…Gange being out means Hunter or Moreau on LW if they want a big body up front…with heart! or you move Richardson up. Face it Penner is a bust ad doesn’t deserve the ice time. You miss my point of the constant line changes during the game not because someone is out. There offense is horrible thre puck control in the nuetral zone the past 4 games abysmal for a team that is supposed to be a Cup contender. The Dominance they showed in the 5-0 home opener is invisible…The team that has played the past 3 games look like the keystone cops…if not for Quick they would be 2-6-2 at best.
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nykingfan Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 1:57 pm
@kngfan004,
It seems to be rampant in the league that scoring is down. We’re not the only good team that’s struggling offensively.
Switching lines during the game is something that has to be left to the coach. If he feels the lines aren’t working on a particular night, I’d much rather have him change them during the game to try and win the game, than sticking with what’s not working.
the team is in good shape at the moment. I’m not concerned with any part of their game. the offense will come around. Give them some time.
I’m not sure we’d really want them peaking at this time of the year.
Duckbasher Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 8:31 pm
@kngfan004, I like Hunter over Moreau. He’s got some game.
KingsFanFTW Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 5:41 pm
@nykingfan, yea just saying i hope he doesnt ruined the second line cause TM known to do something like that…
But in time i think the Kings will start clicking again whenever Gagne comes back i hope soona nd i hope he stay healthy this whole year
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TheAcaciaStrain Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 1:41 pm
@kngfan004, 100% agree well said
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Harty Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 3:55 pm
@kngfan004, tough for Cliffie getting most nights < then 5 minutes of ice time??
Put him up where Richardson is and I would agree.
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KC23 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 5:37 pm
@kngfan004, Unachievment? Nah. About what I was hoping for actualy, perhaps even a little better. So far my only disappointments with the team are TM, Penner and to a lesser degree, Doughty.
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Duckbasher Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 8:42 pm
@KC23, You nailed it. TM needs to let the players play the game and style that brought them to play in the NHL and for the LA Kings up to this point RIGHT NOW. We have arguably the best team in many years. our goaltending is as good as any in the league. We are probably one player short of fielding (on paper) one of the strongest teams in the NHL. We need Gagne healthy (he’s for sure a stud). We need Penner to sit or become our enforcer (Yes… I am serious because he’s a big bad dude). Or we need to trade or waive him because I think the fans have givin up on him because he was a duck… and always will be a duck (and an overpaid ex-duck). Lombardi needs to cut his losses and write that one off before a bad day becoimes a bad year. Doughty will get better as he gets his game going. He’s a bit behind because of contract and injury.
If this team doesn’r produce wins, then there’s no doubt that Terry Murray is the cog.
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I’ll be REALLY interested to see how the stats play out, and subsequently how they are ranked, going into the all star break. Last year they started strong and then had some major slides. This year, it seems like the whole league is going strong (barring a couple of teams) and there are a handful of teams doing way better than expected.
I think the true measure of how much this team has progressed will be seen around mid season when we can evaluate whether they have improved mentally and can keep a strong, consistent pace. it’s likely some of the other hot teams will start to fade. And some of the strong young teams now should hopefully be subject to the same bouts of inconsistency that the Kings faced last season. Lets see if our boys have grown up a bit.
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number 6 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 3:25 pm
@Helvetica,
You make sense. Maybe that’s why you’re a graphic designer? Or maybe not why.
But I like your post. I will ad one thing though. This is the third straight year of 5-on -5 issues and that had better get better if they even dream of being a contender. Teams that struggle at even strength to score are simply not gonna win a Cup. The stats are better. But to me the real stat is…. only two out of eleven games where they have managed more than two goals in regulation.
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We have to remember that several other top notch teams are not playing well right now and those numbers are going to change. I would like to see a comparison of last seasons first 11 games compared to this seasons first 11 games. It is veryintresting stuff and thanks Rich.
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CB14 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 3:30 pm
@DesertKing, All stats last year through 11 games.
Record last year, 8-3. This year, 6-3-2.
PP last year, 16%. This year, 23.1%.
PK last year, 89.5%. This year, 86.1%.
Goals per game last year, 2.90. Goals per game this year, 2.36.
Goals against average last year, 2.27. Goals against average this year, 1.91.
Kings record when outshooting or getting outshot, through 11 games.
Last year when outshooting the opponent, 3-2-0. Last year when being outshot, 5-1-0.
This year when outshooting the opponent, 1-3-1. This year when being outshot, 5-0-1.
Through the whole year 2010-2011:
When outshooting the opponent, 23-18-5, only a .500 record.
When being outshot, 21-12-1, a .618 record.
So much for a shot mentality, eh?
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neil Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 3:44 pm
@CB14, so we started better last year with more talent this year…and a easier schedule..Right????
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CB14 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 3:56 pm
@neil, Correct sir! BTW, I expanded the “shot mentality” flaw further down on this same page. It’s a good read, if I do say so myself.
vplaza Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 4:23 pm
@neil,
The schedule is easier this year?
KC23 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 5:39 pm
@neil, MUCH MUCH harder schedule this year, but we have more talent to be sure.
CB14 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 7:31 pm
@vplaza, Too early to tell, but we beat Vancouver twice in the first 4 games last season. They were pretty good as far as I can remember.
Looks like goal scoring is tough this year. Look at the penalty kill numbers:
86.1 (T-8th) — 85.5 (4th)
Kings have improved, but dropped 4 spots from last year!
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KC23 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 5:39 pm
@Belexes, Good point!!!
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all the numbers are a little bit better which is good, not S.C. good, but at least going in the right direction.
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We knew it would drop when Handzus left, but I am concerned about face offs. Opponents are obviously winning the face offs more than last year, but it seems like when they do win it is a lot “cleaner”.
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The sky is fa… Oh, uh, nevermind.
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Lake Forest Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 1:22 pm
@GregDM, +1
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neil Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 3:45 pm
@GregDM, lling !!!!!!!
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CB14 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 4:13 pm
@neil,
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3 words for you…speed, speed and more speed! Gotta get some speed in our line up, and fast
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fsd1 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 12:30 pm
@Bure10, who, what when where and how?
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CB14 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 2:04 pm
@fsd1, I think he wants the Kings to sign him. Even at his age, Bure probably still has some good wheels, his brothers both did. LOL
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fsd1 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 2:10 pm
@CB14, true dat, lol
Bure10 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 5:19 pm
@fsd1, Not sure..:(
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Duckbasher Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 8:44 am
@fsd1, – Lokti is a speedster… jus sayin.
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puck73 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 3:26 pm
@Bure10, Pavel Bure….one of the most exciting players I have ever seen play hockey.
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Kiosku2 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 3:43 pm
@puck73, Ditto! Like Gretzky, took my breath away most of the time!
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Bure10 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 5:17 pm
@puck73, Ya I got to see him live in Vancouver. What a site!
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Duckbasher Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 8:45 am
@Bure10, Bure could skate faster than any guy on the ice, even after 2 ACL replacements.
Is the hits number correct? i’m guesing last year’s number has an extra number in it, but even so, i’m surprised that we’re so high up in hits per game… although it does seem like we’ve picked it up the last few games
Also it’s interesting how our PK percentage is pretty much the same as last year (86.1% versus 85.5%)… BUT we’re 4 spots lower in the league (8th versus 4th). This actually tells me that our PP numbers are THAT MUCH more impressive… we’re scoring at a better clip in an environment where leaguewide PK units are doing better.
Mr. Kompon, you are making me eat crow so far, and happy about that. We can talk ad nauseum about how we’ve scored on 4-3′s versus 5-4′s and all that kinda good stuff, but i don’t care. Goals are goals.
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Eric K Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 12:36 pm
@Shakes, I did a double take too, but those lsat-year numbers are for the entire season (and not the first month).
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Eric K Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 12:37 pm
@Eric K, *last
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2hitnik Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 12:37 pm
@Shakes, You’re looking at current totals vs year END totals from last year. Those numbers are right.
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Michael J. Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 12:38 pm
@Shakes,
I’m not so fast to give Kompon credit for the improved power play. I give the credit to Dean Lombardi for bringing in Mike Richards and Simon Gagne, and for drafting Slava Voynov. The struggles over the past few years has had way much more to do with talent than it has to do with any coach.
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Shakes Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 2:25 pm
@Michael J.,
Although i did used to like our Kopitar + 4 Pylons PP setup, where we would razzle and dazzle the adoring crowds with our epic perimeter passing exhibitions.
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number 6 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 3:27 pm
@Shakes,
True. And it was fantastic for the kids on their iPads. They could trace lines from one player to the other very easily, then start again and the players would still be in the same place.
That was good Shakes (yours, not mine).
FiG17 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 12:47 pm
@Shakes,
Last year’s number doesn’t have an extra number. I freaked out about the hits number for a split second too after comparing the numbers. Then I re-read what Rich wrote which says that the italicized stats are last years totals from the entire season. So last season we had about 25.9 hits per game and so far this season, we’re at 23.6. You’re right, it’s a little higher than I would have expected too, but it has dropped.
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the average of those numbers is 10.3 if that means anything
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jess Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 12:43 pm
@jess, per DLB \/ changes to 11.1
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Michael J. Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 1:11 pm
@jess,
With a mean of 14.2 and a standard deviation of 4.4…
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jess Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 1:41 pm
@Michael J., well heck thats not bad. I’ve seen penner deviate way more than that in just one game
Kings are 6-3-2 with 14 points and are on pace for 104 points, yet the “we dont score enough goals” “fire Murray, his system doesnt work” comments dominate most blog entries.
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Michael J. Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 12:41 pm
@Sebastian,
Those cries kind of remind me of the “we don’t collect enough taxes” because “the current school system produce” mantra.
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ice is nice Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 12:43 pm
@Sebastian, don’t forget the number of line combos.
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KingsFanFTW Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 12:46 pm
@Sebastian, like i said before
The Kings did this last year they were on a pace on being 3rd place and end up being in 7th.
So i dont care what just the beginning of the season i care is for the beginning to the middle to the end of the season.
If they keep their sloppy play with them then we are headed to 6-8 spot again.I say this team is too good to be in the 5-8 spots they more like 4th spot team could be first in their division.
So to me i dont care if u go saying we on the road to get 104-100 points…If they keep their sloppy plays then they wont be at the 100′s.. TM system is known to make th Kings get in the playoffs.
I just dont get why everyone agrees we had a great beginning.Look at Canucks they had a horrible beginning and got better and never look back and made to the Stanley Cup Finals.
Kings started great in the beginning but yet gets the boot in the first round same game 6.So everyone exceptions are very high with this team.They are good on paper but they havent shown it yet.
Quick already shown he could be elites goalie he just needs help from his team.
Bernier he has shown he can be a starter goalie but he has to get help from his team.
The Defense has shown they can shutdown top players but they need help with their offense by giving the goals.
The Offense isn’t clicking yet but in time they will.But the question is when is it going to.
Doughty isnt the same as his rookie year.But i think he get back on track just for right now am disappointment in him.
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jet Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 1:08 pm
@KingsFanFTW, yes, the Kings started fast and still finished with 98 points without their top two scores all while playing the second toughest schedule in the league. Let’s face the facts, the Kings would have never done as well as they did without TM’s system.
Yes, the Kings are 0-2-0 in back to back games, but they are also 6-1-2 in non-back to back games. This obviously shows when the Kings have time to prepare, they are very well coached.
So, the evidence shows that if we stay healthy, we will be a contender.
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Michael J. Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 1:12 pm
@jet,
Nice post.
KingsFanFTW Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 1:14 pm
@jet, yea but at times when Kopi and williams was not healthy they were too busy in a slump in November of last year and January so am looking at that if they going to have a slump i want just to see one slump not two.If they havent did that i believe the Kings could of finish in 4th place last year without Kopi and Williams.
Kings are not a crappy team anymore. TM helps this team out alot too but there soo much he can do if the Team not confidence with him by putting their 100% effort in the system to trust it.
TM is a good coach but at times he does errors like doesn’t use his Timeouts when he should use it or pull his golaie when he should of.I know no one wants ur number one goalies to get pulled but at times that going to happen.
KingsFanFTW Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 1:19 pm
@jet, i mean wasnt hurt ><
Am not talking bad about TM am not.
Just dont agree on we are starting on the great start cause the Kings did that last year and ended up in 7th.So am saying anything can happen..
KC23 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 5:50 pm
@KingsFanFTW, What we did last year means nothing for what were gonna do this year. Not only are we very different, but virtually all the teams are different.
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KingsFanFTW Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 5:54 pm
@KC23, agree i just dont want a repeat :/
FiG17 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 12:49 pm
@Sebastian,
Until the Kings can go 82-0-0 with 164 points, people will always find something to complain about.
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RobSD Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 1:13 pm
@FiG17,
well… If they go 80-0-2 I’ll stop complaining.
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Scot Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 1:39 pm
@FiG17,
Who needs English when you could be a Math major
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FiG17 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 2:07 pm
@Scot,
Anyone can use a calculator, but apparently, not everyone can remember to use proper punctuation… like question marks after asking questions, for example.
haha
jet Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 2:21 pm
@Scot, What is wrong with Math majors?
Scot Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 4:12 pm
@FiG17,
Lol. I guess this is why you should stick with being an English major!
@jet,
Lord have mercy, everything!
I’m probably just jealous that they’re a lot smarter than me.. er.. I.
tacomakingsfan Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 1:27 pm
@Sebastian,
Lol those are this years average numbers which is a total of 11 games… compared to a full season?? That’s laughable to even compare these numbers and say we are doing fine just because of 11 games.
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fsd1 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 1:46 pm
@tacomakingsfan, the same can be said of people who say we arent doing just fine
[Reply]
tacomakingsfan Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 2:28 pm
@fsd1,
Yeah that’s why I’m not basing my judgement on solely these numbers. It’s pretty deceiving when you compare it to when they’re actually on the ice playing.
PP Anybody? Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 2:31 pm
@fsd1, The only reason people like myself complain about scoring and think that there might be a problem is because we were ousted from the playoffs in the first round two years in a row. One of the problems identified by TM and DL themselves after each season, was a lack of scoring 5 on 5 and otherwise. So, to see pretty much the status quo, even though DL keeps upgrading our skill level up front, is sending up red flags.
We all can agree that defensively we are just fine, but our offensive numbers were poor last year, and this year they look even worse, even though much has been focused on it. You can argue about league scoring being down, but I still see teams managing to score just fine if they choose to play that way. I fail to make the assumption that if we start to open our offense up with this line-up, that our defense will suffer. I’m a firm believer that there is enough skill on this team, and enough defensively responsible players to do both. I am just tired of seeing the potential, and watching a team that squeeks by, by the seat of Quick’s pants.
jet Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 4:05 pm
@PP anybody?, actually, the Kings lost in the first round because they did not have their top 2 scorers. Do you really want the Kings to leave a system that will do well in the playoffs for a system like the Avs where they will be lucky to play 5 games?
fsd1 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 3:18 pm
@PP Anybody? The only point that I am trying to make is that yes DL has changed the personnel (quite nicely in my opinion) But we cant say that 5 on 5 scoring is the result of the coach or not just yet and we cant compare last year or the year before to this year because of those personnel changes for one simple fact, success this year or failure depends on what happens for the entire season not just a 11 game sampling with injuries affecting who plays, thats all.
[Reply]
PP Anybody? Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 4:14 pm
@fsd1, I guess it’s fair to say that maybe all of us should wait a little longer to see how things all play out. I know it’s early in the season, and I think that’s why I’m more tempted to post about this subject cause it seems like the numbers are trending towards the same as last year.
This team has gotten markedly better in the last couple years and my expectations are higher than they have been in years. I just hope I’m not waiting til next year just on your advice.
Pesus Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 3:16 pm
@Sebastian,
We couldnt beat phx or col, 2 teams not expected to make the playoffs. What happens when we play det, van, sj? If we dont improve we’ll get smoked.
[Reply]
fsd1 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 3:18 pm
@Pesus, have we been “smoked” yet this season?
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CB14 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 4:12 pm
@fsd1, Yes, twice. Buffalo, 4-0. New Jersey, 3-0.
fsd1 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 4:16 pm
@CB14 check again, buffalo was 4-2 and i dont consider the NJ game being smoked, If we could have finished at all we could have won that game too.
BrokeKingsFan Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 4:20 pm
@fsd1, the buffalo game was 4-2…we got beat but not smoked!
CB14 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 4:26 pm
@fsd1 and Brokekingsfan, You guys are right, my bad. It felt like 4-0 to me for some reason.
jet Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 4:08 pm
@Pesus, after watching the Avs game, which team would you rather have?
[Reply]
PP Anybody? Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 5:25 pm
@jet says: “Do you really want the Kings to leave a system that will do well in the playoffs for a system like the Avs where they will be lucky to play 5 games?” What on earth do you base that assumption on. The Kings have failed two years in a row under this current system in the playoffs, so you have absolutely no evidence to back up that it will work at all. I’m not saying it’s not possible at all, but there’s no evidence to prove it will at all.
As for the Av’s system, what makes you so sure that won’t be successful in the playoffs? Their problem last year was goaltending. This year, that seems squared away, and they are now winning with their current system which tends to maximize the offensive talent of their youth. People can go on and on about the cliche of “defense wins championships”, but you’d be hard pressed to actually back that up with facts. Most teams in the NHL that have won the Stanley Cup the last 20 years, have done so with potent offensive systems and players. Boston had a potent offense to go along with their defense. Chicago, the Penguins, Detroit, Colorado, etc. all maximized their offensive potential. Are we?
Bill M. Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 12:25 am
@PP Anybody? Sure Boston offensively was good 5-on-5, but their Power Play last year was abysmal, as bad as ours, and it continued all through the playoffs. You don’t need a ridiculous offense. You need ridiculous defense, ridiculous goaltending, and DECENT, CONSISTENT offense. A streaky offense can get you into the playoffs, but it will get you out of them just as fast. You can’t afford a scoring slump in a seven game series.
If you look at cup teams, mostly you will find that they were slow and steady with scoring, 2-3 goals, sometimes 4, per game. But they were right there every game. if they ever took a night off, it was never more than one or two in a row. That consistency is what is missing. See the previous two years. Streaky like a bottle of off-brand Windex. I still see it from some guys on the team, but your big guys, your leaders, have to reach the maturity to bring it every night, and that will pull enough guys along with them. I am seeing that from some, the most important ones – Kopi, Richards, Brown. If Drew and Jack can bring that kind of consistency for a whole season, they’ll make us dangerous, and the hard work will become infectious.
KC23 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 5:54 pm
@Pesus, We CAN easily beat both of those teams. We lost both games on flukey goals and we already beat Phoenix once this season, not to mention the Av game was the 3rd game in 4 nights.
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Shotongoal Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 8:15 pm
@Pesus, Yeah you’re right the season is over!
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A small typo — for shots per game the Kings are 19th, not 9th.
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Rich, thank you for using “they” instead of “we.” I love the 300 lb dude in the “Conroy” jersey at Staples talking about “we gotta get better” and “we need more scoring.” Its “THEY” folks, until you get called up……
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McDonalds Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 1:00 pm
@tim,
Rich uses “they” because he’s not a kings fan…With the amount of passion fans pour into a franchise, I’m perfectly fine with fans saying “we.”
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RobSD Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 1:20 pm
@McDonalds,
I think about that whenever I write something. I agree with you… without the fans, there is no “they”. I’ve been a fan almost my entire life.
When The Kings win, “they” played great but “we” all win. Die hard fans go through an emotional roller coaster too. If we could somehow put the passion of a few fans into the body of a Penner, we would be golden.
[Reply]
FiG17 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 2:23 pm
@RobSD,
For me, it’s a contextual thing. If I’m talking about general stuff like, “we won!” or “we’re in first place!” or “we need more offense,” I use we because I do feel that fans are a part of the team. However, when I’m talking specifically about the way the Kings are playing, or coaching, or acting, etc. then I use “they” because as much a part of this team that I feel I am, my part is not on the ice. That’s “their” part. Referring to the organization as a whole, though, I’m perfectly okay with using “we.”
What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 2:01 pm
@McDonalds, He uses “They” because he’s not on the team. Neither am I, so I also use “they.”
[Reply]
nykingfan Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 1:09 pm
@tim,
A sportswriter or television commentator should never use the term “WE”. It’s considered unprofessional. They’re supposed to be reporting and not cheerleading.
Fans that are passionate about their team can and should use the term “we” if they so choose.
The fans are as much a part of the team as anyone. Without them, there is no league.
[Reply]
Michael J. Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 1:15 pm
@nykingfan,
“Can” use “we”, thats OK. “Should”? I say give them the option. I to refer to the Kings as the Kings; I’m not on the team.
[Reply]
nykingfan Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 1:58 pm
@Michael J.,
I said “if they so choose” Of course it’s up to each individual
Belexes Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 2:44 pm
@nykingfan,
“Fans that are passionate about their team can and should use the term “we” if they so choose.
The fans are as much a part of the team as anyone. Without them, there is no league.”
So it could also be said that when you decide to “Boo” your team for bad play, then you are also booing yourself. Or that a true passionate fan would never boo themselves, or their team…So those that choose to boo may be passionate, but they’re no fan.
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Deke'r Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 3:32 pm
@Belexes, LOL!
nykingfan Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 8:09 am
@Belexes,
I boo myself daily! lol
DesertKing Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 1:22 pm
@tim,
Can “we” suggest to “them” what “they” should or should not do? Heck yes, because “we” pay the bills so “they” can play and “we” can be entertained. The best part of this conversation is that there was no mention of “I,” since there is no “I” in “team.” GKG (from “we”)!!!
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Michael J. Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 1:33 pm
@DesertKing,
So can “we” be included in th “coaching” as well?
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DesertKing Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 1:42 pm
@Michael J.,
Yes. By “we” expressing our like/dislike (purchasing/not purchasing tickets, public expression during games or on blogs, etc.) with “they’s” coaching decisions or styles, “we” help to decide who “they” will be and what “they” will do. More than one of “they” has been fired for not living up to the expectations of “we.” Still not sure why they have the Q&A for DL and the coaching staff during HockeyFest when a lot of the suggestions “we” make are not listened to by “they,” but it sure is fun to attend
Pesus Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 3:21 pm
@tim,
Im 275, and wear a kopi jersey. Im a season ticket holder meaning I support this team finacially. So your damn right I say WE!
[Reply]
neil Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 3:51 pm
@tim, We when the Kings win….They when the Kings lose…….
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RobSD Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 4:07 pm
@neil,
Haha!!!! This was a great thread. Very funny.
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KC23 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 5:56 pm
@tim, seriously? we’re debating say “we” vs “they” ?
Shakes head.
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DesertKing Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 8:36 pm
@KC23,
Its Monday
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Overall, most of these numbers are relatively the same as we were last year. The way I see it, that puts us on pace for another season of close to a hundred points, a few games over five hundred, a 6th,7th, or 8th seeding in the playoffs, and a first round exit similar to last year if we keep these numbers.
[Reply]
stacy Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 2:23 pm
@PP Anybody?, go kick your cat (or dog) . . . have you seen this team? much better than last year on many levels and why would you want to put the hex on it with a comment like “first round exit” . . .
[Reply]
PP Anybody? Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 2:42 pm
@stacy, I have watched every game including pre-season this year, and I don’t see any improvement in our offensive output compared to last year, of which I watched every single game also. What I do see is much more talent on the ice, getting similar results, which is even more frustrating. Both the coaches and management said that they believed we needed to upgrade the scoring of this team to truly be a contender, which I agree, and I am not seeing the results. I have waited for over three decades of following this team, so simply saying to “wait till they’ve played 20,25,41, etc. games” is not addressing the issue. I’ve been waiting. I’d rather nip something in the bud and actually get it fixed, than sit around and just accept that things are just fine. That’s all that’s ever been done, and I’d like to think that’ll finally change.
[Reply]
stacy Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 3:29 pm
@PP Anybody?, i guess i just prefer the glass half full rather than your glass half empty attitude . . . at the end of the day we are both fans for over 3 decades . . .sorry if i offended you
PP Anybody? Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 3:50 pm
@PP Anybody?, No offense taken really. I realize some people are just happy to be fans and watch the team regardless, as do I actually, even if I don’t come off as doing so. It’s just that I actually do see improvement here, and for the first time in a long time I feel like “our time is now”, and would like to see us get over the last hump which I think will ultimately hold us back if it’s not addressed soon. That’s all. I’m really not as gloomy as I sound, just hoping to get that Stanley Cup filled to the brim!
neil Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 3:54 pm
@PP Anybody?, That is the reason lots of fans (myself included)are upset..TM says we needed more offense….DL says the same…TM even says that he has been waiting 3 years for more offense YET..he says the same stupid comment..”Shot Mentality”
KC23 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 5:57 pm
@PP Anybody?, I see lots of improvement, espeically on the PP. Penner sucks however, he clearly is no longer a top 6 forward by anyone’s standards.
More goals please….
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jet Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 1:09 pm
@King Sachmo Stallion Maximus The Great, more wins please
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Interesting comparisons..especially becsuse last season e got off to such a good start.
The numbers seem to indicate that we’re doing better than last season, but you know this team is capable of so much more.
I think it’s a good start for us.
This teams fate will be decided in the spring, not before.
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CB14 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 1:54 pm
@nykingfan, Last season’s statistics are through the whole season, not the same amount of games. I would guess that last season’s numbers through 11 games were better than this season’s numbers, but again, that’s just a guess.
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nykingfan Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 1:59 pm
@CB14,
You might be right,.
I’ll think the opposite cuz it’ll make me feel better about things LOL
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CB14 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 2:01 pm
@nykingfan, Whatever helps.
KC23 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 5:58 pm
@nykingfan, I think they are doing pretty much what I expected them to do early on. I do expect them to improve as the season moves on.
[Reply]
Three other stats we’re way down on this season are Heidi, Hong Kong Tourism Board and “Wow, that’s a low price!!”/EASY Buttons
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DesertKing Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 1:23 pm
@bbb7,
I really miss the Hong Kong Tourism Board. I miss it so much I thought it was from Taiwan
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bbb7 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 1:25 pm
@DesertKing, hahah youre right. Good thing I didnt go, I’d have been in Hong Kong asking where the lantern festival was.
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DesertKing Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 1:43 pm
@bbb7,
I would recommend you take Heidi and not worry about it
ppl talk about needing that secondary scoring…well we have it in the system, and the team would unequivocally improve if teh following changes occurred:
gagne-kopitar-williams
parse-richards-brown
penner-loktionov-richardson
clifford-stoll-moreau
scratch: lewis, hunter
doughty-mitchell
johnson-scuderi
greene-voynov
scratch: martinez
quick
bernier
that means we do not need westgarth or drewiske on this team. stoll is a poor offensive center and that is why we dont get any 3rd line help. lokitonov would drastically improve penner’s (or any other LW on that line’s) play and we wouldnt lose anything by putting stoll on the 4th line and scratching lewis (he can play wings on some days, he and richie could be interchangable) westgarth offers virtually nothing anymore. and in terms of defense, drewiske is not really a positive force in any aspect of the game, it was clear voynov was, and at this stage in his development, he wouldnt suffer from being scratched every other day (to get martinez in there etc).
think about why teams like philly are so good offensively. here are there top 9 forwards, all are offensively gifted, especially their top 3 centers: (giroux, hartnell, JVR, simmonds, briere, couturier, jagr, voracek, read/schenn).
the concept of having an exclusive checking line isnt really applicable when all your forwards are defensively responsible so its not like we need to blindly put combinations of forwards together that will be futile on offense
[Reply]
Krash Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 1:35 pm
@Stop the Puck, You forget how one clean hard body check can change the momentum in a game. Same with one good fight, like it or not, it is part of the game. Just like a great save or key penalty kill, all of these components are necessary to win. It’s not only about scoring goals. If you choose Philly as an example, there is one TOUGH hockey team and Westy needs to be in the line-up against them period
[Reply]
Stop the Puck Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 1:40 pm
@Krash,
not denying anything about the physical nature of the game and how important having that upper hand is….but the teams at the top of the nhl right now just do not have one of those players that contributes nothing besides their physical presence. and fine, keep westgarth and let hunter go, but he would only need to play against anaheim and chicago…TM keeps saying they need hunter to score but clearly thats not going to happen…former 20 goal scorers on other teams never do that under this system (ponikarovsky, ie). main point was lokti needs to be the third line center
[Reply]
Krash Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 1:50 pm
@Stop the Puck, Could not agree more about Hunter. I love Lotki but am not sure he is the solution. Looses a lot of face offs, prefer to have Lewis on the penalty kill late in the game when you want Richards and Kopi on the ice for the last 90 seconds like we needed last night. Bit I am sure Lotki will get a chance like Voynov did this year and he will actually have more of chance to stick with the team then Voynov did
nykingfan Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 1:49 pm
@Stop the Puck,
I’m not a huge Stoll fan either, but if Lokti gave you 20 goals this season, I’m sure you’d be thrilled.
Stoll did give us that last year.
Having Voynov around as the 7th defenseman does nothing but hurt his future growth and therefore, hurt the Kings in the future.
Are you planning on alternating games with Martinez and Voynov? If you are, neither will ever get into a groove.
Guys need to play every game to be effective. You can’t be sitting out games and expect to jump in and perform at a high level.
At least DD2 is a bit more accustomed to that role. Voynov and Martinez are not. Why would you do that to either of them?
[Reply]
Stop the Puck Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 1:51 pm
@nykingfan,
stoll would therefore score 20 on the 4th line as well, and lokti being a better offensive player, would improve the play of those on his line, which stoll does not.
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 6:01 pm
@nykingfan, Only reason Stoll got that many goals and points is he was on the PP and playing on the 2nd line with Williams most the year. Stoll will be lucky to get 10 this year.
[Reply]
fsd1 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 2:02 pm
@Stop the Puck, Just wondering why management hasnt seen this since it is so clear, why haven’t they traded all those guys away and why have they not done exactly what you say? Could it be they disagree with you? It isnt TM’s decision on what personnel we have so from I read of your post, DL is to blame for all this? Futile on offense? I think that would put us at number 30, not 21, so no not futile. And last i saw of lokti, yes he has improved, but he falls over like a puff ball anytime someone puts his shoulder into him and gets moved off the puck quite a bit. I like lokti but dont think he is ready, but again, it really doesnt matter what i think, Im not the coach or the GM nor do I work for the Kings. And did we not have 6 20 goal scorers last year (im not sure) but i certainly do tire of using Poni as an example, just like i hate people using moulson or purcell or this guy or that guy, who cares? They didnt do it here and I for one like the defense and still believe that this team has the coaching, talent and desire to challenge for the cup this year!
[Reply]
KingsGuy Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 2:52 pm
@fsd1, Thank you, good post. Where did all these nay sayers come from?
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CB14 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 3:32 pm
@KingsGuy, Been here the whole time.
KingsGuy Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 3:42 pm
@CB14 Reply: I don’t remember so many last year! It’s all good, it gives all of us a different perspective, right?
HA
Deke'r Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 3:59 pm
@KingsGuy, …fleeing the ducks site??
I say it again.
1(win)-4(loss) with outshot the opponent, and 5(win)-1(loss) with being outshot by the opponent tell you everything.
Shot mentality is simply the stupidest concept I’ve ever known.
I’m not saying TM should be fired. All I’m asking is realize the fact and admit the ignorance, and make an adjustment quickly. But I doubt he would do these things since he believes in his system blindly, and the guy like Kompon backing him up.
DL did excellent job as far as the locker room goes but he made a big mistake to leave coaching stuff intact.
[Reply]
bbb7 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 2:31 pm
@goldielocks, The whole win-when-outshot, lose-when-shoot-more thing is deceptive, because most teams press when behind and most teams play conservative when ahead, so many times the losing team racks up a lot of shots in the 2nd half of the game, trying to catch up. I dont thin k the stat is all that valuable.
[Reply]
goldielocks Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 2:40 pm
@bbb7,
I didn’t mean we win or lose because of how many shots were taken. My point is quality over quantity. Shot mentality is clearly quantity over quality concept.
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Once Gagne comes back, everything will be alright. The #1 line will be intact, JW and Kopi will start producing again, Penner will go back to …. uh, being Penner wherever Penner is???…. DD will be back up to speed and VV will be sitting in the bank at Manchester ready when we need him. And we will still want Rob Bordson playing RW on the 4th line because Westy didn’t win a fight. Just think, 3 more days of all this talk until the next game, but it is 3 more days for DD to get back up to speed, Gagne to heal, and DirectTV to renew its contract with FSW. GKG!!!
[Reply]
hockeysureshot Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 2:02 pm
@DesertKing, Anything new on the Directv-Fox talks? Getting worried for Thursday nights game.
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 2:09 pm
@hockeysureshot,
Talked to a couple of friends who had Dish. They said not to switch, that DirectTV was better, and to stay patient,that something will be worked out, Dish had the same issue with FSW last year. Probably end up sitting in my car listening to the game. Thank God for Nick and Daryl.
[Reply]
Stuart Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 2:46 pm
@hockeysureshot, was in a BestBuy over the weekend and their in-house Directv guy came over to talk about their new promotional BS and I stopped him mid-schpiel and said I already have Directv but am entertaining other options over this stupid fox issue because I love sports and they’ll soon all be gone, like me. He said he talked with his big-whig-boss just that morning who assured him that things were getting hammered out and that we wouldn’t lose any coverage whatsoever…that’s all I got.
[Reply]
neil Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 4:02 pm
@hockeysureshot, worked out!!! no worries!!!
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jess Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 2:07 pm
@DesertKing, Good post
Sure would be nice to get an update on Gagne’s status. Also it would be nice to consider Voynov “in the bank” down in the minors but after what happened to Lokti last year, I would not be so inclined to consider a valuable player in the AHL as surety.
[Reply]
I’m happy with the start but still feel that Jonathan Quicks masks some of our weaknesses. We obviously can’t depend on Penner to score and Gagne and Williams have trouble staying healthy. We still need a winger and more speed in my opinion to beat San Jose, Chicago, Van.
[Reply]
KingsGuy Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 2:27 pm
@hockeysureshot, I wouldn’t care about the speed aspect as much as someone who can score goals! I absolutely agree with this comment.
Time to start shopping what’s available DL! I here Tampa and MTL are looking for D men…
[Reply]
KingsGuy Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 2:28 pm
@KingsGuy, hear*
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jet Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 3:38 pm
@KingsGuy, as do 5 other teams. Dmen are going to be a commodity at the deadline, why rush?
[Reply]
KingsGuy Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 3:41 pm
@jet, No need to “rush”, but it wouldn’t hurt to get something in the works. Trades don’t happen overnite… We could use a solid scorer now, and we have the extra D men to trade…
redlight Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 2:21 pm
@KingsGuy, So do you think that DL is just kickin’ it in his office playing solitaire on his computer and hopefully scans Hammonds blog where he might see Kings Guy’s admonition to “start shopping, DL!” thereby springing him into action to see how he can make the team better or do you think he spends every waking moment of his life running every possibility through his mind, meeting constantly with his staff, coaches and scouting brigade to do what it’ll takes to bring a cup to L.A.? I don’t think any GM that expects to keep his job ever STOPS shopping. Just wondering how you see it. I mean your next comment “it wouldn’t hurt to get something in the works” suggests that if the team had a need to be addressed that somehow they aren’t already working on it. I’m absolutely positive they’re all over it, but maybe thats the optimist in me.
[Reply]
KingsGuy Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 2:28 pm
@redlight, Obviously your new to this blog…
PP Anybody? Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 2:55 pm
@hockeysureshot, Honestly, outside of Penner(who is slow), we actually have more players with speed this year. The team speed is a direct result of our constant regrouping in our own zone whenever we gain possession of the puck. This allows other teams to then set up in the neutral zone and take away our rushes and slow our breakouts down to a crawl. We have no transition game at all. This is a systemic problem, and why we have so much trouble with quicker teams. Quicker teams then also like to pounce on us as we are regrouping in our zone, so it’s almost like we are assisting the opponent’s own forecheck, and getting ourselves hemmed in. An individual’s speed can’t be utilized by bringing the puck backwards into the defensive zone.
[Reply]
Downsy89 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 3:34 pm
@hockeysureshot, Trade Penner, Bernier for Evander Kane, and Winnipeg 1st round pick. We recieve 1st round pick back for Penner. Then Bernier for Kane. Both very young and 1st round picks. Kane scored 14 goals rookie year and 19 last year and only 20 years old. LW with speend and size of 6’2. Kane can be part of the future.
[Reply]
wes Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 8:03 pm
@Downsy89, interesting straight away since any move that unloaded Penner would automatically be interesting. I’d especially love to get a Winnipeg #1 pick for Penner! that would be _awesome_ but i don’t think Kevin Cheveldayoff could go there, even if you slipped him a mickey and had his buddy Butch Goring cajole him. makes for a nice dream, though. No Penner . . . high first rounder — man that would be sweet.
[Reply]
Clearly, there are offensive shortcomings. Gagne has had a great influence, and I think having him back will help. I’ve just about given up on even thinking about Penner. I’m expecting more offense out of Doughty as he gets back into the groove. Mostly, I’m concerned about Murray’s system, which seems to take exciting offense and make it disappear.
[Reply]
Hey does anyone have link to the “bad goal” that was off the boards from yesterday? My TVO was not working and I missed it!
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CB14 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 3:00 pm
@KingsGuy, http://www.nhl.com/ice/recap.htm?id=2011020155 1 minute 27 seconds into the video.
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KingsGuy Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 3:15 pm
@CB14, Thanks! Funny, I must be blind… looked on nhl.com
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Better then I thought but…..we havnt played top teams yet(S.J. Van. Pens.Chi.etc)
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number 6 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 3:32 pm
@neil,
Oh God. I noticed that today too Neil. If they have had problems (generally) scoring more than two regulation goals per game, they would do well (scratch that…… they would do very well) to find ways to improve their 5-on-5 scoring if they’re to compete with the above teams. And two of them are coming next week plus Edm who keeps winning.
[Reply]
Everyone around here is crazy! We have only lost 2 regulation games and only 1 was a hands down defeat(Buffalo). Last night would have been way different if there was no freaky bounce of the boards that resulted in goal #2. We have a winning record, our PP has improved, our Defense and PK is still top of the league and although many still complain about it our offense looks better this year than years past. We are still on track for a cup ladies and gentlemen….cool off and breath a little bit. If we are out of a playoff spot come crunch time then we can start throwing people under the bus and calling for lynchings! I can think of about 25 other teams that would like to be were we are at the moment.
[Reply]
fsd1 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 3:19 pm
@BrokeKingsFan, agree!
[Reply]
CB14 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 3:33 pm
@BrokeKingsFan, New Jersey, the 2nd time was a hands down defeat IMO.
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BrokeKingsFan Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 3:39 pm
@CB14, you are correct! 3 regulation loses and 2 hands down defeats. Still isnt anything to get your panties in a bunch about
[Reply]
OnTheFly Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 3:39 pm
@BrokeKingsFan,
Yes only 2 regulation losses so far. But if we wait till crunch time as you say…it’s too late and another long summer. I’m crazy for caring so much for this team to play the best they can. I’m upset with how we are playing. “The system” sucks. To watch all 3 forwards go into the same corner, win the puck and have no one to pass too is not working. The defence is not keeping the puck in, because thier ready for the other team to go on the attack. I’ve seen all 3 forwards go behind the net too, to dig the puck and have no one to pass too. Where is the screening of the goalie, crashing the net? Don’t say were only 11 games in, “the System” has been in place for 3 yrs.
When TM took over as coach, We were told he was a good coach for working with the youth of this team. This team has out grown the youth tag. As a fan I still support TM, But something needs to be done…Our team is not playing well.
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BrokeKingsFan Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 3:57 pm
@OnTheFly, We are not playing that bad buddy….If having a winning record and being on the top end of teams in the league is playing bad then i hope we stink the place up the rest of the year. I will agree that there is more potential there as far offense goes but its still early and the guys are still putting things together. I have issues with TM for sure but it is his “system” that has got us were we are today and im willing to give him a season with this personel to see what he can do. If he cant take us past the 1st round with all the talent we have then ill pass judgement on him and say we need a new coach and or system. SDont drop the curtains yet bro…..the show is still going!
[Reply]
jet Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 4:16 pm
@OnTheFly, so we are on pace to lose 15 games this season. Should we just fold now?
[Reply]
vplaza Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 4:26 pm
@jet,
Apparently.
Shotongoal Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 8:24 pm
@BrokeKingsFan, Not everyone I’ve been trying to impart some sanity here ALL season, including today!
[Reply]
Off topic… Kings fans with Direct TV, no more worries, they have just reached an agreement with Fox… We will not miss any games.
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KingsFanFTW Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 3:50 pm
@Kopi Bryant, where it say that show me a link am at their website they give me and they havent said anything about agreement or does the channels still say they going to drop them at the first of November ??
[Reply]
Kopi Bryant Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 4:36 pm
@KingsFanFTW, John Ireland was talking about it on the Mason and Ireland show on ESPN 710 am a while ago
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KingsFanFTW Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 4:43 pm
@Kopi Bryant, oh thank you am glad its over
Kopi Bryant Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 4:55 pm
@KingsFanFTW, I can’t seem to post a link on here but there’s a story on the agreement on Bloomberg.com
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 4:49 pm
@Kopi Bryant,
WOOOOOO HOOOOOOOOOOO!!! You made my whole day, thanks
[Reply]
Kopi Bryant Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 4:56 pm
@DesertKing, lol… No problem, we Kings fans look after each other.
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@Shakes
I’m still laughing from your post above. That was good.
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It’s no time to hit the panic button. There are some things we are doing well & some things that need some work. Luckily it’s a long season & there is time to figure things out. My biggest worry is prolonged loosing streaks. The season is full of peaks & valleys and we are on our 1st loosing streak after dropping the last 2 games. This Thursday’s game against the Oilers is a must win in my book. We will have had 3 days rest coming off of 2 losses that were strange to say the least. We need to stop this 2 game losing streak in it’s tracks. I expect the Kings to be fresh, focused & ready to play hard in front of us home fans especially becuase I will be at the game!
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puck73 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 3:39 pm
@King Alex, Hey man, are you going to the game vs pens on Saturday?
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King Alex Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 3:49 pm
@puck73, Hey Puck! How are you doing? Unfortunately I can not make the Pens game. I assume you are going. I will be there this Thursday and the following Saturday though.
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puck73 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 3:54 pm
@King Alex, Nice, email me at mikebrnstn@gmail.com and I will pass on my cell number and we will try and hook up with you this month. This Saturday, several of the insiders are going to a Sushi bar named Takami after the game so if that is something that interests you or any of the other insiders then meet at the Gretzky statue after the game. We should be there for awhile to wait for everyone and then its party time dude!
Shotongoal Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 8:28 pm
@King Alex, Really a must win on the first game of November? You started off so well too with the “no reason to hit the panic button” then what happened? Sorry but must wins don’t happen in November and if they do then you don’t think very much of this team.
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King Alex Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 9:58 am
@Shotongoal, I do think highly of this team. I just want to avoid loosing streaks the the 2 we had last year. The only reason I think this game against the Oilers is a must win is we are coming off a 2 game losing streak, we are at home and we have 3 full days of rest prior to this game. It may not be a must win, but we should win this game.
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Shotongoal Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 10:50 am
@King Alex, I agree then. Yes they should win, but in no way did I think it falls under the “must win” context. This should avoid losing streaks like last season, due to their goaltending and also the new veteran presence. We shall see.
I am plaesed with the stats so far early this season, heck we have even improved 4 spots in goals scored although obviously I would like to see it in the top 15 this season.
This team isnt even playing as well as they can be and they still have a winning record. I really believe once they get Voynov and his excellent hockey IQ in the lineup full time we will be a team to be reckoned with even more. Also, dont be surprised if Voynov eventually lands in a top 4 role or even top 2. Yah, I think he has the potential to be that good with his ability to get wide open and create space.
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jess Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 3:40 pm
@puck73, yup and get gagne back
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puck73 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 3:50 pm
@jess, Agreed. I also believe this season Johnathon Quick has moved up into the elite class and may be the premier goalie in the league at 25 years old, absolutely incredible! I thought he was good last season, but his positioning and stickhandling tecnique have improved to the point where it is clearly noticeable. Plus, his compete level, and never say die attitude are already legendary with people who follow this team closely.
I hope this guy turns out to be the 2nd coming of Billy Smith.
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jess Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 4:54 pm
@puck73,
I noticed how much he has improved behind his own net in the first few minutes of the game. He truly is NHL’s number one. I also believe bernier will be restoring everyones faith in some games this season too.
jess Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 4:55 pm
@puck73, *first few minutes of the first game of the season
King Alex Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 3:50 pm
@puck73, We will be a tough team to beat when/if we ever click on all cylinders. It’s nice to know we have depth waiting at the Bank of Manchester!
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KC23 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 6:11 pm
@puck73, I agree. DL is way too smart to leave Voynov in the minors for more than a few weeks. I bet he’s wheeling and dealing as we speak. Hope we can get a strong winger and send Penner packing in the deal.
[Reply]
Ok, with all the arguing about whether Terry Murray is a good coach or not, the critics, like myself, have constantly complained about Terry Murray’s offensive “system”. Which stresses a “Shot Mentality”. His theory is that more shots equals more wins. Well our record so far this season while outshooting or being outshot doesn’t exactly back-up that theory. Here’s some stats that back up my (our) theory.
This year when outshooting the opponent, the Kings have a record of 1-3-1.
This year when being outshot, the Kings have a record of 5-0-1.
Now I know some of you are saying, but CB14, that’s only 11 games, it will even out over the whole year. You need to look at a whole season’s worth of stats to determine if it’s a failed mentality or not. Sounds good to me, lets do just that.
The Kings record last year when outshooting the opponent was 23-18-5. 14th in the league.
The Kings record last year when being outshot was 21-12-1. 6th in the league.
Shot Mentality? Not so much Mr. Murray.
The Kings record 2 years ago when outshooting the opponent was 20-15-4. 12th in the league.
The Kings record 2 years ago when being outshot was 20-11-4. 8th in the league.
The only time the records have been reversed, was in TM’s 1st year with the Kings, which just so happened to be the Kings worst record under Terry Murray. Coincidence? I think not. The prosecution rests Your Honor.
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fsd1 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 4:04 pm
@CB14, Objection! LOL Your honor, may we have a sidebar please? What? Truth? YOu cant handle the truth! Run those numbers again after November 30th, if they pan out to be the same, I have hot sauce for my crow….
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CB14 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 4:29 pm
@fsd1, LOL, will do!
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bbb7 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 4:17 pm
@CB14, Interesting, and I understand your point, but again shots can be deceptive since trailing teams take more shots than teams in the lead, thus winning teams are often outshot. If there were stats showing SOG while tied vs when ahead by 1 and behind by 1, etc, that would be more telling as to how a ‘shot mentality’ works out.
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BrokeKingsFan Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 4:27 pm
@bbb7, hmmmmmm, you might be on to something there. Good point! unless you actually show the stats im not sure he will bite though
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CB14 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 4:28 pm
@bbb7, I don’t have that much time on my hands. Sorry, that will have to do.
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KC23 Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 4:47 am
@bbb7, Exactly. Shot mentality doesn’t necessarly equate to more shots than your opponets. TM never says we’ll win more if we have more shots than the other team. IMHO TM is saying at some point you got to get off the boards doing the cycle and actually get the puck to the net which I agree with.
I gave up my TM appologist card because of the absurd way he uses Quick not because of what he says regarding shot mentality. I happen to agree with him on that.
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jet Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 4:28 pm
@CB14, I’ll take this one, shot mentality does not always mean getting the most shots. The Kings often go into a defensive mindset when leading after two periods. This allows other teams to get more shots, but they are not high quality shots. So, we may end up with less shots at the end of the game, but we have successfully protected the win.
The reason so many teams have gone to a shot mentality is because the goalies are now so good. They almost always make a save on a first, undeflected, non-screened shot. The only way to beat them is on second shots or to make the goals larger. Goals are made larger by having a player just off a post to tip or deflect shots in. Shot mentality wins games as proven by the Kings record.
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CB14 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 5:09 pm
@jet, Redirect your honor. Ok, fair point about it not meaning getting more shots when compared to the other team. Lets compare the Kings record over their shots per game average to under their shots per game average. It’s 28.3 per Rich’s post.
Kings record when shooting more than 28.3 is 2-4. In those 2 wins the Kings had 29, and 30 shots total, with the 30 shot game coming in O.T.
Kings record when shooting less than 28.3 is 4-0-1.
Shot Mentality? No thanks.
[Reply]
PP Anybody? Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 5:42 pm
@CB14, Personally, I find the Kings strategy of putting forwards along the boards and behind the net, while our D men sit halfway out in the neutral zone to guard against any possible attack by the opponent to be more distressing than TM’s “shot mentality”. Taking more shots would be fine, if anyone ever rotated off the cycle with purpose to the front of the net or came in on attack through the slot.
This team not only takes time and space away from it’s opponents, but literally takes it’s own time and space away from it’s own players by doing so. It is so worried about playing it safe positionally, that they hardly ever actually manage to get into a spot where a shot would be dangerous. This isn’t about “working harder” or “paying the price” either. It’s about having faith in your team to CREATE scoring chances, and not worrying about having zero outnumbered chances against.
CB14 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 7:26 pm
@PP Anybody?, I agree. I too would be fine with more shots, but as you and me both know, the shots the Kings are getting are useless. They’re not in scoring positions. I would think that given how good Quick has become on shootouts/breakaways that TM would encourage taking chances. But that’s not TM.
Belexes Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 6:32 pm
@CB14,
TM has won what, 492 games? I’d say that makes him a pretty good coach…
[Reply]
CB14 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 7:23 pm
@Belexes, Terry Murray is an average coach. He’s never led his team to the Stanley Cup. He’s not the type of coach that you want when you’re going for a cup. He is very good at teaching a young team the defensive foundation that a Stanley Cup contending team needs. He did his job. He did it very well. His time is over. The Kings need a coach that can take them to the next level. His offensive system is built for an team without much offensive talent. This team has loads of talent. A Stanley Cup winner needs to be a balanced team. Are the Kings balanced? Didn’t think so. A team with a 21st ranked offense will not win the Stanley Cup.
Here’s a list of the last 6 Stanley Cup champs, post lockout, and their offensive rank:
2006 Carolina – 3
2007 Anaslime – 9
2008 Detroit – 3
2009 Pittsburgh – 6
2010 Chicago – 3
2011 Boston – 5
2012 ??? L.A. Kings – 21
Enough said.
You can think Terry Murray is a pretty good coach, but there’s no denying his offensive system won’t lead this team to the Stanley Cup.
[Reply]
PP Anybody? Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 8:25 pm
@CB14, I’m glad you have the time to actually find the statistics to back up the points that we have been trying to make
I was making a similar point about previous Cup champs and their offensive abilities in another post, but was just going from memory. I’m sure you could go a lot further back with that list and find similar stats over the last twenty years even.
CB14 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 9:44 pm
@PP Anybody?
Always looking for ways to say TM won’t lead this team to a Cup. Just like you. LOL
Belexes Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 12:06 am
@CB14,
Here are the playoff GAA rank for the same years :
2006 Carolina – 3
2007 Anaslime – 3
2008 Detroit – 1
2009 Pittsburgh – 5
2010 Chicago – 5
2011 Boston – 1
2012 ??? L.A. Kings – 2
Enough said.
Defense wins cups.
Belexes Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 12:13 am
@CB14,
“You can think Terry Murray is a pretty good coach, but there’s no denying his offensive system won’t lead this team to the Stanley Cup.”
I’m sure that you’re aware that the Kings were the highest scoring team in the playoffs last year. 3.33 goals per game.
CB14 Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 4:14 pm
@Belexes, So what we can take from both of ours information is that balanced Hockey teams win cups. No team in the last 6 years has won a cup while being outside the top 10 in either category. The Kings are 21st in scoring. What more is there to say. I’m not trying to be rude, but facts are facts, you have to be in the top 10 in regular season Goals per game in order to win the cup. The Kings aren’t even close. That’s not me saying that, that’s history. And I’m not talking about opening things up offensively to the point where the defense struggles, I’m saying open it up enough to allow the skilled players a chance to shine. Outside of Penner, and mabye Williams, the rest of the top 6 forwards are very responsible defensively. It’s not like we have guys like Malkin and Ovechkin on this team. They know how to play in the defensive zone. It’s time to let up on the reins they currently have on them, and put them in a system that allows them to excel, both defensively, and more importantly, offensively.
408kingsfan Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 8:44 pm
@CB14, dude, I know what the numbers say and I know numbers dont lie. But you cant tell me your theory is SHOOT LESS WIN MORE?
[Reply]
CB14 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 8:57 pm
@408kingsfan, Sort of. What I’m saying is that when the Kings follow their offensive system, which is to shoot whenever they have an opportunity, they lose because those shots aren’t dangerous. When they don’t follow their system, and thus shoot less, that means their shots are in better scoring positions out on the ice. They are being more selective in their shooting opportunities. It’s basically quality over quantity. Most of the Kings shots are from the point and have a low % chance of actually going in the net. Their plan is to hope for a shot, rebound, put back goal, that eliminates all the skill these players have. IMO it’s a system that a team without much talent uses, not a system a team with the talent the Kings have uses.
So in summary: Shoot less, which means better scoring opportunities, which means they win more.
[Reply]
Kingsfanone Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 10:18 pm
@CB14,
Dude, can we actually fire TM and hire you? Please!
CB14 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 10:29 pm
@Kingsfanone, I wish.
You know where to find me Dean.
IceGuy Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 11:27 pm
@CB14,
“IMO it’s a system that a team without much talent uses, not a system a team with the talent the Kings have uses.”
And there, in one sentence, is the definition of, and the problem with Terry Murray’s “shot mentality”. Well done, 408kingsfan. The discussion of this topic. “the system”, is officially over.
IceGuy Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 11:31 pm
@CB14,
To be clear, I made a mistake.
CB14 is to be credited with the final nail in Murray’s “system” coffin.
My apologies.
IceGuy Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 11:33 pm
@CB14,
I have been suffering from an undisclosed above the shoulders injury.
I find myself really saddd when we lose even though we are still doing really good. aha whyyyy is thisss
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Chucker Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 5:03 pm
@Subby, me too!!! Is it so bad of me that I want the Kings to win every single game that they play? “Hello, you play to win the game! Hello!” I want them to have the best record in the league, and I believe they have the players to do so.
[Reply]
Great start, but I still think this team is underachieving!
Quick has played out of his mind!
Kopitar is picking up right where he left off last season before the injury…simply amazing!
Richards keeps getting better and better every game I see him
Gagne makes all the difference as we have witnessed with his absence these last two games. We haven’t had a LW with his skill since Luc retired!
Voynov needs to be in this lineup every night! He was getting better and better each game he played!
JJ looks like a man on a mission!
Hopefully Parse can stay out of the Pbox and keep eating his Wheaties or whatever he is doing. He is that last piece that we’ve been missing…keep it up!
If Penner can be half of the player he was and gain a little confidence, who knows how good this team can be!
What’s really nice to see is that were getting beat by bad bounces or great plays…not the usual immaturity we’ve witnessed the last few years.
You have to give credit to DL and the moves he made to rebuild this team!
[Reply]
fsd1 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 4:05 pm
@Barry’s Mullet, Nice to hear from you mullet! Good post!
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TradedForADraftPick Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 4:37 pm
@Barry’s Mullet,
I’m just hoping Doughty gets his act together. He’s looked a little sluggish and off his game since he’s been back. Probably just readjusting, but hoping it happens sooner rather than never.
[Reply]
vplaza Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 4:37 pm
@Barry’s Mullet,
Some common sense, finally. Underachievers so far, but with plenty of potential compared to prior years.
I do think that Kopi started the year on fire, but has cooled a little in the last few games.
And you forgot DD. He needs to start playing like the player the Kings paid for. I feared that missing camp would hurt, but didn’t anticipate the early injury to compound the delay in getting him up to game shape/speed/quality.
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 4:55 am
@Barry’s Mullet, Agree with everything except I’ve given up on Penner. Lost cause imho. The last straw was seeing the difference of the Richard’s line when he left it and the difference of the Kopitar line when Penner joined it. Suddenly Brown has woken up and that line is playing better than Kopitar’s line.
Penner makes lines worse. Kopitar and Williams had a combined plus/minus of +11 before Penner showed up, now its plus 4. I’d rather see Clifford in the top 6. In fact I’d rather see Westgarth. Penner just flat out sucks.
[Reply]
okay here what i like about our team so these our my positives for them
I like Quick improve his game style seems to get better and better
I like how JJ plays simple and gets the job done in Defense
I like how Kopi comes back and be the biggest part of this team as he was last year.
I like Gagne how his playing stlye and can finish the play
I Like Richards how he effort and plays with alot of passion and mostly very useful in the PP’s and PK’s
I like Richardson how he all effort and trys to do his best he may not be good with his hands but he sure can hold his own ground and always seem to be getting the puck back.
thats all i can see so far :/ i hope they can get some chemistry together
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 4:57 am
@KingsFanFTW, All good calls. I would add that Scudes is playing the best I’ve ever seen him play.
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After one month, where they stand….
2nd in the pacific
4th in the West
7th in the NHL
seems pretty damn good to me! not sure how you can complain with that….but what do I know? im just a Kings fan
[Reply]
vplaza Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 4:41 pm
@BrokeKingsFan,
I think people want to be undefeated, get outshot, not have benched Quick after three shutouts, not sent Voynov down, Penner traded, TM fired, and Kompon lynched. Other that that, things are great.
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 4:45 pm
@vplaza,
Wow, nailed it! Short, concise and correct
[Reply]
CB14 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 5:11 pm
@vplaza, 3rd. Perfect post!
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tacomakingsfan Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 7:14 pm
@vplaza,
Kompon lynched??? Kinda harsh there.. I prefer TARRED AND FEATHERED!!
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 8:40 pm
@tacomakingsfan,
Very American with the tar and feathers.
Kingsfanone Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 10:24 pm
@tacomakingsfan,
Gotta be more fun than lynching!
I’ll be glad when Gagne is back and the team is able to roll 4 lines that are big, (relatively) fast, and are defensively sound. I personally really liked the Penner-Stoll-Richardson line and Parse seems to be finding a groove with Brown and Richards.
[Reply]
Maybe it should be noted that we’re 3rd to last in winning % when outshooting our opponents.
Shot mentality is something every player should already have, coaches (at least every coach I ever played for) are supposed to preach a shoot to score mentality. The whole shoot and pray method (aka we’ll try to get every goal off a rebound) doesn’t lead to lots of goals…as proven by the LA Kings for the last 3 years.
[Reply]
CB14 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 5:11 pm
@kingsxstevenxkings, See my post up a little higher on this same page.
[Reply]
kingsxstevenxkings Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 5:28 pm
@CB14,
Ah..great minds think alike. Normally I read through all the posts before I post.. felt a little lazy today haha
[Reply]
goldielocks Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 8:18 pm
@kingsxstevenxkings,
Creating quality chances is the key to scoring more. We have more than enough guys to make it happen. So what’s slowing them down?
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 5:00 am
@kingsxstevenxkings, “shot mentality” does not equal “get more shots than the other team” imho.
[Reply]
The only thing I can see that bothers me while watching the games is that we are not particularly good at faceoffs. I think if they could wriggle into the top 10 in faceoff percentage that would bode very very well for a deep playoff run.
[Reply]
Deke'r Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 7:13 pm
@Weasel, What a difference a year makes…..last season most people wanted to get rid of Stoll and Handzus who were our best face off men….go figure.
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 5:02 am
@Weasel, Lewis needs to improve a lot in that area. So does Kopitar. Richards is only average. Only one of our 4 centers (Stoll)is all that good.
[Reply]
Sometimes reading from the Insider is the entertainment known to man. Some of you really have the club down. Kings started the season good. We have a long way to go. None of us will be happy unless we win every game. Not going to happen. Why do we fire TM when we lose, guilty. Praise him when we win, guilty. Were sick people, sick I tell ya.
[Reply]
CB14 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 5:34 pm
@kinginsaltlake, I’m about to throw up.
[Reply]
There are lies, damn lies, and statistics.
[Reply]
jess Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 9:40 pm
@Happy Lappy,
Your post is the inspiration for my tin foil hat costume –which I will probably now wear full time:)
[Reply]
Don’t know if anyone posted it earlier (lotta talkin’ goin’ on!) but the Kings have four forwards new to the team, and two, Penner and Parse, with limited time last year. Give the boys some time!
[Reply]
The Rangers just had a slick Russian kid as the 4th line center score a rush backhand that took some skill. Made me wish we had Loki centering the 4th line
[Reply]
CB14 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 10:26 pm
@SoCalR6, I’m right there with ya on that one.
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I’d like to see where our blocked shots against are. I’m sure we’re probably near last place on that one, as we LOVE to shoot into shin pads.
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Good stuff.
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off topic -
So the top scoring dman in the league, Erik Karlsson, is a -3. Does this mean he actually sucks??
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KC23 Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 9:05 am
@Belexes, Typically it means he does well on the PP and not so well on 5 on 5 … (see JJ previous 4 seasons).
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OFF TOPIC…
Happy Halloween!!! GO KINGS GO!!!
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jess Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 7:18 pm
@tacomakingsfan,
Any SCARY taco specials -cause I aint afraid!
[Reply]
tacomakingsfan Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 7:26 pm
@jess,
Yup!! I call it the Kompon PP Special! Very Frightening!!!
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DesertKing Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 8:48 pm
@tacomakingsfan,
They come without the beef.
pnm Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 7:29 pm
@tacomakingsfan, I’m having tacos tonight!
[Reply]
tacomakingsfan Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 7:31 pm
@pnm,
But you don’t have the Kompon PP Special…. MUAHAHAHA
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Andrew: the second coming Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 7:35 pm
@tacomakingsfan, I like tacos.
Here is what Penner can do, personally, I think he doesn’t really want to be here, I think he really wants to be in Edmonton. this is from the 09-10 season. This guy is a goal scorer. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=itCUA_usE5U
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bonvivant1 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 9:53 pm
@HockeyOnlyAwaitingModeration, There was a point in last night’s game where he made a power move towards the net that drew a penalty. Based upon what I’ve seen from the video montage, he has skill but seems to be lacking the motivation. He’s in a contract year? No goals in 11 games…We keep asking ourselves the question…What game is this guy going to breakout?
[Reply]
rick Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 10:23 pm
@HockeyOnlyAwaitingModeration, He looks a heckuva quicker in those videos than he ever has in a Kings uniform. I knew that TV made you look fatter, but didn’t know it could also make you look faster.
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The Batman Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 10:50 pm
@HockeyOnlyAwaitingModeration, Honestly me might not want to be here, but i dunno a lot of shifts i see him take i see him trying to do well, i just feel he is lost in TM’s system. some people can adjust, a lot can’t….i don’t think i need to list all the players who have done well away from murray
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The Batman Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 10:51 pm
@The Batman, he*
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HockeyOnlyAwaitingModeration Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 11:10 pm
@The Batman, I sure do agree with you. I think between him not really wanting to be here and TM’s system I would bet he’s gone either before or at the trade deadline. Also I don’t think he’ll be the only one going.
TiredOfIt Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 1:32 am
@The Batman, Then how about being a glory hog and take it to the net every time. Lets take our chances with the outcome. That little round black thing might go in the meshy looking fishnet thing hanging on the metal red frame thing
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The Batman Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 9:49 am
@TiredOfIt, you whats funny about that is in the video you see penner driving in a lot like that, skating around guys and everything to get to the net, and kopitar used to use that same power move all the time to get to the net…his first goal was scored like that…..but whens the last time he actually took it to the net? like the past 2-3 years he just takes it around the net and tries to set it back up to the D. I have a feeling that the coaching staff told him to cut that nonsense out or something.
KC23 Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 5:09 am
@HockeyOnlyAwaitingModeration, At this point I just want his 4 mil cap hit gone. I look at Kopitar, Williams, Richards, Gagne and now even Parse and they all seem to be doing fine with TM’s system thank you very much. I may throw TM under the bus for a lot of things, but Penner isn’t one of them. That one is on DL.
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HockeyOnlyAwaitingModeration Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 12:16 pm
@KC23, Hi bud, if what you are saying is true then it just boils down to, he doesn’t want to be here.
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Rich,
I didn’t read all of the 250 posts because if someone had pointed it out I think you would have fixed it, but are the hits of 2,127 and blocked shots at 1,032 from last season correct? Seems like you got an extra number in there on both of those.
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CB14 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 8:44 pm
@kings4queens, Those numbers are for the entire 82 games last season. The numbers for this season are for only 11 games. Thus the descrepency.
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wes Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 9:02 pm
@kings4queens, yeah, that leaped out at me and I too am surprised if no one has pointed that out (haven’t read all posts either). 2,127 hits through 11 games games, 1,032 blocked shots? those numbers both scream “this number is incorrect”
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wes Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 9:06 pm
@kings4queens / CB14, okay, posted this before seeing the previous reply and looking again at what Rich had posted. my bad.
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its not about the shots we get, it’s the ones that goes in..
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Kingsxstevenxkings Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 1:24 am
@pat,
Blasphemer!! Haha
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i must say that CB14 has made some good points concerning coach Murray. My question is this… Who better to lead this team? Fire Murray, Stevenson will surly take over. If we make a change we change them all.
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CB14 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 9:49 pm
@kinginsaltlake, Thank you!
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Andrew: the second coming Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 11:32 pm
@kinginsaltlake, Stevens is a great coach, I think he would have a bit more open ozone while still keeping the d airtight.
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fsd1 Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 9:24 am
@kinginsaltlake, Bank on it, Murray will not be fired this season.
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KC23 Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 10:13 am
@kinginsaltlake, TM deserves to play out this season imho. I think replacing him now is a bad idea.
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PP Anybody? Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 10:41 am
@KC23, Just for argument’s sake, The Penguins fired their head coach, then brought in Dan Bylsma who lead them to a Stanley Cup championship that same year. He is still their coach and seems to have them still playing well.
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I flat out love this team:
They compete.
The play of the third and fourth lines has me riveted to my seat each time they are on the ice.
The first line is magical.
Our power play has two very solid units with interchangeable parts.
Our penalty killing is very good.
Other teams respect us.
Our defensive zone coverage is nearly flawless.
We’ve got two fantastic young goal tenders.
We have more speed.
We have more depth than ever before.
This medication is really groovy. Oh…Sorry… I meant everything I said.
Get psyched boys and girls. We’re in for a helluva ride this year.
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letswinthecup2012 Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 12:33 am
@bonvivant1,
with you 100%
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I’m not sure if I’m ready to say fire Murph just yet, but I’m leaning towards that way.
Seems like a lot of people want Stevenson to give it go, but you think Stevenson will
have the same type of system being they have worked together for a while? I honestly
think management should give TM a firing warning, maybe he changes his system up a bit and
gets these Kings scoring. On paper we should be lighting up the lamp and dominating. Just
seems like last years team not much scoring.
It is still early in the season though, maybe they still need time to gel as a team.
anyway… Can’t wait to see how Smytty plays on thursday.
GKG!!!
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CB14 Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 10:28 pm
@KiNGS 4 LiFE, Stevens*
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KC23 Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 5:16 am
@KiNGS 4 LiFE, imho TM will be graded on the outcome of the season. We clearly have the horses to go deep into the playoffs. If we don’t do something special with this line up, its on the coaches. I do believe TM has earned the right to play out this entire season, unless he really starts to get crazy. IMHO the worst move he’s made so far is playing Quick against the Avs. I also think he threw Parse and Moreau under the bus by playing them on their off wings early on. I don’t blame TM for Penner, that one is on DL.
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Had to give my tix away for thursdays game because of work, oh well, stll have tickets
to other games.
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I just think the guys haven’t jelled yet. Doughty isn’t playing up to speed. When he returned to the line-up Gagne had to sit. Just when Voynov was making important contributions, he was sent down. Justin Williams seems to be in a mini-rut. Penner appears to be on the verge of breaking out of his funk. We don’t seem to have found our game. We’re not playing last year’s cycle-and-grind game (though we showed more of that style in the game against the Avalanche), and seem to be developing a balanced defense-oriented/skating-passing game. But it’s still very much in development, and will be dependent upon all six guys on the first two lines clicking. And finally, as I’ve been saying all along, I believe our defense – excluding Quicker – can and will get much better…which is high praise. I think our defense can be as good as any in the league…with or without Voynov.
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Bill M. Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 12:43 am
@Ron Reynolds, Yeah. I see more changes than just personnel. I do see some of those changes in system that people have wanted to see. Changes like that can tend to be “Under the hood”. i.e. the car still looks the same, and it will still run like crap…until you get it tuned just right, and then it takes off like a bat out of hell!
I see that…I see power play movement. I see rushing entry into the zone. I see attempts at creative passing across the crease and behind the net. using the whole zone to spread the D. But I do see a team with a new system and new personnel, that is still getting a low percentage return on their attempts. The skill is there, or else they wouldn’t have any success trying to use these kind of plays. So I still think that it comes down to more time for them to gel. it can take 20-30 games for team chemistry to really develop, or disintegrate, which is why teams surprise early and fade, while cup winners frequently come barging out of the pack mid year after a mediocre first half.
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KC23 Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 5:22 am
@Bill M., Great post Bill. I agree, the PP looks 1000% better. I blame a lot of our poor PP last year to the personal. I personally don’t think Kopitar is very good at the PP when on the half boards. He is way to slow to make decissions with the puck and telegraphs his passes. Kopitar does well on the PP when he is in front of the net, on the point or on the weak side. Our PP breaks down when Kopitar has the puck on the half boards. Our PP does well when Richards has the puck on the half boards.
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Michael J. Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 8:38 am
@KC23,
Interesting thoughts on Kopitar. I will have to watch that a little more.
Nevertheless, I am in total agreement with you on your remarks about the personnel. Last year the Kings had a very immobile Ryan Smyth and Michal Handzus as key components on their power play. In addition, they had to play Wayne Simmonds on the PP at times. None of these guys fill that mobile, quick. deft puck handling mold that successful power play players are made from.
Yes, the PP looks a lot better.
given the expectations, id call it a “pedestrian” start. not alarmed, not overjoyed. love the PP so far, except the shortie on Sunday (I guess Jamie Kompon’s picture is finally coming off my dartboard.. and Penner’s is going up). Think we need more scoring, but more time for chemistry will help that (enough? we shall see). My biggest Terry Murray gripe? Just start the right freakin goalie, wouldja?
[Reply]
Kingsxstevenxkings Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 1:27 am
@colo king fan,
We have the same thinking so far
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KC23 Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 5:24 am
@colo king fan, Yep, Penner’s picture has been put back in its rightful place on my dart board. He just sucks.
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One more thing to add: Anze Kopitar and Mike Richards are each as complete a player as any I’ve ever seen. The presence of these two players will make our D so much stronger. When all the pieces come together, the Kings will be an awesome force.
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kings4queens Reply:
October 31st, 2011 at 11:25 pm
@Ron Reynolds,
I totally agree. I always felt like Kopi on the ice would make a difference, but now Mike Richards will too. Those two are game changers all of the time. Others might, but Kopi and Richards will be the backbone of this organization for the next couple of years. And due credit to Quick for stand on his head goaltending.
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KC23 Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 5:27 am
@Ron Reynolds, Once DL finds a way to get Voynov back on our blue line we’ll have another game changer.
I’ve gone back and looked at that Dallas game a couple of times watching only Voynov … that guy has some sick sick talent. That is no average hockey player. As much as I love Martinez, and I do, Voynov is just way way too good to be in Manchester.
[Reply]
Michael J. Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 8:43 am
@KC23,
I can only assume that DL is working very hard right now to find a way to get Voynov into a regular role with the Kings. How he does it is as good a question as any.
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In August I mentioned that I thought the following people would be the focus the new and improved Kings:
Penner: In the whole time he’s been with the team, he has not produced in any category to justify either his salary or his ice time. We are no longer the Rehab Kings. Either contribute, sit, or move along. Tick tock, tick tock.
Westgarth: Either contribute, sit, or move along. Playing 3-5 minutes a game means some other player is expected to fulfill his asigned role as well as carrying Westy’s load. This is not team productive at all.
Greene: Tough spot for a character/leadership guy. Youth is nipping at his heels. Lots of leadership in the room now besides him. Penalties, out of position and speed dog his performance. Voynov is ready. Martinez should be considered a replacement for Matt. Mitchell/DD, Scuds/JJ, Martinez/VV will scary. And what’s with all the double initials?!
Murray: Lombardi has given him a great amount of talent to work with. The question is can Murray use the talent he’s been given, or continue trying to fit square pegs into round holes? (Fro, Poni, Moulson, Boyle, Westgarth etc.) It’s not so much that Terry Murray’s time has past, the personnel have changed. When he was brought in, the Kings needed a teacher. Mission accomplished. Now they need a good talent manager, and I’m afraid TM is not that.
I haven’t called for his head, giving him time to work with the new people. But, “the Decision” strains credulity.
There is a group mentality on any sports team. Quick’s amazing run was cut short for essentially no reason other than “I told Bernie he’d play”. That will, and I believe did, weigh on the skater’s minds. And that’s no insult to Bernier at all. As a matter of fact, if there was any one player who would best appreciate Quick’s performance, it would be Bernier. He had to understand how special Quick’s game was, and I’ll bet you dollars to donuts Bernie would have been happy to sit until the streak was over.
Look, why do forwards try to dish to another forward with two goals in a game? Because they want him to get a hat trick. You think they don’t know what that means to a player? The coach’s decision disrupted the team’s mental approach. “Jeez, how good do you have to play to stay in the lineup?” JQ’s attitude is what Murray should adopt, “We just need the two points”. Coach, if you can’t learn that, if you can’t adopt to the new reality of your team, then you really are in trouble. You just might find yourself in the predicament ANDY Murray was in here years ago.
Terry, do not lose your team. Use your team.
As per the above … contribute, sit, or move along.
[Reply]
letswinthecup2012 Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 12:30 am
@IceGuy,
i’m with you 100%
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KC23 Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 5:36 am
@IceGuy, All strong takes. Greene does add toughness and that is never a bad thing on the ice, especially come playoff time. Still, I can’t argue with your point about Greene, it is valid and is exactly what I said to puck73 just yesterday on the phone.
I tried to be support of TM decission on Quick’s streak, but when TM put Quick against the AVs playing him 3 in 4 nights that was it. Made no sense what so ever. That was some terrible coaching decissions and I can’t help but think that TM cost us a couple of games last week even though its probably not really the case.
I don’t have a problem with Westgarth’s play or roll so far. I see marked improvement and he’s been used spairingly.
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Kingstane9 Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 10:25 am
@IceGuy, agreed on all points, nice post!
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Hey Rich – did you go to the Kings Halloween party? If so what was your costume of choice? I heard some of the players had some great costumes – are there any pics around? I would love to see them!
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Penner Penner Penner. When is Mr. Penner going to contribute? He skates a half step behind everyone and he shows hardly any enthusiasm. If you are not going to score then knock the crap out of someone on the other team every night. Not once a month. We have discussed the “Murray Move” till we are all blue, which means it had a MAJOR effect on us as fans. I wonder what effect it had on the skaters? I don’t know all of the specs regarding sending players down and waiver wire stuff and free agency options etc. etc. etc. What I do know is Martinez has played mediocre at best and Voynov played great, for a rookie. I heard Jim fox say the other night on the broadcast that Voynov made it very hard for the Kings coaching staff to send him down and that he should be patient because he will get another chance…..WHY NOT NOW!!!!! C’mon. Again? I love my Kings and always hope and wish and ….pray for their success, but dont do things that make all of us say…WHAT? You guys are the ones that are supposed to know this stuff. That’s why you are there. Coach, Kompon, whoever…..We are right there with talent, right there…this close….please make better decisions. I know I’m rambling. This team with this talent can’t lose in OT to the Coyote’s and definately cannot lose to the winless at home Avalanche….but we did. How?
[Reply]
Michael J. Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 8:52 am
@TiredOfIt,
OK, you ask “…..WHY NOT NOW!!!!! ” in ALL CAPS, which I assume displays your emotion for Slava to play with the Kings. Taking it a step further, I ask you “how” should DL get him up with the club? Who should he waive or trade to make room for Voynov? If it is as simple as waiving Dreiwiske, do you think the Kings should take that risk since one of the stay-at-home defensemen is more than likely to miss a few games due to injury. If your solution is a trade, then who to trade, and to which team, and for what in return?
It seems that you are more than “TiredOfIt” by reading your post. I would like to know what you would do?
Its very easy complain. Finding solutions is not so easy.
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puck73 Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 10:16 am
@Michael J., @Michael J….putting people on the spot, and asking tough questions that need intelligent answers !
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@vSomplaza, Some would still Whine and Moan, Those people can always find a reason to be unhappy.
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Michael J. Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 8:58 am
@Bkrs-Bud,
Really??? I would have never guessed (see thread directly above).
Anyone can bitch and complain. Lots of people see the glass half empty. Nevertheless, I am appreciative of those who contribute to the discussion here, especially those who provide thoughtful, intelligible commentary regardless of which side of the argument they represent.
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“Bring me the head of Alfredo Murray”. Since Andy Rooney retired, I’ll try one. Why is Terry Murray called Murph? I thought Murph was short for Murphy. With that logic, Jaime Kompon should be affectionately known as Tampon. It just makes sense, doesn’t it?
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jess Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 9:39 am
@Happy Lappy, LOL
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RobSD Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 10:58 am
@Happy Lappy,
VERY LOL funny
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McCheese Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 1:32 pm
@Happy Lappy, had some Kings fans on the floor in the break room this morning. Thanks for the fodder! ( I only took credit for a minute or two before sourcing the blog )
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Top of the Morning to you Rich.
Just wondering if you could give us a POLL once a week or so, like to see
what people think on here.
Thanks Hammer
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Lots of Penner bashing going on, some of which I agree with 100% and some is just piling on.
One thing that nobody seems to talk about, is his sudden inability to connect a single pass. It seems like every time he has the puck on his stick, its either dumped into the corner or its going to his imaginary friend skating around out there, which is always picked up by the opposition.
Scoring is sometimes elusive and bad luck can get you ( see Brown last year ) , but how about making it tape to tape once in a while Mr. Penner, just for fun?
[Reply]
Shakes Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 10:44 am
@McCheese,
don’t forget the new favorite, the between the legs weak pass to no one which he’s done in the last few games
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RobSD Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 11:00 am
@McCheese,
His passing has been noticeably bad. How does someone go through such a large regression? Could he have a physical or mental problem affecting his game? How do you just go from 60+ points a year to not being able to make a pass?
[Reply]
Trade Penner, Bernier/Martinez and secound round pick for Parise! NJD are in a small slump (4-4-1, lost two last games). They will welcome that. Probably.
[Reply]
Michael J. Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 9:02 am
@kinginprague,
Why in the Hell would New Jersey do that? Maybe they should trade Volchenkov, Jansen, Larson and a second round pick for Kopitar?
NOBODY trades super-star players for a prospect goalie and spare parts.
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kinginprague Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 10:35 am
@Michael J.,
Nobody? That reminds me the Gretzky-St. Louis trade in 1996? Who in the hell LA got? Patrice Tardif, Roman Vopat, Craig Johnson and two draft picks (ok, Gretzky was 35, but still able to do 90 points per season). That reminds me the Thornton-San Jose trade (and Thornton was already in that time on pace for 100 points). That reminds me (and it is not so far) LA-Philly trade – Richards is in many points superstar and Philly got Simmonds (valuable player, very good power forward but not star, Schenn – junior star, but who knows, what he is going to be?!)
I think, that you can find a lot of examples of “superstar for so called spare parts” trades (is Martinez really this? ok, Penner is more difficukt to judge!). And from the other side – are the now-day’s Parise’s numbers(not only this but the last season’s as well) really so good, that we can call him superstar? And moreover is he really satisfied in NJD (he signed only one-year contract!)? Notwithstanding NJD need badly a young good goalie (Brodeur and Hedberg already 39, 38).
But in any case I don’t want to argue. I don’t really think that NJD are willing to do this. But sometimes strange things happen or sometime one is forced to do strange things.
OK. Finally, it was not meant so seriously at all. It is just a (probably futile) wish for one excellent fast left wing. (But who knows, what Parse gonna be!?)
PS: sorry for that English! Am not a native speaker
[Reply]
RobSD Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 11:02 am
@Michael J.,
Devils do need a new franchise goalie. I don’t know much about the Devil’s cap but with Parise, Broduer and Kovulsuck they have to be close to being over.
[Reply]
Sebastian Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 9:47 am
@kinginprague, youre insane if you think the devils are going to move him this early…the only way they would actually move him is if there were out of the playoffs by the deadline and he was yet to sign a long term contract with the devils. he would then become a rental player and go into free agency in the summer. they made in captain! why would they trade him because theyre in a small slump? and why would they have any interest in a slumping 4m/year forward with one year left on his contract? AHHHHHHH@!!!!
[Reply]
number 6 Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 10:38 am
@kinginprague,
That is such a good idea. I know that Lou Lamoriello is waiting in his office just champing at the bit to get a player who they couldn’t wait to get rid of in Edm and who Kings fans will certainly not miss next year if he isn’t resigned (which I doubt he will be)…. and A SECOND round pick and a goalie for one of the best ten to fifteen forwards in the league.
Well, I can’t say I blame you for the thought…. but the GM of the Devs is not that naive…. trust me.
[Reply]
number 6 Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 10:39 am
@number 6,
Yeah and don’t take my comments too seriously either (just to be clear) as I know you’re just in ‘wishful thinking’ mode…. and appreciate that English isn’t your first language.
[Reply]
kinginprague Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 11:00 am
@number 6, good sarcasm in that previous note!:-)
Just wondering what Par(i)se will show.
Overall the stats look good. The Directv/Fox dispute has been resolved. Hallelujah!!!
[Reply]
The Kings ‘style’
I realize I am probably in the minority and an ingrate, but I’m not convinced by the comparison to last season at this point. We continue to struggle to score goals, and I’m convinced this is a result of the way the team is coached. This raises an interesting question…
Would you like to see the Kings play a more open, less defensive style? I would. We have become the NJ Devils of old, and play a defense-first, boring brand of hockey. I really don’t think this makes the best use of the offensive talents of the team, or the talent in the organization at the lower levels (see Lokti and Moller, even Voynov).
I would assume that the argument against opening things up is that we will give up more goals. However, I’m not sure this is a given if we chose to play with a ‘speed’ fourth line instead of grinders, as Quisp has been suggesting for a long time. I’d love to see us at least try this.
Realistically I can’t see this happening as long as TM is coach, who has the ability to turn everyone into a checker. Some will say that playing that way we made the playoffs two years in a row, etc. Early season report card results aside, I personally find it hard to see us being anything other than a first or second round team with the current strategy. Ask yourself how many points and goals someone like Crosby or Kane would have playing for TM. I really hope to be proved wrong next June.
[Reply]
Stuart Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 9:20 am
@ForumFan, you mean the Devils of old that won 3 championships in 9 seasons? I’m sure all their fans were bored to death at the SC parades…yawn
[Reply]
ForumFan Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 9:24 am
@Stuart,
I assumed that would be the reaction that some would have. Let me ask you a couple of questions.
Do you think we can win 3 championships in 9 seasons with TM at the helm?
Are you happy with the brand of hockey we play?
[Reply]
fsd1 Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 9:27 am
@ForumFan, yes! yes!
Sebastian Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 9:36 am
@ForumFan, considering that in the last 10 years only one single team has won 2 championships (detroit), i dont think ANY team can win 3 Cups in 9 or 10 seasons. not with the salary cap era, so this argument dont make no sense. by the time most teams get to be champions they have to shed a ton of cap and salary the next year, making it very difficult to stay on top for consecutive seasons.
Stuart Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 9:43 am
@ForumFan, IMO anything is possible. We seems to find some extra offense in the playoffs, so I don’t think it’s beyond impossible to win 3 of 9. Will TM be that coach to do it? If he can manage to win one, he can win more.
And to be honest, I am content with the brand we’re playing. Too many “wasted” shots in my eyes and still not enough taking it to the net. A flicked puck on net from inside the blue does nothing but creat a face-off and kills momentum.
We’re on our way…
RobSD Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 11:30 am
@ForumFan,
I for one, hate when “things don’t make no sense.”
I do think we are doing fine and that 3 points is all that matters. As long as we have 1 more goal at the end of the game than the opposition I’m happy. We are not in a bad position now. Everyone is expecting too much too soon because of all the hype around the team. They could be playing better, I agree. Murray did get us this far and this year is certainly going to be a make it break it for him. I would be fine if he left but am not going to complain too much about him while he is here. His record speaks for itself. We need to dump Penner and his salary, find a way to bring up Voynov and Lotki find some line chemistry.
PP Anybody? Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 11:04 am
@Stuart, If you guys actually looked at the Cup winners over the last 14 years, 13 of those teams were in the top 10 in scoring, most of which were in the top 5. Look it up http://www.nhl.com/ice/teamstats.htm?fetchKey=20122ALLSAAAll&sort=goals&viewName=goalsFor
http://proicehockey.about.com/od/stanleycupbunker/a/stanley_cuplist.htm
The only exception was the 2003 NJ Devils who were 14th in scoring, which still puts them in the upper half, not like the bottom half 22nd spot the Kings currently have. Just facts.
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Stuart Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 2:06 pm
@PP Anybody?, can you please trove your stats and find out where those teams were sitting 11 games into those seasons? As for now, with the Kings 11 games in and being 22nd, I’M NOT WORRIED.
DLB Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 9:30 am
@ForumFan, the Kings are trying to play a different style but I don’t know if TM will keep with it all year.
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Michael J. Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 9:32 am
@ForumFan,
No, I would not like to see the Kings play a less defensive style of hockey. Yes, it is a more exciting brand of hockey, but it is very hard to win with. It is much easier to give up goals than it is to score goals.
I watched the Kings play an “offensive” brand of hockey from the mid 80′s until Larry Robinson became coach. How many playoff series did they win? 5 or 6 in ten years? I’ve seen it before and lived the long drive back to OC after losses too many times. Winning is much better than exciting.
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jess Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 9:45 am
@Michael J.,
If we can open it up on the PP (without giving up more shorthanders) and continue to let MR lead the way on creative plays through the middle instead of playing hedge hog along the boards then we can still be a defense first team and still be exciting to watch. Getting Gagne and Voynov back in the lineup won’t hurt either.
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Stuart Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 9:52 am
@jess, “continue to let MR lead the way on creative plays through the middle”
It is going to take some serious convincing/trust to get DB to give up the puck and let MR bring it up… Someone needs to work a give-n-go with DB to see that the pass is mightier then the weak shot…
number 6 Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 10:41 am
@ForumFan,
‘I realize I am probably in the minority’ – not sure you’re all that much in the minority actually.
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jason Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 10:59 am
@ForumFan, 100% agree… we cant compare ourselves to a team like nj because they had a different set of players. We have a goalie who makes the tough saves… 2 on 1, breakaway, so what, quick will stop it.. also we have play makers and scorers kinda like a penguins team.. actually penguins are still dominating without crosby and malkin.. they are offensively aggressive and win.. so let not compare to a team like the devils.. lets compare to a team like the penguins.. and watch how they work.. they have malkin and crosby, we have richards and kopi and gagne and williams and brown etc etc.. we have the talent, we just have to open it up a bit.. and quick is 10x better than fleury
and for all the penner haters, i think hes struggling just like most players do to score when they come to los angeles…
as long as this system is in place we wont win the cup.. sure the D can be good, but that doesnt mean the offense should stink… and screw shots, half our shots are so easy to save with say 1 king on 3 shooting so the goalie covers and he can get a line change
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ForumFan Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 2:40 pm
@jason,
my analogy clearly wasn’t the best.
Agree with your comments about Penner. If you think back to when he first came to the team he actually started out well (first half dozen games or so?). At that point in the season he already had 21 goals as an Oiler. As he ‘learned the system’, he seemed to struggle more and more.
Everyone says he worked really hard in the off season, and yet is still looking lost out there. He scored 32 goals in 2009-10 playing for the Oilers btw. Poni had the same problem playing for us.
That gets to the heart of my concern. We simply don’t score enough goals. I think that has to change if we are going to be serious Cup contenders.
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kinginprague Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 11:23 am
@ForumFan,
“Ask yourself how many points and goals someone like Crosby or Kane would have playing for TM”
Then one must appreciate how many points is Kopitar able to make all that seasons. Maybe without TM system he is 1OO point guy at least for last two seasons.
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Ok, Oct is behind us. Time to move on! Looking at the schedule we have a lot of home games. The Kings will stay in our time zone except for a back-to-back game (Blues-Stars). Then the month of Dec starts off with 4 home games and one against the Ducks. So the month of Nov and early Dec will be a good time to lead the pack and be hard to play agaist at home.
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Ok, Oct is behind us. Time to move on! Looking at the schedule we have a lot of home games. The Kings will stay in our time zone except for a back-to-back game (Blues-Stars). Then the month of Dec starts off with 4 home games and one against the Ducks. So the month of Nov and early Dec will be a good time to lead the pack and be hard to play agaist at home
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OnTheFly Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 9:33 am
@OnTheFly, Sry hit the button twice
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Quick practice update: Gagne’s back, Penner to 3rd line, Parse stays put on 2nd.
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Onetimer1966 Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 10:43 am
@wavesinair, Slava Voynov recalled to play Thursday.
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wavesinair Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 10:44 am
@Onetimer1966, Really? Where’d you see that?
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Onetimer1966 Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 10:54 am
@wavesinair, Just saying, I can dream can’t I?
wavesinair Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 10:58 am
Lombardi’s here casting his watchful eye so you had me thinking something was afoot!
jess Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 10:46 am
@wavesinair, sweet!!
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Belexes Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 10:52 am
@wavesinair,
All 3 of those updates sound good!
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Michael J. Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 11:12 am
@wavesinair,
Thanks Waves. Any site of the Hammer?
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wavesinair Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 11:19 am
@Michael J.,
The entire media and management contingent are swarming the rink (all 5 of them!)
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Lots of crazy ideas thoughout all blogs this season, however does management and coaches not see what we see and the consensus is……..
-Penner better shape up or ship out (pressbox or otherwise)
-if Quick every gets another 3 game shoutout streak play him TM
-Doughty needs to be held accountable of 7million, when he blunders lets ensure he sits a shift or two
-it just seems we are neither a tough team nor a tough team to play, why our grinders have to grind more Westie, Hunter, Clifford, Brown, Moreau, Greene, Mitchell and I’m saying they are not playing well at times I’m saying they need to grind, make other teams take notice
-let our goalscorers score, meaning let them play from the opposition blueline in and this 3 guys sitting on the blueline in the other teams end is no good, two on the puck everywhere and the 3rd guy find the soft spot for the shot
-finally we need to solve the goaltending issue, neither guy really does know who’s number 1 we say Quick and then he is pulled when he had the streak, really do you remember what Patrick Roy did when that happened in Montreal (he wasn’t ordering pizza with Trembley)
Fans it comes down to effort and trust, each shift is high tempo and players must play their own game not someone elses. If your a scorer, then score, if your corner guy be a corner guy, if your a fighter then stand up and fight to motivate, however we got the wrong players lately wanting to play the wrong role
Simple from our computer chairs isn’t it, TM our faith is in your hands do continue down this slippery slope, let them be them…………
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puck73 Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 10:44 am
@Harty, Patrick Roy leaned over to him and said, I will never play for the Montreal Canadians again….and he didnt.
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Shotongoal Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 11:09 am
@Harty, There’s NO doubt in my mind who the #1 net minder is on this team. You’re not clear on that? Whether anyone likes or dislikes Murray’s decision to start Bernier against NJ las week, I for one won’t play Monday morning QB on that one. He told Bernier he was going to start that game before the Sat Quick shutout. It’s that simple. Move on, get over it, it’s a non-issue.
As far as Doughty goes , seriously you want him to sit out shifts because you’re not happy with his play? That’s ridiculous! Get over the fact that he signed a big contract, he got what the Kings were willing to give him and is now playing himself into game shape, the injury didn’t help either.
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Harty Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 11:22 am
@Shotongoal, I respect your opinion, however with Doughty this sloppy play will continue all season unless they address it.
Regardless how good he believes he is, or anyone else a double standard is not good on any team, in your work place and on the kings.
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Shotongoal Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 1:02 pm
@Harty, If it was a lack of effort on Doughty’s part then I would have a problem but it is more a matter of him trying to do too much and/or being rusty. It just seems that your criticism is based on what he’s making, and that doesn’t fly with me. I don’t care whether it’s the top or bottom paid player, I expect equal effort. I don’t see how you can say he’s not giving effort.
Colin Fraser had a great breakaway on quick.
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RobSD Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 12:02 pm
@Harry,
I’ll pass that along
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someone posted earlier that they thought that this team was being patterned after the Devils team that won 3 cups. I disagree. They are being patterned after the Islander teams that won 4 cups in a row.
That team didnt have the overall talent as the Canadian teams before it, or the Oiler teams after it, but they had more role players, and heart and character then any team ever assembled and it started in goal with Billy Smith who was mentally tough in the playoffs when it mattered.
I see the same type of mental toughness in Quick in the 3rd period, overtime, and shootouts. I personally believe Quick is the type of goalie that is mentally capable of winning multiple Stanley Cups. We also have 3 centers that play a responsible 2 way game like Trottier, Merrick, and Goring. and we have an up comung stud in Doughty, and they ended up having Potvin who learned how to become a winner under Torrey and Arbour.
Now, is TM the guy to lead this team to the prize? Not sure, but I think DL is.
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PP Anybody? Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 11:14 am
@puck73, The 80-81 Islanders Cup winning team was 1st in league scoring that year. Just a thought.
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Michael J. Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 11:21 am
@puck73,
Who is the Kings’ Mike Bossy?
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puck73 Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 11:25 am
@Michael J., With the exception of Crosby or Ovechkin, I dont know if their is a goal scorer in the NHL today that could carry Mike Bossy’s jock.
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KC23 Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 11:47 am
@puck73, Certinaly not Ovechkin. I think Crosby is going to be a flash in the pan, Bure type guy. I’d take Bossy over either of those two without question.
jess Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 11:21 am
@puck73,
well said, well said and one more thing: WELL SAID!!
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Saw Avery cleared waivers as expected. I know everybody hates Avery, but personally wouldn’t have minded picking him up again with Kings paying only 25% salary. We definitely lack toughness/agitator this year and, no matter what, Avery agitates. As for the holier than thou crowd, just admit you would tune in to watch Avery…
Plus he is a decent player for a fourth-liner and could be easily waived if he became TOO much of a distraction. Seems like he’s been around forever but only is 32.
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Shotongoal Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 11:10 am
@bringbackbutchgoring, No thanks!
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puck73 Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 11:13 am
@bringbackbutchgoring, He is never coming back. He is a poison pill. Matter a fact, that was the first order of business when Dean was hired was to get rid of that cancer out of the Kings locker room.
He is not coming back…oh, and neither is Sully or Cammy !
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KC23 Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 11:49 am
@puck73, Hey we could trade for POS, take Avery and put them with Penner. Now that would be some line, LOL.
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bringbackbutchgoring Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 11:51 am
@puck73, Ha Ha yeah I know he is not coming back. Curious to see how the Rangers do with him again though. They certainly did not do much without him.
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PP Anybody? Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 11:15 am
@bringbackbutchgoring, Worst idea ever.
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jess Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 11:20 am
@bringbackbutchgoring,
He would be perfect on the team you love to hate, vancouver –matter of fact, wasn’t that him in the tight green man outfit next to the box?
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puck73 Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 11:29 am
@jess, lol. Thanx for the laff Jess, I see that good nights sleep did you well !
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Michael J. Reply:
November 1st, 2011 at 11:23 am
@bringbackbutchgoring,
That will never happen.
Thank God.
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So it looks like we’re about 9th in the league statistically. I didn’t see goal differential on the list. It would be great to be first in that department
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