To follow up on the previous post, Darryl Sutter’s multi-year contract has been signed, and he will be publicly introduced as the Kings’ new coach on Tuesday or Wednesday, a source close to the situation has confirmed. As noted before, immigration issues prevent Sutter from immediately joining the team, but he will take over when the team returns to Los Angeles. The only remaining question is the make-up of the rest of the coaching staff, although John Stevens is expected to stay aboard for at least the rest of this season. Sutter has already been in communication with members of team management, to get scouting reports on the current Kings players.
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OK, then….moving ahead. Best wishes, Mr. Sutter.
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Dan Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 1:14 pm
@Gustavo, Worst Day in Kings History. The complete opposite on #99 coming.
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DBking Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 1:25 pm
@Dan, Well isn’t that positive
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petemagoop Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 1:39 pm
@Dan, come on now, let’s give him a chance
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furrylats Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 1:59 pm
@Dan, hey Rich-delete this guy.
Let’s be real, Sutter has not been here one day and this guy is comparing the hiring of a new coach to events like the Marty McSorely stick fiasco in ’93.
Who the heck are you, Dan? Back up your comments if you’re going to spit on the ground at the mere mention of a name. Did this person wrong you in some way in your past, or is there something you know that nobody else does that could contribute to the weighing of considerable pros and cons of any new coach?
I really think this blog has turned into something negative over the past weeks and you’ve carried over your frustration where it is no longer needed. TM is gone and that is nothing to rejoice, b/c it is unfortunate for him, but it is a fresh start for this team. Making the playoffs is still a reachable goal this season, and Sutter and his players have their work in front of them, but this is no reason to lay hot coals in front of the entrance of the building for him.
Your comments, according to rule #2 (ideas that continually express the same singular opinion), should be deleted.
My reasons for enjoying this forum include: the discussion of ideas, line combinations, witty comebacks, 90′s hiphop references, anything quisp or dominick or several other well-informed contributions, lamenting the Chicago Cubs, poking fun at our crosstown rivals, spirited debates about the ineptitude of our power play (see PP Anyone), and all finger pointing at Toronto for the ever present East Coast bias-see video replays of last year’s buffalo or phoenix game-I’m still pissed about those.
But your comment is none of these things I hold dear. My position is that NONE of us could possibly know what will happen in the coming months, so announcing the worst day in kings history is sad and judgemental. For what it’s worth, I hope you fire back and don’t take this too personally. I direct this at everyone that has turned this place into a muddy bog of negativity.
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boytano Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 2:20 pm
@furrylats, Couldn’t agree more. We live in a time where it’s the norm to be so quick to judge. The level of pessimiscity in our society kills me! Our own attitude is the only thing that we CAN control every day. If we were the head coach of our own lives I don’t know how many of us can say that we would still be employed!
GKG!
Blake Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 2:32 pm
@furrylats, It’s like your thinking the exact same I’m thinking. But youre just a better writer.
tellmeY Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 3:02 pm
@furrylats, amen…good post
Jenny Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 3:03 pm
@furrylats, Awesome way to point out the reason I quit coming into this forum. The complete negativity that is always an ongoing thing here, makes this forum as enjoyable as a National Manic Depression Convention. It would be nice to have a forum with real positive fans who have just an ounce of optimism.
Jenny
Mik3ysfv Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 4:00 pm
@furrylats, dont forget the burger wars.
Dan Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 4:11 pm
@furrylats, Ya Rich get rid of me. Please take me out of my misery and while you are at it buy my season tickets that I’ve had since the 80′s. DSutter is the worst hire in the history of Los Angeles sports. I’m sorry that the truth hurts but the facts are the facts and you Furrylats (great name) will see in due time. Sutter is mean, negative, and the worst communicator ever. Did you know that his brother Brent was his coach in Calgary and they didn’t speak for 6 months while working together and now haven’t spoken in over a year and a half. Did you know that many of his ex players have been on Hockey Night in Canada radio this week saying that he motivates by saying you suck. Did you know that he has never won the Cup. Did you know that 6 of the 10 years his teams have made the playoffs they lost in the 1st round. Did you know that he did coach a team to the Cup final in 03-04 when Tampa Won in the worst Cup final ever. Thay lead to the lockout and changing of the rules. Did you know that I spent a ton of time around DS and the Sharks in the 90′s. Did you know that this isn’t going to work out. Did you know that this is the worst day in Kings history. Say what you want about McSorley and his curved stick but I would take him as the coach today over Sutter at least Marty was and is a winner. Sutter is a bully and when he doesn’t get his way he high tails it back to farm and doesn’t talk to anyone but Dean. Congrats. Worst day in Kings Hockey.
A Cup Before I Die Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 9:40 pm
@furrylats, there are alot of upset Kings fans using this blog to vent their frustrations. I think its great that you have completely listed all the reasons you use this blog. That does not mean that the rest of us should use it for the same reasons. If that person wants to think of that day as the worst in Kings history, then let him have his opinion. Not everyone has to think like you and im blown away that you could take such offense to Dan’s comments that you would ask that he be banned?
Dan, I may not agree with your post, but i won’t be trying to have you thrown out here either, like the bully above.
chris Reply:
December 19th, 2011 at 8:26 pm
@furrylats, I agree with furry,I am a die hard flames fan. One of calgary biggest mastakes was letting Sutter off the bench. Sutter led the flames to the stanley cup finals in 04, were they where robbed of a cup. The following year he left the bench for management. I strongly feel that Sutter should have stayed behind the bench longer for the flames org. Now the kings can live out what should of been in Calgary. Posibly a cup coming soon to L.A.?
RLane420 Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 3:20 pm
@Dan, DL knows this is his job on the line. I would hope he was smart enough to make a good choice here. If this new coach doesnt work out DL is gone and I would like to think he is making the right choice. Only time will tell, lets at least give him some time. None of us have a crystal ball DL has gotten us to this point and we should give him the benefit of the dought. It isnt like he just did some bone headed trades that will cause perminent damage to this team. Take a chill pill and give DS a chance. Maybe DL knows the guys in that locker room better than any of us, and they do only need a stern voice.
[Reply]
linny Reply:
December 18th, 2011 at 11:11 am
@Dan, you are RIGHT!!! The others are drinking the koolade. This season is over and another 5 year rebuilding plan is imminent. Don’t worry Dan…the others will see the light soon. The kings will never do much under AEG, Lieweke, Lombardi
[Reply]
Seano Reply:
December 18th, 2011 at 12:17 pm
@linny, The Galaxy always has the best players in the league, because AEG owns half the league and there is way more money to be made in the growth of soccer in this country for them than what the Kings could make, even if they won the Cup. Staples is built, LA Live is finally done, so once the NFL stadium is built, then hopefully they would sell to an owner who actually cares about winning hockey.
Kevin Ebel Reply:
December 19th, 2011 at 8:43 am
@Dan, You forgot he clubs baby seals and drowns kittens and puppies in rivers and streams all across the great white north!
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Jake1000 Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 3:34 pm
@Gustavo, This is like a disasster coming, Hiring Sutter is like a suicide attempt by DL . The young talents we have will quickly hate this guy, He has a bad reputation in San Jose and Calgary. I don’t know why DL never open his mind to go after other options. Dean Lombardi is always playing safe just to save his job. I’ll bet you, right now many Kings players don’t feel good about the hiring of Sutter. He’s too mad and too close minde like Dean Lombardi.
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Jake1000 Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 3:49 pm
@Gustavo, I won’t be surprise at the end of the season, Kopitar, Brown JJ and DD will ask Dean Lombardi to trade them to another Team. WHY ? They couldn’t stand their nwe Coach ( Sutter ). MAKE NO MISTAKE, Sutter is one of the most hated coach by his players.
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next step forward….. nice!
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the bird’s nest lands in los angeles…
he might start off by putting all his naysayers on double-secret probation…
i really hope that i’m wrong about him and that it works out…or else an already disappointing season is only going to get longer and more disappointing for everyone involved…
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Matt George Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 12:38 pm
@variable,
Ditto
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Stuart Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 12:38 pm
@variable, we’re tethered to the same boat here so lets wish for smooth sailing and a 10-game win streak!!
PS – dig the new gravatar!
[Reply]
variable Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 3:48 pm
@Stuart,
thanks, man…(!)
brothers in arms…
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rontheking Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 12:42 pm
@variable,
Quick! Everybody to the border! It’s not too late to stop this! Blockade!
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40YearKingsFan Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 12:43 pm
@variable, Yep. Hope he doesn’t end up back on the farm cashing LA paychecks instead of Calgary’s.
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DesertKing Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 1:20 pm
@40YearKingsFan,
“Greeeeeeeeeen Aaaaaaaacres is the place for me….”
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Kramsteezy Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 12:44 pm
@variable,
Everyone should read the blog that was put up on Puck Daddy today. It makes a darn good case as to why this guy is the right guy. I suggest everyone read it.
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DLB Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 12:50 pm
@Kramsteezy, it’s Lambert, and unfortunately he is wrong about Calgary becoming dynamic offensively. Not sure if he didn’t fact check or just felt like messing with people.
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Matt George Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 2:29 pm
@DLB,
As much as I want to believe that article … I have to agree with you.
Ryan Lambert is a hack and I just don’t understand how he’s still employed.
Lake Forest Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 12:49 pm
@variable, Do birds nests fly?
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variable Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 3:50 pm
@Lake Forest,
let’s hope they not only fly, but soar to the top of the standings…
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jimrad Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 1:29 pm
@variable, I know how you feel. As a Kings fan let’s hope this piece of the puzzle fits and the team/coaches get a new found chemistry.
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variable Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 3:49 pm
@jimrad,
me too…
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To quote “I got a bad feeling about this.” Hope I am wrong.
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Safaribear1218 Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 12:27 pm
@DesertKing, at least when harrison ford said, i have a bad feeling about this. he always did something bad***
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DesertKing Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 12:30 pm
@Safaribear1218,
Good point
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Dan Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 1:15 pm
@DesertKing, Which player will ask to be traded first????
LosAngelesKing Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 2:36 pm
@DesertKing, Detective John McClane agrees
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Its easy for him…Stevens should stay and Kompon should go for someone of his taste
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Kramsteezy Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 12:45 pm
@Paul G,
Agree!!!
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Cruiznblue Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 12:55 pm
@Paul G,
+1
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Rich,
Do you know, or can you disclose any details of the contract?
How long?
Performance incentives?
Other remarkable details?
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Honestly people can be mad about Sutter signing, but I honestly believe it was JAMIE KOMPO who lack out of all the choaches. TM, and Stevens are great guys and work hard. But Jamie has lack of palying in the pros. I have more experience games then him. He only played three seasons of ECHL and had horrible stats. It’s because he cheap and knows people. But welcome Sutter. Your a tough guy play for, so that will make the players better.
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In the Net Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 12:33 pm
@Downsy89, Replacing Kompon is probably going to happen, but it is NOT going to improve the accuracy of the Kings’ shots. The only real difference in power plays is where the off-side winger (the wing opposite the half-wall wing) plants himself–in front of the goalie to screen, or back out aways so as to better handle a free rebound. That’s it. Always was, always will be in the NHL.
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Cruiznblue Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 12:54 pm
@In the Net,
There needs to be more creativity on the PP…Kompon’s PP always seem stagnant. Watch other elite team’s PP….they are always moving the puck and moving their feet…quick passes and give and gos. I remember when Rob Neidermyer (however u spell it) would be a rover and was always looking to get open right in the slot.
Need a change up on the PP and front end!
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All excuses are over dl….
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Meet the new boss.
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deadcatbounce Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 12:32 pm
@Deadmarsh, Same as the old boss? We won’t get fooled again, DL!
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Stuart Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 12:41 pm
@deadcatbounce, “There’s an old saying in Tennessee – I know it’s in Texas, probably in Tennessee – that says, fool me once, shame on – shame on you. Fool me – you can’t get fooled again.” LOLO
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rontheking Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 12:43 pm
@Stuart, hahahaha…funny….
pautna Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 1:43 pm
@Stuart, Ha! Classic.
GET306 Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 1:28 pm
@deadcatbounce, LOL good one. only time (this season) will tell
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neil Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 1:37 pm
@deadcatbounce, Who!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1
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Welcome Coach Sutter, a positive new beginning im sick of bashing..
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Dan Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 1:07 pm
@MyKay, Haha Funny. Sutter is the most negative coach in hockey. There will be nothing positive about this.
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Luke M. Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 1:40 pm
@Dan, Where does this come from? Players have always respected Sutter as a coach. The media isn’t a fan because he’s not a good interview. Who cares how media friendly he is. If he can get more out of the players, that’s all that matters.
The hating of Sutter before he steps behind the bench is getting ridiculous. Give the man a chance to see what he can do for the team before deciding he’s the worst coaching choice ever. Ridiculous.
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Forum67 Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 2:07 pm
@Luke M.,
I didn’t like Sutter when he coached the Sharks. I didn’t like him when he coached the Flames. But my dislike for him is irrational since he did a good job with the Sharks and Flames, though not all the great in the playoffs (but at least his teams were almost always in the playoffs). And despite my disliking Sutter being based on nothing rational, I am not happy about him being hired as the next Kings head coach. BUT, that being said, the guy at least deserves his chance to see what he can do before any of us start bashing him.
Cry Baby Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 2:09 pm
@Luke M., Come on Luke…Dan can see the future, that’s how he knows!
How many years exactly?…..
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Paul G Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 12:33 pm
@Bluecoconuts, it doesnt matter since new CBA negotiations will take place this summer and there is a chance that it may be changed
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chuckrocks Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 12:35 pm
@Bluecoconuts, he will be gone as well as dean at seasons end. I hope im wrong but this pick for the coach is an epic fail.
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OneTimer Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 1:19 pm
@chuckrocks,
Way to support the team. No really … very impressive.
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chuckrocks Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 2:35 pm
@OneTimer, the truth hurts, maybe your happy with losing, im sick of it.
NOOOOoOoOOOOOOOO1!!!!!… well i guess its the life of a life loooooong kings fan
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PRMan Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 3:39 pm
@kingsfan805, See ya.
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Good luck !!!! I think this is a good thing, but Kompon must go!
This could be the start of something really good….GO KINGS!
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In the words of Private Hudson, “Game over maaan…Game over!!”
Please prove me wrong Sutter. I fear you won’t.
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Well, at least Sutter is scouting out info on his players before he got here. TM had no idea who anyone was until he got here. Seriously. Something that always bugged me about his hire.
Anyway, enough grousing. Good luck to Sutter, hope he can make some positive changes. Just wish I was more confident he can.
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Lake Forest Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 12:52 pm
@BluLine77, yeah horrible, and getting us to the play offs like that. He should of been killed.
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Dean goes all-in. This will be his last coaching hire.
Question is how long until the next one?
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Not sure if anyone has mentioned any of this before. TM had a shelf life. He was hired to bring the young inexperienced Kings along. He did what he was hired to do. His system of defense first has produced a team that is solid ont he back end. But, obvisouly lacking scoring. This move to bring in someone alse at some point was inevitable. TM was stage 1. Now moving onto Sutter. He is the next progression. Harder edged and a coach who will continue the drive and progression. Think of it as a relay, Sutter has been handed the team, and is responsible for it, to take that next step. All in all, I think this is the best hire of coaches available. He will bring a certain level of tenacity that this team needs. Should be exciting.
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DLB Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 12:52 pm
@The Kinger, I agree about Murray but many wanted stage two to bring a revolution in offense.
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King Johnny Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 1:43 pm
@The Kinger, Using your analogy, TM is handing off to….TM (with the acception of an added grumpiness). Sutter like TM, comes from an age of coaching tactics and philosophy that is rapidly becoming extint with the modern NHL’er, playing in the modern NHL.
It’s no secret that traditional doormats like Minnesota and Florida are playing well currently. Those franchises have embraced these changes, and have adapted with young fresh thinking in their respective coaching selections. This is the path the King’s could have followed, but instead DM went with another faded and tired card out of his shallow personal rolodex.
A season being flushed away…
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Cry Baby Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 2:12 pm
@King Johnny, Hitch is bringing it in st Louis!
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I hope im wrong, but this pick for coach looks like an epic fail.
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It’s not the Coach that sustains the Team. It’s the Team that sustains the Coach. Figure it out guys. Own up.
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Oh well! Which you well Sutter, I hope DL made the right choice… Now this is year KING fans will judge DL for this year progress, his last year of his 5 very long long 5 year plan. Sutter 1st 20 games will tell us hiring of the same style coach as TM will take the Kings to the promise land as DL Promised us Kings fan?
Go kings, let’s hope this is it! Good luck boys, Managment, well we will see at year end season!?*+^%##}#%^
[Reply]
Well, I’m not sure whether this is a good or bad move. For better or worse, I am a Kings fan, and I hope this works out, but I’m not holding my breath. Good luck to the new coach! This may be the most positive thing I will say to or about him in his tenure. Calgary seems to really appreciate his coaching though, so I do have a little hope.
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Kingz0431 Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 12:52 pm
@The Puck Stops Here, I will answer your question. If the kings win, everyone will say it was a great move. If the kings lose, of course everyone will say it was a bad move. It is just that simple.
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Kompon don’t let the door hit you where the good lord split you!
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Come on guys, dont be so hard to please. What is wrong with Sutter besides his ties with DL? He is a coach that preaches hard work ethic, means what he says, and will call players out when need be. He knows when to give to the guys and praise them, and he earns respect from his players. Iginla had some of his best years with him. I look forward to seeing if he can rev the kings up. Also for the benching maniacs, Sutter has NO problem.
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There goes the season. Never liked Sutter, don’t think he’ll take us to a cup final.
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I’ll remain optimistic of this signing…but if it doesnt work then DL is on the hot seat.
Keep Stevens and kick Kompon!
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I see this as the antidote that either saves or kills the patient. I hope it’s the former. My advice for Mr. Sutter. Don’t break anything
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DARYL MUST start with Offensive production. Look to Manchester, look to other teams, we need to shake up this roster and find some goal scoring.
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King Johnny Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 1:37 pm
@greg, Sutter is incapable of thiking in a creative offense mindset. His teams have never been high powered offensively, nor has any of his team finished in the top half of offense period.
A total cop out of a coaching choice.. The only silver lining is hopefully this will speed up the ultimate demise of Lombradi himself.
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http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=38wx8C7VmB4
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Sammuch Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 12:53 pm
@toemas_sandstrom, That’s funny! Let’s hope we wake up from the grave!
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pautna Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 1:52 pm
@toemas_sandstrom, LOL!
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id like to see an inside the kings locker room thing like they are doing with the HBO 24/7 see how the coach treats the players and how they react. Maybe Kings Vision can do something like that?
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goldielocks Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 12:58 pm
@kopitaristheman,
I’m pretty sure a talk in the locker room is mostly highly confidential. But maybe they can share some of scenes which can be exposed, and that would be awesome.
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I really, really hope we can look forward to a crow FEAST in here. lol
I’m hoping for the best, but truthfully, I have no idea what to expect.
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Kingsfanone Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 1:39 pm
@FiG17,
You said it best. A new coach should bring all enthusiasm, not question marks.
Too many question marks here. This works out or DL and Sutter are gone at season end, then this club had to start all over again. How positive is that?
No pressure, huh?
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One thing for sure is complete change of the locker room. This might be what the team needs now. I trust Dean’s judgement, and hope it goes well.
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I wish Sutter well, even if I don’t think it’ll work. Oh well, only time will tell.
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horrible decision
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Even Cartman agrees….about 1/2 way through
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y3slnSih-WQ
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How could it get worse. We can’t score as it is. Kind of whatever anymore. Just win …
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dm3977 Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 12:58 pm
@Kingsblack, i will tell you how. it’s gonna be same for the rest of the season
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I’ve been very outspoken about this. What else is new? Let me be the first to thank Dean Lombardi for his six years of sending the Kings organization back into the tailspin it was in when he took over. Your final awful coaching hire of Sutter is merely the icing on your inept cake. You are a retread GM who was the wrong hire to begin with. You have now selected, in keeping with the retread spirit, three retread coaches. This move absolutely seals your pink slip after this underperforming LA Kings season concludes. If I’m wrong, and Sutter turns out to be a brilliant coach, I will run naked in front of the Staples Center. Hold be to this fellow bloggers. That’s how sure I am that hiring Sutter is a horrible move destined for disaster.
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dm3977 Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 12:59 pm
@Poorman, i run with you
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goldielocks Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 1:01 pm
@Poorman,
Sorry, but I’m straight.
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McCheese Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 1:04 pm
@goldielocks, define “brilliant” very specifically poorman. You will be held to your word.
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Poorman Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 1:16 pm
@McCheese, 2nd round of playoffs.
neil Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 1:41 pm
@Poorman, How about if you are wrong you have one of the “bikini” girls run/walk naked around Staples!!!!!!
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Off Topic: wondering if I can get some opinions:
Last year i purchased a purple home Kopi jersey.
This year I was given the new home jersey, also Kopi. If you were in my shoes, what would you do with the new one:
A. Exchange for Richards
B. Exchange for Doughty
C. Exchange for another player
D. Exchange for a blank one
E. Keep it cause Kopi is Kopi
Thanks!!!
[Reply]
LomitaKingsFan Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 1:19 pm
@Ari, Keep it cause Kopi is Kopi.
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Ari Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 5:01 pm
@LomitaKingsFan, Very true… Thank you sir
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Deirdre Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 1:30 pm
@Ari, Exchange for Richards, next Captain of the team
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Ari Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 5:01 pm
@Deirdre, Notice Brown wasn’t on the list
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petemagoop Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 1:44 pm
@Ari, 1st thing you can do is let me in on how I can get a purple Richards jersey
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Lombardi just compiling mistakes. He is more concern with creating a comfort zone for himself then looking out for Kings interest.
ARE WE BETTER OFF TODAY THEN BEFORE LOMBARDI HIRING? The answer is NO!
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Dan Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 1:18 pm
@bear777, We were until today. 5 year step back this afternoon. Kings will get rolled today.
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Roll with it people, it’s what we have been dealt. The Kings NEED to make it work.
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With Jacques Martin’s dismissal, I’m wondering if this year has experienced the greatest coach turn-over in NHL history?
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You cant please all the people all the time….good luck DS…now bring it home!
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It is what it is. We will learn more when he is actually behind the La Kings bench. Let’s stay positive and hope for the best.
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And here we go….
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Motivation by definition must come from within. That refers to the individual. You may elicit behavior by stick or carrot, but can NEVER motivate. Sometimes,however, an unmotivated person can have the bejesus scared out of him and he reacts.
We all agree the Kings of late need to improve their aim more than almost anything else. The players know they were the reason TM was fired, and maybe will look on this as Dean’s job being on the line. Therefore,DL may be dealing before the seasons end.
”
’nuff said.
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reluctantly, we move forward.
3 ways this can go:
The Good: this is exactly what the team needs and a deep playoff run (and what we all hoped and expected) is realized.
The Bad: being bad now, it gets worse. the playoffs become a far fetched dream and DL’s (and DS) time w/ the club is done. there is light at the end of the tunnel with this, as maybe a new regime and a few tweeks that this regime couldnt accomplish can be made.
The Ugly: the mediocre everything continues. the Kings make the playoffs, lose in a hard fought 1st round in 6 or 7 games and it seems like a moral victory considering the perils this team went through. the meandering continues for another year or two or three and the team can not forge through what it has/ will become, a perpetual Western conference playoff team that is perpetually eliminated in the 1st round.
obviously, i hope the best, but i really dont know….
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@Dan, ugh i have to go back on this blog to tell u to stop watching Kings then…
Tired of people bashing DEan and the Coaching whent he real problems its the Team that has no passion and fire under their butts…
So Lets Give all the players a free pass since they are doing a wonderful job on not scoring goals….Good Job boys..
Bad DL and the Coaches ..Should be fired
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King Cobra Reply:
December 18th, 2011 at 3:20 am
@KingsFanFTW, Some of this truth hurts…
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hope SUTTER proves ppl wrong on this blog………….no body no body knows what impact he will have over the team, but come on ppl give the guy some support we all are KINGS fans and want nothing but the best for the team so lets show some support……….all i know is that he is a hard-nosed coach, demands hard work and work ethic from players, is very vocal and does not shy away from telling it as he sees it….just the change we needed as a team
best wishes to you DS and hope you can turn things around……..
GO KINGS GO
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conzie Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 1:27 pm
@gmo, My sentiments exactly.
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Good choice Lombardi. Sutter keep Stevens and get rid of Kompon. Go Kings Go!
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i come back from the dead…………Just for today…….
What i feel about this Sign…It is what it is.
If u hate it oh well deal with it..
If u like it thats great….
If u dont know about it well ur with me…
I think the players needs to start showing their emotions then hiding it and let other team take advantages of it….
well good bye again
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I think this is a great hire! Dean knows Sutter well. And he loves him as a coach, he is
Dean’s ideal coach. A Proven Winner!
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chuckrocks Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 2:37 pm
@vitaman, winner? how many cups has he won????=0
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Jeff Reply:
December 18th, 2011 at 1:36 am
@chuckrocks, Not every great coach has won a Championship. You don’t need to win it all to be a great coach. It helps but it isn’t needed.
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Get ready to see “Bitter Beer Face” behind the bench!
Let’s move on and all that’s left is to hope it works out
Welcome coach and good luck !
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DesertKing Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 1:36 pm
@Doughty8,
LMAO, I can’t wait to see them put him on the Bubble Vision at Staples!
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Doughty8 Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 3:16 pm
@DesertKing, or Kiss Cam LOL !!
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Good luck to Sutter..I wish him all the best.
Just wondering how long the shock and the getting to know each other period will take between him and his players?
We need wins…that’s all that counts.
Go Kings!
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We cant start hating on Sutter maybe we start winning let’s just wait and see how the season goes.
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Let’s hope we get the Stanley Cup Finals Sutter,not the miss the playoffs Sutter.
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Jeff Reply:
December 18th, 2011 at 1:34 am
@kingrussell, The miss the playoffs Sutter happened ONE time and that was only because he came in Mid Season and I guess Calgary was too far back to make it. They did have a winning record though. 10 out of 11 years he made the playoffs.
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And away we go!
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1)Good luck to Sutter.
2) Say hello to boring hockey, I sure look for to 1-2 goals per game, on a consistent basis….
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Bkrs-Bud Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 2:49 pm
@Chuck, As long as we win i will not be bored.
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Jeff Reply:
December 18th, 2011 at 1:32 am
@Chuck, Who cares how many goals are scored. As long as the W’s and the Pts rack up I doubt anybody would care. We could win all the rest of our 50 games 1-0 and everybody would be happy.
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A perfectly unimaginative hire from Lombardi.. Why can’t he think outside of his own rolodex for GM decision?
This team needs someone new, someone with a fresh approach and fresh ideas..
Sutter’s teams have never finished in the top half of offense, and I don’t know if Deano is aware of it or not, but his team is dead last in goals at the moment..
I guess he has resigned himself to his own pending firing and is throwing a bone to an old cronie..
A season lost…
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Jeff Reply:
December 18th, 2011 at 1:31 am
@King Johnny, Actually that isn’t true. One year in San Jose they finished top 10 and another year in Calgary. However Daryl has never coached a team with the offensive capability as the Kings have. Not to mention that the NHL at this point and time is a defensive league.
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News Flash – We are receiving reports of mass demonstrations in Calgary. Reports indicate that people are dancing in the streets and celebrating. Many are chanting , “Thank LA, Thank LA, Thank LA.” Many Calgarians are acting as if they had just won the Stanley Cup. One Calgarian was asked why everyone was so happy. He just started singing “I love LA!!!!” Local police officials believe the spontaneous exhibition of good cheer towards LA involved the signing of Daryl Sutter. The removal of Sutter from the Calgary Flames organization has been compared to Darth Vader throwing the Sith lord into the depths of the Death Star. We will have a follow-up report and an interview with a psychologist who may be able to explain why LA’s general manager would sign someone who has not coached in the NHL for almost 5 years.
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I have a feeling deep in the pit of my stomach that this is not going to be good for the team. But good or bad, the team made this bed for itself. Being .500 isn’t OK this year, and the players invited this change. Now, let’s see how they deal with Sutter. I have a feeling we’ll finish in the middle of the pack, maybe with enough points to make the playoffs, but the mood in the locker room will be different. Stay tuned!
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Thank You, Dean.
Oh, by the way, you SHOULD BE the next to go. You can’t GM this team. We’re not the Los Angeles Sharks. Go back to NoCal.
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I wasn’t in favor of this but he’s here now and I guess he starts with a clean slate and we should give him a chance. If nothing else, he will hold these players accountable for their actions and if they make poor decisions, they’ll sit Maybe these scouting reporte he’s doing includee the players at Mamchester, why not give NOlan and some of the others a shot. Also, I think there aer players on these team, a bunch in the top 6 who have not produced and if they continue to fail, DL will pull the trigger on a trade.
Offense is his first priority and maybe he briung in an offensive coach who can made the right adfustments. But the players are the ones who have to play smarter.
Amd until Richards is back in action, that means there is a huge hole in this team, esp the scoring part. Hard to believe he’s still the teams leading goal scorer and he’s been out 16 days.
Good luck to Sutter…
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Well, done my part in writing leiweke a letter, we have banged pots and pans together etc. but now it’s time to embrace this new development and get behind the entire organization.
I’m excited about having a new power play coach and hopefully, an aggressive style of play will work it’s way into all facets of our game.
Remember, our little pond has filled up with algae, and has becom stagnant. As an alternative to TM, -which now clearly for us fans, there is no other choice, I’ll still take Sutter anyday.
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I wonder if Rich knows if Sutter is good to the media that TM was….Rich??? any clue???
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tomb Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 2:15 pm
@neil, Sutter is not as good with the media as TM. Sutter has an attitude and he will let both his players and the media know exactly what he thinks. Darryl is exactly what the Kings need right now, a guy who will demand a hard work ethic.
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jess Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 2:21 pm
@tomb,
I didn’t think Murray was very good with the media. I mean the point is to use the media to communicate with the fans but I’ll be darned is I could ever deduce anything worth a damn from his quotes. That’s a huge reason why I was always so frustrated with him.
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Jeff Reply:
December 18th, 2011 at 1:28 am
@jess, One of the reasons why I think TM was that way was because of what happened when he coached Philly and during the finals he said that the team choked. After that he was fired. I think that is probably why he was guarded in terms of what he said.
One more question for Rich…..Does Sutter have to follow the rules of the blog and if he doenst is he put on moderation????
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If he keeps Stevens, let hire someone, who is able to create some interesting offensive schemes and he personally be someone who motivates players and coordinates between O and D, then it all could work. But if he stays with his old system, I see only darkness and bad times for Kings.
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I’m taken a bit back by the number of people so negative before the guy is even signed. I,ll wait and see how we look by January. If the Kings turn it around I’m gonna enjoy the crow chow down.
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Jeff Reply:
December 18th, 2011 at 1:27 am
@KC23, Why not make that February. Remember where San Jose was at the end of January and then at the end of the season. It is so close between #1 to #13 that a team could wait before making there move, as long as they stay reasonably close behind. However I really hope that this road trip ends the slump and we get going starting just before Christmas.
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Wow there are a lot of whiny b*tches on here. The season is lost…really? Maybe just a little over dramatic, you know since he hasn’t even coached a game yet for the Kings. It’s no wonder anyone worth anything does’t want to come to LA. You can’t even get through the front door without be judged and executed.
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tacomakingsfan Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 2:04 pm
@AZ King,
I just Lol’d with the whiny part… I say give DS a chance. We can always fire him if it gets worse
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though I am not a fan of TM’s system,this hire MAY work out as DS will basically stick to the same system, however, he will most likely bring a lot more emotion & accountability to the team! & won’t be afraid to bench under performers!
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Isn’t it amazing that most of the doomsday savants are from infrequent posters? The regulars seem to be saying “Oh Well, good luck Mr. Sutter and let’s see what happens” while the others tend to the extreme notion that the Kings will never win another game and DL should be fired and Doughty should be traded and, and, and…… Look, I know you all would just love to be able to come back and say “i told you so” and to this end would like to see the Kings fail. Unbelievable! Maybe Sutter is wrong, but maybe not. Why not give the guy a chance? At least show some support for the team.
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AZ King Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 1:58 pm
@Dave’s a Killer,
I’ve notices the same thing.
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Harm Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 2:20 pm
@Dave’s a Killer, people have no knowledge man, like trade drew doughty is the dumbest thing people can say, he frickin 22 years old, give him time to improve. DL should be fired like what is that going to accomplish, do people think by firing DL we will magically end up with Crosby, Ovi, the Sedin Sisters and never lose a gaim and win a cup. Support you team go kings go!
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KC23 Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 2:24 pm
@Dave’s a Killer, Nah, there are tons of regulars who have already signed DS and DL’s walking papers before the guy has even signed. I’m not sure what to expect myself, but I’m sure not gonna bury the guy before he even joins the team.
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Steve W Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 2:35 pm
@Dave’s a Killer, I noticed it after the Loss to the Bruins.
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Jeff Reply:
December 18th, 2011 at 1:23 am
@Dave’s a Killer, There are a few regulars who are skeptical about this move. There seem to be 4 factions of people here. 1. Love this Move 2. Hate this move because of his defensive coaching and non offensive creativity, ala TM 2.0 3)Hate this move but give no reason at all as to why 4)Are willing to give this a chance.
I really hate those that come in here and say Darryl sucks or this is an awful move and yet they don’t give any explanations as to why. Most of this is from first time or once in a while posters. Some are giving explanations as to why and I commend those and value their opinions, even if I don’t agree with them.
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Good hire. Now let’s make a trade for Jerome Iginla and dominate the Western conference.
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DBking Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 2:00 pm
@mike in LA, Get that head better Mike, we miss ya
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Kings added some snarl behind the bench. Sure hope they can win for him to cut down on some of the complaining around here. Kings need to replace Hunter next.
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MAN, I HOPE THIS IS A GOOD DECISION!!
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I believe in you Dean
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G W L T OTL Pts Finish Result
CHI 1992–93 84 47 25 12 — 106 1st in Norris Lost in first round
CHI 1993–94 84 39 36 9 — 87 5th in Central Lost in first round
CHI 1994–95 48 24 19 5 — 53 3rd in Central Lost in third round
SJ 1997–98 82 34 38 11 — 78 4th in Pacific Lost in first round
SJ 1998–99 82 31 33 18 — 80 4th in Pacific Lost in first round
SJ 1999–2000 82 35 30 10 7 87 4th in Pacific Lost in second round
SJ 2000–01 82 40 27 12 3 95 2nd in Pacific Lost in first round
SJ 2001–02 82 44 27 8 3 99 1st in Pacific Lost in second round
SJ 2002–03 24 9 12 2 1 73 5th in Pacific Missed playoffs
CGY 2002–03 46 19 18 8 1 75 5th in Northwest Missed playoffs
CGY 2003–04 82 42 30 7 3 94 3rd in Northwest Lost in Stanley Cup final
CGY 2005–06 82 46 25 – 11 103 1st in Northwest Lost in first round
Clearly this guy should be able to take us to the playoffs but from there I dont know.
As long as the player believe in what ever system he has, this team should do good.
As Kings Fans we should have faith in him like we always do with every other decision this team makes. Hope to see Sutter light a fire under these under performing players.
GO KINGS GO
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Jeff Reply:
December 18th, 2011 at 1:18 am
@Harm, I believe he can lead us far in the playoffs because our team is very good defensively, last nights game notwithstanding, and is better offensively then pretty much any team he has coached. We are definitely better offensively then the Flames team that lost in the Finals.
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I say give DS 1st 20 game plan a chance, before we start to ? DL ?able choice!
IF DS gives the kings a record 12-6-2= 26pts that a good start! or close to it!
Let’s hope… Go kings my last ounce of hope I have for this year…
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Immigration issues do not prevent Sutter from joining the team. Last I looked Toronto is in Canada. What’s the real reason?
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DBking Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 2:06 pm
@BluLiner, …….and the Kings are based in the United States.. Across the border… Ummm.
And what does Toronto have anything to do with this?
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BluLiner Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 2:17 pm
@DBking, Sorry, I was too cryptic. The Kings play in Toronto on Monday.
Our new coach should join the team ASAP. The Kings have dropped in the standings and the game in Toronto is important for the new coach to attend.
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jackj43 Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 2:11 pm
@BluLiner, Work permit.
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Jeff Reply:
December 18th, 2011 at 1:14 am
@jackj43, I guess the problem is a Canadian citizen can’t work for an American Company until the proper immigration issues/work visas are sent in and dealt with. It is suppose to be done with by Monday and he can start working Tuesday. I would love to see that first practice on Tuesday, after the drubbing to the Red Wings. I happen to think that the loss to Detroit, may turn out to be the best thing that could happen to the Kings.
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Sorry, I was too cryptic. The Kings play in Toronto on Monday.
Our new coach should join the team ASAP. The Kings have dropped in the standings and the game in Toronto is important for the new coach to attend.
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AZ King Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 2:17 pm
@BluLiner,
He can attend the game if he wants to, he could even go to tonight’s game as along as he has a passport. The problem is he can’t start WORKING for the Kings until he gets whatever immigration issues he has dealt with.
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OK, let’s see what Sutter can do. WIN!
To (kind of) quote mr. Herman Blume: ” Take dead aim on the rest of the NHL. Get them in the crosshairs and take them down. Just remember, they can’t buy backbone. Don’t let them forget it. Thank you.”
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GREAT HIRING! He will get every ounce of effort these players have. The days of loafing around the ice in LA are over! Time to actually win something! I’m super excited for the rest of this season and the years ahead. We FINALLY have a real coach.
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Ouch! .500 Stevens gets a demotion! I think it is smart to keep him for at least the year.
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Worst move in King’s history bringing in this miserable old has-been.
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Jeff Reply:
December 18th, 2011 at 1:11 am
@Seth, This will turn out to be the 2nd best move the Kings ever did, first was bringing in DL. Every top team has there slumps in the season, where times are tough. It is very rare for a team to go wire to wire without its share of ups and downs. It is actually better to have a down period during the season, makes you stronger come playoff time. Just ask Vancouver about that.
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Seano Reply:
December 18th, 2011 at 2:49 pm
@Jeff, Bringing in DL was better than trading for #99? Your competence speaks for itself.
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I for one am very happy. Sutter is well respected hockey man…old or young…these players need a little more offensive motivation and I think Sutter is the guy. Smart hire…..
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I wasn’t happy about this decision at first but after reading a lot of articles about Sutter I don’t mind it as much. He’s straight forward and cracks the whip and that’s exactly what this team needs. If he can get everyone to play to their full potential this team will do great. Unfortunately Lombardi can’t take a gamble on a young coach, it’s too risky so he’s going with someone that has proven he can get teams to the playoffs and the Stanley Cup Finals. I trust Lombardi, he’s built a great team and made a TOUGH decision to fire Murray, which I was in favor of. GO KINGS GO!!!
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Seano Reply:
December 18th, 2011 at 2:59 pm
@Whiskey_King, It was not a tough decision to fire TM at this point. Should have been done in the off-season. That would have been, maybe “tough”, but it was the right time. We are in a worse position now, by not doing that then if it would have been done then. DL should have known that more than anyone.
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If Suter was DL first choice when he took the reigns but was not available maybe this is the best thing that could have ever happened. Do we really think we could GM better than DL or anyone for that matter? Bottom line, DL has made this franchise into the best it has ever been in it’s history. Not every move was the right one. The sum of the total has. I still have in Dean we trust. So should all of you. We will regain our form and continue to grow and prosper. Here is to a new chapter and the beginning of the King dynasty!
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Mark Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 3:53 pm
@Kings x,
I dont think this franchise is the best its ever been. Lets not forget the Bruce Mcnall days. That was a fun time for LA hockey. But I do agree DL definately turned it around since 2000.
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Jeff Reply:
December 18th, 2011 at 1:08 am
@Mark, Bruce Mcnall did a great thing in bringing Gretzky but we only went to the finals once with him. Then he went to jail, sold the team to another set of guys who went to jail also and bankrupted the team. So how can you say that DL hasn’t been the best thing to happen to the Kings in there history. Last 2 seasons we had 46 wins and 100+ points (ok we missed last year by 2 with 98). That hasn’t ever happened in the 40+ years of the kings before. 2 100 pt consecutive seasons.
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Keep Stevens for defensive coach, get rid of Kompon!!!! He should’ve been fired instead of TM, or at least before. Oh well.
Go KINGS Go!!
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Are there any odds up yet on Kompon??
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Personally I have a good feeling about the new coach and I think that those who can play are going to enjoy and those that can’t keep up won’t. I think he’ll bring out the animal in this team.
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Like the hire…need some fire in the team. No more nice guy.
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Same old story on this blog..Point the finger at the coaches, blah blah blah, fire TM, Fire DM, Compo. How about Baily? What’s everyones views on him? Point the Fingers at the players. They did this to themselves with lack of Passion and competitive spirit. Whatever systems; new, old, hybrid, offensive, defensive or whatever, the kings are not prpared to play 60 minutes each night, they lack discipline and they forgot about playing to win at all costs. Even if they didn’t like TM’s system, as a unit they all should have stepped up, told TM to go $%^#^ himself and played thier hearts out any way imaginable to put pucks in the net. Plain and simple…They gave up and forgot how great the game of hockey is and felt sorry for themselves. They need Sutter’s boot in thier $%$% to pull thier heads out of thier fifth point of contact.
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HockeyOnlyAwaitingModeration Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 3:48 pm
@Mark, I think the only reason (other then the team losing, like that isn’t enough) the fans including me point fingers at a coach is because believe it or not the fans can actually see when things are going south with a team, when Hardy left our D left as well until Stevens, and when Tippett went to Phoenix our power play went right to Arizona with him and until a change is made in it, it’s not going to start a fire in the NHL. I don’t know Kompon, but when I see the same set up night in and night out for the past 3 years and there is no improvement or big goals scored from it when we need it, there is something wrong and it can’t always be the players and it can’t always be the coach. Somethin has got to change. When I see other teams just automatically get into there power play within 10-15 seconds, I say to myself why does it take us so long to get it set up, one answer, the system.
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Mark Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 4:04 pm
@HockeyOnlyAwaitingModeration,
In part I agree, but at some point elite level players forget about system and do what they feel is best on the ice and what’s going to win the game. I don’t see the kings doing that. I’m sure, like you, they understand today’s NHL and components of a top PP, but as elite players and highly paid athletes, they have an obligation to make the adjustments themselves and fight to the death for the win. Again, I don’t see that
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I don’t like it…
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he was no good in sj or with the flames they need someone who will preach offence he is not it very bad decision
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Jeff Reply:
December 18th, 2011 at 1:03 am
@gretzky99, How was he not ok in San Jose and Calgary? He showed up in San Jose and each year they got better and even won the Division his last full season. In Calgary they went to the Stanley cup finals his first full season and his last year coaching they won their division. So tell me how was he no good in either place?
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My prediction: Sutter will come in, tick off the boys in the first year but make them into men in the long run, accountable for their play. He will last this year and next doing a decent job but will not meet AEG expectations/Fan expectation causing DL and Sutter to be fired, and Dave Tippett to be hired, fresh off his contract with Phoenix. Who should be the next GM?!
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DEH Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 7:14 pm
@Adam, TM? Coaching to GM runs in the Murrays too.
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I hope this decision was based on hockey knowledge and not another buddy buddy choice. If it is a buddy choice it will probably be DL’s last with the kings.
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No comment.
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Same dump and give away on the power play again… Dead horse…
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Yes way to go keep getting traffic in front. Let’s build on that. some direction is better than none. We have a chance. Don’t ever give up, no matter what happens. Don’t give up!!!
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With Darryl Sutter you get a extermely dedicated coach to his players, the management, and the brand. You will see him defend players with the media. He pulls no punches with media. He considers the media a neccessary evil and will use the media to apply pressure on his players from time to time. He plays a traditional North American grinding game, boring as hell. He is smart, mean, crusty and ugly. If you can stomach all of these attributes, then enjoy watching boring hockey deep into the playoffs
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gmo Reply:
December 18th, 2011 at 11:01 pm
@Chris,
did you say deep in the playoffs? hey im all for that
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This is pathetic. Lombardi out! Now!
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Dear Mr. Lombardi:
Your decision to improve the performance of our team was made with best intentions. You fired Terry Murray. A good team of players sank to the bottom. The guys are in mourning. What can Darryl Sutter do for the health of this organization? Surely, you have sleepless nights.
The firing was not a good decision but it is too late. Lots of talented players have lots their spirit completely. Recovery will be slow…. and too late.
We as fans since inception of the LA Kings see our hopes for the playoffs disappear.
We are wishing your coaching choice success. This is a downer of high proportions!
Regards,
Gordana and Len Swanson
Season tickets holders
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Geez people there are 50 games left, lets at least give this a chance before we bash the new coach. I too have been a long time Kings fan and season ticket holder and wish this did not have to happen,but this team needs a swift kick in the butt and Sutter just might be the guy. Lets Go Kings!!!
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FX Designer Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 10:17 pm
@conzie, No offense to your comment, but the bottomline is this – Mr. Sutter is NOT a good fit for L.A. Kings. His coaching style will not resonate with the current team, the fans or how the game is played today – his style would have worked in the 70′s and 80′s when hockey still was a hitting man’s game.
With the current rules and the finesse required by today’s successful teams, Mr. Sutter is too ‘old school’ to be effective in the long run.
Nothing against the man himself – I wish him luck, but this matchup is NOT going to work with the Kings or L.A. for that matter.
Disappointing choice to say the least. Not the least bit excited about it.
In fact, I’m sure the players tonight, knew he was about to sign and their play against Detroit reflected their mood – Too bad – this team had promise and we are now going from bad to worse.
No more games this season. I guess I’m going to have to become a Ducks fan. (Ewwwwww).
Happy Holidays, everyone – Look what Santa (or the Grinch depending on your point of view) brought the Kings… Ho HO HUM.
FX Designer
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DEH Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 10:49 pm
@FX Designer, I’d have to disagree, Sutter game plan will focus on slowing the game down. The team plays it’s best when they are able to slow the game down, let’s face it we’re too sloppy when we try to out pace the other team. As for the hitting, last I checked clean hits are still allowed and players don’t get suspended for fighting. The team needs to slow the game down a focus on maintaining possession of the puck. For example look at Detroit, their offense centers around maintaining puck possession, minimizing turnovers, playing aggressive to get turnovers, and moving the puck vertically. You are not going to score goals when you take most of your shots from the boards, bodies need to get in the middle of the ice, which brings me back to Sutter, his offensive strategy centers around net presence and attacking the net. Sutter as a head coach might be a good thing especially if you move Kompon back to strength/conditioning and replace his role with a offensive minded coach who can mastermind a puck possession offense.
As for Sutter, the hire seems to be more about accountability than philosophy. I don’t know how TM ran thing behind closed doors but it was clear that there was no sense of urgency. Watch Kopi’s interviews, there was no passion for the game. It was clear that the team had a “woah it’s me” attitude and there was little to no accountability. Sutter is know more as an emotional coach who holds player accountable. He will crucify players who don’t play up to their potential. Let’s face it the kings looked too lethargic the last few weeks and DL feels that Sutter will correct the attitude. Will he be effective, who knows. The success of the team depends more on hiring a balanced coaching staff rather than a single head coach and let’s face it 3 defensive minded coaches with no offensive voices isn’t balanced. And were better to add a offensive voice than to the power play.
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FX Designer Reply:
December 17th, 2011 at 11:28 pm
@DEH, I certainly respect your opinion, as my comments were only an opinion as well. The Kings while they certainly can fight, is NOT a team of fighters. Slowing the game down, is totally against the overall philosophy of the so-called NEW NHL.
Sutter as I previously stated, when the RED line was in play his style of game play might work, but with the elimination of the red line and the overall SPEED of the game in general, it is in my opinion, a style that won’t work in the long run.
Several years ago, the Kings played a style of ‘slow-brand’ hockey – they missed the playoffs utilizing that style. Trying to compensate for our lack of ability to score goals to match that of say a Nashville or Columbus style of strategy is not going to sit well with the fan-base in L.A.
When this brand of hockey is played it is boring and the games appear to last even longer.
I agree the individual players have to take ownership of their game play, but to collectively S L O W down this roster of players will (in my opinion) not work to our advantage. It will only lead to standing still on the ice and playing catch up to the puck play.
I’m sorry, after being a season ticket holder from the days of the Fabulous Forum, I’m not ready to cower in a defensive shell, while the game in general moves fast-forward.
I want the Kings to win and move on. BUT.. I don’t want a brand of hockey that will resemble a soccer game with a 1 – 0 result.
Jeff Reply:
December 18th, 2011 at 12:58 am
@DEH, This so called new NHL has gone away. Smart Coaches have devised defensive systems to counteract the new rules, that led to so much offense after the lockout. Outside of the clutch and grab, we are pretty much back to the defensive play that was pre-lockout. Everyone talks that Sutter is not the Coach for the new NHL, yet the year after the lockout Calgary won there division with 103 points. Not to mention that we have no idea what kind of system Darryl will use, as he has not coached in 5 years and also this Kings team is a heck of a lot more skilled and talented then any team he coached in Calgary or San Jose.
I have not heard many positive things about Sutter, maybe he will be the fix, but I think we should have stuck with Murray and traded some of our dead wood that has been gathered over the past two seasons… those so called veterans that were going to bring Cup experience… they have yet to show up except on pay day…. Good luck Mr. Sutter, but a long term cntract in LA may be the end of the season.
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flex Reply:
December 18th, 2011 at 5:01 pm
@Terry, ..are you Mr Murrey?
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Sutter will be the guy if any to get these guys playing to their potenmtial. They don’t need a friend they need a commander.He will do what it takes to get them Rollin. Benching couple of underachievers I predict is what is gonna happen.
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doughtyfan_08 Reply:
December 18th, 2011 at 12:08 pm
@Bill, exactly! they dont need someone to baby talk them, they need someone to discipline them!
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Hi guys,
I knew that Red Wing game was going to be UGLY!!!! That’s the difference in coaching right there! Night and day!!!
The Kings need a leader. They are sloppy, not holding to their positions at times. Many of the guys are not sure what their roles are it seems to me.
I welcome Sutter! We need to get back to basics first. Then we can worry about fancy stuff. Agreed! There is going to be some benching for sure! Benching Murray should have did long ago!
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flex Reply:
December 18th, 2011 at 4:52 pm
@Todd Santora, good points..Back to basic first then trade for a good winger.
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Maybe Wayne Simmonds is right….first thing Sutter should do is steer Doughty away from McDonalds because his play the last 2 years has been horrible. No jump in his step, gets beat to pucks and has a tough time with people in front of the net…..this in not to say DD is the problem, just one of many.
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flex Reply:
December 18th, 2011 at 4:49 pm
@rednats7, ..is Doughty McDonald customer??..I think he can afford better qualithy meal. if that is true …????…Btw Lokti can be an execellent consultant..I mean nutritation consultant.
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Glad to see somebody is following the immigration Laws.
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All the naysayers of Darryl Sutter are all alike. Quiet when he makes the right moves but easy to criticize when things don’t go how is expected.
I am a Calgary Flames fan & although our team is suffering quite similar to yours Darryl Sutter isn’t a bad coach or general manager for that matter.
To criticize him you first have to understand the authority he was given after getting the Flames to the playoffs for the first time in over 5 years I believe. His coaching strategy is very bold but he gives what he gets. When I played hockey I liked hard ass coaches that told me when I wasn’t pulling my weight & gave me a hard as hell time about it. That’s how I responded as a player. Then when I knew I had my head in the game & was making good plays my coach would make a display of myself or other players as role models for the ones slacking. I have no doubt this is a similar style of his. Benching players when they are under performing is definitely his style & why the hell shouldn’t you bench players that are under performing & thinking they are bigger than the team as a whole. I have no doubt Sutter will light a fire under your entire roster’s asses & get them going in the right direction.
It’s almost too bad Darryl Sutter was offered the General Manager position so shortly after his coaching success with the Flames as things might of been different.
With that said L.A fans just remember that if your basing Darryl Sutters reputation on how the Flames team looks now you have to realize this:
1. Sutter made sure Phaneuf got on the team in the Draft
2. Sutter continuously made “right now” efforts to make the team better for the Stanley Cup “RFN”
3. Calgary Fans wanted Jokinen as a bonified “centerman” for Iginla. lots TSN people “dregger/Mckenzie broadcasters said this will never happen with the salary cap structure. It happened
4. Fans wanted Bowmeester although it was seemed impossible as he was a very sought after defensemen prior to his trade to Calgary & many teams wanted him just as much. Flames ended up acquiring this player.
Yes he sacrificed drafts for the short term because he had the guts to make very bold decisions that would make the team better now because the possibility of winning the cup was very close you could smell it. Many general managers & coaches are too safe these days & he is a bold man that demands respect & he will give it right back.
Who cares that he isn’t great with the media. does that really matter? The entire Sutter family know more about hockey then this entire forum will ever know so give the man respect & he will make things right for your Team.
All the best
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flex Reply:
December 18th, 2011 at 4:45 pm
@Jevro, Good post,thanx We all hope (hope is everything right?) He is the one who can deliver/finish his “friends’(DL) plan.
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gmo Reply:
December 18th, 2011 at 10:55 pm
@Jevro,
AMEN…..great post man….im excited about him being our coach and hope he can turn the ship around
go kings go
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i guess we wont really know until we see him behind our bench..dont know what to expect but i hope Sutter can make some changes that TM was afraid to make like benching players that decide not show up to games! change is good and maybe these boys need someone to let them know they suck to push them forward instead of babying them the way TM did.
oh and btw i think Brown should be stripped of that C…#just saying
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Bye TM, you did your job well but I can’t figure why the players stop responding (even Richards stopped, yea we all know it wasn’t cause of that “injury”) . . .
Bye Penner, Sutter is gonna be all over you (can you say “buy out”) . . .
Bye Richards & Gagne because you guys were smart enough to sign short term contracts so you can bail out of a sinking ship if need be & it is looking bleek . . .
Bye Bernier as you will probably be traded for some ex-San Jose player, maybe Nolan or Cheechoo?
Bye hopes of playoffs . . .
Hello bank account when I don’t renew my 13th year of being a season tickets holder (I’ll still be a Kings fan, just from home though) . . .
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@Dan So Sutter takes a grinding team and gets them 42 wins and a goal away from the cup before the lockout, then gets virtually the same team 46 wins the year after the lockout, rule changes and all. Imagine what he could do with the talent the kings have. Oh yeah how many wins does Marty Mcsorley, the biggest goon in the league, have as a head coach? I’ll buy your season tickets so we don’t have to hear from you again.
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ok why sign him to a multi year contract? wouldnt it be smarter to sign him just for the rest of the season?
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Anthony Lewis Granato.
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la fans; wheather or not mr sutter is the fix will be seen in short order. He has talent on the team; can he motivate? Hockey is more about passion the x’s and o’s. if sutter can’t motivate, communicate with a young hockey player in todays game it will show real quick. If he doesn’t; don’t get mad, STOP buying the tickets. When kings management see’s only 5000 per game they’ll realize they need a better product, than the one there selling and change will come. I do agree if sutter is not the answer. The kings as an organization will be set back for years, why know one with talent will want to come and play there for any dollar amount!!
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Cancelling season tickets tomorrow!
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Could we please get some Purple and Gold and White uniforms in here please!!!!!! Wear those bleepin purple practice uniforms will ya?
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This all BS. Hockey in LA was Jack Kent Cook’s delusion, it hasn’t worked and now it’s time to move the team to Canada where having “Kings” make sense because in Canada they still honor The Queen. A Stanley Cup in L.A.? Dream on, suckers, dream on…
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I kinda hoped they would hire a new young coach like Dan Bylsma in Pittsburgh or Guy Boucher in Tampa. But maybe this will work out too
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Hey Rickster, I live in Canada and I think LA is great place to have a hockey team.
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I’ll throw out a name for AC – Ryan McGill. He’s got some lengthy ties to Darryl.
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As a Flames fan, I will be purchasing Centre Ice for the remainder of the season just to watch Darryl & the Kings. I’m calling it right now: LA Kings IN the playoffs.
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Hey LA Fans!
I wanted to post again after a few games & I am quite impressed to see Sutter has led your team out of the gate to a undefeated (in regulation) record of 5-0-3 which is points in 8 consecutive games.
Definitely a step in the right direction.
So much for our team getting embarrassed 9-0 to Boston yesterday. Now I am finding myself checking how the KINGS are doing on a frequent basis. Hope that Sutter keeps it going.
You guys have a solid team go KINGS! ??? lol
Jevro
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Funny to read a lot of the comments now after the past 6 months. Wonder how the negative commenters feel now?
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Sebastian Reply:
June 25th, 2012 at 11:19 am
@KCD, i wonder if that Dan guy is still around. maybe he changed his name.
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