“Reset and refocus,’’ Drew Doughty said after Game 3. “Refocus, recharge,’’ Anze Kopitar said. There’s no doubt as to where those words came from. Darryl Sutter is all about words and concepts such as those, and no doubt started stressing them to his players shortly after last night’s game. Throughout these playoffs, Sutter has tried to keep his players’ focus on the task at hand, and not on whatever storylines the media wanted to follow. Sutter’s challenge, now, is to get the Kings to play better in Game 4 than they did in their first three games, with the idea that the New Jersey Devils, desperate to keep their season alive, with fight harder than ever. It’s the constant drive for improvement and focus that all coaches stress, and perhaps none more than Sutter.
SUTTER: “They [players] have to understand where they are. Playoffs have been, from a scheduling standpoint, really disjointed. You look at the time off we’ve had — which is not normal between series — then the way the series have been broken up, even the start of the Finals. When you go Wednesday, Saturday — we were in New Jersey for five days and played one game. You have to be able to stay in a zone, or focused. If you don’t, you’re in trouble. Just because you win — I’ve said it several times — it doesn’t mean you played great or you played perfect. We won two games in overtime, 2‑1. If you lost one of them, or lost them both, you’re still looking at a huge battle. … Hey, we could have easily been down 2‑0 before we scored a goal last night.’’
At least in terms of public comments, no Kings player has perfected the art of not looking ahead than Jonathan Quick, who today brushed aside any questions about excitement level…
QUICK: “Just trying to win a hockey game. Same thing we’ve been doing for about eight months now. We’re going to continue to try to do that. … It doesn’t count any more than the rest of them did. It’s one game, so…we’re just going to play our game, work as hard as we can, try to be as prepared as (much as) possible, see what happens.’’
Hey Kings Fans, Are you ready to lose your minds? Go Kings Go.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YxGZl7QScVM
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 7:09 pm
@redondodave,
“AWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!”
[Reply]
Stuart Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 6:12 am
@DesertKing, man I coulnd not sleep last night… visions of cup raising danced in my head…
[Reply]
rogiesbackup Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 8:56 pm
@redondodave, Hahaha!!! That’s funny!!!
[Reply]
EmptyTank Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 9:41 pm
@redondodave,
It was so loud last night that I couldn’t hear Will saying “I CAN’T HEAR YOU”. We had to read his lips.
[Reply]
crashin'da net Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 10:03 am
@redondodave, woke up hearing cowbell this morning. going to the game. hope I don’t jinx anything thing. AAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!
[Reply]
Lets go boys, make it count tomorrow……
[Reply]
BringBackMarcel Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 8:47 pm
@Harty,
No kidding, Harty! I just realized that the Cup WILL BE AT GAME 4! Now I am pumped! …But I’m actually still having moments when I simply cannot enjoy this because I dread the possibility that it’ll all fall apart. I just dug up a little stack of tickets from the ’93 playoffs. I remember not buying a souvenir program at the Finals Game 4 because I was SO confident that I would get to use my tix for Game 6…
Well this time it’s going to happen. We’ll get to see the Cup in LA, not because of a promotional tour or Allstar game, but because OUR KINGS have earned it. Now, let’s get this thing over with – I mean get it done! Bring out the Cup. It’s TIME!!! Let’s Go Kings!!!
[Reply]
Sutter should retire after this (winning) season. He would live on in Kings folklore forever…
Yeah, sucky idea, I know. But I’m right…
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 7:07 pm
@InTheCrease,
Anyone can run a farm.
How many people can run a hockey team?
[Reply]
jess Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 7:10 pm
@Duncanz,
Runnin a farm ain’t easy!
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 7:16 pm
@jesst,
10s of thousands of farmers probably agree with you.
Only one of them (and one of 30 coaches) will also win a Stanley Cup in 2012 – presumably …
Deke'r Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 9:14 pm
@dungcans……tens of thousands of seven billion isn’t all that many….
Shakes Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 7:37 pm
@Duncanz, If kompon ran the farm all the cattle would run away
[Reply]
hip-check Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 7:42 pm
@Shakes, Now that was very very funny.. Wife asked why are u laughing…Maybe cuzz I grew up on a farm haha.
DesertKing Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 7:45 pm
@Shakes,
But they would runaway in perfect formation and only after making sure their positioning was perfectly set up and then they would stop at the half-board.
Duncanz Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 9:19 pm
@&Bakes,
Here’s a question for you.
How can you run away without moving your feet?
Johnny12 Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 11:56 pm
@Shakes, the question is…what would the sheep do??
JackKentCooke Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 7:11 pm
@InTheCrease,
With the current core and Sutter behind the bench, this is going to be a lot more that an one year Fantasy on Figueroa.
[Reply]
InTheCrease Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 7:25 pm
@JackKentCooke, Destiny then dynasty?
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 7:26 pm
@InTheCrease,
Yep!
JackKentCooke Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 8:00 pm
@InTheCrease,
You silver-tongued Insider..
ten for instigating Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 8:21 am
@InTheCrease, They order of the girls going on stage?
HockeyOnlyAwaitingModeration Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 8:11 pm
@JackKentCooke, Ohhhhhhhhhh yesssssssssss!!!!!
[Reply]
Deke'r Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 9:12 pm
@JackKentCooke, ….considering I didn’t expect a serious run till next season…I must agree….
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 9:25 pm
@Deke’r,
Ditto.
Even last season, I had the ’12/13 season slated as the one where The Kings would bring it all together and make a credible thrust for the Cup.
2011/12 has been nothing short of a complete bonus and an early Christmas present as far as I’m concerned!
Shawn in Arizona Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 12:18 am
@InTheCrease,
I thought that same thing today in regard to Sutter retiring–what a legend he would be–Heck, he still will be–
[Reply]
Sutter has this team in the right frame of mind every step of the way.
[Reply]
variable Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 8:29 pm
@jess,
yep….
and he has got us on that same wave of emulation…
(sing-a-long)…
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 9:32 pm
@variable,
Cease to resist, giving my goodbye
drive my car into the ocean
you’ll think I’m dead, but I sail away
on a wave of …..
That one?
[Reply]
variable Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 9:41 pm
@Duncanz,
there’s only one…good catch…:)
keep yr eyes on the prize…..
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 7:12 pm
@variable,
How can you say in 6 words (and 5 .s) what it took me 11 hours and most of my remaining brain cells to come up with?
No wonder I am as out of gas now as an empty Jersey cow!
[Reply]
variable Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 7:17 pm
@Duncanz,
hehehe….
i hope i get to see you tmrw night…
are you joining us…?
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 7:53 pm
@sunny outlook,
If the sanitarium will give me a day pass.
Will you submit a testimonial of trusteeship for me?
Cynic Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 8:08 pm
@variable, Well, I’ll see you BOTH there. Waves and I have been in ‘Negotiations’….LOL!
variable Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 8:22 pm
@Duncanz,
i’ll get the chief to throw the sink at the wall to release you…:)
@Cynic,
ahhhhh…..reunited….and it’s understood….:)
la la la la la la la la la la la la la la la laaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa
wa wa wa wa wa wa wa wa wa wa wa wa wa wa wa waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa
we we we we we we we we we we we we we we we weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee
Now that I have reset and refocused -
WE WANT THE CUP!!!!!!!!!!!!! WE WANT THE CUP!!!!!!!!!!!
Ok, I am ready for tmorrow night.
[Reply]
Mike Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 8:31 am
@DesertKing, Hopefully, that chant will change to “WE GOT THE CUP!!!!” GO KINGS GO!!!
[Reply]
“It doesn’t count any more than the rest of them did.” Haha yeah it does Quicker, this is the big one
Quick is a beast
[Reply]
King John Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 9:18 pm
@Kingfish, I’m thinking the same, lol.
It counts 40 years worth, for me. For this year, it counts as number 4, it counts as number 16, it counts as number 100. It counts for success in hockey that a player looks for. But having said that, just play the way of every game, and the rest will take care of itself. Which is what I think he meant.
[Reply]
Mike Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 8:34 am
@King John, 45 years for me. Game 3 in Oakland in October, 1967. Regardless, you know and all of us know how long we’ve been waiting for this moment. My advice to us all – savor it, Kings fans – we deserve it!
[Reply]
“The players have to understand where they are.”
I’ll say.
Only four games away from elimination, by my reckoning.
Re-set. Re-focus. And don’t let them re-ach us!
This game (Hey, @Luke Warmest!) is not only the most critical game of the playoffs, but of the season and most of their lives, for that matter.
Some, at least, will be never re-peat this experience.
No let up & No let down!
Have to play our best 60 minutes of the season so there’re no re-grets!
Let ‘s take no chances with fate and Old Nick.
Win the Armageddon and win the series!!
Why?
~ Because it’s the Cup ~
[Reply]
Real 7 Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 9:28 pm
@Duncanz, IOW the season starts NOW !!!
[Reply]
Sutter is a Hockey Warden. He has the keys. It’s his rules or lock down.
His focus was clear growing up. Every day-same chores. Milk the cows, shovel the stuff, etc.
Then when the work is done, rest and do it again at sunrise.
Remember the question he was asked what do you do in Alberta for fun?
To which he responded-”Fun? It’s a way of life”.
Just look at the impact these rural rituals have had on Drew Doughty to single out one guy.
His game is off the charts because he needed to add discipline and focus to his God given natural ability.
What is behind this amazing run is 19 individuals not looking back, not looking forward but simply doing the same chores right every day.
If Drew continues this mindset in off season conditioning look out. He should spend the summer at Sutter’s farm or at lease at the LA Live Marriott.
[Reply]
jess Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 7:13 pm
@JackKentCooke,
That about sums it up, well said!
[Reply]
JackKentCooke Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 7:15 pm
@jess,
For the Kings with Sutter winning is going to be a “way of Life”.
[Reply]
any other long time King fans still worrying about tomorrow??? It just seems unreal….not that we can win the cup…but setting all kinds of records…..Iam still waiting for an injury….a curved stick…a unlucky bounce(4 games in a row)…all these years of failure can mess up your common sense…..please win tomorrwow..I cant handle the stress anymore!!!!
[Reply]
JackKentCooke Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 7:14 pm
@neil,
Hello. Relax and refocus.
[Reply]
letswinthecup2012 Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 7:25 pm
@neil, no stress, neil.. In Sutter, We Trust. Go Kings Go!!
[Reply]
Kissmyblarneystones Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 7:34 pm
@neil,
Sutter’s potential Marty McSorley moment was when he inserted Simon Gagne into the Line Up last night. It turned out to be a seamlees insertion. so, after 45 years, you are going to see the Kings win the cup tomorrow, in a fashion that has never been achieved in the history of the NHL which, is fitting for us fans more so than the players, as we have been the only constant of the past 45 years. Good for our present team, but better for us.
I had a couple of friends I grew up with who are no longer with us. We passionately followed the Kings as kids, went out on the street with out tennis ball, stick and net to emulate Rogie, Marcel, Dave Hutchison and the rest. I am truly sorry my friends are gone because more than anything else, I would love to celebrate with them tomorrow. It is going to be one the most memorable days of my life, and I will probably cry.
[Reply]
ButchGregory Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 8:36 pm
I a 45 year old man born in 1967…same age as the Kings, life long fan and season ticket holder on and of for over 13 years…..and i WILL cry like a little girl when Brownie raises the cup above his head! @Kissmyblarneystones,
[Reply]
370455VinSD Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 8:56 am
@ButchGregory, Me too! I was born 10/14/67, 8 hours before they beat Philly 4-1 at the long beach arena in their first NHL game. I am already feeling the tears well when I think of the silver in the air. I’m going to be a wreck and will be crying in public for the first time in my life.
Jon G Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 8:39 pm
@Kissmyblarneystones, Your friends will be there in spirit. Celebrate for them, as well as for yourself.
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 8:37 am
@Kissmyblarneystones, I lost my brother in 92. We used to talk on the phone with each other while watching games. He was the one who broke the news to be of the Gretzky trade. He was a stat nut and a card collecter. A year after he passed the Kings were playing an awesome game and I called up my mom’s house to talk to him completely forgetting he was gone … my mom picked up the phone … I went speechless, hung up the phone without saying a word and cried myself to sleep. I promissed myself then and there that when and if the King’s ever won the cup I’d go back to his grave side for a chat and trust me, I don’t ever do things like that. If we win tonight will be quite emotional for me.
[Reply]
Kissmyblarneystones Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 12:13 pm
@KC23,
I feel you brother. I’ve put in a call to the sister of one of them, and it was quite painful. However, her sentiment was pretty much the same as mine. He’ll be with us in spirit and will pretty much be celebrating along with the rest of us. I’m gonna visit his grave and place a momento on it after the finals are over.
HockeyOnlyAwaitingModeration Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 8:18 pm
@neil, Just like Gretz said on the radio, this is a totally different team then 93′. Me speaking now, they are not thinking about the other shoe dropping and all of a sudden their the Kings team that started the season, nope, these boys have the killer instinct and The Cup raises on Staples ice tomorrow night, home to the Stanley Cup Champions 2012. Yessssssssssssssss
[Reply]
David R Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 9:32 pm
@neil, no not at all, i had anxiety first three rounds, sweating, standing up, waiting for something bad to happen. but after that i knew it was destiny, i know we will sweep. my friends were amazed as i sat there calm during the overtime periods, i just told them, im not worried anymore, its destiny.
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 9:38 pm
@neil,
Not “failure”, “practice”, @neil, “practice” ..
[Reply]
Real 7 Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 9:56 pm
@neil, you and me too, buddy!
[Reply]
Santa Claus Jackson Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 11:43 pm
@neil, amen…I can’t take this anymore…I will be as close to the building as one can be (on the outside) tomorrow night…I can’t stand the thought of being that disappointed 15-year old kid, again…not this time
[Reply]
Shawn in Arizona Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 12:23 am
@neil,
Perfectly said!
[Reply]
Hi all,
I will be flying to LA tomorrow to watch the game and hopefully celebrate with you all (with limited to no rioting happening ha ha). It looks like they set up the large plaza out front to let fans watch the game, can someone confirm this? Any plans for a meet up?
I may post this a few times to get a lot of eyes on it.
Cheers,
Matthew
[Reply]
todd Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 7:20 pm
@WTF, LA Live is the complex across Chick Hearn Court from Staples. The street will be blocked off (pedestrians only), and all the bars and restaurants will be showing the game. It will be a giant block/watch party.
[Reply]
Kissmyblarneystones Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 7:44 pm
@WTF,
I’m gonna find @Duncanz, lay him down in the middle of the street and kiss him!!
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 7:46 pm
@Kissmyblarneystones,
Where do you think you are? Vancouver?
[Reply]
Kissmyblarneystones Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 7:55 pm
@DesertKing,
No… But I know where I’ll be. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GeisCvjwBMo
and not for kissing the Kiwi.
Duncanz Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 8:08 pm
@Kissmylooneytoons,
What have I ever done to deserve this?
Pahrump’s Finest have been alerted and will be looking out for any green-lipped gremlins or leprechauns that may ride into town with intent to stir up any mischief.
At least (if you get past the perimeter Sheriff Bumbruiser is setting up) put on a Patsy Cline wig and wear a purdy dress to make the whole seemy experience somewhat bearable …. right?
[Reply]
Once this is over Sutter will tell them there’s no time for celebration, they have to prepare for next year…….:p
I don’t post on here much, but I would like to say how wrong I was back when the Kings were struggling just to get in the playoffs, I said something like the Kings have no heart and even if they make the playoffs they won’t go anywhere. So glad I was wrong and knew nothing about this team. One more win, I can’t believe it!
[Reply]
Robert R Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 7:45 pm
@Neva, I was livid in the middle of the year, when the offense was invisible. Angry at management, coach. I had to ignore the team for a while, for the sake of my circulatory system. I was guilty of losing patience, after 44 years.
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 8:44 am
@Robert R, Was right there with ya Robert. All I could think of was that speech Brown gave at the fan fest and what a load of crap it was. As discouraged as I’ve ever been as a Kings fan. Puck73 was the same way. I was done.
Weirdest thing brought me back into hoping … when Mitchell suddenly signed up for two more years right at the low point of the season … stating the reason was he wanted a chance for the cup. Was right after that I signed up for next years 10 game flex plan and got my playoff priorty tickets locked up. I figured if the Kings were good enough for someone like Mitchell they were good enough for me.
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 8:16 pm
@Neva,
It wasn’t so much that you knew nothing about the team.
It was more that you knew nothing about the coach.
Just goes to show that you can dwell at the top in life or at the bottom.
It really depends to whom you subscribe and put your trust in.
Messrs Dean Lombardi & Darryl Sutter are two good places to start.
Thank God for such a rare and unlikely confluence.
Chalk and Cheese
Oscar and Felix
Ollie & Stanley …
Ooh … I like that!
[Reply]
HockeyNerd Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 9:08 pm
@Neva, I think a lot of us are eating Crow right now. All that matters now is where we are and that last win.
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 9:19 pm
@HockeyNerd,
We will be eating the best crow possible, the crow that comes out of the Cup!
[Reply]
Shawn in Arizona Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 12:43 am
@HockeyNerd,
Understand though, we had every right to complain. I would say more expectations were had for this team in 2011/12 than in recent memory. We were so excited when training camp opened. I was at their first exhibition game in Arizona when they played the Coyotes and I turned to my friend (sadly, a misguided Coyotes fan) and said this team is loaded, I haven’t been this excited in so long. My point is that when the Kings were so dreadful and massively underachieving through long stretches of the regular season, we were right to gripe as we expected so much more and knew the talent was there. The team was an 8th seed that didn’t secure a post season slot until like game 80. Most of the Sutter era and this post season run is what we expected, maybe not 10 and 0 on the road and 15-2 in the playoffs, but you get my point. I know nothing has been clinched quite yet but it is so surreal to think the LA KINGS are one win away from being Stanley Cup champs, the friggin LA Kings–I wonder how many of the insiders will shed tears if tomorrow is the night. I have never heard Staples as loud as I witnessed on my TV in game 3 in the final minutes. LA and the diehard fans that have waited so long and through so much pain and disappointment are just beside themselves as they just feel how close it is. This will change hockey in the LA area for a long time. It hurt to see the Mighty Lame Ducks win a cup and go the finals two times or a team like the Lightning win one after so few years of existence, like the Ducks. At least the Kings will win it (if they win one more game, do not want to jinx it)before the so called elite teams like the Sharks and Canucks who have been so regular season good for so long.
[Reply]
Does Gilbert Brule or Rob Bordson get their names on the Cup
[Reply]
vplaza Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 7:50 pm
@DesertKing,
Suit ‘em up.
[Reply]
Seems like the only celebration of a victory is the high-five session on the ice right after the final horn. By the time that the media descends upon the locker room, the players are already into preparation mentality for the next game. Attitude-wise, there’s 20 Sutter clones in that room.
[Reply]
HockeyNerd Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 9:35 pm
@Robert R, While there WILL be a lot of media around this time tommorow night there will not be another game to worry about…..
[Reply]
Richards and Carter know what it’s like to come back from a three nothing deficit, just saying
[Reply]
Santa Claus Jackson Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 11:48 pm
@petemagoop, good point…stay alert, boyz…
[Reply]
Watching the replay of last nights game. JW’s pass off the wall to Brown leading to Kopi’s goal was a thing of beauty.
[Reply]
Robert R Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 7:41 pm
@DesertKing, The whole thing was a world-class play
[Reply]
Steve Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 7:44 pm
@DesertKing, That whole play was picture perfect.
Don’t think Marty had that one covered.
[Reply]
vplaza Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 7:53 pm
@DesertKing,
Yep, and JW said it was a play everyone makes. Hey, J Dub, not everyone has JB and Kopidor to finish it off, and besides, your pass was still SICK!
[Reply]
HockeyNerd Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 9:37 pm
@DesertKing, JW also made that beautiful pass to set up Kopitar in game 1. Have only watched it 1000 times since then….
[Reply]
Could our guys possibly be any more motivated to play the game of their lives and leave it all on the ice, tomorrow? This is what they’ve dreamed about since they were kids. It’s now theirs for the taking. They can accomplish something tomorrow that can never be taken away from them, and in so doing, erase decades of frustration and heartbreak endured by the most loyal and long-suffering of their fans. To be fair, for those of us who have followed the team for longer than we care to admit (I was a huge Frank St. Marseille fan)it has been a love affair and, as Charles Dickens wrote, “It is better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all.” That having been said, the past two months have been – as so many others of you have commented – truly dream-like. It’s as if the gods of Greek mythology finally got around to deciding that cosmic balance must be restored, and decided to do so all at once.
GO KINGS GO!!!!!
[Reply]
rogiesbackup Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 9:16 pm
@Ron Reynolds, “Erase decades of frustration and heartbreak?” I know every team every sports can be frustrating and heartbreaking that’s just the nature of the beast. Even if a team is a Stanley cup team fans still and will get frustrated of their team. So it’s NOT because it’s the kings that make it frustrating but sports in general can be frustrating. To be quiet honest, I’ve been a Kings fan since the mid seventies and yes like all sports it can be frustrating and heartbreaking but I don’t like to put labels such as these to the kings because then it’s like a virus, everybody starts to believe it to the point free agency players don’t even want to play here. When a team is good or bad I see it as a time thing, maybe not good this year but next year……..and vice versa. I don’t like labels because it becomes an identity.
I love the kings and hockey WIN OR LOOSE!!! GKG!!!!
[Reply]
rogiesbackup Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 9:20 pm
@rogiesbackup, Heartbroken, maybe, frustrated sometimes; Suffering NOT!! I’m proud of Kings history(it’s gotta start sometime)and will always ENJOY a kings game!!
[Reply]
HockeyNerd Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 9:52 pm
@rogiesbackup, I too have been a Kings fan since the mid 70s. I’m sure management was always trying, players were always trying and coaches were always trying. But it just quickly became a feeling of taking one step forward, two steps back. Every time. Every time we’d do something remarkable or seem like we were one or two players a way from being an elite team or beating a team nobody expected us too, it would just as quickly all come crashing down. Beating Boston in a tremendous game 6 effort and being shut out in game 7. A great roster in 81, Simmer gets hurt and we go out meekly in
the playoffs. The “miracle on Manchester” and Vancouver then easily takes care of us. Getting Gretzky and still not being able to get out of found 2. Finally doing that, and the loss to Montreal. Building a team with Deadmarsh and Allison and they get hurt. Everyone thinking we finally have THE team to beat and suddenly nobody can score a goal to save their life.
All that and now finally, finally we are at the doorstep. A team that had tremendous character and heart and just refuses to lose. Everyone thought we were cursed, when all along all it took was a little tinkering and a LOT of heart.
And now whether you are a bandwagon fan or have suffered through years of heartache like we have, it’s all gonna be worth it.
In less than 24 hours.
[Reply]
Ron Reynolds Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 10:28 pm
@HockeyNerd,
Beautifully said.
Duncanz Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 10:28 pm
@Ronnie & Rogie,
Hey! Just makes it all the more sweet, baby(s), alllllllllllllll the more sweet!
@Ron, were you the “@ron” that went buccaneering on the Debils ‘Fire and Ice’ blogsite, in the weekend?
Thatcwas Great!!!
[Reply]
Sutter has turned this team into a team of Champions! Amazing!!!
Go Kings! Get the sweep and the Cup!!!
[Reply]
The farmer in LA,
The farmer in LA,
Hi-ho, the derry-o,
The farmer in LA.
The farmer takes a team,
The farmer takes a team,
Hi-ho, the derry-o,
The farmer takes a team.
The team takes a forecheck,
The team takes a forecheck,
Hi-ho, the derry-o,
The team takes a forecheck.
The forecheck takes the puck
The forecheck takes the puck,
Hi-ho, the derry-o,
The forecheck takes the puck.
The puck gains the neutral zone,
The puck gains the neutral zone,
Hi-ho, the derry-o,
The puck gains the neutral zone.
The puck takes the slot,
The puck takes the slot ,
Hi-ho, the derry-o,
The puck takes the slot.
The puck eyes the 5-hole,
The puck eyes the 5-hole,
Hi-ho, the derry-o,
The puck eyes the 5-hole.
The puck’s in the net,
The puck’s in the net,
Hi-ho, the derry-o,
The puck’s in the net
The Kings take the Cup,
The Kings takes the Cup,
Hi-ho, the derry-o,
The Kings takes the Cup.
The Banner flies at Staples,
The Banner flies at Staples,
Hi-ho, the derry-o,
The Banner flies at Staples
You’re welcome LA.,
The Farmer
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 7:48 pm
@JackKentCooke,
Genius!!!
[Reply]
variable Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 8:24 pm
@JackKentCooke,
it’s kind of catchy, too…:)
[Reply]
I would love for Staples to erupt tomorrow night in unison to a verse of
The Kings Win the Cup
The Kings Win the Cup
Hi-ho, the derry-o
The Kings win the Cup
and then maybe
The Farmer in LA
The Farmer in LA
Hi-ho, the derry-o
The Farmer in LA
[Reply]
rogiesbackup Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 9:21 pm
@JackKentCooke, Haha..good one.
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 10:34 pm
@JackKentCooke,
Ha ha haaa!
Have you ever been less sober?!!!
[Reply]
Less than 24 hours
[Reply]
Real 7 Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 10:50 pm
@krash&burn123, no, no, no son….it’s like this….Duncanz taught me [everything I know?]
T minus Parse [meaning 21 hours to go before game time...Parse is #21]… and now it’s
T minus [a little less than] Westgarth, a little more than the retired #18….Dave [stutter no more] Taylor…
[Reply]
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/sports/hockey/on-a-team-deep-with-playoff-stars-quick-has-the-edge-for-mvp/article4233772/
[Reply]
http://sports.nationalpost.com/2012/06/05/darryl-sutters-fingerprints-are-all-over-the-kings/
[Reply]
Rest well my Kings
Sleep well my Kings.
Play a full 60 minutes tomorrow.
Come out hard.
Come out fast.
Play it clean.
Take the puck to their end.
Put the puck in their net.
Light the lamp
Don’t celebrate, just line up.
Light the lamp again
Line up fast again.
Fore-check them hard
Back-check them harder.
Light the lamp again.
Play like all hell.
Win it at home.
Put an emphatic end to this season!
Play to claim the prize.
Play to sleep at home!
Play for the fame!
Play to accomplish something special.
Play to go down in Kings history forever!
GO KINGS GO!
GO KINGS GO!
GO KINGS GO!
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 8:57 pm
@Mars,
Play it again, Sam, errr Mars!
[Reply]
Pili Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 6:57 am
@Mars, KIngs related goosebumps for the third time this morning. This is a special day indeed.
[Reply]
The Kings need to win this thing tomorrow so that I can resume my regularly scheduled life…
[Reply]
jess Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 8:26 pm
@InTheCrease,
-Tell me about it!
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 8:44 pm
@jess, @InTheCrease,
If only you guys could imagine the sacrifice …
Well, I’m 1,000 % certain that there will be a thread a few days after the season is completed where we all get a chance to illustrate exactly what we have each given up and given away in our own individual “campaigns for the Cup”.
We will all be shocked at the extent to which each other went in order to maintain our devotion to The Kings’ cause.
Then we will relate it to our own mad mania and come to a place of mutual respect and appreciation.
To All …
Respectfully & Appreciatively, @Duncanz ~
[Reply]
jess Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 9:09 pm
@Duncanz,
Well said!
TiredOfIt Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 10:11 pm
@Duncanz, Ditto that hombre
Shakes Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 8:38 pm
@InTheCrease, And yet by winning tomorrow nothing will ever be the same
[Reply]
Santa Claus Jackson Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 12:00 am
@InTheCrease, my entire essence is zombified with kings hockey…they need to snap me out of it tomorrow, so I can continue multi-tasking like any other normal human being…
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 8:50 am
@InTheCrease, Amen. Thank goodness my wife is also a hockey nut.
[Reply]
I almost don’t want this to end, though.
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 8:46 pm
@FiG17,
It’s like your funnest ride at Magic Mountain.
Sooner or later it’s got to come to an end …
Hopefully logically.
[Reply]
David R Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 9:38 pm
@Duncanz, and then the best part is looking back at the picture after the ride, and that picture will be the Kings raising the cup
[Reply]
During the early part of the season, I called the Kings a team of “hope.” They “hoped” they would score a goal. They “hoped” that the PP would score. They “hoped” they could win close, low scoring games. Every thing revolved around “hope.” After DS came on board, there was no more “hope.” It was about “work,” “focus,” and “grit.”
I just saw the NJ interviews from today on NHL Network. Every player used the word “hope” in their interview. They are in the same position we were early in the season, searching for an answer, not knowing what to do and no clue as to how to beat the Kings.
Thank you DS for removing the “hope” from our team and replacing it with “grit.”
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 8:51 pm
@DesertKing,
DS replaced “hope” with “change” – unlike some people …
The only difference between our situation and their’s is that we had some racetrack left when hope turned to change.
The Devils have all but run out of racetrack!
They are about to meet our Maker … and THEIR’S !!!!!!
[Reply]
Mars Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 8:57 pm
@Duncanz, They cant sell their soul to thier own team.
Even if they could, they would have had to play for free.
They cannot sell their soul and expect to get paid to win it.
Sorry Devils.
NO SALE!
Devils = Boned
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 9:13 pm
@Mars,
Damien Thorn must DIE !!!!
I wonder what DS will say if we win the cup.
He deflects single player accomplishments.
He never gets excited towards the media.
Deflects towards the next game.
Always looking forwards.
Never Looking back.
There wont be a “Park and Ride”
I guess something about Baseball.
A short summer before the next game?
I don’t know how the players will re-act either.
This is not our usual Kings.
This is a new Kings era.
Things will never be the same.
[Reply]
neil Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 9:01 pm
@Mars, DS will say that Quick needs to win more then one cup to be considered an elite goalie….
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 8:54 am
@neil, Come to think of it, didn’t DS say that Quick needs to win 40 to be considered an elite goalie?
Lets see, Quick won 35 regular season games plus 15 playoff games … I do believe Quick has made the DS grade.
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 9:05 pm
@Mars,
Reading your post, I get this creeping fear that Coach Darryl would go out on a high and retire from hockey for the sake of farm and family, leaving us to choose between Mike Keenan and … Brian Sutter for a replacement!
Say it aint so, Joe, say it aint so …
[Reply]
Robert R Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 9:14 pm
@Duncanz, We must challenge him:
“Ya gotta come back! Waddya want to be considered? A flash in the pan? One and done?”
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 9:22 pm
@Mars,
DS will say that Kiprusoff would have won it in 3.
[Reply]
Mars Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 10:22 pm
@DesertKing, +1
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 10:38 pm
@DessertKipper,
That’s “Kipper” to you & JQ, thank you!
[Reply]
Kissmyblarneystones Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 10:44 pm
@Mars,
Thank Christ!!!!
[Reply]
MattG Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 12:28 am
@Mars, well said. My Kings are playing like teams I’ve admired through the years and like I’ve always dreamed they would play. I never knew if I would get to see this but I’m so glad I am. Let’s win the Cup, here, tonight!
Go! Kings Go!
[Reply]
Does anyone know a good place to watch the game in North County San Diego? I watched game 3 at Karl Strauss in Carlsbad. It was me and 2 other Kings fans watching the game with the sound turned off while the rest of the place was watching basketball.
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 10:44 pm
@Carlsbad.Fan,
My best advice would be to throw a sickie around lunchtime and head up to this address:
1111 S.Figueroa St., LA 90015.
I heard there’s a little all-day watch party with all sorts of Insiders and other celebrities hanging out over the course of things.
Be there or be [ ] !!!!!!!!!!!!!
[Reply]
Carlsbad.Fan Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 8:48 am
@Duncanz,
That would be awesome, but no can do. There’s a little tiny part of me that’s hoping this series goes to five. Saturday I’m there!
[Reply]
Santa Claus Jackson Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 12:06 am
@Carlsbad.Fan, sad…
[Reply]
370455VinSD Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 10:45 am
@Carlsbad.Fan, I work in Oceanside and was looking for a place to watch up here too. Unfortunately I haven’t found one. I’ve been driving down to Stout and there has been a ton of Kings fans there (and only 2 Devils fans on Monday). We have taken over that bar.
[Reply]
Carlsbad.Fan Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 2:50 pm
@370455VinSD,
Thanks for the tip. I’ve heard about that place but it’s a bit far. I’d end up missing half the game. Also I have a feeling I’m going to need to take a cab home tonight! Have you tried BJ’s in Carlsbad?
[Reply]
Carlsbad.Fan Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 2:52 pm
@370455VinSD,
P.S. tell those 2 devils fans to take a hike!
Have fun!
[Reply]
…and it’s T minus Drew Doughty….or is it Brad Doty
[Reply]
Real 7 Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 9:30 pm
@RealGone, oh no it’s not, it’s T minus Lucky Luc….Luuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu!!!!!!!!!!!!!
[Reply]
Real 7 Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 9:32 pm
@missing mind, you forgot the C in LUUUUUCCCCCCCCCCCCCC!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
[Reply]
Real 7 Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 9:36 pm
@Real 101, it’s getting REAL serious….I’m a basket case….my nerves are jingling and jangling, along with my spurs….wait a minute, wait a minute, I don’t have any spurs,
but can I die with my boots on?….AFTER the Kings win the Cup….after all these 44 years, that’s all I really want…I’ll diea happy man, if I can just have this…one….last….wish.
Duncanz Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 10:55 pm
@Real 7,
44 years?
George Derek Armstrong Custer lasted 36 years & 202 days.
Just putting things in semi-accurate historical perspective, there.
As long as The Kings totally and finally remove the Devils’ little big horns tomorrow, I will be happy!
As for you, I would chew some tobaccy ‘n smoke a peace pipe ‘n go about gettin’ some decent shuteye fer t’morra’!
Will you be makin’ the jaunt down to LAL?
I’d be shocked to hear otherwise!!!
Real 7 Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 12:14 am
@Duncapples, I’ll be planted here by my trusty 45″ waiting for the eventual,
long-awaited but not expected, [breath] pot of gold at the end of the rainbow
that Jack Kent Cooke promised 45 yrs. ago…..with me my trusty Colt45 in hand [the beer, not the pistola]….oh the shock!….
David R Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 9:40 pm
@Real 7, that Brad Doty, he plays baseball and football right, what an athlete
[Reply]
I was thinking about the crazy season that we’ve all been through with our Kings. And I remembered something that Brownie’s dad said during the father/son trip back in December. The quote I’m talking about happens around 2:50 in the video. It brought tears to my eyes the first time I heard it and it again when I played it now.
http://video.kings.nhl.com/videocenter/console?id=145653
[Reply]
jess Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 9:53 pm
@Rachel,
Outstanding. Thanks for posting that. Seen it before, but means that much more now.
[Reply]
Real 7 Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 9:58 pm
@Rachel, The Captain, Dustin Brown, will be the 1st King in the long 45 year history
of the franchise….to…lift…the…Cup…I want to believe….
[Reply]
QueenInVan Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 10:05 pm
@Rachel, Wow, I cried.
[Reply]
gr81scores Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 10:13 pm
@Rachel, a lot of hard work plus blood, sweat, and tears with a prayer and endless hope, the dream is about to become a reality. Can’t imagine the emotions I’ll feel once it happens. GKG!
[Reply]
DY Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 10:14 pm
@Rachel,
Wow, brought a tear to my eye as well. Let’s hope we’re crying tears of joy tomorrow night…
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 1:42 am
@Rachel,
Brownie is definitely his father’s son, isn’t he?!
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 9:01 am
@Rachel, Great, great find. Yep, saw it before, but the impact it has now is so much greater. I bet Brown will be an emotional mess when it happens. I pray it will be in front of the home crowd.
[Reply]
Like Wayne said, “Shoot the puck!” GO KINGS!
[Reply]
Real 7 Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 10:02 pm
@Ed Lowe, sure, that’s easy for HIM to say….in his day they didn’t check or block shots like they do now….it was a more free-wheeling style of play, which was The Great One’s strength….it’s a different game today…
[Reply]
HockeyNerd Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 10:05 pm
@Real 7, I agree, Wayne Gretzky would probably only get about 20 goals and 60 points in today’s game.
But you do have to remember he’s over 50…..
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 11:06 pm
@HockeyNerdherfer,
So funny.
Actually that might be overstating it.
There isn’t one Kings player less physically apt, today.
I’d like to think his style would still work contemporarily, but I don’t think he would adhere so well to the so-promoted high scoring “New NHL” as he did to the barely relatable game of the ’80s, when it appeared there were defensemen but no defensive systems in the League what-so-ever!
Viva Gary B, Viva!
Kman Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 2:32 am
@Duncanz,
(hypothetical)
So you have a chance to take Wayne or Sidney at the same age when Crosby was drafted in to the league.
Forget the comparing eras stuff.
Wayne, hands down.
Osaka, you out there?
Duncanz Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 2:46 am
@Kman,
OK. If you’re not comparing eras, WG.
Looks like the NHL is grooming SC to take the mantle that WG once had.
But that’s a footnote.
WG will always be “The Great One”, and also permanently the highest number ever to play the game!
Kman Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 3:03 am
@Duncanz,
Cheers Compad’
Go INSANE tomorrow night !! (or take your insanity to a new level, whichever comes first
I am so far BEHIND y’all….What a great time last night…as usual the 3 amigos were nowhere to be found. I wore the loudest gold old school jersey with an old school hat and was met by not one Insider. Alas, it was not to be. Hope you all had a great time wherever you were.
Went into the “cathedral” to witness the second coming in game 3. This building should be forever after known as “the house that Quick built”. I don’t intend to disrespect the one up on high but Mr. Quick is the reincarnation of Terry Sawchuk, Ken Dryden, and (insert all-time great goalie here). To have watched him evolve into the agile, flexible, “quick” goaltender that he has now become has been an honor. How he got from 2 years ago to here is phenomenal. I can only imagine the hard work that goes into becoming an elite player like he did. A couple of years ago I hoped that he would get a shot at playing in the gold medal game for the US in the Olympics. Now I expect him to start in 2014. He has before our very eyes become one of the greatest playoff goalies in history. This is the most dominant effort by a goaltender, and a team for that matter, in any playoff year, (OK so far).
Yes I am a little excited after watching the spankage we gave the devilitos last night. IF we can get the silver thing it would obviously put the finishing touches on a 45 year trek. If this seems like a bunch of rambling it probably is. I was up all night watching highlights and, sometimes a little, turning on and off the water works. It was VERY hard last night not to start weeping when the clock counted down the last 10 seconds and the scoreboard read KINGS 4 NEW JERSEY 0. I can’t describe the feeling of the weight that will be lifted off of me if we get the silver thing. The elation of seeing my long-time friend and Ducks fan face to face without having to say a word for once.
Anyway, I’m very proud of this team and all that they have accomplished. They deserve this so much, all of them. Go get it boys, it’s yours. Oh and by the way, has anybody noticed that after last night the tilt is towards the Kings and not the devils?. “DOC” doesn’t sound as excited as he was in game one….I wonder why? We know don’t we? ‘night all…GO Kings Go…Go Kings Go…Go Kings Go.
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 11:38 pm
@TiredOfIt,
Marvelous post, oh Tank of little gas!
Seriously. It’s better to read about Kings (fans’) prosperity than what the talking heads are spouting.
Now, here’s the thing.
I can attest that 2 of the “Three Amigos” were stationed in the Plaza Monday scanning the far and near horizons for an old school jersey with supposedly matching hat, with a wife and child in tow.
Problem
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 11:54 pm
(got cut off) was that Amigo no.1 left his email for you but you must not have gone back to the thread.
Now, put in a decent effort (go back to Monday am for the email add if you have to) and organize your tired @$$ !
We assume you’ll be in attendance again tomorrow.
Love to meet you in the Plaza should you be there!
Cheers ~
[Reply]
TiredOfIt Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 12:07 am
@Duncanz, O crap…my bad. Don’t have tix but trying to work the details to get there manana, I hope it works out. If not you guys have a great one and be careful. If that silver thing gets lifted by Mr. Brown there may be some extra excitement by some “passers by” that may want to do their OWN kind of celebrating, if you know what I mean? I’ll know more tomorrow. Check ya then
TiredOfIt Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 11:58 pm
@Duncanz, Gracias Dude, I WAS stationed at a table in “the FARM” for about an hour(the girls were hungry, who could eat), Then made our way over to the side entrance of the zone and saw The Great One standing inside the door doing an interview, and all went blank…woke up later in front of the DFN apparatus very near Heidi Androl. Waited there to get a picture of her and my baby girl, she was very nice, went into the outside team store and dropped a couple, came out…walked,jumped,rolled,cartwheeled trying to find THE 3 amigos or any resemblance of said hombres…pero no…wiped the tears and headed for the cathedral to witness the second coming…when the game was over and we made our way to the outside area, I believe I looked like Moses did after coming down the mountain in “The Ten Commandments”. At least I was as tired. Drained and raptured we crawled to our car amidst wailing fire truck sirens blasted to the beat Go Kings Go. What a night…what a team….what an experience for my daughter and to see her so excited for these guys and this team. It’s a wonderful life.
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 1:01 am
@TiredOfIt,
That’s great.
Sounds like you didn’t miss much by not meeting us then.
Never-the-less, migrate tomorrow, regardless.
Unofficial Insider all-comers watch party as advertized below by @PAKND.
Nothing for it but to shuttle on up there for the festivities.
Get organized and drop your email, too.
Duncanz Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 1:33 am
@TiredOfIt,
Ha ha ha, I only just recognized the DFN reference!
(8
MattG Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 12:11 am
@TiredOfIt, I am honored to meet such a dedicated passionate fan, Thank you for writing from your heart. I’ve been a Kings fan since their beginning, so you can imagine how I am feeling. We’ve mostly been on the short end of games, calls and chances, season in and season out throughout the years. It’s our time now, our game to win and our Cup to hoist!
It will be so sweeeeeeeettttt!
Go! Kings Go!
[Reply]
TiredOfIt Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 8:15 am
@MattG, Thank you for the kind words brother Insider. We’ve endured a lot together but we never gave up hope and now here we are, one win away from the silver thing. Very excited for tonights game. It is our time and we will not be denied!!!!!! Go Kings Go
[Reply]
Like Wall Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 10:24 am
@TiredOfIt,
Great that you mentioned the original Kings goalie from 1967 – Terry Sawchuk. I also enjoyed your musing.
Get it done boys!!
[Reply]
At least it’s not ‘shot mentality’ for Kings. Thank goodness Kings are past that.
[Reply]
Mars Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 10:23 pm
@MmmmYummy, compete
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 11:55 pm
@Mars, Heavy … well, you know the drill …
[Reply]
what time do festivities start at la live?
[Reply]
I am in a holding pattern….. Get them boys. Take these eastcoast punks to the cleaners just as you have done to every team in our path. This will be the happiest moment in my families sports history. The whole freaking enchilada baby.
I LOVE LA! GKG
[Reply]
Garnet “Ace” Bailey This is for you buddy. I never met you but can’t stop thinking most don’t even know your story. When I cry for the win, I will be forver thankful and know this one is for you!
Now knock the crap out of these devils and send them back NJ with thier pointy tails tucked between thier legs.
[Reply]
tellmeY Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 10:27 pm
@palmspringskingsfan, right on ….ace and mark….may you live forever in your passion for the sport of hockey….we love you….and miss you…
[Reply]
Night all Kings Fans
Night our Kings boys and men
Night Bob and Jim
Night Rich
Night Nick and Daryl
Night all staples workers
And Night to Coach Sutter and family
Thanks!
See you guys tomorrow, sweet Kings Dreams!
Go Kings Go!
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 11:59 pm
Night John Boy
Night Gail Girl
Smell the ice in your dreams
GKG!!!
[Reply]
A group of us ‘insiders’ will be meeting up tomorrow to watch the game downtown. You’re welcome to join us if you like. Here’s the email I sent out with all the details. If anything should change for whatever reason, be sure check for updates on Twitter @KingsNewsDaily
Hello Kings Fans!
As you most certainly know, tomorrow could turn out to be a historic day for our beloved Kings. Some of you will no doubtedly be at the game, some of you live too far away to be here, and some will make their way downtown to catch the game on TV at or near LA Live.
To that end, a group of us will be meeting at Casey’s Irish Pub to watch the game and then, should the Kings win, head over to LA Live for the celebration. If you have no other plans (or don’t want to hassle with trying to find a spot at LA Live) you’re invited to join us in cheering the Kings on to their first Stanley Cup! Casey’s is 4 blocks away from Staples and is a pretty big place so space shouldn’t be a problem. I have a reservation for the space in front of the 55 inch TV at 4pm. I plan on being at LA Live beforehand to checkout the scene before heading over.
If you have any questions don’t hesitate to email me. Have a great time no matter where you are and let’s hope our boys finish this amazing run with a sweep!
Go Kings!
Paul
Casey’s Irish Pub
613 South Grand Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90017
(213) 629-2353
http://213nightlife.com/caseysirishpub
[Reply]
CB14 Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 11:30 pm
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com), Just sent you off an e-mail. I hope I can get to go and watch the game with you guys.
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 11:30 pm
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com),
Paul, you da man!
If any (within range) Insider w/o a ticket misses this boat, well you may as well have a ticket on the inevitable Debils’ Titanic!
After an afternoon of envious celebrating with the lucky ones in the Nokia Plaza, it’ll be Casey’s or bust for me!
See y’all.
Cheers!
[Reply]
MattG Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 12:34 am
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com), Thanks so much for the invite. I’ll be watching with my wife and daughter. We are a Kings family, but it is so great to know there are so many, many devoted fans out there who can’t wait for our dream to come true. I hope you all have an awesome time. Be safe, especially after. You never know in this town how people will behave, but I suspect there won’t be the rioting we’ve seen before. Cheer your hearts out!
Go! Kings Go!
[Reply]
crashin'da net Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 10:10 am
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com), I’ll try to make it either before or afer the game just to meet some of you good folks.
[Reply]
I won’t even be able to sleep this evening at the thought we might win it all..this is real, I almost have to pinch myself. GO KINGS GO!!!! in the words of our Hall of Famer Bob Miller, Goodnight Everybody.
[Reply]
is funny how as i read other blogs on different sports sites, i find that there is still lots of hatred out there towards the KINGS. lots of ppl are still shocked we made it this far, keep bringing the whole 8th seed thing up and how we barely made it into the playoffs. ppl saying OUR BOYS dont deserve to win LORD STANLEY. all i gotta say is that if you go back prior to the start of the season, many ppl and sport experts had our boys right at the top. KINGS were seen as contenders before the season started, then we had a bad start and mid season. then DS,JC,NOLAN, AND KING came along and the stars aligned and our group started to click. they started to play and dominate the way we all expected them to. they became the team they were expected to be, and look at them now.
love the grit and character of this team, i have been a KINGS FAN since 1992, and been waiting for this moment and its felt like a lifetime. im goin to enjoy every bit and every minute when our boys hoist the cup, is going to be surreal.
for now stay focused guys, one game at the time.
go kigns go
[Reply]
luckyluc13 Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 11:01 pm
@gmo,The Kings opening day line-up… Jonathan Bernier, Dustin Brown, Kyle Clifford, Drew Doughty, Davis Drewiske, Simon Gagne, Matt Greene, Trent Hunter, Jack Johnson, Anze Kopitar, Trevor Lewis, Alec Martinez, Willie Mitchell, Ethan Moreau, Scott Parse, Dustin Penner, Jonathan Quick, Mike Richards, Brad Richardson, Rob Scuderi, Jarret Stoll, Kevin Westgarth, Justin Williams, Jeff Zatkoff.
[Reply]
Hadley Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 11:45 pm
@luckyluc13, I think the Kings have gone 28 – 7 – 2 since jettisoning Jack Johnson, arguably the team’s worst player since the days of Mark Hardy and Bart Crashley.
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 12:25 am
@Hadley,
That’s a little unfair.
A lot, actually.
The erstwhile JMFJ was resposible for some absolute left-handed larceny in stealing several GWGs for the Kings before he was traded in February!
On top of that, he was a hard working, good natured, fine servant to this hockey club and I’m glad we had his services for all those years.
The trade was a win-win as Kings and CBJ each needed what they traded for.
HockeyNerd Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 12:32 am
@Hadley, I can’t think of anyone, on any team, ever, that was worse than Bart Crashley.
Seem to remember the Kings lost their first two games of the 75-76 season 7-0 and 9-0 and Bart Crashley was on the ice for most of those goals….
Hadley Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 9:30 am
HockeyNerd, the legendary Bart Crashley came to the Kings from Detroit along with Marcel Dionne. As far as I know, Crashley played in four games for the Kings and was a minus 10. This is a minus 2.50 per game — probably the highest in the history of the NHL. Crashley indeed may have been the worst player of all time — but what a great name for a 70s hockey player.
rogiesbackup Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 11:18 pm
@gmo, Yah, I myself is not surprised they’ve gone this far. Last season they had many qualities of a cup winner just NOT the offense depth, but I still thought they had a real good team!!
[Reply]
gmo Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 11:23 pm
@rogiesbackup,
i was never suprised either, as i said, they were supposed to be a top team this year. they just had a bad start and underachieved, but on paper we had a pretty good team
go kings go
[Reply]
I’m ready. GKG!!!!
[Reply]
Has the game started yet…
I fell asleep…..
Penner got a hat trick?
Clifford is playing?
Coldplay got their name on the cup?
Brownie has played with a broken sternum?
We scored on the power play?
Nevermind…See you tomorrow
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 12:30 am
@SVELTE,
Coldplay?
Nirvana?
S & C ?
[Reply]
Kings please forecheck aggressively in the Neutral zone! Still seeing only ONE player pursuing the puck and the other player there but not aggressive. I thought the third game the devils had too much speed entering the Dzone!!!
[Reply]
Shotongoal Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 11:46 pm
@rogiesbackup, I’m sorry what was the score in game 3, and how many games have the Kings lost in this Final? C’mon really??!!
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 12:36 am
@rogiesbackup,
This has clearly been an innovation in the system to counteract the Devils style of play.
I recall precious few times they got anything fruitful from this perceived speed entering the zone.
Haven’t we discussed this (stuff) already?
[Reply]
i just went back, and i mean back in time to the days prior to the hiring of DS. checked some of the blogs related to him as a potential coaching candidate, and blogs of his hiring and MY OH MY…a lot of ppl here went nuts lol. calling DL nuts, calling for his head, calling DS old school, a hillbilly and look at him now. look where he has brought this team to?
funny how things change in a matter of months and now everyone loves him.
GO KINGS GO
[Reply]
rich-la Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 11:50 pm
@gmo, sounds like people were looking at the scores and not the team itself.
[Reply]
how can you get from the san fernando valley to staples center using the metro? i have a car i just dont want to take it there lol
[Reply]
CB14 Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 11:32 pm
@ashykins, Just park your car far far away from Staples.
[Reply]
bbb7 Reply:
June 5th, 2012 at 11:58 pm
@ashykins, The Metro Red Line runs from N Hollywood to downtown.
[Reply]
HockeyNerd Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 1:01 am
@ashykins, Orange line -> red line -> blue line and get off at the very first stop
[Reply]
Lets go boys lets do this one for Bob Miller… When Kings won game 2 in New Jersey I seriously had tears in my eyes just thinking about everything this franchise has been through. I have been a Kings fan since 1988 since my family moved to the states. I am a die hard fan and have watched every game and know mostly all the players that have come and gone. Lets do this for Marty Mcsorley and the illegal stick, lets do this for Barry Melrose, Wayne Gretzky, Kelley Hrudey, Dave Taylor and all the Kings greats…LUUUUUUUUCCCCC!!! Lets go boys please finish this game for us die hard fans who have seen it all throughout the long years, we’ve been through so much, lets do this for the high sticking called against Ryan Smyth when we scored in overtime against Ottawa last year, yes Karma is a bi**h…lets do this for all the bad trades, bad calls, bad losses, and bad times…for us Kings fans have been there and been loyal to this team throughout all the years. I can name so many things thats happen that give me goosebumps and make me mad but I can say going on this website and reading all your comments make me proud to be one of you, the best fans in the world, LA Kings fans, God Bless You All! You dont know how much I appreciate your support and loyalty and that you care so much for this team, this year is our year, this one’s for you my friend!
Thanks Chick Hearn for hiring the greatest hockey broadcaster ever in Bob Miller!!! BTW where did Heidi Androl come from to show up on the NHL network???
[Reply]
I’ve waited 45 years for this moment. It is coming, and soon. Lord Stanley’s Cup is here. Let’s keep it here, guys.
Go! Kings Go!
[Reply]
Amazing what’s posted on the Web.
Found the Kings’ ’67-’68 schedule.
Experts said that the Kings would finish last in the division. Surprised everyone by finishing the regular season in 2nd place.
First game: Feb 16 vs. Flyers, a 7-1 win.
My dad and my uncle took my brother and I. Sat in the colonnade behind a goal. That was it; my brother and I were hooked.
Disappointing end to the season, losing to the North Stars.
My uncle’s passed; my father’s 90, and here we finally are, on the brink.
Bring your loudest voice and pull a “Will Ferrell” on Wednesday.
We’ll show the national audience that Kings fans don’t head early to the exits to beat the traffic. That you can’t out-holler us.
That our newcomers are more rabid than other teams’ diehards.
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 12:42 am
@Robert R,
Sweet Memories, @RR.
Wish I was around at the time!
You’re in town, right?
Leave your email and meet some fellow Insiders!
[Reply]
Robert R Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 1:20 am
@Robert R, ’69-’70 we went 14-52-10 and I took such ridicule for supporting such an inept team. Only thing that was good was play-by-play of Jiggs McDonald.
’74-75 opening night win in Philly, 5-3. I knew that something was good that evening while driving home from UCLA. 105 points, 2nd to Montreal, but disappeared in a 3-game first round playoff to Toronto. Shock.
I could bore everyone and go on. Mesmerized by the August, 1988 press conference announcing the acquisition of #99. opening night 8-2 win over Detroit. In ’93, going to road games in Detroit and Buffalo (Ohio is home) and sensing that we had a good thing going. Flying to Montreal for game 1. Wearing the jersey to the game and “hearing it” in French. Meeting Gretzky at a charity event that summer in St. Louis, getting his autograph on my game 1 ticket and seeing him stare for several seconds at that ticket. We were still hurting from that loss.
And there are those with stories more numerous than mine.
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 9:08 am
@Robert R, I saw the King’s beat the Oakland Seals in the playoffs in 69. Still have the program.
[Reply]
Bob W. Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 9:33 am
@Robert R, I think I got to the Kings first game at the Forum, a loss to the Flyers. I also got to the Kings last game of ’67-68, the 7th game of the 1st round of the playoffs. I walked up to the ticket booth about 20 min. before the game a got a ticket between the blue lines, about 20 rows up. The North Stars got to Terry Sawchuk early and often. That year the last team in the “New” Division to make the playoffs, the Blues, got to the finals in the first year that there were 3 rounds in the playoffs. (Good bye octapus.)
[Reply]
Anyone else having trouble falling asleep?
[Reply]
Jon G Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 12:35 am
@HockeyNerd, This is way better than Christmas Eve.
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 12:43 am
@HockeyNerd,
Sleep?
Seem to remember getting some of that stuff, sometime back in April.
[Reply]
Shawn in Arizona Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 12:43 am
@HockeyNerd,
YES!
[Reply]
QueenInVan Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 1:10 am
@HockeyNerd, No. No problem.
[Reply]
rumpa#19 Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 7:11 am
@HockeyNerd, We will have to make up for it Thursday night !!
[Reply]
sooooo…. ive got nhl network on in the background… and I hear a familiar voice interviewing dustin brown. I look up, and its HEIDI!!! If my satisfaction of these playoffs were at 99%, now they are at 100
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 12:48 am
@kingsfaninsb,
Rock Androl, baby!
[Reply]
I think Rich is done posting for tonight. I’ll probably shut ‘er down in an hour or two, once I’m sure that is the case.
[Reply]
Are some of these SCF goals fabulous or WHAT?!!!
[Reply]
I can’t sleep.
This video is a great emotional viewing! Has some old footage and a few odd cuts in the sequence but I love the music. Brought a few tears to my eyes.
So Tomorrow night I say this my dear KINGS.
Once more into the fray
Into the last good fight I’ll ever know
Live and die on this day
Live and die on this day
http://youtu.be/AH_Up12pTm0
[Reply]
cromartee Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 1:47 am
@illegalstick33,
Funny how the old footage got in there. May be unorganized but the amount of good moments and highlights we’ve just accumulated is going to last a long time.
There were so many high moments – no wonder I’m on a high.
[Reply]
Gmo Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 5:39 am
@illegalstick33,
This is such a great video, I’ve seen it before but thanks for reposting its link . I get goosebumps and my eyes tear up eveytime I watch this video. Can’t wait to see our boys hoist LORD STANLEY, but I’ll be happier to see all of our home grown boys that have been here through the lean years hoist the cup. BROWN, first ever LA KINGS. Player and captain to hoist the cup, YEA BABY!!!!!!!
!!!!!!GO KINGS GO!!!!!
[Reply]
Pili Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 7:13 am
@illegalstick33, Thanks. Made me cry at work. My co-workers razz me about it but it doesn’t even faze me. They don’t even come close to understanding my passsion for this team. Go Kings GO.
[Reply]
Best Wishes from all Kings fans I’m sure to Tommy Lasorda for a rapid recovery in NYC from his heart attack.
TL just tweeted the other day in support of The Kings.
We support Tommy, as well.
GWS you Blue Fella!
[Reply]
Osaka Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 1:49 am
@Duncanz, I read he may be released from the hospital soon so thank God. He got you wishes bro.
To many more years of the Big Lasagna, get well soon TL!
[Reply]
Lets go team. Focus on the play.
[Reply]
Pili Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 7:14 am
@Mikey J., First shift. You got it.
[Reply]
I don’t know if this was posted, don’t have time to read through. Had to work like crazy today so I can watch the game tomorrow morning. Great interview with Bob Miller on Puck Daddy.
http://youtu.be/RnqFBkBpE1A
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 9:25 am
@Osaka, Wow, one of the best Miller interviews I’ve ever heard. Maybe the best.
[Reply]
Anyone selling Tickets? Will pay 500$ each. Please!!!!
[Reply]
GO DEVILS!!! Oooops, wrong forum!
[Reply]
This is it boys and girls……….the biggest night in LA kings history since the 1st game in the league.
The chance to win the Stanley Cup, can’t wait as I will be at two cup parties this summer………yes.
Lets get this thing going and lets put some pucks in to settle everyone down.
[Reply]
T – Gagne GKG!!!! LGK!!!! Score the first goal boys and don’t look back!
[Reply]
GOOD MORNING ALL KINGS FANS
12 hours and the puck gets dropped for the final time to start a game this season.
The cup is ours to take!!!!!!!
I have no idea how I’m going to make it thru this day at work. My 1st thought when I woke up was tonight we all get to see what we’ve waited a liftetime for..Dustin Brown raising the Stanley Cup Oh baby!
GO KINGS GO!!!!!!!!
[Reply]
I pretended to be a Devils fan and posted this on the Fire and Ice – Sykora: “It looks like I’m playing” blog:
Face it guys its over. It will hurt less if we accept the Kings are better and the Devs did good to get this far.
Some numbers: In this year playoffs Quick has the lowest goals against (1.36) since the 1939 playoffs (Frank Brimsek/Bruins 1.25).
No team has ever gone 3-0 in 4 straight series. That’s not an accident.
With a win tonight the Kings would tie the 88 Oilers for least amount of games to win the cup (since 87 playoff format change).
Since the expanded playoffs no team has gone undefeated on the road.
17 of the 21 Kings to play in the playoffs have scored a point
Since they are a west coast team a lot of us have not been paying attention to the Kings over the years. They’ve been building a team built on defense/goaltending and have seen solid a few years there. Since hiring Sutter and trading for Carter the offense is happening now and that was all that was needed.
This is not a flukey one year team. I think we are just seeing the start of a long run.
Maybe they can pull out tonights game and come home for one more game, but it will have to be a total defensive effort as no team is all of a sudden going to start scoring easily on the Kings. The most anyone has scored against the Kings is three in these playoffs and that happened once. 1-0 or 2-1 will have to be the score for the Devs to win.
Hand it to the Kings, they are just a better team right now. We’ll retool a little in the offseason and come back stronger next year.
[Reply]
Gmo Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 5:52 am
@Ben,
LoL, evil you
[Reply]
Ryanitos Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 6:06 am
@Gmo, Nice! Hope you don’t get a visit from a bunch of tan guys with gold chains later today!
[Reply]
Ben Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 6:11 am
@Ryanitos, I do work in NYC, right across the street from Madison Square Garden …could happen!
Ben Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 6:06 am
@Gmo, I got tired of reading the Kings are a one year fluke and Quick isn’t that good on the “Fire and Ice” blog comments. They needed a dose of reality…easier to take from someone you think is from your own fanbase.
[Reply]
Gmo Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 6:32 am
@Ben,
GO KINGS GO
Ben Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 11:00 am
@Ben, nobody got pissed about my fake Devils fan post, but I did get a Devils fan that agreed with me. He actually made sense (maybe he’s really a Kings fan and trolling like I was). Here’s his response:
Ben:
Agreed.
The Kings are a prototypical team of the future. Very similar to Boston, with good goaltending, strong defense, big power forwards, that at times seem almost invincible.
Gone are the days of offense. It’s all about big hulking forwards and smothering defense and goaltending.
The Devils look too small. Part of their retooling is going to need to consider this element. And I worry about how Parise is seen in such a configuration. But that may be too unfair, because no way we get this far without his play, which has been great.
Posted by DevilishlyObsessed on 06/06 at 11:53 AM
I love it….the prototypical team of the future!
Wow, where to begin? This season has been (place adjective here)! I’ve been a fan for well over 30 years and it looks like it has been worth the wait. Some of my earliest memories was back in ’82 when the Kings lost to Vancouver in the playoffs and how much I hated that “Na-na-na, na-na-na, hey hey hey, goodbye” chant from the crowd in the dying seconds of the clinching game. So, hating the Canucks is nothing new. I also remember pretending to be Marcel Dionne and beating my oncle over his glove side in a driveway out in Riverside, so don’t tell me we aren’t a hockey town.
Unbelievably, this is the first year that I’ve read the Insider and it’s now become an addiction. Big up to Rich for his great work and to all the great fans on here. Enjoy tonight, blow the roof of Staples, and stay safe out there.
[Reply]
Ben Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 6:25 am
@Ryanitos, been a fan since 76 (Dionne’s first year) and have not seen a more dominant run. Even though I haven’t lived in LA since 90 I couldn’t be more proud to be from LA then now. All my facebook friends know I have champagne on ice for tonights win!
[Reply]
Ryanitos Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 6:32 am
@Ben,way to stay true! I know too many people who change teams as easily as they do socks.
[Reply]
Today is June 06. On this day in 1944, Allied forces stormed the beaches of Normamdy to start the destruction of the Nazi empire. 45 years ago today, the original LA Kings were selected in the NHL expansion draft that created our beloved team. As today unfolds, please remember the brave troops from D-Day and the original LA Kings and honor them all with a historic victory tonight.
[Reply]
Good Morning to all LA Kings fans old and new
What a morning to be a King Fan
Just looking around home at all my Kings
pictures and stuff what a collection but
nothing is better than watching our Kings
play
Go Kings Go!
Been a fan for years now and today and tonight it
would be the most stressful day of my life
and also could be the best too so I say
“You Want To Win Don’t You?
Go Kings Go!
I know our boys and men will try there best as
always
Good Luck!
From all your LA Kings fans old and new!
[Reply]
Ryanitos Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 6:45 am
@Gailweb, No stress, Gail. We got this.
[Reply]
Pili Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 6:51 am
@Gailweb, Good morning Gail. A thread is not complete without your GKG!
[Reply]
Michael J. Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 7:02 am
@Gailweb,
Good morning Gail!
Yes, what a day to be a Kings fan!
GKG!
[Reply]
Lake Forest Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 7:46 am
@Gailweb, And I smell Ice.
[Reply]
Tonight Lord Stanley will find a new home!!
GO KINGS GO!!!!
[Reply]
Ryanitos Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 6:46 am
@KOHO, Being dead and Canadian, I hope Lord Stanley brings some sunscreen.
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 8:28 am
@Ryanitos,
He is going to fit in just great here in LA.
[Reply]
I feel like I’m on the brink of my special needs child suddenly losing his handicap, or perhaps like my daughter is getting married. I don’t know whether to laugh or cry. Big, big day in all our lives.
[Reply]
My two cents….The trade for Colin Fraser has brought a great level of determination to the LA Kings lineup and game. We can’t forget this little piece of the puzzle because I believe it is an important piece to our success. Go Kings Go!
[Reply]
Ryanitos Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 6:57 am
@Kings Fan South, Couldn’t agree more. Fras is a beast.
[Reply]
Ryanitos Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 7:10 am
@Ryanitos, Know who else deserves a lot of props? Trevor Lewis. A major pest on the forecheck and flies all over the ice.
[Reply]
Jack Aubrey Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 7:09 am
@Kings Fan South, Well said! He’s been a very valuable addition, and a high-class guy, to boot. He handled all the Ryan Smyth stuff in the best way possible… by playing well! Great team mate all around!
[Reply]
Lake Forest Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 7:21 am
@Kings Fan South, Most of remember this trade and what insued there after. Everyone was angry about it aand suggested litigation efforts to fix it.
It OBVIOUSLY worked out the best for everyone. Screw the Oilers, Screw Tambellini! Also I think the way it worked Colin had something to prove.
It’s not about points, it’s about playing your role and we couldn’t have asked for anything better!!!
[Reply]
Lake Forest Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 7:27 am
@Lake Forest, As we get closer to winning, my posts have been erratic. Missing words, incomplete sentences…GEEZ!
I think most will understand what I was trying to say. Also happy we got rid of Smyth. $6MM to stand in front of the net.
And people regretted that trade…..
[Reply]
is there gonna be anywhere big to watch the game today at la live for people who cannot afford to go in?? game 3 there wasnt much goin outside and have restaurant was packed. Itd be cool if they put it on screens outside the arena
[Reply]
Brent Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 7:09 am
@kingsfaninsb, I have been guaranteed this will not happened.
[Reply]
kingsfaninsb Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 7:19 am
@Brent, bummer
[Reply]
Good morning Kingdom.
I am finding it a bit surreal and am having trouble typing this post. TODAY COULD BE OUR DAY!
I have been following the Kings from a distance since 1977 after the Seals moved from Oakland. I moved here in 1981 and started to follow the Kings more closely. I totally missed the miracle on Manchester because I was on a date (later married that girl).
So, tonight I have my first class of an intensive summer course for my graduate degree. Yes, I am blowing off class and will be watching with so many of my brethren. No way I’m going to miss this!
I am so happy for the faithful fans who have been there years before I jumped on board. My friend was at the first ever Kings game in Long Beach and he is in shock over this whole thing.
I am also very happy for our players. I really like these guys and cannot wait to see them celebrate. I really hope that it is tonight in front of their fans.
Go Kings Go!
[Reply]
vinny Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 8:24 am
@Michael J., great post!
[Reply]
KROQ was giving away tickets. called all morning long. Finally got through and they already have a winner!!!
DANG IT
[Reply]
SO MANY ARTICLES AND VIDEOS ABOUT THE KINGS!!!!!!
[Reply]
Good morning everyone!
SEASON STARTS TODAY!
GKG!!!
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 8:09 am
@QueenInVan,
Good morning DS!
[Reply]
Real 7 Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 8:16 am
@QueenInVan, yes it does!
[Reply]
lakingbob(chi) Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 8:22 am
@QueenInVan, NOPE,SEASON ENDS TODAY!!!!
[Reply]
So, how early does one need to arrive at ESPN Zone or the Yard House to get a seat? I’m ready to head down right now I’m so excited!
[Reply]
PW Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 8:01 am
@Cav Pilot, I was thinking about that too. I am thinking 1pm or 2pm at the latest. With all the activity and radio shows broadcasting you might have to lineup now…lol
GKG
[Reply]
UpTheIrons! Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 8:17 am
@Cav Pilot, My buddy called ESPN Zone yesterday and they told him that for game 3 there was a line already around 11. First come, first serve.
[Reply]
vplaza Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 8:43 am
@Cav Pilot,
Since it’s the clinching game, I think no later than noon. Last Saturday for Game 2, we went to ESPN Zone around 3:30 and it was full. Headed to the Yard House and got a good table.
Again, being the clinching game, I think noon is the latest. The Yard House was definitely a cool place to do the Watch Party.
[Reply]
Cav Pilot Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 8:49 am
Thanks. It looks like I better get moving. See you all there!
[Reply]
Oscar Moller's Beard Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 9:37 am
@Cav Pilot, Restaurants open at 11:00 for Kings fans. The lines will be pretty a long if you get there too late.
[Reply]
I couldn’t sleep last night. It was like Xmas eve only we don’t open the presents until 8pm
#NoMoreMunters
[Reply]
Real 7 Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 8:17 am
@Shakes, yeah, let’s hope we don’t have to deal with any more Munters….WIN THIS ONE!!
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 8:26 am
@Real 7,
A day without Munters is like…. A DAY AFTER WINNING THE STANLEY CUP!!!
[Reply]
“I don’t feel that we deserve to be in the hole we’re in. Therefore, I think that you should give us that Kovalchuk shot off the crossbar and make the series 2-1.
Sincerely,
Peter De Boer”
Any extra energy that you need to burn off? There’s 2 stick practice sessions this morning at TSC–at 11:45 and 12:45. The ice is good, not like at the Prudential Center.
[Reply]
Mike Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 8:27 am
@Robert R, In terms of winning and scoring, I think Kovalchuk is getting exactly what he deserves!
[Reply]
T-Minus Oscar Moller
[Reply]
Real 7 Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 8:14 am
@vplaza, or T minus Ralph Backstrom, my favorite #9….only for those with long memories and gray beards….
[Reply]
Mike Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 8:26 am
@Real 7, I have the long memory, but I shave!
[Reply]
vplaza Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 8:34 am
@Real 7,
Nice.
[Reply]
GOOD MORNING TO ALL THE INSIDERS !!!!!!!!!!!!! ITS ELIMINATION DAY FOR THE KINGDOM. Everyone stay posative and may the count down begin!!!!!!
[Reply]
Tonight’s the night. And it’s going to happen. It has to happen. Nice night. LA is a great town. I love the Mexican food. Double Double” burgers. My favorite. But I’m hungry for something different now. We are all hungry for something different now.
GO KINGS GOOOOO !!!!!
[Reply]
T-Minus between Vladimir Tsyplakov and Dmitri Khristich
[Reply]
ILLEGALSTICK33 Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 11:05 am
@vplaza, Holy crap! I loved Khristich! Tsyplakov now thats another story….
[Reply]
Cheers from palm springs. I hope tonigt is the night the KINGs will be the champions of the world!
We want this more than anything…..anything. The greatest moment in sports history is about to unfold before our eyes.
GO KINGS GO!!!!
[Reply]
I still can’t believe it’s down to one game. I started following the Kings in 1981, shortly after my family moved to the US from overseas where I didn’t even know hockey existed. Moving to the Inland Empire, there were really no local sports teams to follow, so I naturally gravitated to all the LA teams, Lakers, Kings, Dodgers, and Raiders.
I’ve always wished that the Kings would win a championship like the other teams that I loved. But year in and year out, it seemed like it was always “next year”. The Gretzky years were great, but the years afterwards, not so great.
My wife and I could never afford season tickets plus we always lived so far away from either the Forum or Staples. (Though, that article in the LA Times about the couple in Hawaii who have season tickets makes me feel small.) We raised our 13 and 10 year old daughters to love the Kings.
And now, after all these years, we may be able to enjoy the thrill of a championship together. And I think that they are at an age where they will remember and appreciate what might happen for a very long time.
GO KINGS GO!!!! ONE MORE GAME FOR THE TEAM AND FOR THE FANS!!!
[Reply]
Certainly no comments coming from any players or Sutter that will light a fire under the Devils or give the press any headlines to run with.
GO KINGS GO!!!
[Reply]
What a beautiful morning….Ah! Just drove my 11 year old to hockey camp. On the way he say’s to me everyone at camp says the only reason the Kings are going to win the cup is because of Quick. (now we are in northern utah so folks around here love the Avalanche) He then proceeded to tell me all the things about Kings hockey the kids at camp have no clue about! Stoll being a 2 way center, the call up of King and Nolan, Brown’s play down the stretch, the trust in the defense to make the deal for Carter, Scuderi being a rock…he went on and on! He sounded like Foxy doing the color for Miller.
[Reply]
Sad news, RIP Vladimir Krutov,
Not a big name here, only played a year for the Canucks in the early 90′s….but anyone that followed international hockey in the 80′s knew him as part of the Soviet “Super 5″ (Krutov, Makarov, Larionov, Kasatonov, Fetisov) that made life miserable for opposing teams players and fans for a decade…..
Ok,I’m over it…..
OMG, I can’t believe what might happen tonight, so unreal for us long suffering fans…..
GKG!!!!!!!!
[Reply]
Is someone’s wife enjoying the sightseeing?
[Reply]
T-Minus Brad Doty
[Reply]
I am absolutely getting chills reading the posts today. I hope I can keep it together until game time….
[Reply]
Wheels56 Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 9:14 am
We will win because it is our time. The bounces, tips, missed shots, etc have all gone our way while facing unbalanced penalty calling as if the league and refs don’t want us to sweep. Our tough shots get in while they miss open nets. We have stayed mostly injury free while they attemp to injure us. Raffi Torres was suspended before he could head hunt a player or two. We have kept our lines togeteher, and EVERYONE is contributing. All things have lined up to win. It is our time. I was at the first home game in 1993. I will be there tonight in sec 115 holding up my GOAL! sign when they score and WIN! IT IS OUR TIME!
[Reply]
http://www.google.com/imgres?hl=en&gbv=2&biw=1024&bih=499&tbm=isch&tbnid=2upea3xeCdnwBM:&imgrefurl=http://theroyalhalf.com/&docid=JZPVp4HIAABw_M&itg=1&imgurl=https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7wjmkMQusos/T8qIYKSgISI/AAAAAAAALG8/Rl8DxqmzJ4E/s640/NJD_BC_FRASER_1.jpg&w=640&h=426&ei=bH_PT8PyL4202AXOjvm1DA&zoom=1&iact=rc&dur=453&sig=117278132035879701358&page=1&tbnh=144&tbnw=214&start=0&ndsp=8&ved=1t:429,r:7,s:0,i:94&tx=178&ty=75
chek this out
[Reply]
I wonder what Ryan Smyth is doing today…?
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA….
[Reply]
T minus Jack Johnson
[Reply]
For me, this win, whether it comes tonight or not is for my dad. He moved us to Canada from the UK and we all fell in love with the greatest game in the world. I saw my first NHL game in 1955 the Bruins at Maple Leaf Gardens. Then we moved to LA. Followed the Blades. Then in 67 our boys came to town. We loved it. Pop died in ’94 and it took YEARS for me not to pick up the phone and cheer with him when the Kings scored a goal. So for me, this one is for pop. I will have his picture right in front of me all night and when Brownie picks it up, I’ll hold the picture and turn it towards the TV and my wonderful dad will be there with me. See, the non hockey fans don’t get it. This is not just “a winning event,” this is for the greatest sports trophy ever. It also represents the right values of modesty, support, teamwork and wonderful young men whom I am proud to support. You all know that hockey players certainly are the most decent of athletes. Every fan who reads this knows the happiness we will all feel when it actually happens. I remember Bob Wall, Kings first captain, who will in the audience tonight. I remember sitting in the Fabulous Forum with about 3500 other believers. Tonight, we cash in. Congratulations to all you wonderful Kings fans, and I hope you too share the victory with one of your loved ones as well.
[Reply]
wideleft Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 10:27 am
@Oldkingsfan, I’m with you my friend. Lost my oldest son a few years ago. He’ll be with me cheering tonight as your dad will with you.
. Bought the cheap seats and moved down towards the glass back in the old days.
3500 sounds just about right
I know there will be many tears in my household tonight.
GKG
[Reply]
Gianni_B Reply:
June 6th, 2012 at 10:31 am
@Oldkingsfan, Simply stated……..Great post!
[Reply]