The last couple days have been big for some young players, but they’ve also been important to Colin Fraser, who re-upped with the Kings yesterday on a two-year, $1.65-million contract. It’s been quite a full-circle year for Fraser. Last June 26, he found himself in a middle of a firestorm after Edmonton traded him to the Kings, then became involved in a dispute when the Kings determined that Fraser needed foot surgery. Fraser stayed out of the public squabbling, did his rehab work and became a lineup regular for the Kings upon his return in mid-November.
Fraser settled into a fourth-line role and gave the Kings solid minutes, and was also a very well-liked, positive influence in the locker room. Fraser is also celebrating his second Stanley Cup championship, as he was a member of the 2010 Chicago Blackhawks team that won the Cup. Shortly after that, though, he was traded to Edmonton. Now, Fraser will get a chance to return and get another crack at it with the Kings. Fraser was gracious enough to take a few minutes today to talk about his new contract…
FRASER: “For me, it was definitely an easy choice. I’ve been with three different teams in three years, and I felt L.A. was a good fit for me. I fit in good, and obviously we won, so you can’t beat that. It’s pretty much the same team coming back, so it was a no-brainer for me to want to come back.’’
Question: It’s kind of full circle, since it’s almost exactly a year since you were traded to the Kings. Have you had time to sit back and soak in the whole year?
FRASER: “It’s funny how it goes. You go back a year ago, and I didn’t know if I was going to be in L.A. or Manchester or back in Edmonton, or where I was going to end up. I was just kind of a man stuck in the middle, and here I am a year later, playing every game and winning the Stanley Cup and signing a two-year deal. It’s been a crazy 12 months, but everything happens for a reason and it’s obviously all for the good. I’m very excited to be going back to L.A.’’
Question: Two years ago, you won with Chicago and then that team got broken up. Do you like this now, that you come back with this team pretty much intact?
FRASER: “Yeah. That’s the best part of it, really. We have the exact same team coming back. In Chicago, I think they lost nine guys. It was the same thing. I wanted to go back, and everyone wanted to go back, but it just couldn’t work out. This time, with L.A., it can work out. We have a great group of guys, and I would have said that even before we won, but now that we won, it’s proof that we have a good group of guys. It’s nice to stick together and hopefully — not that it’s going to be easy, because everybody is going to be gunning for the top team — but we definitely have the right makeup. We proved it this year, and hopefully we can do it again.’’’
Question: I’m not asking you to speak for all the guys, but did you get that sense that all the guys wanted to keep this together? We don’t know what will happen with Penner, but is there some excitement about this team coming back next season?
FRASER: “Outside of Pens — and I don’t know what’s going on — but me and Stolly both could have went UFA and we both decided to stay. That’s proof, right there, that guys definitely want to stay. Obviously we won, and that’s number one, and outside of hockey, it’s a great place to play, with great fans and a great organization, everything. All those good things that guys look for in signing with a team. When you’ve got that many guys that want to stick around, it just shows that it is a good spot to play.’’
Question: I know you’re bringing the Cup up to the Red Deer area there in Alberta. Do you know when, and what you’re doing with it?
FRASER: “July 18, I’ll be in Red Deer/Sylvan Lake. We’re working on the details right now, so I don’t know what I’m going to do yet. I have a few ideas in mind, but I have to make sure it all works out first, before I make the final plan.’’
Question: Do you have a lot of family around there?
FRASER: “My wife is from here, so all her family is here. I have some family in Edmonton, but my immediate family will be coming out from B.C.’’
so happy for fraser…
thank you, ryan smyth….(!)
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Duncanz Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 3:09 pm
@variable,
I have nothing against RS, either.
He was a fine servant to the LA Kings in his time here.
I always thought he was one one of the down to earth, good Canadian boy type of guys.
When I see him doing well up in EDM, I’m happy for him.
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variable Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 3:11 pm
@Duncanz,
me too…
but if it wasn’t for his trade request, we wouldn’t have gotten fraser…and remember, fraser came over as damaged goods and the kings were pissed at edmonton – and rightfully so…
but it ended up working out for us…and then some…:)
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Duncanz Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 3:25 pm
@variable, Yes. Of course. Although the Fraz injury fiasco is separate from the RS trade request situation.
The Gondor Reply:
June 24th, 2012 at 10:51 am
@variable, Besides getting Fraser (a much more solid player than I thought he’d be, BTW), the best part of the Ryan Smyth deal is the great gain it was for our cap space. Allowed us to do a lot of things throughout the rest of the year moneywise.
KingsFanInPortland Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 3:25 pm
@Duncanz, You’ve got it wrong.
Edmonton fans now don’t like the guy.
He is a self serving primadona and I said it when he requested the trade that he was.
Funny how it all works out.
Similar to Derek Fisher. They have this image of great guys and squeaky clean images, but these types have worked hard to keep that image and like politicians, a lot is hidden under the veneer.
Not saying Smyth is a bad person, don’t get that confused. But he is now thinking of signing with the Flames because Ryan is not getting what Ryan wants in Edmonton, and he is not willing to take a bit of a hometown discount. Compare that to Stoll and Fraser.
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5points Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 3:31 pm
@KingsFanInPortland, Agree 100 percent…good man, but not a team guy.
Duncanz Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 4:28 pm
@KingsFanInPortland,
Well, as I remember, he never had the reputation of being a self-serving prima donna when he played here, so that might be a new one.
I would have to talk to the Kings players to find out what they feel about him.
You’re right. He didn’t for a moment give off that image when he was playing here. The opposite, I felt.
I don’t know about not being popular in EDM anymore.
This season, he was hot early on but tapered off as the team’s fortunes dipped, I believe.
The trouble with the fans up there is they either still hold it against him that he “ditched” them in the first place and/or don’t appreciate that he is no longer the 31 year old 30 G/S he was when he left in 2007.
Also, now with Yakupov arriving, of course he sees his fortunes as more favorable at a team like Calgary.
That’s fine. That’s hockey.
I don’t know what people used to say about Glen Anderson.
Luc himself had to move away in his prime to win a Stanley Cup, right?
But as far as holding anything against him myself, I don’t.
He gave us two really good seasons of striving and yeoman’s work and tallied 107 points in the process.
He wasn’t going to be the future of the hockey club or any club so what we received from him, albeit for a short time, should be appreciated.
USHA#17 Reply:
June 24th, 2012 at 11:47 am
@KingsFanInPortland,
Its hard to make such comments with any certainty.
Ryan was hot here then did noting…actually less then nothing (He killed his line…almost every game) until the San Jose playoff when he showed up for two games.
Same in Edmonton, great start, just as great fade. Old guy, over the hill, looking to sleep in and show up in time for a paycheck.
Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com) Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 3:33 pm
@Duncanz,
I don’t respect his decision at all and certainly I don’t root for him. He didn’t want to be here so see ya buddy! Don’t let the door hit you on the way out. I wish him nothing but losses in hockey, but I do hope he’s happy in life.
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variable Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 3:59 pm
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com),
i like how he’s passionate about hockey and life….
but….
his two-faced persona had it’s coming out “party” last year and….yr right…if you don’t want to be here, see ya’…and make that “get lost!”
and, as was previously mentioned by KINGSFANINPORTLAND, he’s now pissing off his “dream team and dream location” in edmonton by making unrealistic salary demands…
and i doubt jay feaster in calgary will welcome him with open arms if he continues his self-righteous brooding regarding his worth…
smyth has had the same m.o. for years now…:
play excellent for the first 20 games or so…and then disappear, like mike tyson into “oblivious”….
y’know, my gut feeling is that he will somehow be a ranger next season…and i have no justification for that reasoning at all…just my gut acting superior again – quite like ryan smyth….
Duncanz Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 5:01 pm
@variable, @Paul,
How do you guys feel about ‘Lucky Luc’, who let Dave Taylor’s door hit him in the backside in 2001?
Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com) Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 5:11 pm
It was the other way around. Taylor made Luc a low-ball 1 year deal and Luc said no. I had no problem with that.
luc20rules Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 10:11 pm
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com), If I remember the 2001 situation correctly. The Coach I believe at the time was Andy Murray didn’t like Luc’s D, and didn’t really know how to utilize him in the power play, so it was a bad spot for Dave Taylor that made an offer pretty much low ball as he didn’t fit into the Kings plans.
Pasadena Hockey Reply:
June 25th, 2012 at 4:34 pm
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com), I really thought a lot of our goal scoring drought the first half of the year was because we had no one that did the dirty work like Smitty. He is one of my favorite players, but he initialy denied the trade request. And as for leaving Edmonton, it would be too bad if he didn’t retire there. Smyth has got to think about hanging ‘em up or taking one last run at the cup. He should take a pay cut so Edmonton can go for it.
“Obviously we won, so you can’t beat that.”
Welcome back, Fraz’ … and safe driving on your up north and back down.
Solid hockey player, good citizen.
The world can always do with a lot of guys like Colin Fraser!
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Pasadena Hockey Reply:
June 25th, 2012 at 4:37 pm
@Duncanz, You knew he was a class guy when he was introduced at Fan Fest. And it says a lot about Kings fans that he didn’t get booed at that event. For those of you with short pre-title memories, we thought Edmonton was giving us damaged goods. The first guy they gave us prior to Fraser was hurt too.
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What an nice pickup. I knew nothing about Traser before he joined the team, and yet by the end of the year I was comfortable every time his line took the ice. Sometimes I even looked forward to his next shift. That’s pretty amazing for a fourth liner.
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Jon G Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 3:09 pm
@Jon G, I also know nothing about spell check.
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5points Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 3:35 pm
@Jon G, Lmao
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Coach Mike Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 7:22 pm
@Jon G, Good one.
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Fraz is solid… played well (better than anyone could have hoped for in post season) for us… but i dont think he brings anything that special to the club… I’d rather see more playing time for Richardson and Lokti who now seems to be lost in the mix after Stolls signing to be presumably the 3rd line center… also see Cliche crack the line-up… think his youth spark and PK talents would serve better than Fraz… plus i think Cliche has more of an offensive upside than Fraz…
not many spots in this line up for a plethora of young talent in our organization… i’ve never been a fan of automatically giving the spots to ‘veterans’… look at the horrible mistakes of past years, thornton, wilsie, moreau, hunter…
also: Moller… never thought he got a fair look with us… had a lot of skill and offensive upside squashed under Crawford and TMurray’s systems…
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Bluecoconuts Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 3:16 pm
@Nick in 318, Loktionov is probably going to be traded or something, he’s just not a bottom six guy, and he’s not good on the wing. He needs to play C somewhere, and it wont be here. That’s just how it goes some times.. As for Moller, he bailed to Europe when he probably would have gotten a look eventually if he stayed in the AHL, so his loss. I don’t feel sorry for him at all. I like Fraser, he played great and earned his spot.
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Duncanz Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 3:21 pm
@Nick in 318,
CF has no offensive upside.
That is a given and accepted by all involved.
What he brings to the lineup is a crucial quality that cannot be found in the players you raise in comparison.
He plays solid positional hockey and is truly a “tough customer” for opponents to find themselves up against.
With his combination of forechecking, defense and all round general hardness he becomes a very difficult guy to play against.
I believe DS has singled his play out in the past as a reason he is able to roll four lines when he needs too.
There is no doubt, the CF line played some extremely valuable minutes this season.
Got that all important series opener in the SC Final, Game 1, too!
No complaints from me on how DS has used CF this season, nor the bargain basement 2 year re-up the parties have agreed to.
Good component! Good man!
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Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com) Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 3:23 pm
@Nick in 318,
There may be something to Murray’s use of Oscar, but he certainly got a more than fair look with the Kings with 88 NHL games under his belt. I was a huge Oscar fan but I’m disappointed he bolted and didn’t stick it out. That tells me volumes about his determination (or lack-thereof). Same with Holloway. Certainly money was a huge factor for both guys to play in the SEL but if you want to play in the NHL you must be here in North America. Now they they are both signed for next year it seems the chances of them coming back are slim to none anytime soon.
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Duncanz Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 3:35 pm
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com),
If I had to consider my hockey and financial future I may have done the same thing.
Holloway is another story, but. OM was up and down between the NHL and the NHL without appearing to be making any ground and there were certainly no guarantees on his future here.
He made the best decision and, despite seeing his old teammates lift the Cup, I’m sure he’ll have few regrets in the long run.
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Duncanz Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 3:36 pm
*… NHL and the AHL …
Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com) Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 4:06 pm
@Duncanz, All depends on what you want for your hockey career. If it’s about the money then yes, if it’s about playing in the big leagues, then it was a very bad decision IMO.
masterhans Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 3:43 pm
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com), where exactly is moller or holloway or even lokti going to fit in?moller and lokti have top 6 size and skill, but not enough to break into the lineup now. if pens goes obviously king slides right in his spot. moller cant beat out carter or willy so hes got no place. as for lokti no chance he can play stols type of game. face offs penalty kill physical. and what if we sign parise? what about toffoli and jordan weal and linden vey? sorry guys but they are not making this team. wow what depth dl created.
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masterhans Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 3:45 pm
@masterhans, and simone gagne too!!!
Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com) Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 4:03 pm
@masterhans,
Holloway would have fit in during the season. As for Moller, he would have been up too probably, although maybe he would have been dealt. Now that we’ve won and most everyone is coming back, there is no place for them or even Lokti really. It’s a brutal lineup to crack, but you know what? NO FAN thought Nolan and King would be called up, let alone play like they have. So anything can happen, which is why any hockey player who wants to make the NHL will stick it out. And that’s precicely what I love about what Dean has done. He’s created a proper farm where only the most dedicated, determined players will make it to the NHL and that’s who we want on the team. But of the 3 guys mentioned, I actually think Holloway could have found a spot in the lineup last year and even maybe coming out of camp this year depending on what happens with Penner.
Duncanz Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 4:43 pm
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com),
I don’t think Oscar Moller can be fairly compared to King/Nolan.
Those players brought different things to the table.
What OM needed to bring to the table, he couldn’t.
The best choice he could have made is to take his talents back to Europe.
That gives him a chance to develop … maybe also earn a better salary.
Anyway, he wasn’t making any headway here, and they probably told him that.
Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com) Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 4:57 pm
Dean certainly did not tell him that. He was pissed both guys left. Just because he wasn’t ‘making headway’ here as you say (I disagree with that by the way) doesn’t mean he couldn’t have pushed for a trade. Bolting just means he doesn’t care very much about making the NHL. Sad, but probably the most true.
Duncanz Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 5:16 pm
@Paul,
You would certainly know better than me, but is there a comparable player who after such a slow start in the NHL persisted and turned himself into a dominant player?
And by comparable, I mean a player similar in H 5’11 (listed …really?) and W 177.
As I say, I don’t think King/Nolan compare sue to their robust play.
Oscar is anything but robust.
Admittedly, he’s still 23, but unless he was going to start scoring a lot of points – wasn’t evident – he would just have been marking time by remaining here.
The NHL is far and away the greatest league, but for a Euro hockey player it certainly isn’t the be all and end all.
And that’s just as well for Oscar Moller.
When all’s said and done, he’s got to be better off over there.
Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com) Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 5:33 pm
Well, first I would not say Moller had “such a slow start” by any stretch. He played 40 games in the NHL at age 20. Not bad.
As for a comparable on the Kings, I’d go straight to Brad Richardson. After a solid start with the Avs, he backslid and ended up in the AHL for a while before being dealt to the Kings. Oscar was close. It probably would have been with another team, but I was okay with that as a fan. Now I’m just disappointed he wasn’t as determined as I thought he was. He quit, Brad didn’t and it paid off nicely for him.
masterhans Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 5:08 pm
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com), fair points about holloway and the two call-ups who’s additions to the team were invaluable, but when DL added carter, everyone was “slotted” perfectly. the whole team has a great blend of size and skill and finish. from offense to defense look at the D pairings. dewey and scuds, willi and slava, greener and marti. one tough and physical, one puck mover and skater. all our foreword lines kopi= size and skill brownie punishing hitter and skill, williams, tenacity and skill. second line richards, character, toughness, skill, carter big, elegant sniper. and penner size and skill etc. all the way through. and remember DL’s philosophy, get younger and cheaper every year without sacrificing results. what a job hes done
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Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com) Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 5:14 pm
@masterhans, Yep. No arguments at all. It’s worked out fantastic and I’m more than happy with the lineup as it stands. The only bummer with those two gone is it’s two assets Dean can’t use if he needed to, whether used in a trade or call-up.
masterhans Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 5:16 pm
@masterhans, agreed. now lets go get parise!!!
Paulhb Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 3:25 pm
@Nick in 318, I agree about Moller. I think he’s got 20+ goals a year in him. I’d love for the Kings to take another look at him.
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Lake Forest Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 3:27 pm
@Nick in 318, We also know with DS, veteran experience means nothing if you play horrible or with no effort. You are right we made those mistakes, but I would be surprised if we did it again with DS.
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Robert R Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 3:36 pm
@Nick in 318, I would understand the concern had the 4th line been a liability. But that 4th line gave incredible minutes, keeping up offensive zone pressure and frustrating the opposition’s offense. It seemed like when that line went out on the ice, we gave away nothing, no respite for the opposing team.
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What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
June 25th, 2012 at 6:35 am
@Nick in 318, He brings a lunch bucket and experience at a pretty good price. I’m pretty happy with the guy.
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When he says here does he mean So Cal?
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Duncanz Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 3:29 pm
@Lake Forest,
Remember he’s up there as he’s being interviewed.
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Two things:
1. I am so happy for Colin and very excited he’s back in that role. As I’ve said, he’s a perfect 4th line centerman IMO. Plus, he’s in his prime and can get better so there’s no reason he won’t be a force on that line for the next 2 years.
2. I still can’t wrap my head around the idea that we won the Cup. It’s so weird reading things from players like, “We proved it this year,” “I fit in good, and obviously we won,” and “now that we won, it’s proof that we have a good group of guys.”
We won the Stanley Cup, right? Just checking.
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5points Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 3:38 pm
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com), I know, it’s weird being a Kings fan and having all this success and positive energy! It’s almost like I dont know what to do because I have spent all of my 38 years suffering and complaining! Its like a close friend (losing) moved across the country….it is a good feeling though!
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Duncanz Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 3:39 pm
@Paul Armbruster (PinchSelfDaily.com),
Sometimes it’s easier to rationalize if you’re a confirmed neutral journo ….
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variable Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 3:45 pm
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com),
we did….????
when…????
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Gustavo Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 3:45 pm
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com),
Yes, we did. Stop pinching yourself, lol
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Robert R Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 3:47 pm
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com), I received my LA Stanley Cup cap and t-shirt and I proudly wear it here in Ohio, but nobody gives a damn here. No appreciation for greatness.
When I fly to San Jose this Monday, and go to the Sharks’ practice ice for a sticktime practice session, I look forward to the reaction.
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Pili Reply:
June 24th, 2012 at 4:19 am
@Robert R, Same thing here in Missouri as far as people acknowleging hockey let alone the Kings, but it really doesn’t matter. Once a day, at least, I stop and realize, and I can’t help but smile.
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no longer suffrin Reply:
June 24th, 2012 at 11:58 am
@Pili, totally agree ,so unreal that no one can slap the smile off my face since WE WON THE CUP WHOOO FN HOOOOO!!!
Cynic Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 3:52 pm
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com), You touched it and haven’t washed that hand yet! You have to ask us if it happened?
Your stanky hand should remind you that we did…..
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chip Reply:
June 24th, 2012 at 12:45 am
@Cynic, Stanky?
The cup smells like…victory.
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Kings x Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 4:24 pm
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com), All you have to do is look at yourself and the guy next to you for the experience and to know what it takes to win the cup. Let’s get the dynasty talk going.
JQ signed July 1 – 6 years 40M. Let’s do this
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Pesus Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 10:40 pm
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com),
Do what I do, watch game 6 everyday to help u remember we won the cup. (wife thinks Im crazy)
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Ales Reply:
June 24th, 2012 at 3:06 pm
@Pesus,
+1
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Couldn’t be happier for the guy. I still can’t forget listening to him sitting next to Westgarth and Clifford. I thought to myself, what a cool guy, too bad he won’t make the team. Funny how things turn out sometimes. You just never know.
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DesertKing Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 3:42 pm
@KC23,
I think I was sitting next to you and thinking the same thing.
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Listen… not all the Great Players have Offensive upside…
this team has learned how to score…. seems like they figured it out…
boy did they ever…. what a playoff run….
just because a player doesn’t put the puck in the net, doesn’t mean he is not worth getting “payed”… or for that matter … a raise…
Keeping this team in tact… maybe a trade here and there….. and getting Quick Signed for the foreseeable future… are priorities… it should be a relatively quiet albeit short off-season.
we have plenty of scoring… Carter (who’s acquisition I think was the big move that brought us the cup because it slid everyone else into a more comfortable position), Richardos, Kopi, Brown, Williams,
and secondary scoring (Nolan and King, Stoll, lewis, CF. another reason why we won the cup…. I believe… Nolan and King… huuuuge reason… I think this gives the Kings leverage to sign penner for cheap.
anyway …. that’s my take
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5points Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 3:42 pm
@Harry, Penner’s deal is for 300 pounds of pancake batter (cap hit determined by the 90 day commodity price of pancake batter on the IHOP exchange)
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TheAcaciaStrain Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 8:07 pm
@5points, I laughed out loud really hard at your comment, too funny brah…too funny
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Duncanz Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 3:42 pm
@Harry, Good take.
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KC23 Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 4:07 pm
@Harry, Good take, but I think we paid too much for too long for Stoll. The King’s should be looking very good for next season. I think Manchester is going to be looking pretty good as well.
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Duncanz Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 4:46 pm
@KC23, You’ll see next season.
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Kings x Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 4:26 pm
@Harry, Good news is that it gives is plenty of time to develop our prospects as our NHL lineup is young and deep. So when they are called up or make the team they are NHL ready and makes an impact as rookies ie voynov
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Harry Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 6:34 pm
@Kings x, yeah I agree…. I am going to watch our draft picks with some interest… its so hard to tell with these guys….. I think Pearson is going to play with a Chip on his shoulder (which is a good thing)….
also…. I think signing Quick should be Priority number 1… no offense to DP… or King… or anyone else… but Quick needs to be locked up until he draws social security…. we might want to start looking around at some back up goal tending as i am not sure Bernier will stay….. he wants to start (as well he should)…..
I think I wouldnt’t mind ray whitney either….
just saying….
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Good for you Colin…We’re happy to have you back…let’s get the “Bear” back and complete the trifecta for the future…GO Kings Go
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i meant Richards……
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RoyalPain Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 5:15 pm
@Harry,
I like Richardos. Is that what Penner called him at the rally?
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Love this guy!
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this guy’s underpaid imo
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What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
June 25th, 2012 at 6:37 am
@petemagoop, I call him a “good deal.”
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What CF brings to the team play rarely shows on the scoreboard or media stat sheet. I’m delighted he’s back for two more years.
Rich,
Any news on Dwight Kings? He’s also UFA, right?
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CB14 Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 3:51 pm
@Gustavo, King’s a RFA, not UFA.
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Gustavo Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 4:25 pm
@CB14,
RFA or UFA, King is still w/o a contract for next season. Will DL wait to see what offers King attracts to match them with a counteroffer to keep him? Or will he take the initiative and make an offer before 7/1?
He made almost $1.8 over the last 3 years. I think he has more upside potential than Penner, but I’d like to see both of them come back.
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Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com) Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 4:45 pm
@Gustavo, King has been given a qualifying offer by the Kings along with the other RFA’s sans Tweety Kaunisto. The ball is in King’s court. He can accept the offer, decline it or wait for an offer from another team. I do not believe he is eligible for arbitration. He likely was offered a two-way contract somewhere in the range of $650,000. He made a total of about $415,000 over the past 3 years plus whatever his salary was once he was called up (I think around 300,000). I’d suspect he will accept the offer sooner rather than later.
KC23 Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 4:52 pm
@Gustavo, I’m a huge Dwight King fan. I hope they sign him up for several years. He’s only going to get better.
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Gustavo Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 5:13 pm
@KC23,
Yup, I’ll take Dwight over Penner any day of the week, and twice on Sunday.
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rogiesbackup Reply:
June 24th, 2012 at 2:29 am
@Gustavo, Penner seems to score from the middle and king scores from the wings…hard to compare the two.
Real 7 Reply:
June 24th, 2012 at 2:55 am
@GaryEdwards, Dwight King has a great smile, Penner has a great personality….
there, I compared them…
Clifford. – frasier – Nolan
Killer fourth line – will only get better skill wise
All four lines are scary even without penner. 2nd line is the Philly line as long as gags is healthy
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Gustavo Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 4:35 pm
@Kings x,
2nd line
Carter – Richards – Gagne
or
Carter – Richards – King (my favorite)
or
Carter – Richards – Penner
Regardless of the line, I see Gagne as an injury liability. He played marginal minutes in the SC series and did not produce scoring. I’m happy for him that his name is going to be in the Cup, but I wish he’d call it quits. His noggin has had enough punishment. His hockey IQ is a treasure but his body no longer matches it. Gagne could land a coaching job anywhere.
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Diego Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 5:07 pm
@Gustavo,
And he could lose his “Hockey IQ” and more if his melon keeps getting Gallagher’d, time to move behind the bench.
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Inglewoodkings Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 5:43 pm
@Gustavo, He would be a great coach. would love to keep him around but as you said it is a liability.
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TiredOfIt Reply:
June 24th, 2012 at 12:03 am
@Gustavo, I think Gagne calls it quits…….
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Penner is going to be a long shot to get resigned IMO. It’s not just salary, it’s conditioning. He should go to gary Roberts camp as a condition for resigning. 1 year 2M
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Kings x Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 4:29 pm
@Kings x, Impact in the playoffs, detriment for a long season
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TheAcaciaStrain Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 8:10 pm
@Kings x, I think the CBA says that teams can’t set rules like that for players to work our in the offseason
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Keeping our current roster intact is the key to many more years of winning, and the slogan at the Riverside Casino in Laughlin is……. “winning is everything”
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TiredOfIt Reply:
June 24th, 2012 at 12:02 am
@408kingsfan, I love that place….been going there since I was 21…before the Belle……before the bridge…….before the discovery of dirt it feels like…Go Kings Go
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wrt Penner only playing well in the playoffs… I think the second half of the season Penner was solid.Between a bad wrist,a bad marriage to a groupie,and trying to play under TM’s system,Penner had no way to go but up….would love to see him back and playing under DS for the whole season!!!!
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408kingsfan Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 5:11 pm
@neil, I agree, and for the record I was without a doubt the biggest Penner critic this blog has ever seen
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Duncanz Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 5:20 pm
@408kingsfan,
Is that the reason that you “took so much time off”?
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408kingsfan Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 5:25 pm
@Duncanz, how you been Duncanz?? ha ha
goldielocks Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 5:16 pm
@neil,
I also believe he can bring much more to the table once all the problems are cleared if only he can stay in shape.
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Great move! Also stolls move was brilliant. He is a top 6 IMO he is only 30 which means he is probably in his prime right now and we will get him during his best years. He can easily move to the second line if there was, god forbid, and injury.
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I admire Fraser’s work ethic. Happy he’s back.
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It’s true the Kings are the champions. But staying at the current state … that I’m not sure is the good idea cause many other teams are upgrading significantly. If Nash goes to the Rangers, Parise goes to the Flyers, and Suter goes to the Penguins … east is kinda scary.
And think about first 10 teams chose D-man in the draft. Every team will be more balanced out in terms of defense and offense. Someone said NHL is the league of copycat. The Kings showed how it’s done, and other teams are following their steps. It’s going to be harder if we won’t upgrade also IMO.
I like Fraser deal btw.
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goldielocks Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 5:42 pm
@goldielocks,
8 of first 10 teams … eh
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Osaka Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 6:22 pm
@goldielocks, Good defense is a system, not one player. Those kids drafted won’t play for 3 or 4 years. The West is still stronger than the East. The Kings are still one of the youngest teams in the league, they will continue to get better for years. Have DD, Voynov, King, Nolan, Lewis…… reached their full potential? Have Brown, Carter, Kopi, Richards….. played a full season of consistent hockey together? If left intact the Kings will be a force for years.
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Osaka Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 6:23 pm
@Osaka, I forgot about Clifford, the guy will be a force in this league.
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goldielocks Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 8:22 pm
@Osaka,
Yea, there are still rooms to improve, and I’m not saying those draftees are going to make immediate impact. What worries me is the derection where the other teams are heading to. They are trading a forward player for a defenseman. Obviously, they are trying to strengthen the back end. If there’s something that can be done to upgrade the team, I say go for it.
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BringBackButhchGoring Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 10:48 pm
@goldielocks, Not responding to you directly but I’d say the east is stronger than the west overall. You have to remember that Pittsburg didn’t have Crosby and a lot of the stronger teams (Bruins, Philly, Rangers) all peaked at the wrong time. Regarding the Toronto – Philly trade, obviously Toronto is trading a defenseman for a forward so not sure the direction is all to defense. That said, Luke Schenn is a cornerstone player and JVR is not so I would say Philly got the better end although both are filling a need. Shocked yesterday that Philly of all people did not congratulate the Kings. That’s a pretty bush league move.
Duncanz Reply:
June 24th, 2012 at 12:46 pm
@BringBackButchGoring,
I think PH was totally preoccupied with the hostile reception from the Pitt crowd.
Not that it’s a genuine excuse, but he looked a little rattled, and his initial comment, something like, “I was going to thank Pittsburgh for the warm hospitality …” LOL.
Did you see the brilliant Kings-related anti-Flyers sign the “Hulk Hogan” held up as PH took the stage?
Most hilarious part of Draft Weekend by far!!!
Ha ha ha!
HockeyNerd Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 7:43 pm
@goldielocks, If they all go to the east that’s absolutely fine and dandy with me. We only have to beat ONE east team to win the cup, not 4.
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Gustavo Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 9:00 pm
@goldielocks,
If those players go where you predict the Rangers still suck defensively and the Flyers still suck defensively and in goal. Pittsburgh is the only to worry about, but if they play like they did in the playoffs, and we play like we did in the playoff, we’ll steamroll them.
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TiredOfIt Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 11:58 pm
@goldielocks, I don’t think ANY team has the balance we have……or the talent…….IMO
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Dustin Penner on Twitter yesterday congratulating Tanner Pearson.
Congrats TP(wild guess @ ur nickname..ha) @tannerpearson14. Based on your stats it seems your hands are as soft as cha..cha..charmin #ultra
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Admired Frasers passion on the hawks. Wasnt too happy when he signed last year with all the smyth bs going on. What a difference a year makes. good sign. welcome back
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Luke schenn to philly for JVR, WOW Philly will be scary if they get solider D.
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Don’t know if this has already posted.
Meet @LAKings Captain @DustinBrown23 at Sport Chalet #Torrance June 26. The first 300 fans are guaranteed an autograph!
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Kopi Bryant Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 5:54 pm
@goldielocks, Shhhhhhh!….. lol
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Kenny Albert and Erick Karros on Fox Saturday Baseball giving the Kings props on their championship run. The acknowledgements keep on coming, love it! Actually Karros sat 2 rows behind me during game 4 of the SCF and I looked back and asked him if all of a sudden he’s a Kings fan and he just told me that he jumped on the bandwagon. You’re not the only one EK.
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DesertKing Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 6:29 pm
@Kopi Bryant,
Seeing a lot of Kings gear here at the Angel game. Haven’t seen any Duck gear though…….
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Kopi Bryant Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 6:38 pm
@DesertKing, Yeah they showed some fans with Kings gear on the telecast.
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Mr. Hammond, to your knowledge will the Kings take a legitimate shot at Parise? Gut feeling says DL is waiting on Penner to see if he can score Zach.
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I think CF, Richardson and Nolan is the best 4th line in the NHL.
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I can’t point out what Colin adds to the line – up, but the team is certainly more effective with him on.
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HockeyNerd Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 7:47 pm
@rogiesbackup, He makes very few mistakes and works hard. That’s a perfect 4th liner.
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Mars Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 8:13 pm
@HockeyNerd, Dont forget his in your face intensity, he always drove hard, fought it behind the net and would get right up in the crease and let everyone know he was there. LOVED IT!
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Duncanz Reply:
June 24th, 2012 at 12:50 pm
@rogiesbackup, Plays well at both ends of the ice!
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What a year it has been for Fraser! Got a job in LA, had a solid season, scored the first goal in the SCF, hoisted the Cup, signed a new two-year deal and best of all… his son Calder received a clean bill of health. Life must be good in the Fraser home these days. Good for him – Colin is a class act.
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Go Kings Go!
Good to have same guys coming back next
season
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Say what you want about ryan smyth. An entire team doesn’t go out on to the ice with fake mullts if they don’t like a guy if he wasnt ateam guy. But I lost respect for him taking his trade request public. That hurts kings
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Fraser, Keep up that high intensity in your face, in the crease, strong along the boards plays you were doing in the playoffs. I LOVED IT!
I am happy you found a good home and love it here.
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Meet Brown, Baily and the ice crew at Sport Chalet in Torrance Tuesday.
http://www.facebook.com/events/411838755534448/
I am going to be there! (got hosed at Living Spaces in VN) Plus 5 mins from home.
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Why didn’t anyone want this guy?
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Gustavo Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 10:13 pm
@Subby,
He was hurt. Foot injury. DL took him in. He got fixed, got a fair chance to make the team and made the best of it. Now he’s loyal to the LAK
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luc20rules Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 10:19 pm
@Subby, Injury history, and he is a 4th liner. Very few teams look to add vets to the 4th line especially with the current salary cap. It is a lot easier to call up younger players and tell yourself they only play 10 or fewer minutes a game, kids need experience, and it helps the cap with salaries around league minimum. We ended up utilizing the 4th line by rolling all 4 lines pretty evenly allowing the all players to go all out not having to worry about not getting a chance to catch their breath.
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luc20rules Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 10:20 pm
@luc20rules, We wanted something back, but mainly wanted to grant Smyth’s request and dump his 6.4 mil/yr cap hit.
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SDGolfer Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 11:12 pm
@Subby, because people think they’re smarter thank the hockey professionals
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SDGolfer Reply:
June 23rd, 2012 at 11:12 pm
@SDGolfer, than*
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Willie Mitchell was drafted 16 yrs. ago….this is his story….pretty neat
http://kings.nhl.com/club/news.htm?id=635485&cmpid=rss-lew
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just imagine if ryan smyth didnt want out good thing he did proved we didnt need him to do it.
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I’m not the sharpest hammer in the fridge but am I the only one that thinks this team can repeat? I don’t know much about behind the scenes back room player deals and UFA’s and RFA’s and cap space and all that….but I DO know that no team in the NHL has our talent level and is as deep as we are. The only one that would be close…IF they got Parise is Philly…and their goaltending is now questionable…so….I really like our team “this” year for this year. Can anyone say DYNASTY? GO KINGS GO….FOREVER!!!!!!!
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rumpa#19 Reply:
June 24th, 2012 at 9:36 am
@TiredOfIt, You know they added Luke Schenn to there D, and gave up JVR. Much more balanced team now. They still have tons of talent up front, but were not strong on D. That should fill the Prongner hole nicely, and for four more years.
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good to see fraser staying, such a hard worker, keep it goin man
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Fraser is a good fit for the team in his role on the 4th line. Rarely did you see that line make a costly mistake or take a bad penalty. When DS found the confidence to roll four lines, this team went to the next level towards the latter half of the season and, obviously, during the playoffs.
Happy to see him back.
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Life is sooo much better when your on top. Good to see that Stoll and Frazier signed. We should be much better record wise next season. Hopefully the Owners and Players get together and get an agreement signed. I feel this is the number one issue that has to be dealt with. No body seems to think that a work stoppage is going to happen, but with pro sports anything can happen. I think the season should be shorten to 54 games. 82 are to many. I know the more games you play the more money is made, but 82 games plus playoffs is a bit much. Here’s to the Cup coming to Salt Lake :LEWIS: and to signing Penner. Also good for Terry Murray he did much in helping build this team he deserves a ring. Is it me or does it seem as if this summer is almost over. Won’t be long until Hockey Fest 12.
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Real 7 Reply:
June 24th, 2012 at 1:39 am
@King Carlos of Salt Lake, a lot of teams would lose big $$$ with a 54 game schedule….
only the wealthiest and most successful would survive….it’s an unfortunate fact-of-life for pro sports in general, and hockey in particular….the NHL went from 70 to 74 games in the 1967 expansion, and later to 80 games….many owners ALWAYS complained that they couldn’t make a profit and were actually losing money, so it was “play more games”…
btw this site brings up the roster and records for any team, any year….I’ve traced the Kings back to the beginning….
http://www.hockey-reference.com/teams/LAK/1968.html
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Real 7 Reply:
June 24th, 2012 at 2:11 am
@Real 7, team history….the Montreal Canadiens are by far the most successful franchise in NHL history, according to their won-and-lost record….the Flyers are easily the most successful post-expansion….
http://www.hockey-reference.com/teams/
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DesertKing Reply:
June 24th, 2012 at 7:21 am
@King Charles of Salt Lake,
Of all major sports, the NHL is the only one who relies on ticket sales and attendance as its primary generator of revenue. Sorry, but reducing to 54the games would destroy the sport due to loss of revenue and interest. The NHL would quickly be forgotten in our busy society since its season would be so short.
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Clint mentioned a Kings players named Kyosti something….the only Kyosti I could find was a team member in ’91-’92….he scored one goal and had this beautiful assist….the only points he recorded in his NHL career….anybody remember this?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=78z_MGlN7tE
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DodgerDog Reply:
June 24th, 2012 at 10:27 am
@Real 7, I remember him. Always thought he had speed and could skate. Wondered why he couldn’t stick- Though those teams had a lot of offensive skill on them. I think I saw him play an exhibition game in Dallas.
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I agree 100% with Duncanz’ assessment of Frazier. It’s nearly impossible to judge soemone’s contributions to a team by merely looking at that player. Hockey is all about chemistry and combinations. It’s sort of like admiring a jigsaw puzzle piece by it’s shape, ignoring the fact that it doesn’t fit. That’s also the reason I hope Penns is back. He brings what we need when he brings it. His intensity improved before the playoffs began; in fact not too long after Sutter took over.
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DesertKing Reply:
June 24th, 2012 at 7:26 am
@Pili,
You made some great points, especially about chemistry. Therr is a reason why WM resigned mid-season for the same amount of money and the Fraser and Stoll resigned right after the season ended. DL has created a team and a climate where players want to be and play. This a “winning ” environment supported by the owners, management, coaches and the players. They have all drank the kool-aid. It is really beautiful to see.
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KingsGM2B Reply:
June 24th, 2012 at 8:32 am
@DesertKing, Except Doughty … holdout? Hopefully he remembers what all the guys are doing to allow him to have that contract and stay with the team. Without the sacrifices in money on the parts of all the guys (even going back to Quick 1.8 per) he doesn’t fit in with a 7 mill per cap hit.
They all stay humble this team can win for a loooooooooong time. Room must be made for JQ at 6 mill per for a long time. I’m thinking Scuderi will be gone after this season, so a dman with a reasonable cap hit will be needed next year. Thinking thats when Bernier gets traded as his salary will also be going up a bit.
DL has built this properly. I’m really impressed actually. I thought he was gonna be looking for a new job by now. Man it feels good to win. Everything seems to take care of itself when you win. Keep it up Boyz!
[Reply]
KingsGM2B Reply:
June 24th, 2012 at 8:33 am
@KingsGM2B, (clarification) Scuderi gone after the 12-13 season, so a dman needed the season after that
luc20rules Reply:
June 24th, 2012 at 10:10 am
@KingsGM2B, Scuderi gone after his contract expires 2012-13? I think for all the reasons Pili stated above the last thing you would want to do is mess with the D-Corps. If we do need to fill that position DL has stocked the shelves in D & G positions. Drewiske is NHL ready he proved it when Doughty/Greene/Mitchell has been injured. Scuds is a key piece to this D-Corps and has always been a stablizing force for DD. While I hope DD’s maturity through this year means he can maybe help groom one of our many young D-men into the NHL. DD’s off ice problems need to be addressed. I would think now he will be more careful, although I think he did nothing wrong he will need to realize people are looking to take advantage of his wealth. Zatoff & Jones are ready to be backup goalies both having 1 year starting at Manchester.
Off topic, but apparently it’s been reported that Lubo may stay in Slovakia or play in the KHL.I guess he’d rather play in Europe for any other team than play in the NHL with the New York Islanders.
http://www.islanderspointblank.com/2012/06/is-newly-acquired-lubomir-visnovsky-going-to-stay-in-europe/
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puck73 Reply:
June 24th, 2012 at 9:20 am
@JunkyDare, Wow, Anaheim is just having a great off season arent they? First, Justin Schultz doesnt want to sign with them, then Bobby Ryan wants out because he is sick and tired of hearing his name in trade rumors over the last 2 seasons, and now Lubo might night report to the Islanders, which would cancel their trade!
Way to go Mighty Dork Heads!
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Lake Forest Reply:
June 24th, 2012 at 9:42 am
@puck73, it says that the trade was contingent on lub playing in NY
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Lake Forest Reply:
June 24th, 2012 at 9:43 am
@Lake Forest, *WASN’T
DesertKing Reply:
June 24th, 2012 at 9:59 am
@puck73,
Cant wait for that first Kings /Dorks game in Anabeim. The crowd will be 80% Kings fans.
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vplaza Reply:
June 24th, 2012 at 10:04 am
@DesertKing,
You’re giving their fans more credit, I think.
vplaza Reply:
June 24th, 2012 at 10:02 am
@JunkyDare,
I guess he’s ot taking his baking talents to NY after all. Great offseason so far for the Quacks! Go Quack Go!
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vplaza Reply:
June 24th, 2012 at 10:05 am
@vplaza,
“not taking”
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1 year ago tomorrow is when Rich announced Ryan Smythes want to go to Edmonton. We also talk about the Mike Richards trade.
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DesertKing Reply:
June 24th, 2012 at 9:50 am
@Lake Forest,
They came a long way in the last year.
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wow, the Kings look like a stable stable compared to others….and I must say I want Penner back…for his intangibles and there is no way he would allow himself to perform so poorly as last season..
he has pride and is a champion again who probably learned his lessons..he is single now and in a good position to make himself the best player he can be in a great system with great players and best locker-room dynamics in the league..(in my opinion, of course).
Take care of the wrist and work your ass off….I think the spotlight he had on him during the playoffs probably lit a fire under the guy…I am a firm believer in him and his posibilities under Sutter.
[Reply]
KingsFan on EastCoastTime Reply:
June 24th, 2012 at 9:50 am
@Jack, Thanks for saying this so eloquently. Please keep PENNER!
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luc20rules Reply:
June 24th, 2012 at 10:26 am
@Jack, Don’t forget many many Kings Fans just love to complain. I suppose after 45 years, even after the Championship that may be a tough thing to break.I think Penner has the personality that can handle being the scapegoat, saving most of the other players from the blogs wrath. It always cracks me up how people still talk about the Kings needing a 40+ goal scorer for the Kings. The Kings with DS is not designed for a 40+ goal scorer. Reasons in DS’s system it is D first, DS rolls 4 lines that means no forward will get 25+ mins/game over the season(which 40+ goal scorers need minutes), best scorers used on the PK, also if the PP goes stale 3rd or 4th line guys are sent into the PP(40+ G guys need extra PP time). As far as before that 40+ goals in TM’s system, please do I need to give reasons.
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Duncanz Reply:
June 24th, 2012 at 1:25 pm
@luc20rules,
Intra-team Parity!
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Doesnt get much better. Ridinv the v-twin wearing Stanley Cup gear, having a slush at the Sonic in Yucca Valley and talking Kings hockey. Yep, its a great day so far
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vplaza Reply:
June 24th, 2012 at 10:04 am
@DesertKing,
Agreed. Times are great in the Kingdom. The travel yesterday wasn’t perfect (late luggage), but happy to be restin’ on vacation with my Stanley Cup Champions shirt and hat that arrived the day before we left.
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I’m glad that Fraser re-signed. He played tough all season. He’s a great fit on the fourth line.
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I have question for RH and the loyal fan base. When the Angels won the World Series in 2002, squeaking in as a wild card, and then winning it all, there were some similarities with this year’s Kings team. Getting in as an 8, and then taking the Cup. After winning it all in 2002, it felt like the Angels have created an atmosphere of winning, expecting to win, and for the most part doing it with a few West Championships, and a couple of trips to the ALDS. Definitely a totally different atmosphere compared to the last 4 decades prior.
For RH, and the rest of you Kings fans do you think Dean, Sutter, and the group of guys we have here have climbed that mountain in creating an atmosphere of expecting to win, having that belief and confidence so that year in year out they will be not only a playoff team but a contender? I know it may take a few years for the story to play out, but I get the sense that there is an organization wide commitment to it, and I for one like what I see, and hope it plays out that way.
[Reply]
luc20rules Reply:
June 24th, 2012 at 10:48 am
@KC, Angels were not a young team, didn’t have MLB ready depth in their farm teams or bench for that matter, and lost 20% of the team to free agency the next year. So that comparison is lost with just these facts. I know for those that are not just maniacs like me studying the Kings team 24/7 the depth at Manchester is not known. We probably have 2 goalies that are NHL 2nd string ready Zatoff & Jones, and Burube & Carter are nice prospects. On D at Manchester are Hickey, Muzzin(15 or so NHL games didn’t look out of place), Desularies on most teams would have been given a shot at the NHL # 6 spot. While Mullen & Kolimatis are good prospects. Up front Manchester has skilled top 6 type player at Andy Andreoff-LW, Cs Loktionov & Toffoli, Vey-RW. While Azevedo, Elkins, Weal, Kozun, Kitsyn & Czarnik are interesting prospeccts with potential. Bottom 6 guys are primarily Cliche & Clune. There are other players in Juniors & Europe that the Kings have rights, but are not available or ready for next year.
[Reply]
Jon G Reply:
June 24th, 2012 at 10:55 am
@KC, I think we’re set up to be a contender for the next several years, and I’ve felt that way ever since the Richards trade last summer. This assumes we re-sign Quick, of course.
There is too much parity in the league to call any team a heavy favorite, but I think we’re one of a half-dozen teams that should have a legitimate chance of winning each year.
[Reply]
Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com) Reply:
June 24th, 2012 at 11:59 am
@KC, Without question, yes.
[Reply]
don’t know if anyone has seen this
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YClqPNHW5LY&feature=g-vrec
it’s a pregame interview with Slava Voynov, even though it seems like he speaks little English, seems to be a funny guy.
[Reply]
Hs anybody ever stopped to thank their lucky stars that BEST thing to happen over this amazing journey to the top was when the Kings did NOT sign Kova
[Reply]
The Gondor Reply:
June 24th, 2012 at 11:50 am
@The Gondor, Above should have read – aren’t we glad that we did NOT sign Kovalchuk last year? I don’t think the Kings would have had the cap room, the same roster players, the team chemistry, (maybe the coaching change would not have happened?), etc.
The sequence of events happened just perfectly the way they did (getting Richards & Carter, having Smyth want out, TM out & DS in, etc.) and I wonder now how it might have turned out differently if certain things had happened differently.
NJ is in a hell of a hole financially, much of which is thanks to that signing.
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
June 24th, 2012 at 1:32 pm
@The Gondor,
I personally am devastated.
We have no chance of a Stanley Cup now.
Why do all of those savvy, savvy UFAs never want to sign for us?!
[Reply]