Dustin Penner has re-signed with the Kings on a one-year contract worth $3.25 million, meaning the Kings have the ability to return every piece of their Stanley Cup championship team. The re-signing of Penner, who made $4.25 million last season, still leaves the Kings some salary-cap room next season — more than $8 million — to make an addition, and the one-year contract leaves them flexibility in the following years.
As noted in the previous post, the Kings did lose goalie prospect Jeff Zatkoff, who signed a two-year, two-way contract with Pittsburgh. That wasn’t unexpected, as the Kings have been higher on Martin Jones as a possible future NHL goalie. Zatkoff, a goalie drafted in the third round by the Kings in 2006, spent the last three seasons in Manchester of the AHL and never played a game for the Kings. The Kings’ other unrestricted free agents today are Scott Parse, Patrick Mullen, Trent Hunter and Ray Kaunisto. It wouldn’t be surprising to see a team pick up Parse or Mullen, who is an under-the-radar defensive prospect.
@ Twitter….
Rich Hammond @lakingsinsider
As first from @Real_ESPNLeBrun and @reallisa, Dustin Penner returns to Kings for one year, $3.25 million. Cup champions can return intact.
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Real 7 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 12:51 pm
@Real 7, Pens, let’s do it again!!
https://p.twimg.com/AwqxHAaCIAIV5R0.jpg
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Real 7 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 12:53 pm
@Real 7, as you know, this is #1 on my wishlist….
http://nhl.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/p13153506dt.jpg
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LA_1968 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:10 pm
@Real 7, Real nice. Not sure about the brass buttons though.
Gustavo Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:32 pm
@Real 7,
Very nice!!!
pitty Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:05 pm
@Real 7, Would have rather them make a run at Doan. Don’t know how much motivation Penner has left. Doan would do anything to get another crack at the cup. We shall see, staying the same is not always best. As they say either your getting better or your getting worse.
Rich it’s hard to say how much cap space they will have next year with the new CBA and how dramatic the cap increases have been. They may have more than $8 million
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AZ King Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:08 pm
@pitty,
Doan will never leave PHX.
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OneTimer Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:46 pm
@AZ King,
This. And if he ever did- would never (ever) be for the Kings.
Eric Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:51 pm
@pitty,
I was reading somewhere that Doan wants a 4 to 5 year deal. Can’t remeber the website. No way if that’s true.
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Simnsez Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:01 pm
@pitty, Pens will have plenty to motivate him. Like proving he really has returned to form he had the last month of the regular season and the playoffs. He will also want to set himself up for another larger deal next time. Remember he has the bad wrist that needs surgery.
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kingsfan Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:57 pm
@Real 7, I do not know about the rest of the King fans out there but I want Brayden Schenn back. The Flyers want Nash, let get in a three way trade with them we have Jonathan Bernier and way to many players on the roster plus Hickey want to be traded. If you could get back Schenn and a first round pick that would be excellent. anyone else feel the same?
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562kevin Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 3:09 pm
@kingsfan, The flyers would never let that happen
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letswinthecup2012 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 3:19 pm
@kingsfan, sounds alright to me.. but how would schenn feel coming back to the team that let him go last year??
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DEH Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 4:28 pm
@kingsfan, Well the Flyers traded for his brother for a reason… not happening my friend.
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This is great. I’ve completely turned around in regards to Penner. I just hope he works on his conditioning so he can have a much better showing in the regular season.
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Shuchuk Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 12:59 pm
@SaveByQuick, I really hope the “playoff” Penner shows up, he has so much natural ability. That GWG vs PHX was worth $3 million alone
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Good for Penner, and good for the team. One season means he gets a chance to proe the playoffs weren’t a fluke, and if he doesn’t, this doesn’t impact the Kings chances at re-signing some of the guys who will be due new contracts in the next few years (Brown, Kopitar, etc).
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Shuchuk Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:00 pm
@KingMe20, Yup. Win-win.
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Congrats to Penner and the Kings. Great news.
The OT WCF Series winner in Phoenix was worth it alone.
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Dwight King doesn’t have a contract yet
With Gange and Penner back is there room for him?
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KingMe20 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 12:36 pm
@hockeynerd,
Gagne is kind of the wild card. When healthy, he’s great. I have a hard time seeing him in the fourth line at his salary, but it could happen.
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Marc Nathan Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 12:40 pm
@KingMe20, LOL, that’s a rather liberal use of the word “GREAT.” At times in his career he’s been very good and effective. GREAT I’ll reserve for players like Kopitar, and Quick.
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KingMe20 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:19 pm
@Marc Nathan,
Fair point.
Andrew Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:26 pm
@Marc Nathan, he was leading the team in goals and points when he went down.
King$ Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 12:41 pm
@hockeynerd,
For sure there’s room. He’s restricted and super young, so they could probably get away with offering the kid a mil a year or something to see how this season goes. We technically still have $8M in cap space (capgeek)
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hockeynerd Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 12:49 pm
@King$, Oh no doubt I think King will sign being restricted and all. but where is he going to play? I would hate him sent Manchester, I’d love to see a full season of King Stoll Lewy, don’t see Gange playing 4th line .. someone will be the odd man out just hope it isn’t own of the two rookie call ups and their too young to sit out.
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LA_1968 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 12:50 pm
@hockeynerd, Seems like a lot of RFA’s are still unsigned but still… they 99% re-sign to same team. Really you got all summer on those.
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HockeyNerd Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 12:51 pm
@hockeynerd, Who is this forward named Gange?
Disclaimer: I am not you (note use of Capital letters)
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rontheking Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 12:56 pm
@HockeyNerd,
Good question…I’ve heard a lot of people are really high on him….
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letswinthecup2012 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 3:22 pm
@HockeyNerd, i believe it is a river in india…
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HockeyNerd Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:30 pm
@hockeynerd, Yes. In SCFs games 4 thru 6 we had Penner and Gagne back and there was room for him.
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It’s interesting that Penner was willing to accept a one year deal. Seems like he really wants to stay with the Kings. That’s interesting, because I don’t think he was happy at all with the trade when it first happened. He’s got another ‘contract year’ to show that he belongs. What is interesting now is what happens on the left side with Penner and Gagne. Looks like one of the call up rookies will be sitting a lot this year or going back to manchester, barring injury.
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gmo Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 12:36 pm
@Donald_S,
he really wanted to be back, he wants to be part of a winning team. glad to see him put his pride aside. prove everyone wrong again PENS
GO KINGS GO
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KingMe20 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 12:37 pm
@Donald_S,
He said after the Final that he wanted a chance to defend the Cup because he didn’t get to do that with Anaheim, and he wants to see what it’s like.
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The Gondor Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 12:53 pm
@Donald_S, I’m sure about two weeks into the season, Gagne will go on the DL and we can call up Nolan.
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HockeyNerd Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:08 pm
@Donald_S, Gagne is far from certain to come back. Besides there is no such thing as barring injury. We will have injury.
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Looks like Penner is a team player! COOOL
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Just right. 1 year is perfect.
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tory17 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 12:53 pm
@LB,
Yeah but 3.25M i think is alittle to much,maybe 2.5M would have been better
but glad he is back,hope he has something to prove
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TheAcaciaStrain Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:34 pm
@tory17, that’s almost a 50% paycut, i don’t think penner would want to do that
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KC23 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 6:43 pm
@tory17, We have plenty of room in the CAP for this year and a very rich owner. There is nothing wrong with that price imho.
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Nikko Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 8:52 pm
@KC23, exactly. lol why is LB fretting about $750k?
LB Reply:
July 2nd, 2012 at 10:16 am
@KC23, wasn’t me, it was Tory17 in his response.
GREAT JOB DL!!!!
we have a great chance of repeating, great day to be a LA KINGS FAN
players will want to come to LA now at discounted prices to win championships
GO KINGS GO
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BringbackButchGoring Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 12:37 pm
@gmo, I’m not sure 3 million plus for a guy that scored 18 goals in a season and a half is that much of a discount, but the term is and means that Penner is not going to be able to lay back and relax, not that he had much of a chance of that with DS as coach anyway lol
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What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 12:42 pm
@BringbackButchGoring, Yeah, I was thinking more like $2.5M.
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red49er Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 12:51 pm
@What’s the frequency, Kenneth?, for us its just numbers but for him it is 1 MILLION dollars less than a year ago. Win a cup and take a %25 pay cut? I think its deserved but i also think it was probably tough for him to swallow.
What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 12:58 pm
He was a zombie for more than a season, which is why the pay cut should have been steeper. Here in the real world, I probably make less than half of what I once did, in real dollars (accounting for inflation.) Lots of people do.
KC23 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 6:44 pm
@What’s the frequency, Kenneth?, For one year the price doesn’t really matter. We have plaenty of cap space this year.
LA_1968 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 12:53 pm
@BringbackButchGoring, Agree with you about the benefit that Penner is getting another last year type deal where proving himself will be a factor.
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Shuchuk Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:04 pm
@LA_1968, Penner getting $3.25 makes the Fraser signing ($.875) look like an even bigger bargain. Wow.
BringbackButchGoring Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:09 pm
@LA_1968, It’s crazy but Penner is still getting a premium based upon potential. No other 11 goal scorers last season are going to get a 3.25 million a year deal. Anyway, Penner seems like a pretty likable guy in the clubhouse and Penner probably knows by now that DS isn’t going to put up with taking shifts off next year.
Kenny44 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:21 pm
@BringbackButchGoring,
other than Stoll, you mean.
Gary Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:53 pm
@BringbackButchGoring, The discount was the one year. Penner could have got multi year deal somewhere eles. So Lombardi gave a little more and he signed for one year. Good deal!
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KC23 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 6:45 pm
@Gary, Bingo.
Geekonomist Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 5:59 pm
@BringbackButchGoring, The price is not a reflection on his value from a production standpoint, but on what it would take to keep him here when he could make more money elsewhere. With a one year contract, we keep his potential suitors at bay and it doesn’t hurt our salary situation at all. There’s not really a downside.
You don’t pay for production, though in theory there should be a strong correlation. Every free agent is in a unique position with different priorities and the goal is to pay just enough to give them what they want (money, contract length, chance at the Cup, desirable city to live in, etc.) while getting a player you want in the role you want him.
It took a little over $3 million in this case, but the Kings needed someone in that spot, so we paid a premium from a production standpoint and he wanted to stay, so he left money on the table. I think this is a perfect business deal, a real win/win.
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Great news! I’m happy for him and for us as well! I have a feeling a full season with Richie and Carts is going to really elevate his game to another level
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petemagoop Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 5:34 pm
@KindSir, I’d take back to where it was in EDM
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wait who got Eathan Morau or whatever u spell his name lol
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friarking Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 12:40 pm
@KingsFanFTW, He retired. He’s working with MTL now
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KingsFanFTW Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 12:59 pm
@friarking, he did wow didnt know that but thanks
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friarking Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:02 pm
@KingsFanFTW, He did an interview with MayorsManor a few days ago. Says he’s got no hard feelings about the way LA handled his situation.
gmo Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 12:41 pm
@KingsFanFTW,
you mean ethan moreau? oh he is an ex KINGS player lol
go kings go
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Marc Nathan Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 12:41 pm
@KingsFanFTW, Moreau retired and is now a scout for Montreal.
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KingsFanFTW Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 12:58 pm
@Marc Nathan, oh thanks lol
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Like it.
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I’m wondering who’s behind Martin Jones now, since there’s a possibility of having to bring Jones up if…um…something happens (like an offer for Bernier that’s too good to pass up.)
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KingsFanFTW Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 12:40 pm
@What’s the frequency, Kenneth?, Gibson i guess but who knows
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KC23 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 6:47 pm
@KingsFanFTW, Doubt Gibson is ready for the AHL yet, but who knows?
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Rich Hammond Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 12:41 pm
Kings think J.F. Berube is ready for Manchester.
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LA_1968 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 12:58 pm
@Rich Hammond, Man that guy is skinny. 6-1, 174.
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What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:07 pm
@Rich Hammond, thanks!
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kkgizmo Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 12:43 pm
Erube@What’s the frequency, Kenneth?, Berube. Started off a bit rusty in Ontario this year, but got back into the swing of things and played really well for the second half.
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Now that’s the way to do it Deano.
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Only problem is that this takes us out of the running for Parise completely which sucks, but we’ll see if we try to improve upon the roster at all…would have been nice to see Parise in a Kings uniform for years to come.
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KingsFanFTW Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 12:41 pm
@OCKingsFan, not enough room for him so yea i think Dean already play his cards so pretty much done but who knows
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Marc Nathan Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 12:42 pm
@OCKingsFan, he’s gonna stay east… I’m sure DL could have made a competitive offer, but all things being equal he’s a fit in the East and he knows it.
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What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 12:45 pm
@OCKingsFan, As I got pummeled with fruit from Devil’s fans for saying, I’m not sure why the Kings would be after him for that kind of money after completely shutting him down in the finals. What’s he gonna be good for at that price besides breaking up a perfectly good team in a year?
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PaulHB Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 12:57 pm
@What’s the frequency, Kenneth?, I have to agree that I believe Parise is a bit overrated. Reports are he wants a $12M signing bonus this year and another $12M bonus on July 1, 2013, and that doesn’t even take his salary into consideration. What does he think this is? The NBA? Is his middle name Ilya? Just crazy in my opinion.
It sounds like he’s going to sign in Pittsburgh, so he should go great with Sidney Crybaby and friends. Not going to lose a second of sleep if he doesn’t land in LA. Yes, I have advocated in other posts for the Kings to take a shot at him or Nash, but that’s more to drive up the price or completely keep them away from a division / conference rival then it is to benefit the Kings. Addition by subtraction….
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What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:01 pm
@PaulHB, …just a bit overrated.
PW Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 12:48 pm
@OCKingsFan, Parise wont sign in LA anyways. Maybe if he was a lot older looking for a cup. After the last 2 two years and getting the shaft by the top free agents, I say screw them. Parise would be 4th or 5th in line to be a captain which may or may not sit well with him. Keep the cap room and roll with what we have. Next offseason isn’t going to a cheap.
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gmo Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 12:50 pm
@OCKingsFan,
who needs parise? why ? we dont need to over pay for him…. we wont the cup without him
i like our chances with the team we have
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plywood Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 12:52 pm
@OCKingsFan, NHl reported that Suter is being offered 100 million for 13 years. What kind of money do you think Parise will get? Not worth giving up all your cash for one player.
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CB14 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 12:53 pm
@OCKingsFan, How does it take us out of the running for Parise? We’ve still got 8 million in cap space, plus DB could always move to R.W.
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KC23 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 6:48 pm
@OCKingsFan, We were never in the running for Parise. Word is that Philly has offerened him over a $100 mil deal front loaded to play him like 26mil in 13 months.
We couldn’t touch Parise. No way, no how.
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Not a Penner fan, but Ok with this considering the alternatives. I still have hope that a trade involving Bernier and others (maybe Penner) may still net us an upgrade at LW.
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Not the hometown discount I was hoping for but it’s only a one year deal. The band is back together and that’s good news. I don’t see the Kings signing another high profile UFA so I think this is good. I hope Pancakes takes his conditioning to another level and comes in with a winning attitude. Can’t wait for next year.
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Still waiting on King.
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What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 12:47 pm
I’m guessing no other GM is willing to play chicken with Deano, but I’d still like to see him signed soon.
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The injury bug will probably visit the kings at some point its nice to see we have retained our depth and versatility
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Penner got a lot of heat from Kings fans the last 1.5 seasons (and deservedly so). I think it says a lot about him that he’d be willing to resign in LA. When the playoffs started he flipped his “beast mode” switch and was terrific. Hopefully he never figures out how to turn that switch back off…
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I am the happiest boy with food poisoning in the entire world right now. I never EVER gave up on Penner. A new contract makes me feel like all the supporting I did was for nothing. I am glad we have him.
Talk about his scoring and crazy blah blah at least he was a good teammate in the locker room and our players were good to him. When you believe in someone it really means a lot to them. So I wanna see a different attitude all together this year about Penner.
WOOT!
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Subby Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 12:51 pm
@Subby, not for nothing. FOR SOMETHING!
sorry I’m really sickkk
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Kingsfanone Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:03 pm
@Subby,
Get well, buddy! Drink lots of water!
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Duncanz Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:12 pm
@Subby,
GET BATTER AGAIN, SUBBY!
(like Deano just did!)
;P
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Gretzky to Kurri Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:57 pm
@Subby,
Bummer man. Get well soon.
I am right there with you, I never talked bad about Penner either, I was more befuddled by his lack of production because I knew the potential he had. Once the personal stuff came out, it made a little more sense and it was obvious that the team loves him, and I think that says something big.
I really think he’s got his swagger back and I also think that when he uses his size and soft hands, that is extremely hard to replace. Don’t think just throwing Gagne into the same role would create anything more than an injury.
So glad Deano is giving him another chance, Pens is all class.
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KingsFan on EastCoastTime Reply:
July 2nd, 2012 at 10:38 am
@Gretzky to Kurri, I couldn’t have said it better.
Pens seems to wear his heart on his sleeve, which makes me respect him more (no mental games), but certainly makes him more of a target for many ‘outside the room’. To have fought through the personal hell of the regular season and found success in spite of it all makes me a huge fan.
Stand-up guy. Skilled guy. Funny guy. Thank you, Dustin Penner.
Thank you for everything, Dean Lombardi. Can’t wait for next season, Go Kings Go!
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variable Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 3:56 pm
@Subby,
“get well soon…we hope you get well soon…(!))”
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I like Pens returning, believe he’ll be a bit more relaxed and have a better regular season as opposed to last year (but not too relaxed Pens) I’m sure DS will make sure of that. Pens certainly proved his worth with his playoff experience.
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What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:05 pm
@Goring 19, Kings should get him laid; and keep Dewey, Mikey and Jeffey away from that scene.
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It’s a perfect contract for Penner. If he is playing as he is capable of, and as we did end up seeing, he is worth that contract, but 1 year also means he’s still got something to prove this season too.
I’m not worried at all about that dollar figure. The Kings can pay that. And Penner’s size plus those hands don’t grow on trees. A motivated Penner playing with Richards+Carter looks great to me.
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Good news re Penner. Here’s hoping Sutter keeps him fit and motivated. If he does in the regular season what he did in the playoffs, wow!
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gmo Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 12:58 pm
@Optomistic,
oh boy, trust me DS will keep him in check
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I am glad….maybe one more signing today….maybe Doan?
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Jeff_R Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:01 pm
@tellmeY, Doan said he will wait until at least July 9th. Waiting on what will happen with Ownership in Phoenix. Whitney wouldn’t wait.
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What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:05 pm
@tellmeY, OT: I keep trying to make your name say something backward….
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Poni signs with the Jets. The Exodus out of Newark has started.
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Kenny44 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:15 pm
@Jeff_R,
Ponikarovsky is Russian for “mercenary”.
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vicarious Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:00 pm
@Kenny44, I think once a player gets traded from their original team, then they usually can’t help but be mercenary. (it wldn’t be very smart for them not to be mercenary, if you get my drift).
King and Nolan definitely contributed while with the Kings. Still, looks like the AHL is a good place for players to work on their game.
Wonder who offered Suter $100 Million. Detroit? Edmonton?
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Kenny44 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:13 pm
@vicarious,
Of course, you’re right about the players. Poni’s just had a remarkable run of six teams in four years – Pittsburgh, Toronto, Kings, ‘Canes, Devils, and now Jets.
I imagine that Detroit is desperate to sign Suter. He’s exactly the guy they need at this moment, and they have been big spenders traditionally.
KC23 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 6:52 pm
@vicarious, Word is Philly is the one flashing all the money around.
Duncanz Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:20 pm
@Birdwatch Tweet_R,
More horsepower for the Jets?
Well, someone had to Poni up.
Neigh, not the NJDs!
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I’m glad Penner will be back. It’s highly unlikely he’ll ever be a “30 goal scorer” in the Kings system, but when he’s on his game as he was during the playoffs he’s a physical presence and a solid, at times stellar complimentary player. Team chemistry requires a measure of serious intensity, but also requires guys who can help keep things loose over the course of a long season. His teammates stuck by him during the tough times and it paid off. A great bunch of guys returning intact to defend the Cup, as it should be!
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George Parros signs a 2 yr deal with Florida.
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Duncanz Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:30 pm
@Tweet_R
“Hello Westy, this is Stevie Y. You ready to go?”
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ah, Parros to the Panthers. I guess we won’t be seeing Westy/Parros battles very often.
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HockeyNerd Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:21 pm
@friarking, We may not even be seeing Westgarth. See below.
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Glad that Penner is back…. Now, can you please parade the cup in OC?
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KingMe20 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:19 pm
@JB@OC,
+1,000.
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Glad to see Penner back. Haters aside it’s clear his teammates value having him around.
What a week. Quick is ours, the team is together, AND I got my picture with the Cup.
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Jack Aubrey Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 3:00 pm
@forum to staples fan, That, indeed, is a great week!
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WOW…This is pretty amazing.
I wonder how many times in the modern era a Stanley Cup winning team has returned the following season 100% intact?? It can’t be many.
Go Kings….
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Pili Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:17 pm
@LittleRhody, No kidding. Penner started coming around before the playoffs started. His strengths fit this team and coach perfectly.
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Kenny44 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:36 pm
@Pili, I’m still amazed at how it all came together for this team this past season. Out with the gripping “I hope we don’t lose” coach, in with the “get after ‘em” coach. Trade from our surplus on D to get a top sniper. The style, attitude, and pieces all came together perfectly.
It had such an obvious impact on Penner. His playing and personal style just did not fit with Murray. I suspect that TM thought Penner’s sense of humor was a sign of goofing off. As Sutter has shown and as Penner showed in the playoffs, though, that humor can also be an expression of swagger. Also, Penner didn’t take well to playing slow and always above the puck. A more aggressive forecheck is more his style.
It has been said that adding Carter allowed the Kings to slot their forwards in the proper positions. This also had the most impact on Penner, once he was put with MR and Carter. Our top two lines both now have the optimal mix – playmaking center, sniper, and power forward.
I’m encouraged and glad that Penner and the Kings worked out a one year deal. I hope that Penner makes us pick him up for another!
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It is amazing how many deperate teams will over pay for players. How about the flames trading for Wideman and paying him over 5 million ayear. Makes DD`s contract look like a steal. DL has done a fantastic job and it is great to be a Kings Fan.
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BringbackButchGoring Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:21 pm
@Joemv8, I think part of the willingness to sign is that free agents signings can legitimately make a team better instantly whereas with a trade you are also losing a player of more or less equal value. GM’s and coaches like to keep their jobs.
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:22 pm
@Joemv8,
Now let’s hope Ms Gloria doesn’t see DD’s contract as a steal …
[Reply]
Penner will be good with NO TM coaching philosophy holding him back, with a coaching ally in Sutter, with Richards and Carter as linemates from the get go, and without problems at home holding him back.
Not as a re-signing, but looked at as a FA pickup, this was an excellent tactical move. We got a second line LW from a Stanley Cup champion who is a good fit in the clubhouse for 3.25 mil.
[Reply]
BringbackButchGoring Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:18 pm
@The Gondor, Or looking at it another way, we got a 2nd line winger that scored 7 goals last year for 3.25 million
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:23 pm
@BringbackButchGoring,
Upside, @BbBG, Upside..
[Reply]
Perfect deal for one year. 3 or less would have been 2 years, and the flexabilty is key.
[Reply]
If Gagne returns and King signs (and assuming DS wants to keep the same 4 lines) look what happens. You gotta pick 3 4th line players from Gagne, Fraser, Nolan, Clifford and Richardson.
No room for Westgarth unless one of those 5 doesn’t make the team.
No room for Toffoli or someone from Manchester unless one of those 5 doesn’t make the team.
[Reply]
What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:24 pm
@HockeyNerd, That’s the kind of problem I like. That kind of problem helped the Kings win the Cup.
[Reply]
King Cobra Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:25 pm
@HockeyNerd,
Gagne, Fraser, Nolan
[Reply]
CB14 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:28 pm
@HockeyNerd, No Westy makes me happy! I think Fraser and Gagne are every day players. It wouldn’t surprise me to see SG on the 3rd line, and King on the 4th. Not saying that’s what I would do, just that it wouldn’t surprise me if that happened.
I think the likely lines are :
Gagne Stoll Lewis
King Fraser Nolan
Richie and Cliffy as extras.
[Reply]
CB14 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:30 pm
Also wouldn’t surprise me to see Richardson and/or Westy moved for a lower level prospect.
[Reply]
KingMe20 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:29 pm
@HockeyNerd,
That’s a good problem to have. I don’t mind seeing Toffoli brought along slowly. By the time Gagne and Penner’s deals are done, there will be room for him.
I would say Fraser and Gagne are in. Fraser is definitely in on that line, because he’s really the only center in that group. Gagne really could be on any one of the lines the Kings put out there. He was getting chances even on the fourth line during the Final, and if he’s in the lineup, he’s another option on power plays. He’s also the guy they use to push Penner to keep his play up to par on the second line, because Gagne is the guy who takes his spot if he doesn’t.
Richardson, Nolan and Clifford? That’s going to come down to effort and effective use of their limited ice time. Richardson and Nolan were key players on that line in the playoffs, and though we didn’t get to see much of him this year, Clifford was arguably one of the best players in the first round of the previous year’s playoffs when they lost to the Sharks.
I love Westgarth, but frankly, there’s not much need for his type of player on this team. We’ve seen a willingness from Clifford, Nolan, Richards, Penner, and even Brown to drop the gloves. Those guys all bring more to the table overall than he does. It’s unfortunate, but I don’t see room for him.
Personally, I love that the team is pretty much the same as the team that just won the whole thing. Not much reason to change what was a great formula for success. Imagine how good they might be with a whole training camp under Sutter.
[Reply]
rumpa #19 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:37 pm
@KingMe20, Dont forget you dont want to open the King door either. LOL.
[Reply]
rumpa #19 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:34 pm
@HockeyNerd, Or you could say all of them will be needed before the year ends. Every team in the west will be taking any shot they can at our guys. westy isnt needed with how we played at the end of the year. Toffoli would be best served with more time in the AHL. Others in the AHL would get a look first????
[Reply]
Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com) Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:45 pm
@HockeyNerd, Gagne’s not playing on the 4th line. Or at least I’d be surprised if he did.
[Reply]
HockeyNerd Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:59 pm
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com), If he comes back, what do you do with him then? One option is to move Penner to the 3rd line I guess.
[Reply]
jmiller Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:09 pm
@HockeyNerd,
They may flip flop king and penner on the 2nd..perhaps gange gets a shot there(i hope not), but I think basically penner stays w/ rick/carts line…wait, there also injuries ( hopefully not serious) too. Good to have options
Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com) Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:13 pm
@HockeyNerd, Penner on the 3rd line, King on the 4th. I think you have to keep the 1st line intact and Gagne fits better on #2.
variable Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 3:59 pm
@PAUL,
i agree…
nolan might just be the 13 forward….
gagne is the wild card….
jmiller Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:06 pm
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com), agreed
[Reply]
DL’s strategy: we won the cup with these guys so lets keep them. Who’d have thunk it?
[Reply]
What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:50 pm
@HockeyNerd, Better to prove to the peanut gallery that it wasn’t any fluke.
[Reply]
I’m not going to lie, I’m surprised he’s back. Not only that, I’m surprised that he’s back with a annual salary North of $3 million. Don’t get me wrong, I am a fan of his. However, I thought his regular season performance would make signing him (not to mention at $3.25 million) a long shot.
[Reply]
KingMe20 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:30 pm
@Cav Pilot,
Not much risk on a one-year deal. If he doesn’t pan out, they probably try to move him at the deadline.
[Reply]
Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com) Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:47 pm
@Cav Pilot, I agree. I think he probably wanted a longer term and took a higher one-year salary as a compromise.
[Reply]
jmiller Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:14 pm
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com),
Make no mistake..he could have gone to a few other teams that would have offered term, and at least 1 mill more for him. The $ is out there, and there are desperate teams. He took a discount and a 1 yr deal, which are clearly concessions
[Reply]
The Man Bear is back, Stoked!
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Penne, will hopefully will play like good cook aldente! Not an over cooked sogy penne!!
If he plays as he did in the playoffs we got a wow factor!
If he still full of this & that etc excuses… Then put him on wavers, like hunter and give another kid in Manchester a chance!
Sign that King kid… Now!!
A good backup for Penner!
[Reply]
rumpa #19 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:39 pm
@Sammuch, Seriously get em signed pronto Tonto.
[Reply]
Wow we have so much depth
[Reply]
THIS PLEASES ME. now if we can only play all next season like we did in the playoffs.
[Reply]
HockeyNerd Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:34 pm
@Newf, Likely not….the team is not going to win 60 games. The flip side is I don’t think we will struggle to make the playoffs.
[Reply]
Klownchez Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:53 pm
@HockeyNerd, but then even if we did, as long as we DO make the playoffs. I like our chances
[Reply]
Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com) Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:48 pm
@Newf, I hope we run away with the Pacific for once.
[Reply]
variable Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 4:00 pm
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com),
distinct and very realistic possibility…:)
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@CB14, not for this year, but you then need to account for almost 5 mil cap hit from Quicks contract next year, signing all of our or some of our RFAs next year and free agents, etc. There simply not enough money unless you start to let some of our core go or trade em.
[Reply]
CB14 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 4:20 pm
@kingsfaninportland, Gagne and Penner combined take up 6.75 in cap room. By letting them walk that clears room for Quick’s raise, which is really only a raise of 4 million since he already makes 1.8 million now. By that time Dwight King should be ready for 2nd lne duty, and Kyle Clifford ready for 3rd line duty.
[Reply]
I disagree with anyone who says bringing the Cup team intact is a mistake.
This team did not become what it is today until late in the season after King & Nolas were promoted and Carter was traded for JJ. D. Sutter got this teal believing they could be better one game at a time from the middle of February until Game 6 of the SCF.
Something tells me DS is more than capable of getting them to believe they can be better from season to season. What other team has ever been given this chance to defend their title without having to go thru the adjustment of losing and adding players. This team is the envy of the league, let me tell you!!
“THIS IS TOO MUCH FUN NOT TO DO IT AGAIN”. Anze Kopitar – SC Rally June 2012
[Reply]
HockeyNerd Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:42 pm
@Gustavo, Only we CAN’T keep it intact: The roster limit in the regular season is smaller.
[Reply]
Gustavo Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:49 pm
@HockeyNerd,
All 14 forwards, 7 defense men and both goalies will have the same names under their jersey numbers as they did last year. If that isn’t an intact team, what is?
Yes, some loose ends like Lokti or DD2 will have to be sent to Manchester or traded. But come on…what champion has had this luxury lately?
[Reply]
HockeyNerd Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:53 pm
@Gustavo, I was nitpicking
HockeyNerd Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:55 pm
@Gustavo, Although a serious point is that there may not be room for Westgarth, Richardson or Clifford. See my other post.
Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com) Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:56 pm
@HockeyNerd,
Technically we can keep every player who played in the playoffs on the roster if we didn’t carry a 7th defenseman!
Since that won’t happen, and assuming we waive Westy, keep King and sign no one else, we’d have to lose one of Cliffy, Lokti, or Richie. Lokti would be the odd man out there making him the only player not back who played in the playoffs.
[Reply]
variable Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 4:01 pm
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com),
yep…+1,000,000
rumpa #19 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:43 pm
@Gustavo, DS is the best deal in place of all. Returning with the same team is great, returning with the zen farmer as coach is priceless
[Reply]
I think it’s perfect. I wanted him back, but not at his previous price. And a 1 year deal means he has to prove himself.
[Reply]
So what do we do with Lokti? Unless there is an injury, or more likely several injuries there is just no room for him.
[Reply]
rumpa #19 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:44 pm
@HockeyNerd, Rumors say he has asked to be traded, same with Hickey.
[Reply]
McCheese Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:47 pm
@rumpa #19, gotta keep some depth in reserve.
[Reply]
Kenny44 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:48 pm
@rumpa #19,
They don’t have the mullets to be making such demands.
[Reply]
Michael J. Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:48 pm
@rumpa #19,
What rumors?
[Reply]
rumpa #19 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:54 pm
@Michael J., Posted on this site a couple days ago, there was a feed attached. You would think it was Berny
CB14 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:54 pm
@HockeyNerd, Manchester needs a #1 Centerman. With no holes to fill we might as well keep him in case Kopi or Richards were to get injured. I don’t think Stoll should be the one to move up to the top 2 lines due to injury.
[Reply]
PP Anybody? Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 3:12 pm
@HockeyNerd, I don’t see Lokti ever fitting with this team. With his diminutive size, he doesn’t fit the plan here anymore, and with Kopi and Richards as our 1-2, he will never be a 3rd or 4th line center, if he is going to stick in the NHL. Hopefully, some other team sees his skill set, and has a need for it. Definitely trade bait, just don’t know how much he’s worth to anyone else. Maybe a package deal, with Hickey or Bernier might be enough to bring something decent in return.
[Reply]
Now lets just hope there is a season that starts on time…
[Reply]
Parenteau signs with AV’s. I sort of like Colorado’s team. They need a better goalie though. I wonder where they might find one…
[Reply]
Great!!
[Reply]
Congratulations Dusin Penner and the Kings. Well done, Champs.
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I’m really glad to see Penner back. He had some pretty major issues with his personal life and with the little injuries. It seems like the end of the regular season and post-season is what we can expect from DP all season next year.
He’s got his head on straight and hopefully he comes back in great shape again like last year.
And think how much easier this will be on the broadcast team… no new names / numbers to learn.
SWEET!
[Reply]
I’ll pose a question: are there any free agents remaining that you would try for? There IS cap room, of course what you would do with the roster which is already too full is another issue.
[Reply]
IN King (formerly AZ King) Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:56 pm
@HockeyNerd,
Jagr?
[Reply]
CB14 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:12 pm
@IN King (formerly AZ King), Did you move to Indiana?
[Reply]
IN King (formerly AZ King) Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:31 pm
@CB14,
Yep, finally moved the family out there. I’ve been out there for about 18 months, and I’ve been commuting to AZ. That’s why I’ve been mia on here lately. I pretty much watched the finals from the road.
CB14 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:57 pm
@HockeyNerd, Parise. Guys like Nolan, King, and Clifford could play in Manchester, or guys like Richardson and Westy could be traded.
[Reply]
Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com) Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:05 pm
@CB14, Cliffy is not waiver exempt. Lokti is though.
[Reply]
CB14 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:11 pm
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com), Thanks for the correction.
Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com) Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:05 pm
@HockeyNerd,
Doan.
[Reply]
My only concern is when you keep the same team that won a championship, there might be some fatigue and less hunger to win it again as opposed to inserting some new blood in the line-up. Then again, we underachieved during the season before exploding in the playoffs. This might sound stupid, but there is nothing wrong winning the division AND the Cup the same season…that would be something to shoot for that we have never done.
[Reply]
Helene reporting Kings are in on Parise talks, which means we made it through his first cuts.
[Reply]
Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com) Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 1:58 pm
@DBking, What cuts? This ain’t baseball.
[Reply]
DBking Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:02 pm
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com),
30 teams call, he probably dismisses or “cuts” 20 after the first couple hours.
[Reply]
Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com) Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:07 pm
@DBking, LOL. Yeah, that’s it!
Organization Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:00 pm
@DBking, he is just going through the motions. All part of negotiations.
[Reply]
CB14 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:02 pm
@DBking, Glad to hear that!
[Reply]
YoBro Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:13 pm
@DBking, With our present roster, I would only see lukewarm interest in Parise. He may be the biggest named FA this year, but he ain’t the world beater some seem to think he is. As someone above mentioned, look how we shut him down in the SCF. He IS a very good “lttle” man, but we showed what happens when he goes up against a good “big” man(or team).
Go Kings
[Reply]
DBking Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:18 pm
@YoBro, Agree, didn’t think we would even really put on a considerable push for him. I am a bit surprised.
But it would be cool to completely own the 2003 draft class, one of the finest in history.
[Reply]
I bookmarked the Game One thread, with 1792 comments….is there one with more?
this was the Key Game on our way to Lord Stanley’s Cup, in mt estimation….
Pens came up big right from the start, and as you no doubt recall got the game winner…
the pass off Carter’s skate…
TiredOfIt had called it earlier, but just seconds before the winning goal it was Crashin’ with the call….
crashin’da net says:
April 11, 2012 at 10:13 pm
Your turn to get a GWG Penner! Do it! GKG!!!!
[Reply]
Real 7 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:09 pm
@Real 7, Crashin’ gets the #1 Insiders Star for that call…
[Reply]
I hope Pancakes does not come back too early or too out of shape from his wrist surgery.
My wife is a surgeon and she had wrist surgery last year. Not a quick recovery by any stretch. Took her six months to be able to handle a scalpel again. May to November, including a minor 2nd procedure in July to remove pins placed to stabilize dislocated wrist bones.
Rich, do know which hand needs surgery or the extent of his injury? DP is a lefty, I think.
[Reply]
plywood Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:12 pm
@Gustavo, I’m sure the Kings know the extent of the surgery and don’t seem to have a problem with it.
[Reply]
Too much money for this guy, IMHO. Yes, he was pretty good during parts of the playoffs but he was horrible during the regular season. I wouldn’t have paid this much for Penner.
[Reply]
Gustavo Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:08 pm
@Jeff,
Much cheaper than Doan. And a lot of sensitive baggage with him.
Much Much Much Much cheaper than Parise.
Hard to put a price on the built-in locker room camaraderie this guy creates among his teammates. I say he’s worth a 1 yr shot. We still got cap space of what, 7 mill?
[Reply]
Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com) Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:10 pm
@Jeff,
Just a guess but it seems to be a compromise between term/money. Penner taking a year contract and less security for a little extra dough. Makes sense and I’m glad it happened this way.
I’m on record as saying he’ll have career highs in goals and points, so we shall see.
[Reply]
DBking Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:15 pm
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com),
No way he scores 32 goals next season.
[Reply]
Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com) Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:20 pm
@DBking, We shall see!
Jeff Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:30 pm
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com), I really hope you’re right but I have my doubts. Penner just doesn’t seem to have the work ethic that he should. With a frame like his and his hands, he could really be a dominant player. Unfortunately, he just doesn’t appear to have the will to hustle every shift. I’m actually surprised the DL gave this guy another contract. He doesn’t seem to be DL kind of guy. Kinda lazy and not real focused.
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:37 pm
@Jeff,
Oh, @Tweety, that is SO three months ago!
Duncanz Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 6:18 pm
Ah! Sorry @Tweety. This was not you!
BringbackButchGoring Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:39 pm
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com), Well he’s scored 9 regular season goals for us in a season and one-half. Most people are saying that he played to form in the playoffs. Well, that was 3 goals in twenty games or about 12 goals for a season. I’ll go on records as saying he will not get anything close to 30 goals next year. That said, twenty goals is worth 3 million IMO
[Reply]
Jeff_R Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 3:05 pm
@BringbackButchGoring, If Penner plays with Richards and Carter then he could in fact score 30. That is if Richards can get his game back to where it was in Philly and carter gets back to the 35-40 guy he was and without injuries.
Duncanz Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 3:17 pm
@Tweety_R,
So help me understand this, dear boy …
How does Dustin Penner’s biggest fan, ***** NOT ***** , suddenly expect him to score 30 goals just ‘cos he happens to sign a team-friendly contract???
This is the greatest 180 turnaround since the Gipper turned conservative!!!!!
Duncanz has a lot of Sutter “quotes” in this thread from March 14….very entertaining….
http://lakingsinsider.com/2012/03/14/drivers-ed-with-darryl-sutter/
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 3:09 pm
@Real Nostalgia,
LoL. Some of my ersonal favorites, in no particular order are:
~ @0 sake getting it totally right on about “Penns” and “adversity”. Good job, rookie!
~ @lakingsbob(chai)/@bmova shamelessly cheering on the Canucks.
~ @Minny Transplant proudly trashing his former home of OC, then doing a fast backpedal as the Orange Curtainers come out to greet him.
~ @Rogiesbackbrace “discovers” Patrick Kane and cabbies are like … hawks and chickens, I guess.
~ @Cruiznblues haplessly having NHL turned to “A League of Their Own” when his wife arrives home.
~ @Tweety Birdwatch(Jeff)_R ignominiously admitting to having herpes!
~ @SVELTEY admitting to scabies in an epic display of oneupsmanship to @Tweety!!
Don’t worry, all you guys. [It] happens!
[Reply]
I keep posting above that we have too big a roster.
Don’t get me wrong, I love this problem.
The real answer is something called “training camp”. Not everyone who played in the SCF is 100% certain to make the team. DL and DS will have some VERY tough decisions to make.
I invite you all to give me your opinions of who you would or would not keep on the big club.
[Reply]
Gustavo Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:17 pm
@HockeyNerd,
Lokti, DD2…to be traded or sent to Manchester.
Westy needs to step up and add speed and handling to his game if he wants to stay.
Keep all the other big bodies in the big team.
I was not impressed by Richardson during the playoffs. Perhaps he missed his buddy Clifford after Vancouver rang his noggin in the first round.
[Reply]
Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com) Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:18 pm
@HockeyNerd,
Here’s my starting lineup if King stays and no one else is signed:
Brown (23) — Kopitar (11) — Williams (14)
Gagne (12) — Richards (10) — Carter (77)
Penner (25) — Stoll (28) — Lewis (22)
King (74) — Fraser (24) — Nolan (71)
Clifford (13) Richardson (15)
Westy waived, Lokti Manchester
[Reply]
CB14 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:24 pm
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com), Agreed. Mabye switch the L.W. around a little bit if Gagne struggles in his return, but i’d have the same starters and reserves.
[Reply]
Gustavo Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:28 pm
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com),
NO way I’d give Gagne the 2nd line, unless he earns it in training camp.
I predict Penner will not start the season or miss training camp due to his wrist surgery. So…
Brown (23) — Kopitar (11) — Williams (14)
King (74) — Richards (10) — Carter (77)
Richardson (15) — Stoll (28) — Lewis (22)
Gagne (12) — Fraser (24) — Nolan (71)
Clifford (13) – Westy (19)
Westy may be waived (snif!) when Penner is ready and replace King in the 2nd line, who will replace Richardson in the 3rd line.
[Reply]
DBking Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:29 pm
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com),
Penner scoring 33 goals on your 3rd line should be fun to watch..
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:35 pm
@DBking,
This is an excellent observation!
Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com) Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:50 pm
@DBking, Especially with Doan on his flank!
PP Anybody? Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 3:21 pm
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com), Sounds about right.
[Reply]
variable Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 4:06 pm
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com),
that’s exactly my forecast as well…
the only thing that could happen is that…:
- jb gets traded because someone makes an offer that dl can’t refuse….as the days go by this month, it’s looking less and less like a possibility…
- a prospect rises to the occasion come tc and the kings are forced to keep someone up….by that will be a very high-level of performance to make that happen….
[Reply]
KingMe20 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 4:22 pm
@variable,
No reason to trade JB just yet. I think that will be mid-season.
TA Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 3:18 pm
@HockeyNerd, At this point its too early to set the lines as that’s what training camp is for. What a great problem to have too much depth! It will be an interesting training camp as its DS first and we will have a lot of players fighting for spots which is a good thing. Also with players like Gagne, King, and Clifford it will hopefully kept Penner motivated to bring his A game. If not DS will replace him with Gagne or King. Amazing that a lot of people are concern with having too much depth, as for years we have been always needing quality forwards. Anyways can’t wait too see the action once training camp starts.
[Reply]
Times reporting Quick contract broken down like this:
$58 million
Year 1 – $7mil
Year 2 – $7mil
Year 3 – $7mil
Year 4 – $7mil
Year 5 – $7mil
Year 6 – $7mil
Year 7 – $7mil
Year 8 – $3.5mil
Year 9 – $3mil
Year 10 – $2.5mil
[Reply]
Kman Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 3:38 pm
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com),
Is it possible that:
Quick 58+ over 10 > Crosby 104+ over 12
I’m thinking so.
[Reply]
variable Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 4:08 pm
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com),
we could possibly have about 7 players come 2013-14 getting paid at least $5mill per year…
that’s why acquiring parise is really a reach – especially if his camp is demanding $24 million up front for the next two years….
penguins seem to have the edge at this point….
[Reply]
*Cough* Parise *cough*
[Reply]
Glad you’re sticking around Penner!!! Please be the Penner of the playoffs, and not of the regular season…
[Reply]
So, there are (going to be more) Kings fans that feel that Penner should have been signed for lower money even than he got.
It’s quite debatable how much nett worth Penns was last season. The regular season was nigh on a washout for him, but in the playoffs he was, dare I say it, a “revelation”.
So, of course if you’re The Kings, a lot depends on whether you expect him to follow on from that impressive later form or whether you think he’ll “pace himself” again.
But here’s the thing.
If you have somebody that has had motivational problems in the (not-so-distant) past and you anticipate he wishes to re-sign, then you offer him an “insulting” discount, would it really surprise you if his form dropped off a bit again in response?
A Million less may be considered a fair deal, but imagine if you were trimmed 45-60% (as people were asking for) at your job. It’d be that much harder to get up in the morning and give it your all, wouldn’t it?
So $3.25M sounds like a very valid agreement.
It gives Penns a reasonable payday, all things considered, and it leaves cap room for a later acquisition or a trade during the season should circumstances call for it.
Also, it leaves absorption room for next season when some larger salaries come into play.
So, Kings have their man. Penns has his payday. The Cup team is kept intact. There is scope going forward.
All in all, win/win for the Cup Winners!!
GKG Again (@DessertKing)!!!
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rumpa #19 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:38 pm
@Duncanz, Dare i say Slamduncans!!!!!
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Duncanz Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 3:21 pm
@Pah-rumpa #19,
Well, at least you got past the 1st paragraph!
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KJ Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 3:13 pm
@Duncanz, I agree completely! I think it was the perfect move.
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variable Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 4:10 pm
@Duncanz,
if he plays like he can, it ill be worth it…
if he doesn’t, his contract is NOT unmovable….
win-win situation….
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So I guess the question if you are Parise: do you want to play for a Stanley cup winner? Or do you want the $$$?
I’d be VERY surprised to see him here in 2012-2013
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HockeyNerd Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:30 pm
@HockeyNerd, Can this really get any better? Everyone is coming back and STILL we are talking to Parise apparently….
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Jeff_R Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:35 pm
@HockeyNerd, Parise wants to be with a team that can win the Cup. Yes money is important but the Cup is more so. Otherwise he would of gone to the Wild already and be done with it.
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HockeyNerd Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 3:52 pm
@Jeff_R, ….which may yet happen.
Don’t get me wrong, I’d love to have him here. I just don’t see it happening though.
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Gustavo Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:37 pm
@HockeyNerd,
Teams like the Kings East, Pitt, Detroit and MN can throw ‘stupid money’ in the neighborhood of $14 million dollars for the first year of a new contract. Signing Bonus + Salary….DL cannot compete with that. And I’m happy about it.
Trying to look at it from ZP’s perspective, the impending CBA potential of a lockout is a major consideration, so a mega front loaded offer like the one above has a lot of merit.
Ryan Whitney signed with Dallas. Is DL interested in Doan?
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Jeff_R Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:42 pm
@Gustavo, Why can’t the Kings afford it? They have the richest owner in the NHL. They have 8 million in Cap space to spend on Zach. Also if you trade Gagne and Scuderi that opens up 6.9 million in cap space to go along with the 8. It is perfectly doable.
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PP Anybody? Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 3:22 pm
@Jeff_R, I’d take Gagne plus Scuderi over just Parise.
HockeyNerd Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 3:46 pm
@Jeff_R, Agree with the above. If signing Parise is going to cost us Scuderi, I’d pass.
Gustavo Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 3:58 pm
@Jeff_R,
Look down the road and how it would affect the resigning of Brown, for instance. Besides, those teams can do it TWO years in a row. We cannot.
And NO, one Parise does not one healthy Gagne and one Scuderi make (Yoda). and where d oyou get the extra money for the signing bonus on year two?
We won the cup WITHOUT contracts like this. Remember how much we bitched about DD’s 7 mill. We’re fine w/o Parise. Relax!
rumpa #19 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:43 pm
@Gustavo, If we got Doan 2-3 years ago yes, but he will start dropping off at this point. He says he will wait till july 9th for ownership to see whats up in Phoenix.
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variable Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 4:11 pm
@HockeyNerd,
not at $24 million up front for parise – no way…(!)
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Now that we signed Penner to a 1 yr deal. If by chance we get Parise to sign, then Gagne will be traded along with Scuderi or Greene. Since Scuds has 1 yr left on his deal most likely it be him.
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BringbackButchGoring Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:45 pm
@Jeff_R, We were out of Parise sweepstakes in first ten minutes. No way Doan is going back to PHX with both Ancoin and Whitney gone. Those two alone are worth 6-8 points in the standings enough to keep PHX out of the playoffs next year. By resigning Penner, it doesn’t appear that DL is making a serious effort for Doan though
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Jeff_R Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:48 pm
@BringbackButchGoring, How do you know we were out of the race for Parise in the first 10 minutes? There is no proof of that other then rumors. Penner’s deal has nothing to do with Zach’s.
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BringbackButchGoring Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 3:56 pm
@Jeff_R, We are not paying a 12 million dollar bonus number one nor committing 80-90 million number two. That’s a sign of a desperate team, which we are not.
HockeyNerd Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 4:00 pm
@BringbackButchGoring, I’m sure DL made Parise an offer, just not as much as what some other teams could make. It is quite possible that he’d rather play for us. I would also not be surprised to see Doan right back in Phoenix. This is not exactly the first time everyone is saying they have lost too much off the roster and don’t have a prayer…..
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CB14 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:52 pm
@Jeff_R, Why would they trade Scuds? They’ve got the cap space to sign Parise and King while keeping everyone else. Gagne might be dealt, but I would rather trade Richardson. Either way I wouldn’t trade Scuds.
Parise Kopi Brown
Penner Richards Carter
Gagne Stoll Williams
King Fraser Lewis
Nolan and Clifford are the extras.
Trade Richardson. Trade or waive Westy. Send Lokti to Manchester.
Ideally I’d prefer to have Brown at LW , but he’s the most logical choice to move to RW.
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Jeff_R Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:58 pm
@CB14,As of now we have 8 million in Cap space. Trade Gags and that goes to just over 11. Not sure what Parise’s cap hit will be but you also have to put into consideration that DL usually likes to have some space available for mid season changes. If we can keep Scuds and trade one of the other guys (Richie, Bernier or Lokti, etc) will that be enough? Scuds being traded is most likely because he is in his last year and Kings have prospects ready to fill in his place. They could also sign a cheaper bridge defenseman if they so choose. I am not advocating trading Scuds, just that is what most of the rumors are for Kings making space for Zach.
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Jeff_R Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 3:00 pm
@Jeff_R, We can also get good value for Scuds on the trade market versus that for Richie or Westgarth. Don’t think they trade Bernier yet.
rumpa #19 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 3:01 pm
@Jeff_R, Wiskey is ready for sure, but Scuds he aint yet.
CB14 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 3:16 pm
@Jeff_R, We have 8.629 in cap space. By trading Richardson that would give us 9.8 million in cap space. I think we both agree that Parise and King combined aren’t going to be more than 7.5 million in cap space, 6.5 for Parise, 1 for King. That would leave over 2.3 million in cap space. Personally I think that’s plenty. If we need more space then we look to trade Gagne. I wouldn’t trade Scuds because I don’t think Martinez is a top 4 d-man yet. I also don’t see us getting a top 4 d-man via free agency for less than Scuds cap hit.
rumpa #19 Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 3:00 pm
@CB14, Totally agree on Scuds, and your line combos are sick. Teams would have to bow ,its crazy?
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Jeff_R Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 3:24 pm
@rumpa #19, @CB14, Another reason why Scuds could go is the Cap mau not be 70 million after the new CBA is signed. Could be lower.
HockeyNerd Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 3:26 pm
@Jeff_R, Gagne I would get. No room if Parise signs. But why Scuderi? I think what you are suggesting is we’d need a little salary wiggle room, but then you’d just have to get another defenseman and what Scuderi does ain’t exactly available just anywhere. Why would you go to all the trouble DL has to keep everyone on board than not keep everyone on board?
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Accoring to Bob Mckenzie Zach’s decision will come tomorrow. He has narrowed it down to a select group of teams. Didn’t name who the teams were though.
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Jeff_R Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 2:50 pm
@Jeff_R, According to Carolina’s GM they don’t believe they are on the list. They are trying to find out if the Devils are one of the teams.
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Jeff_R Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 3:10 pm
@Jeff_R, Dallas is out of Parise hunt. I wonder how many proposals were made to him by how many teams.
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So what happens to training camp if there is a lockout?
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HockeyNerd Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 3:36 pm
@PurpleRocks, Probably would have a shorter one when they resume.
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Too bad there IS a cap. Otherwise we could just sign Parise, Suter AND Doan and accept our 82-0-0 record…,,
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HockeyNerd Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 4:04 pm
@HockeyNerd, J/K We DO still need to improve our offense, even with Carter it really only went from dreadful to average….
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YES! Great job Dean Lombardi!!!!!!!
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Kingsfaninmonterey Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 5:29 pm
@Kingsfaninmonterey, This is so awesome!
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How rare is this? To have the same team that won the championship come back again! This is so awesome!!! The players must like one another and the organization from the top down.
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luc20rules Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 6:16 pm
@Kingsfaninmonterey, That was obvious with Frasier & Stoll signing for less than their previous contracts. With Penner doing the same thing it is just proof that this is one of the best organization at this point in time in the NHL. It really gets me pumped as a fan to know that unless things really go wrong this team will likely be 3 more championships in the next 10 years.
I will quote DS “Awesome”
Go Kings Go!
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luc20rules Reply:
July 1st, 2012 at 6:18 pm
@luc20rules, Excellent, so let the DYNASTY BEGIN!
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I@hockeynerd, It is called. Depth. Something we haven’t had in ages. And we have it coming off the champi
onship .. these are glorious days to be Kings fans. Soak them in. GKG!!!!!!
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