Long time President and CEO of AEG, Tim Leiweke sat down to chat about getting back to work!
JF: Pending ratification, what do you think are the first steps for the NHL to regain their position in the North American market?
Tim Leiweke: Well I don’t think it’s going to come easily. I think we have to understand we have our work cut out for us and so I think first of all we have to remember from a “live experience” and I say this from an organization that is fortunate enough to be involved in a lot of different sports there’s probably not a greater “live experience” in sports than the National Hockey League and we certainly saw that this past April, May and June. I think we need to get back to making sure that we protect and highlight our game, that we go out and try to grow our fan base–that we ultimately highlight our players because I think we have the greatest athletes on the face of the earth and I think we also have to go out and make sure that we don’t underestimate or look past our fans. You know and I know there’s a lot of debate about ‘will they come back or won’t they come back’–I think eventually the game and the players will win the fan base back but I think we have to make sure that we do not underestimate the damage we have done.
JF: Now specifically to the Kings–who are in a unique situation compared to the other teams in the league–same question–first steps for the Kings in the Los Angeles market?
Tim Leiweke: Win the cup again. We have spent a lot of time over the past few months talking about this impact of the lockout and our fan base and our organization and I think we all had some desires and hopes as to the CBA and making sure that it did not handcuff us and our hockey guys going forward–it has not–so we’re very happy about the way this was ultimately crafted and I think I’ll let the media and the analysts render an opinion of winners and losers but I know internally we feel like this collective bargaining agreement gives us an opportunity to continue to keep this nucleus together without sacrifice. I think we have a very amazing gift and it’s called the Stanley Cup…
…and I think what happened in this town in April, May and June, turned the whole town in to see that last game and know that almost a third of the market place in all of Southern California–yes including Anaheim–was sitting there watching the LA Kings and understanding the impact that we created and the hundreds and hundreds of thousands, almost millions of people that turned out to support us including the parade. I think we made a decision as an organization that we can spend a lot of time bemoaning what just happened–the tension created–the damage don–but we’re going to be a little bit different than probably most every other team in the league–that is we have a shot with one of the youngest teams in the league, in a new agreement that allows us to keep that nucleus together to do it again and again and what we always talked about is we didn’t want to win it once–we wanted to build a legacy and in order to do that you got to win it a few times–we look at the Islanders…
…and we look at the Red Wings…
…and we look at the Oilers…
…and the dynasties that they built and it was about being competitive each and every year for a very long period of time. We certainly have that opportunity here–we have the skill level, we were smart on our financial commitments and the way we structured them and I think now it’s about an attitude and an environment and for me, I’ve asked everybody in this organization not to talk or ultimately get too caught up in the past and to get immediately to the task at hand which is–if our every waking hour and our every waking dollar is spent on trying to do it again and to give our hockey guys the resources necessary to do that I think that we will come out of this well–that’s not looking past the pain we caused, but I think our fans are interested in hanging the banner and celebrating the moment and I think our fans are interested in giving the team every opportunity to do it again and instead of free hot dogs and beer, I’m more interested in going to Dean and saying I know our budgets “A” but I’m prepared to spend up to “B” and Mr. Anschutz is prepared to spend up to “B” and the great thing now is Phil understands that there’s some room between our current budget and the cap for this year and we will spend it if Dean can find the right guy. He has been given the green light to go add another piece to the puzzle here. We want to repeat. No one’s done it in 15 years and I think you want to figure out a way to best win the fans back and make sure that we continue to grow the sport, in Southern California–repeat!
JF: Any updates of the AEG sale?
Tim Leiweke: Well, we’re well down the road and what I’m convinced of is that the new owners will be just as driven as the current ownership on a commitment to excellence–it is not lost on people that we now have three new shiny trophies in our case with the Galaxy and their back to back championship…
and now the Kings and the Stanley Cup…
…and everyone that’s come through and been a part of the marketing and the management presentation that we’ve done–we’ve made it clear to them that we have a vision and we show them, “financially”, the path towards being able to be at the high end if not at the cap each and every year and giving our guys the chance to win each and every year and everyone that’s been through these presentations agrees with us that when you’re in LA and you see what the Dodgers have done and you see the Clippers and the Lakers and the Angels. Now we understand that in order to be relevant in this market place we’re going to have to stay this committed and I think what we’re going to find is that new ownership will not be “just as committed” as current ownership–“even more”! And so to Mr. Anschutz’s credit he gave us the ability and the resources to succeed and now that puts us in a fantastic position–to make sure that the next group understands–‘that’s not an option, that’s not a multiple choice test’–that is a “commitment” that they need to make before Mr. Anschutz will let anyone step in and buy this team.
JF: Way back, when you met with Dean Lombardi and decided to hire him, I’m sure there were some personal traits, maybe philosophies that he talked to you about. Now that is has come full circle–the Kings have won the Cup, did you think back and say to yourself ‘that’s exactly what Dean was talking’?
Tim Leiweke: You know Dean will tell you that I hired him in the first meeting because we did our homework and this time around instead of doing a lot of interviews I think we talked to only a couple of people. We knew where we wanted to go and we in turn, we knew what philosophy we wanted to have. I think in an organization, especially one that is complicated like ours because we have a lot of different assets and 26,000 employees and we’re all around the world and we own 11 sports organizations around the world.
I think you better make sure ownership, first and foremost, ‘has a philosophy’ and I think if they don’t you’re going to get lost. I don’t care how good your GM or your coach or your players are–if ownership doesn’t have a philosophy and if we’re not prepared to ingrain that philosophy in everybody and everything we do. I do not believe that any organization can have long-term success unless everybody’s on the same page. I think what worked out well here is Dean taught us that there were going to have to be some “rough years” and that we hadn’t done enough of the tough “heavy lifting” necessary to have “long term legacy kind of success” and yes, I had to go through the x’s and the o’s and the boxes and the development and the speeches, but I think it was an important learning process because just as much as you cannot have success unless you have ownership that has a philosophy and a direction that they’re prepared to instill within everybody in that organization. Ownership has to also understand you have to hire the right people and give them the tools to succeed and I think what Dean did is he taught us from a “development standpoint” how to build the blocks. What Dean is excellent at is the building pieces and the x’s and the o’s and that huge “where’s Waldo chart” that is our development system and all the different pieces and I think because of his patience and his just “stubbornness” towards getting us committed to the patience we needed to have to put in those pieces–we never would have been successful without ownership’s philosophy and commitment to ingraining it in everybody but at the same time, a builder like Dean that came to us with his knowledge and his skills and taught us the patience necessary to understand there was not going to be a “quick fix” here.
Watchin’ game 6 right now…can’t wait to hear Bob and Jim, Nick and Darryl!!!
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Save, Hrudey! Reply:
January 12th, 2013 at 5:54 pm
@Goring 19,
I’ve got a good feeling about Game 6. Call it a hunch.
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HockeyNerd Reply:
January 12th, 2013 at 6:57 pm
@Save, Hrudey!, I don’t think the score will even be that close. I think the power play will come up with a big goal when it needs one.
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Save, Hrudey! Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 6:02 am
@HockeyNerd,
Nah, you’re waaaay off. Their PP has been terrible all season.
An interview with our team governor about the Stanley Cup and the team’s future? This website sucks! (Just kidding Jim, this is good stuff)
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Duncanz Reply:
January 12th, 2013 at 8:04 pm
@DessertKing,
Jimmy Fox for blogmaster. Great idea, huh?
I think he’ll go for it. TV presenting is so limited in scope, after all.
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We didn’t get a quick fix, we got a Quick fix.
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Duncanz Reply:
January 12th, 2013 at 8:06 pm
@KC23, The Quick, Brown fix.
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Save, Hrudey! Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 6:04 am
@Duncanz,
….Jumped over the lazy NHL?
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PRMan Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 6:34 am
@Save, Hrudey!, Well played.
Mars Reply:
January 12th, 2013 at 9:17 pm
@KC23, D’OH I just saw yours, I said the same thing after reading the full article.
+1 my good man, +1
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“I think our fans are interested in giving the team every opportunity to do it again and instead of free hot dogs and beer”, Hot Dogs & Beer would break the bank huh, make us a less competitive team, give me a break.
Go Kings, Bo Lieweke
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i cannot WAIT to watch the kings beat the snot out of kane and toews because we are the greatest.
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OK GM’s, time to make some roster decisions.
1. What do you do for 2 weeks without Kopitar?
2. What forward do you cut? When Kopitar comes back we are one over.
3. Do you give a roster spot to Toffoli, Lotki or someone else now or at some point? And if you keep them the whole season what TWO forwards do you cut?
4. Who is the 7th defenseman? Do you just keep DD2? Muzzin, Hickey, anyone else?
5. What do you do with Bernier? If you try to deal him what are you looking to get and what do you do for a backup? If you keep him how often do you play him? More, the same, or only when Quick absolutely needs to rest?
6. Any free agents or players rumored to being shopped around that you would make an effort to get? And once again if you get them what are you willing to give up or who would you cut?
7. When injuries occur who comes up from the minors first?
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DesertKing Reply:
January 12th, 2013 at 7:43 pm
@HockeyNerd,
Keep it simple. Just get through the first 2 weeks and reevaluate. This team just won the Stanley Cup in the second greatest playoff performance in NHL history, they all came back, they are just starting to gel as a team, we have a proven coach and front office, we all just need to relax. If the wheels come off, then we can boo TM, fire Kompon, replace Lombardi, send DS back to the farm and still laugh at San Jose, Vancouver and Phoenix since they don’t have a Cup.
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aKinginVancouver Reply:
January 12th, 2013 at 7:57 pm
@DesertKing, Second greatest?? No way, our run was the greatest there ever has been.
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aKinginVancouver Reply:
January 12th, 2013 at 7:57 pm
@DesertKing, Second greatest?? No way, our run was the greatest there ever has been.
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DesertKing Reply:
January 12th, 2013 at 8:11 pm
@aKinginVancouver,
Very true. I should have said “the second best statistically ”
Mars Reply:
January 12th, 2013 at 9:15 pm
@HockeyNerd, I would like to know if the Brow trade rumors were fact or Bluff.
I imagine IF we ever get an answer, it wont be until he is retired.
I would really like to know though.
IMO he should retire a King.
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DesertKing Reply:
January 12th, 2013 at 9:20 pm
@Mars,
+1
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yetiman_oc Reply:
January 12th, 2013 at 9:31 pm
@HockeyNerd,
2. Richardson
3. No
4. Dd2
5. Keep him
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KC23 Reply:
January 12th, 2013 at 9:33 pm
@HockeyNerd,
“1. What do you do for 2 weeks without Kopitar?”
Sutter talked about moving Carter up there. Personally, I think Loktionov should get a shot. Admittedly though part of my thinking is biased because I feel sorry for the guy not getting his name on the cup.
“2. What forward do you cut? When Kopitar comes back we are one over.” Looks like Nolan will be the odd man out, but if it were my call it would not be Nolan.
“3. Do you give a roster spot to Toffoli, Lotki or someone else now or at some point? And if you keep them the whole season what TWO forwards do you cut?” If Carter does go into Kopitar I would love to see Toffoli on Richard’s right wing. That would be interesting.
“4. Who is the 7th defenseman? Do you just keep DD2? Muzzin, Hickey, anyone else?” There is talk that Mitchell is hurt and Sutter talked about Martinez moving into his slot. This surprised me a bit, I figured DD2 would go in.
5. What do you do with Bernier? If you try to deal him what are you looking to get and what do you do for a backup? If you keep him how often do you play him? More, the same, or only when Quick absolutely needs to rest?” Bernier is a no brainer. He stays right where he’s at. Sutter already said that Quick will be getting the Lion’s share of the starts.
“6. Any free agents or players rumored to being shopped around that you would make an effort to get? And once again if you get them what are you willing to give up or who would you cut?” I really don’t see the sense in breaking up a winning combination not to mention we got some decent talent in Manchester that could be brought up.
“7. When injuries occur who comes up from the minors first?”
If center goes down: Loktionov
RW: Toffoli
LW: We got too many already, no problem.
Defense: DD2 for Mitchell, Scuderi, Green Hickey: DD, Martinez, Voynov
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Osaka Reply:
January 12th, 2013 at 10:48 pm
@KC23, Toffoli is a center. Lokti wasn’t invited to camp. In a short season you can’t have too many players.
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Mik3ysfv Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 2:07 pm
@Osaka, Toffoli is right wing w/29 pts. in 36gms. Linden Vey is the center w/31pts. in 36gms. Vey centers Toffoli and Tanner Pearson 25?pts. Great looking line.
Osaka Reply:
January 12th, 2013 at 10:46 pm
@HockeyNerd,
Toffoli was invited to camp but Lokti wasn’t.
The shortened season changes everything with regards to Bernier. I can’t see him being traded until after the season, but I also don’t see him getting any playing time. If Quick is healthy he will probably play 44-46 games.
With a short season we will need as many warm bodies as possible. I think I read when Sutter coached Chicago in a short season he used 23 different forwards that season.
Kings have plenty of cap space for a rent-a-player if need be at the trade deadline. Two guys across town (Getzlaf and Perry) will be UFA’s this summer and one might be dealt. That would be a huge boost IMO for the playoffs.
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HockeyNerd Reply:
January 12th, 2013 at 11:37 pm
@Osaka, Wow. I know DS relies a lot on his #1 Goalie but do you really think it will be that many? I’d be worried that that’s going to tire out Quick for the playoffs, remember the games will be closer together also. Of course I guess you gotta trust DS at this point.
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Token Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 8:20 am
@HockeyNerd, there are 7 back-to-back games this season.
HockeyNerd Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 12:04 am
@HockeyNerd, Here’s my own answers to myself, argue away:
1. What do you do for 2 weeks without Kopitar?
I would have put Stoll there and temporarily put Fraser on Stoll’s line but it looks like DS will go with Carter.
2. What forward do you cut? When Kopitar comes back we are one over.
I can’t see why we need Westgarth. Good guy and all but you really can’t roll 4 lines with him and that’s a problem. If Toffoli or another forward made the team the next logical cut would probably be Richardson although I’m not sure that’s so great because he is very versatile.
3. Do you give a roster spot to Toffoli, Lotki or someone else now or at some point? And if you keep them the whole season what TWO forwards do you cut?
Since you have to cut someone anyway when Kopitar comes back why not do it now and at least give Toffoli a look? Again, I’d make that person Westgarth. I’m guessing though that its actually gonna be Nolan. That’s not a bad idea either because as soon as there’s a roster expansion or injury right back up he comes.
4. Who is the 7th defenseman? Do you just keep DD2? Muzzin, Hickey, anyone else?
I’d stay with DD2. The first call up would be Muzzin. Go with the most experience.
5. What do you do with Bernier? If you try to deal him what are you looking to get and what do you do for a backup? If you keep him how often do you play him? More, the same, or only when Quick absolutely needs to rest?
NO. He’s cheap insurance right now. Since I’m asking myself, I’d play him about 1/3 of the starts. He needs to get in more work and we WILL make the playoffs without the drama of the last year. That answer is moot because DS will play Quick 40+ games.
6. Any free agents or players rumored to being shopped around that you would make an effort to get? And once again if you get them what are you willing to give up or who would you cut?
NO. We already have talent we have no room for.
7. When injuries occur who comes up from the minors first?
Toffoli if he doesn’t already make the team or Nolan if he starts there. Or maybe Vey. On D, Muzzin first since he has some experience, then Hickey. And Jones of course if say Bernier gets hurt (and yeah, on that case let Quick play all of them until a playoff spot is certain. I’ve heard Jones is inconsistent and isn’t NHL ready, one big reason I don’t deal Bernier even though I know DS won’t use him much).
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Itchy Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 10:27 am
@HockeyNerd,
via twitter
“Kings acquire Anthony Stewart and draft picks from Carolina for Kevin Westgarth.”
Apparently we don’t need Westie
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Kingstane9 Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 2:41 am
@HockeyNerd, He already is out for almost two weeks…and therefor not so sure he’ll miss any of the games, at least I hope so. But we’ll see, I guess.
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Life after Lockout is wonderful.
Tim has brought some great people to LA.
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I would love to hear Dean’s answer to this question: Did you fill all of the boxes on your chart by the time you won the Cup, or are there still open boxes in there? Of course you can always upgrade your depth players, but… basically did you think you were there yet?
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Real 7 Reply:
January 12th, 2013 at 7:35 pm
@Goon Squad, [projected answer] YES! I thought we were there after the Carter trade…
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How about jim fox to be the head of this site?
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Mars Reply:
January 12th, 2013 at 8:51 pm
@neil, I like the articles from the guys, all of them, but would they have to time to update as we are used to from Hammer? Even 4 of them cannot keep up with the ferocity that the Hammer brought to us.
They should get two guys, maybe a homer and a traveler. IDK
We could use a full time stat guy too
Man Rich spoiled us.
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Duncanz Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 12:32 am
@neil, Fox News?
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Look at March and April’s Schedule!!! Then the Playoffs!! It’ll all be about fitness and conditioning this year. This years champ will be the fittest.
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Duncanz Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 12:36 am
@fistmybummybones, … nothing, just wanted to test run a new pseudonym.
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kissmyblarneystones Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 2:06 am
@Duncanz,
You shot your wad with @pissmypantelones.
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Fox Sports West is going to televise the Kings practice on Monday.
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Mars Reply:
January 12th, 2013 at 9:13 pm
@goldielocks, Really? When I gotta record that!
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goldielocks Reply:
January 12th, 2013 at 9:23 pm
@Mars,
7Pm I think. And you can download free ticket from ticketmaster. Staples will open 6 PM.
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At season ticket holder meet the players event. Horrible! Huge lines. More like meet the player event.
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Mars Reply:
January 12th, 2013 at 9:13 pm
@The Griffster, That is a bummer.
I had the same issue trying to see the Cup on its tour.
The times were a pain. I really wanted to get a pic or even with anyone on the team.
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Ya I agree with griffster this meet the players event sucks, I haven’t met anyone after 2 1/2 hours in line. Thank you so much!
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Of course there was a quick fix.
Johnathan Quick.
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$150 for nose bleeds to watch them raise the banner. No thanks, I have a great seat in my living room.
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Lake Forest Reply:
January 12th, 2013 at 10:53 pm
@Jack the Lad, is that how much they are going for?
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Jack the Lad Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 5:57 am
@Lake Forest, Yep, price range on Ticketmaster is $675 to $155. I can only imagine what there going to be on stubhub etc.
I can see the demand for tickets, but after the banner goes up I don’t think you’ll see very good hockey. Not after a 8 month layoff for most players and 1 week of training camp. We’ll see I guess.
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Hey look! A current story.
I’m sure it’s not enough to satisfy the whiners here.
Thanks for the story Foxy, keep up the good work. You’re appreciated for your hard work.
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Mars Reply:
January 12th, 2013 at 9:11 pm
@Sdgolfer, I for one am happy! I love the articles, just wish I didnt have to stare at AM so long though.
As I said above, Rich spoiled us.
This one offered a little bit of insight I would have loved to see a month ago, I get why though.
Again my thanks!
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The irrepressible @Jeff_R to Dustin Penner at Kings, Meet The Players Night:
“Hope you have a better season, Dustin … er, I mean …”
Penner; “Thanks.”
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Osaka Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 2:32 am
@Duncanz, Hahaha. That is great!
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Well, I hope we get off to a good start.
Counting last year’s playoffs, we have a modest one-game winning streak. Sheesh, lost 2 out of the last 3.
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Real 7 Reply:
January 12th, 2013 at 9:57 pm
@Robert R, they were trying to save the Jersey franchise…
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Robert R Reply:
January 12th, 2013 at 10:27 pm
@Real 7, From my experiences there (games 1 and 5), ain’t worth it.
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Wow, 11 nationally televised King games. Not bad, especially for a 48 game season!
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Duncanz Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 12:01 am
@KC23, Bet the Pens get more.
#ECBIAS
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Just saw the schedule and I feel really good about it. Other than the CaSucks, Blues, and just because the SHarks always give us problems, the sharks — don’t think there is another team in the West that can keep pace with us. GoKINGS GO!!!! I’ll see you all at the Vancouver game!
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Osaka Reply:
January 12th, 2013 at 10:33 pm
@aKinginVancouver, Vancouver will be tough.
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And MOU is trending on twitter now.
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The nonsense is over. I can’t wait for next Saturday!!
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1st 15 games for the Kings.
4 at Home.
11 on the Road.
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Kings’ camp roster has 27 players. C Toffoli invited to camp but NOT C Loktionov. That speaks volumes.
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KC23 Reply:
January 12th, 2013 at 11:04 pm
@Osaka, Agreed. Toffoli is a dead red sniper. As far as goal scoring goes, he can do it. We’ll see if he can play defense at the NHL level. He’s been very good in Manchester with a team best plus/minus of 13. Vey and Pearson have also been doing extremely well.
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Osaka Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 2:29 am
@KC23, Those 3 guys have been impressive indeed. Tyler may not make the Kings, but they did invite him to camp so they can see what he does look like against NHL players. I have not seen one Manchester game so I cannot comment on his defense at all.
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HockeyNerd Reply:
January 12th, 2013 at 11:32 pm
@Osaka, With Kopitar out and Lokti having played all along it is rather surprising that they aren’t interested in at least giving him a shot. Looks like he just isn’t part of the organization’s plans at this point.
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KC23 Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 12:18 am
@HockeyNerd, I think it’s more that Toffoli is playing exceptionally well and less that Loktionov isn’t good enough. Toffoli, has loads of talent. He finds those soft areas around the net, not unlike Luc used to.
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Osaka Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 2:26 am
@KC23, I agree he may just have been beaten out for the spot, but that is telling when a rookie beats out a guys with NHL experience. Lokti just plays too soft for DL and Sutter IMO. Remember the Kings didn’t put his name on the cup.
Osaka Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 2:24 am
@HockeyNerd, I was surprised Lokti wasn’t invited but I understand Toffoli being there over him. The rookie is battling for scoring lead and is leading scorer in Manchester. I was a skeptic of Tyler (lots of guys put up big numbers in Jr’s never to be real NHL prospects) but he just keeps scoring at every level. He may be a guy who plays even better in the NHL, like Dwight King, playing with talented guys who know how and when to get him the puck.
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Osaka Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 2:33 am
@Osaka, Leading goal scorer I mean.
Save, Hrudey! Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 6:17 am
@Osaka,
You keep referring to TT as a C. He played RW in Junior, and is listed as RW in Manchester. Where are you obtaining his C status?
vinny Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 9:58 am
@Osaka, as @save, hrudey! said, he’s no center. the line morris put together has been on a tear for a while now with pearson on lw vey the c and toffoli on rw.
Osaka Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 4:28 pm
@Osaka, He is a center playing RW.
Just got back from the meet the players event at staples. Got Richardson, stoll, and Carter’s autograph. Also got a few pictures with the cup. Spent no money there, so I was extremely happy about the whole event.
Go kings go!!!
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It will be interesting to see how well the team can perform during the full season with Darryl Sutter. I’m not expecting 40-8 or something similar, but it’s weird approaching this season from the point of view of a championship. Those last 20 games were such a high that it can be easy to forget that these upcoming 48 will be a grind. Remembering that the players aren’t robots–that Jon Quick can’t be Superman every night, that the greatest players have a bad shift now and then, and that opponents will want to make a statement.
I guess that I feel a bit edgy about what’s coming up–but it’s better to be an edgy fan of a Stanley Cup Champion than an edgy fan of an also ran.
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Save, Hrudey! Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 6:19 am
@Robert R,
I’d go with 40-6-2…….and those 2 shootout losses will be on Bernie, since Quick is awesome 1 on 1.
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Robert R Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 7:42 am
@Save, Hrudey!, Yep
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Cup is back in LA! Guys checking out their names on it.
http://t.co/QMvvgmVf
From Phillip Pritchard (Keeper of the Cup).
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Great article Jim! I like the fact Dean has the green light to spend to the cap this season if the right guy is available. Getzlaf and Perry will both be UFA’s this summer. One might be available as a rent-a-player. Either would be a great pick up IMO. Kings are no longer rebuilding, they are the team that is always in play for “the player” that comes available. I like it!
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KC23 Reply:
January 12th, 2013 at 11:10 pm
@Osaka, Not a fan of Getzlaf, but I’d take Perry in a heart beat. Getzlaf is a slacker and I think Perry and Ryan have been carrying Getzlaf. Put him with less talent and I believe they’ll be a huge drop off. I know a lot of King fans hate Ryan, but he’d be an awesome player to pick up. Don’t know how many people know this, but Ryan played with Kopitar and Kopitar’s brother in the Swed Elite league. Ryan and Kopitar on the same line … yeah that might work.
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HockeyNerd Reply:
January 12th, 2013 at 11:44 pm
@KC23, We (arguably) STILL don’t have a “sniper”, anyone who probably would score 40 goals in a full season. So you have me thinking. Of course you then have to drop somebody off one of the top 2 lines. Of course by that time someone may be hurt or have been a huge disappointment.
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Osaka Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 2:16 am
@HockeyNerd, I would say Carter is a sniper.
Osaka Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 2:17 am
@KC23, Kings fans hate all Ducks players, not just Ryan.
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Osaka Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 2:34 am
@Osaka, But yeah, Ryan or Perry would be a nice addition.
So thay are right back at business … Okay.
http://video.nhl.com/videocenter/console?catid=35&id=192381&cmpid=embed-share-video
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DesertKing Reply:
January 12th, 2013 at 11:52 pm
@goldielocks,
Wow, they actually inlcuded some Kings. Amazing. Unbelievable. Shocking.
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goldielocks Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 12:48 am
@DesertKing,
Of course. They need our market.
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Looks like Voynov has passed the DL integrity test with flying colors:
http://www.foxsportswest.com/01/10/13/Voynov-rewards-Kings-with-focused-AHL-st/landing.html?blockID=847991&feedID=10072
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Duncanz Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 9:36 am
@KC23, Reading between Deano’s intentionally fuzzy lines, he actually sounds pretty disapponted with a lot of what he saw on his stops in Manchester (Lokti, Jordy? Kinger? Hickey?).
I wonder if they get a heads up when Lord Lombardi’s riding into the manor, or otherwise.
This story and his effusive praise for VV are very good signs for him personally, though, and go to show that VV is determined and well on his way to establishing himself as an elite defenseman in this league.
Viva VV, Viva!
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Only 4 of the first 15 games are at home. Gonna need a good start for sure!
GKG!
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TiredOfIt Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 12:16 am
@bbb7, Thanks spiraling Lakers
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KC23 Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 12:24 am
@bbb7, Probably an advatage if you think about it. King’s are one of the best road teams in the league and by the time we get to our home games well be up to speed. I like our chances if we can stay healthy.
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DesertKing Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 12:30 am
@KC23,
+1
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I’m telling ya, the Kings team we saw in the playoffs is the team DL always expected. They showed skill, effort, ability to follwo game plans, and most importantly, chemistry. The line of Richards/Carter/Penner really clicked together. All three defense pairs were always on the same page. Yes, there are players out there who may have more skill than some of our Kings, but would they mesh with the other Kings? I still believe that JMFJ was not good for the team chemistry. When he left, the team seemed happier amd more relaxed. Watching other teams throughout the playoffs, I saw groups of great players, but they didn’t display the same “chemistry that the Kings displayed. When looking at possible new players, remember that this group of Kings won the Cup, that they dominated their competition in their last 50+ games (regular season plus playoffs), and only got better and better as they progressed together. None of the players seemed to be under any pressure. Even Quick was smiling. I really think the other teams are scared of the Kings because they play hard, they play smart, they play with skill and they play for each other. The only hope the other teams have is some type of “hangover” scenario, whether from the Stanley Cup or too much Bud-Light. GKG- AGAIN!
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KC23 Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 12:32 am
@DesertKing, Richards/Carter/Penner line was pretty much a wash 5 on 5 imho. Both Richards and Carter had some defensive lapes. Both being guilty of leaving the zone before the puck and turn overs on the break out. Richards a plus 1 and Carter a zero plus/minus. Penner was a plus 4, but that was because he started on the Stoll line which actually did better 5 on 5, than the Richards line in the playoffs. Where Richards and Carter really paid off was some timely PP goals.
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Gosh it is great to be back on here. There was only one game that I was going to pay money for, but at 150/nosebleed, I will just watching it from my living room. I am excited and revved up to watch our Stanley Cup Champs defend their title and I cannot wait ’till Friday! I am also looking forward to talking with most of you again. It’s good to be back! GKG!!
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I’m so scared this will be just like the Stanley Cup Finals… watching from home because I can’t afford to compete with all the bandwagon fans for tickets. The picture a rich facebook friend of mine posted to her profile of herself sitting a couple rows up from the glass at game 6 with the caption, “not much of a hockey fan, but this is kind of cool” STILL haunts me. I want to be at opening night so badly, but I recognize my chances are pretty slim.
I don’t mean to be a beggar but, if there are any kind season ticket holders out there who want to help a poor girl out, let me know. lol I’m kidding. (kind of)
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FiG17 Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 1:01 am
@FiG17,
Btw, by help I mean sell your extra tickets to me for a reasonable, closer-to-face-value-than-most-other-tickets-will-be price. Just to clarify.
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Save, Hrudey! Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 6:24 am
@FiG17,
Haha……glad you clarified.
Was already grabbing my checkbook
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FiG17 Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 8:04 am
@Save, Hrudey!,
Hey, I mean, checks are always welcome.
haha
I must say that the article that Jim Fox wrote is one of the best since the departure of Hammond’s.I still believe we need a leader for this blog site. With Rich we had a full time guy. He simply gave us the information to bitch and belly ache about. Going back and forth arguing with each other is what made this blog site. Through the years we have become a family and this family has lost it’s first member, Rich. As much as a love Jim Fox he is still the color guy for Fox TV. He has not the time to devote towards the Insider. Please Kings hire a guy to give us hounds the information we need!!
I also looked at the upcoming 48 games. Hate to be a spoiler folks, but this is not going to be easy. Remember it was not that long ago we could not hit the net if our lives had depended on it. We could not score!! Now I know we won the Cup, but this is a new season and EVERY team will be focused on whippin our butts. I do think if we stay committed to each other and realize that there will be bumps in this short road, we will make the playoffs. We are going to have some games where we will look outstanding, but remember the flip side. Our first five games are all tough as nails. I am nervous!!! With all the high expectations and having the Cup mark my word ” We will be brought down to reality” And you can quote me on that. I love this team just like the next person. I have the mark of the team on my body, I bleed Kings hockey! Can’t wait to see what these men are made of. Yes I’m calling them boys out. Keeping your head right can be the hardest thing in pro sports. And defending a championship… Well it hasn’t been done in 15 years. Am I ready? yes!!! But now the butterflies and excitement starts.
Best thing… Coming back here and intertwining with you good people. Some of you have been the greatest fans on earth and maybe it’s just me that is a bit nervous about this season, but I do respect everyone’s opinion and thanks for making a guy from Salt Lake feel like he is part of this wonderful team. Go Kings and get ready for it will be one hell of a ride.
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Forum Gold Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 9:03 am
@King Charles of Salt Lake, I always enjoy your posts and this one is no exception. I am nervous before EVERY game but after following this team for 44 years I am loving having to defend the championship. GO KINGS GO!!!
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Does anyone know how Scott Parse fits into the 2013 LAkings ? Don’t see his name mentioned anywhere
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You know “The Times are A Changing” when Jim Buss mentioned that he thinks the Lakers can be like the Kings(get the 8th seed and march thru the Play offs) again ..The Lakers trying to duplicate the KINGS !!!! never thought I would see that day…plus the Clippers having the best basketball team in L.A. …
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Save, Hrudey! Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 12:01 pm
@Neil,
Is this what the Mayans meant??
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Westy traded to Car for Anthony Stewart and a bunch of picks.
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Token Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 9:24 am
@Token, from Bob McKenzie
@TSNBobMcKenzie: To get Westgarth, CAR traded Anthony Stewart, its 2013 fourth-round draft pick and a sixth-round selection in the 2014 draft to the Kings.
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California Royalty Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 9:44 am
@Token, Hallelujah!
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Duncanz Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 9:49 am
@Token, Hmmm, Stewart has been quite underwhelming in Carolina.
Let’s see if he can acquire a bit of Kings magic dust when he gets here.
More importantly for now, I’ll miss Westy and his effervescent attitude.
Great servant to the Kings. Tough, loyal, positive, brilliant teammate and hey, always excellent with the fans!
So, in short, a wonderful club man.
All the very best of luck back East, Westy, and come back and visit us any time, pal.
You’ll always be welcome around these parts.
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puck73 Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 9:59 am
@Duncanz, I liked Westgarth as well. Clifford is not a heavyweight at this time. That being said, Carolina totally overpaid for Westy.
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Duncanz Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 10:13 am
@purge73, If you calculate that fighting in the NHL is heading for obsolescence, then the deal as reported is pretty reasonable for the Kings.
I’m hoping Anthony Stewart shows a lot more than he has to date, mind you.
Maybe being in the same conference as his brother will be added inspiration for him to prosper over here.
bbb7 Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 10:26 am
@puck73, Agreed, I would have been happy with just the draft picks. Nothing against Westy personally cause he seems like a great guy, but he really added nothing to the team last season.
CB14 Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 10:16 am
@Duncanz, Even if Stewart blows out his knee in his first practice and misses the entire season, it will still be a great trade.
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Duncanz Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 10:21 am
@BC14, Lol, fair enough.
Stand by what I said in my eulogy about Westy, though.
I’m a club man, not just a hockey man.
Itchy Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 10:29 am
@Duncanz,
did you give the same speech when Blake left? just wondering who the boo-ers are
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Duncanz Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 10:47 am
@Stitchy, Erm, um, I know I’ve said things about Blakey before.
Anyhows, who gave you my blogcop’s badge?
I do the cuffing and detaining around here …
… Hey! Loosen these things up!
My circulation is being cut worse than the NY Journal News here!
Robert R Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 10:55 am
@Token, Assuming that Westgarth makes the Carolina roster, Kings won’t face him until 2013-14–unless Carolina joins us in the Finals this year (of course we’ll be there….).
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Ah man I liked Westgarth. But I understand.
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Will miss #KWesty19, but LOVE this Deano type player in AStewart.
gKg!
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I think having an enforcer like Westgarth on your team during the season is important, because I think Kyle Clifford is a middleweight, not a heavyweight. That being said….DL RAPED CAROLINA ! That much for Westgarth? Really? DL….you are a suede shoe salesman!
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tornado12 Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 10:02 am
@puck73, My thoughts exactly…but the NHL is changing. The classic enforcer is a dying breed. but you stull need to have a tough stick up for your teammate collective spirit which I think the kings have. Other teams will always have idiots running around trying to distract your best players. The best deterrent to deal with this is also an effective pp that can capitalize when the other team starts running around. Hopefully the kings can establish a better pp this year!
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Neil Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 10:02 am
@puck73, Just the draft picks is a steal !!!!
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CB14 Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 10:21 am
@Neil, “draft pick”
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vinny Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 10:05 am
@puck73, lol im still confused
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Michael J. Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 10:14 am
@puck73,
So much for “every player returning”
I can’t make heads or tails of this deal. What does Stewart bring? Where does he fit in?
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tornado12 Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 10:22 am
@Michael J., Looks like a big winger (6’3 230)who can bang and add depth to the 4th line. Has like 20 points in 77 career games. Sutter said he wants to use a lot of players in this shortened compact season so that’s probably why he was acquired . Has only 1 yr left on his 2 yr contract.
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bbb7 Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 10:31 am
@tornado12, Those 20 points were just last season. He’s got 71 pts in 262 games over 4 seasons (and two short stints at the beginning of his career.) He looks like a good banger who can maybe add 8-10 goals on the 4th line (assuming he plays).
tornado12 Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 10:33 am
@tornado12, Sorry 20 points in 77 games last year but 39 points(14 goals) in 80 games the year before with ATL. Career in NHL is 71 points in 262 games.
CB14 Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 10:20 am
@puck73, Nolans a pretty big dude who has handled himself very well in fights so far in his short NHL career. I couldn’t be happier about this trade!
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Robert R Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 11:17 am
@puck73, Fill me in: in the playoffs, where the importance of EVERYTHING is magnified, how much ice time did Westgarth see?
Unless he had a big impact in the locker room–chemistry, leadership, and all that good stuff–his absence won’t have much influence. This team has a lot of size, and physical intimidation isn’t just from fighting. It’s also from hammering your opponent on each shift. (Nothing’s quite like going into a corner, hearing the other guy following, and feeling like a fly waiting for the car’s windshield.)
We’ll be ok.
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Is Hickey on waivers??? and does that mean that he is gone …without getting anything in return???
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tornado12 Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 10:25 am
@Neil, Does he have to clear waivers? I thought he wasn’t in camp.
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Forward lines this morning
Penner Williams Carter
Gagne Richards Brown
King Stoll Lewis
Clifford Fraser Nolan
Toffoli Richardson
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tornado12 Reply:
January 13th, 2013 at 10:36 am
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com), Williams at center?
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DL….stud of studs…you guys have a great GM…maybe other teams need him..
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