The Kings acquired lefthanded defenseman Keaton Ellerby from the Florida Panthers in exchange for a fifth round pick in the 2013 NHL draft. The fifth round pick was the one acquired Wednesday in the trade that sent Andrei Loktionov to New Jersey. As the result of the trade, defenseman Andrew Campbell was assigned to Manchester after spending two days in Nashville without appearing in a game.
Ellerby, 24, provides a sizeable depth option on the Kings’ blue line; whether he provides anything more than that depends on L.A.’s success in coaxing development out of the 6-foot-5, 217 pound blueliner, an endeavor that Florida had found limited success in since he was selected 10th overall in 2007. Ellerby had fallen out of favor with the Panthers, with whom he had been used as a third pairing defenseman and had been passed over in usage by Mike Weaver and the emergence of Tyson Strachan. His best NHL season was 2010-11, when he posted 12 points (2-10=12) and 22 penalty minutes in 54 games. His 36 penalty minutes in nine games this season represents a career high at the NHL level, and his eight minor penalties were the most on the Panthers’ roster. Having seen Ellerby play in juniors, yes, there is a sandpaper element in his on-ice composition.
There aren’t very many defensive options available via trade. Available top-four types are scarce. Though he never truly blossomed with the Panthers, there’s certainly some upside in Ellerby’s game, and perhaps this is one of those “change-of-scenery”-type trades that provides a needed change for a young defenseman who continues to refine his game. Considering what appears to be out there on the trade market, this appears to be an appropriate acquisition at a low cost. The Kings are allowing three goals per game – partially due to the absence of Matt Greene and Willie Mitchell – and while Ellerby’s arrival shouldn’t be seen as a solution to the team’s uncharacteristic defensive issues, it’s a move that adds size and strength and an additional option to the back end.
As The Royal Half pointed out, he is a first cousin of Shane Doan, a fellow former Kamloops Blazer. Carey Price is Ellerby’s second cousin.
UPDATE: Ellerby will wear #5 with the Kings.
Credit: Dave Eagles
Nice pick up! Now let’s get a forwards that can consistently score.
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Kings20 Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 3:45 pm
@Kyle, We have a forward…. Tofoli. This kid can score, and i can not understand why he is still siting in the minors. We have Fraser, Lewis a like that can put the puck in the net.
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intresting cant say i remember muuch about him, maybe we can stop the bleeding on the blue line
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mash-ola Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 12:19 pm
@pr0cess, He was drafted six spots after Thomas Hickey in a poor draft year for defensemen. Ellerby for Loktionov, basically. I decent trade in my opinion, but like Hickey, a top-ten draft pick who hasn’t panned out yet. Unlike, Hickey, however, he is a big body w/decent mobility and skill who has at least been seasoned in the NHL rather than Manchester.
It was a move that had to be made, but don’t expect too much from him. He’s mostly a stop-gap acquisition that will buy time for both Mitchell and Green to return.
What’s the deal w/Mitchell, btw? What is his timetable and is there any way of getting a quote from him to see where he thinks HE is at?
At least the Kings won the Stanley Cup, otherwise, I’d be thoroughly disapointed with this team this shortened season… now I’m just mildly disappointed in this team.
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luc20rules Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 1:02 pm
@mash-ola, Poor draft year overall only the first 3 guys made an impact. Unfortunately we had #4.
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luc20rules Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 1:03 pm
@luc20rules, Never ever thought I would say this but Crawford didn’t suck enough the year before that draft.
mash-ola Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 1:54 pm
@luc20rules, Patrick Kane and Logan Couture are the only real impact players in the draft so far (you could also maybe cast a vote for P.K. Subban, who was MTL’s 2nd round pick). After Kane, it was James Van Reimsdyk and Kyle Turris drafted before Hickey.
Most of the other picks that year are just now hitting their stride (Sam Gagner, Jakub Voracek, Zach Hamill, Brandon Sutter, Ryan McDonough, Lars Eller, Kevin Shattenkirk, Max Pacioretty, Jonathan Blum, Michael Backlund, David Perron, Brendon Smith, T.J. Galliardi and Wayne Simmonds)
But yeah, like you said, the NHL Scouts really had to earn their keep that year.
Mike in Oregon Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 2:21 pm
@luc20rules,
Yo, Wayne Gretzky said last week that he thinks Kyle Turris is the third best player in the NHL. And Van Reimsdyk has sort of come alive in Toronto. Hopefully same for Ellerby.
Stuart Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 6:38 pm
@mash-ola, Lombardi said that Mitchell pushed too hard during his rehabilitation and suffered a setback. On Friday, he told Lisa Dillman of the LA Times the Kings weren’t holding out hope to get Mitchell back. “Right now,” he said, “We have to operate on the premise Willie and Greener are done for the year. If he comes back it’s a tremendous bonus. If not, we can’t continue to rely on that. We’ve got to get in that mindset.”
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Good move. Muzzin looks lost. The game is a little too fast for him right now. I guess willie isn’t returning any time soon.
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thirty3 Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 10:29 pm
@PK, i agree it could be a good move (a semi/sorta replacement for Greene), but i disagree on the Muzzin comment, he has the best +/- on the team and i personally feel he has played well. i think they should send Fraiser & Gagne to Manchester (screw salaries, we need wins) and bring up some guys that have been putting the puck in the net down there. what’s the worst that could happen? we give some young guys a chance to prove themselves.
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Does this seem like a panic move or do you think DL has a plan in mind?
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Jason Lewis Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 9:31 am
@Robyn, Not a panic move at all.
Ellerby was getting phased out in Florida, and they have too many untouchable contracts like Kuba and Jovo. It was either trade Ellerby or put him on waivers where he was bound to get claimed. Florida got something for him.
Ellerby will be a nice 2nd pairing D-man. He’s an RFA at the end of the year, he’s cheap, and he’s better than what we currently have playing. He could theoretically replace Mitchell when his contract is up if need be until Forbort or Gravel are ready, which still looks about a year or two off.
I don’t see panic here at all.
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jet Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 12:29 pm
@Jason Lewis, dont be surprised if Roach gives Forbort and gravel a run for the money. He has the drive to be an NHLer.
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Shakes Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 9:45 am
@Robyn, i think a panic move would be if Deano gave a 4th round draft pick for Ellerby
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LBlocal Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 9:52 am
@Robyn, Lisa Dillman reported this morning via Twitter: @reallisa
Just chatted w/Dean Lombardi. Dean Lombardi: “Right now we have to operate on the premise Willie and Greener are done for the year.”
Note the word ‘premise’..Asked him about Mitchell. DL: “Nothing has changed either way.”
DL “If he comes back it’s a tremendous bonus. If not, we can’t continue to rely on that. We’ve got to get in that mindset.”
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LBlocal Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 9:53 am
“Once again, note the word premise. Teams clearly have to prepare for multiple scenarios. Makes more sense than waiting and hoping.”
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OneTimer Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 11:02 am
@Robyn,
Nah….
1) DL always has a plan,
2) Not a panic. We’ve been without two of our better shutdown D for pretty much the whole season thus far (w/ the exception of Greener in game 1) … this is a move after 9 games of waiting to see that what we have going – isn’t quite working.
This ia a safe pick-up for a player that while liked, wasn’t going to contribute. We traded a 5th round pick (which we got back) for a former 1st round pick. Let’s just pray Ellerby remembers what got him so highly ranked. Sutter will be good for him – our system might be better?
OT
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mrbrett7 Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 11:05 am
@Robyn, Giving up a 5th round pick for a bag of pucks wouldn’t be a panic move. This is basically taking on this kid for nothing.
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Duckbasher Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 11:31 am
@mrbrett7, Basically we traded Lokti for him. Right?
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Wilmonde Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 12:13 pm
@Duckbasher, Yep.
brianguy Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 12:14 pm
@Duckbasher,
yes, but Lokti is damaged goods in the regard that he could go back to Russia at any time, and that lowered his value by at least one round, from a 4th rounder to a 5th. that and the fact the Kings couldn’t play him AT ALL to showcase and extract his worth. they were forced to take what they could get with the logjam at center.
luc20rules Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 1:04 pm
@Robyn, Same plan stock pile D prospects.
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10th pick overall in the ’07 draft (same draft as Hickey). picked ahead of McDonagh and Shattenkirk. looks to be more of a defensive defenseman.
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So basically this is who we got for Lokti..I dont know much about Ellerby but that was cheap..I really think DL did Lou(NJD’s GM)a big favor and I hope Lou will return the favor..
Meanwhile Kings need speed in their lineups and I dont know why Sutter doesnt put Richardson..Bench Stoll, Fraser, King, Nolan or whoever and make room for Richardson..Stoll is pretty much useless except his faceoffs..GOD this Kings right now is giving me more grey hair..
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goldielocks Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 10:22 am
@Mirrors can’t see your heart,
Devils GM Lamoriello on Loktionov(in the radio interview) ‘will be 1C in Albany, brings skill that we don’t have in minors, a depth move’
Ouch.
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KINGSFANSINCE1969 Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 11:35 am
@Mirrors can’t see your heart, THIS IS THE SAME KINGS TEAM AS LAST YEAR, ACCEPT FOR THE WAY THEY PLAYED IN THE PLAYOFFS ITS THE SAME. SLOW NO OFFENSE AND RELY ON QUICK.
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kissmyblarneystones Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 11:51 am
@Mirrors can’t see your heart,
We traded a guy we couldn’t use for a guy we can use. I’m delighted with the relationship DL has with LL. I bet Lou made this deal or at least made Dean aware of its potential.
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kings714 Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 1:24 pm
@Mirrors can’t see your heart,
can’t take out stoll he wins faceoffs and is talented, and nolan has been one of the best kings at playing his role so far this year, has really impressed me.
on the other hand king and fraser are no shows. i want to see king develop, but i definitely wouldn’t mind richardson getting a few games .
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number 6 Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 3:58 pm
@kings714,
Speaking of ‘on the other hand’…… he has had woefully low offensive number this season and last….. and another poor offensive start. If you look back on his first quarter numbers earlier in his career they were way better than what he’s getting from the beginning of last season onwards.
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Kings20 Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 11:26 pm
@Mirrors can’t see your heart, Banch Fraser and Lewis. Bring Toffoli.
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When you say more to come shortly — are you saying more news about Ellerby or is this some nice foreshadowing of trades to come???
But really, hope this guy can help out until Willie gets back because we are hurt’n on D. Go Kings and I predict bounce back game plus nice win streak on the horizon.
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Kingsfanone Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 9:37 am
@aKinginVancouver,
Lisa Dillman says Lombardi is running under the assumption that Mitchell and Greene are done for the season. He almost has to even if its not true.
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2013 stats per TSN: 9 games played, no points, 36 PIMS, -2.
Big dude (6’5″, 217), and left handed, so maybe he spells Scuderi on the top pair, who’s getting worn out playing so many extra minutes this year. Hope he can block shots and stay with his man.
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Deke'r Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 2:05 pm
@KingMe20, ….well it certainly will give our PK TOI eh?….
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From Hockey´s Future Website:
Talent Analysis
Ellerby was a raw talent coming out of juniors but has shown a lot of growth – both physically and in hockey-wise – in the past two seasons. Ellerby plays with a chip on his shoulder, but has been much more disciplined than his rough and tumble days of junior hockey when he would take unnecessary penalties. He has decent hockey sense, and is still honing the skill areas of his game. Ellerby doesn’t stray from proper position and makes crisp first passes. He has great poise with the puck on the boards and carrying it up ice. He is an extremely fluid skater. Ellerby still needs to add more weight to his lanky 6’4 frame. Ellerby has made strides the past two seasons and continues to develop into a complete player.
Future
Ellerby spent the last month of the 2009-10 season with the Panthers but saw very little ice time. With veteran Keith Ballard now in Vancouver, it is hoped that Ellerby can assume a bigger role with Florida this season. While he is still developing physically, Ellerby projects to one day being a top shutdown defenseman with the ability to contribute offensively.
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Mike in Oregon Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 2:23 pm
@KingsBrazil, Thanks for that!
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I know everybody wants to blame Drewiske/Muzzin for the slow start this year, and claim that the Mitchell/Greene injuries are the big problem, but is that really the case? DD2/Muzzin are both + on the year, and the bad goals tend to be coming w/ Doughty/Scuds on the ice (not that Scuds hasn’t been playing his ass off on D, but I digress…)
I know the injuries on the blue line are the convenient scapegoat here, since that’s the “only thing that’s changed” since the Cup run, but this team isn’t scoring, and it’s forwards seem to be ducking a lot of the blame that’s being placed on the D that doesn’t seem to be playing THAT badly.
Maybe I’m just missing something here…
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Safaribear1107 Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 10:24 am
@Kings1234, When willie was out last year we tanked until he came back, his greatest strength is taking up space on the ice and gives the opponents something else to think about. Right now all of our forwards have to start coming back to help out our d-men, that in turn forces them to start further back on the break outs. Its just like when we traded for carter, it just changes the looks we have and gives us an edge!
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Art Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 11:34 am
Agreed – you can’t say that scoring isn’t affected by defensive injuries. A solid defensive core allows forward to play more confidently and take more chances, and vice versa. When you have 5 guys out on the ice, though they are playing separate positions, they act as a unit and frequently will cover other areas if they have to.
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curtis Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 11:04 am
@Kings1234, 14 SOG last night & 3 goals??? I think Quick isn’t playing well too & should get some blame.
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Duckbasher Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 11:37 am
@curtis, Quick is now something like 1-7 against nashville? Bernier needs to get some starts and I think this game would/should have been a start for him. Not that i think Quick is playing badly. But hey… why not go with the odds?
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Cup4la Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 12:08 pm
@Duckbasher, Because odds have nothing to so with it.
mrbrett7 Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 11:18 am
@Kings1234, Remember…both Doughty and Scuderi are also playing extra minutes per night. That effects their stamina, and of course the more time you spend on the ice, the more likely you make some sort of mistake.
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Osaka Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 4:21 pm
@Kings1234, Having your best defensive defenseman out is the biggest loss a team can have. Every aspect of the team was an impact from the loss. Of course the loss of Willie has a huge impact on the offense.
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Well the Quacks got bigger on D,so it looks like without Greene and Mitchell that;s what we have to do. NHL.com calls him Cats Ellerby, sounds like a jazz piano player. He’s played for Florida for 4 years.
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How is Campbell sent down without clearing waivers? Even the Mayor is confused about that.
Explanation?
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Jason Lewis Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 9:36 am
@Kingsfanone,
Campbell cleared once when he was sent down at the beginning of the season (Along with Hickey, Clune and Cliche I believe.)
Because he cleared earlier he won’t be subject to waivers until he plays I believe 10 games in the NHL or has 30 days on an NHL active roster. Only then would he be subject to waiver claims again. Same will go for Bodnarchuk.
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Kingsfanone Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 9:42 am
@Jason Lewis,
Did not know that. Thanks!
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OCKingGirl Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 10:35 am
@Jason Lewis, Thank you for explaining that.
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Kings20 Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 11:30 pm
@Kingsfanone, Still would love to see what Cambell is made of.
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They are calling him an under-achiever. Feels desperate to me but at this point we are desparate arent we.
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pr0cess Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 9:15 am
@paul, yes we are
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mrbrett7 Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 11:18 am
@paul, Who else is available and at what price?
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mash-ola Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 12:42 pm
@paul, He’s also only 24 and has spent his career being shuttled up and down between Florida and their minor league affilate in Rochester. He needs some stability and I think Sutter and the Kings will give him a good look to see if they can tap that potential that made him a top-ten pick. I have more confidence in Ellerby than I do in Muzzin for sure. The Kings needed to address their defense and this is a no-brainer in my opinion.
GO KINGS GO! WAKE UP! SEASON’S ON!!
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Todd Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 12:57 pm
@paul
Maybe he just needs a fresh start.
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kings714 Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 1:28 pm
@paul,
hopefully the lakers recent success with busts (hill & clark) can go through staples to our locker room and make this guy work out
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mash-ola Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 1:57 pm
@kings714, +1
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Here´s an opinion of a Panthers fan:
Ellerby has played well with Kulikov in the past, and is slowly developing.
With Weaver being 33-34 and one more year as an Ufa, he is not in our plans after this year. His lack of physicality hurt us at times when the opposing team would crash the net or around the boards.
Ellerby is far more physical in both facets and is a much better skater.
All Ellerby is lacking is confidence. When he would get multiple in a row starts, his play would improve.
I think he still may be a good 2nd pairing guy, but it depends if he has the mental part down
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36 penalty minutes in 9 games this season, was a healthy scratch last game for the panthers and had a -15 rating in 54 games for the panthers in the 2010-2011 season. This guy sounds amazing, gonna give doughty a run for his money.
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hiway39 Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 9:26 am
@elijah, i’m interpreting this as getting something for nothing (loktionov). muzzin, campbell and bodnarchuk aren’t ready to log regular minutes with the big club. hopefully mitchell returns soon to pair back with voynov, and martinez slots back to the #3 pairing with presumably ellerby now.
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NOW IMPRESSED Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 11:07 am
@elijah, I know you’re being sarcastic, but with the way Doughty has been playing, you may be right.
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vegasking Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 4:23 pm
@NOW IMPRESSED, ditto
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mash-ola Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 12:45 pm
@elijah, think of him as a poor-man’s Jay Bouwmeester… He’s a work in progress, but much more upside at this point than, say.. Thomas Hickey, or Andrei Loktionov for that matter. It was a good deal.
Aside from the defense, the OFFENSE needs to be addressed as well. It’s like we’re back in fall 2011 w/Terry Murray at the helm.
GO KINGS GO!
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kings714 Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 1:29 pm
@mash-ola,
i’m ready for some toffoli!
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Kings20 Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 11:37 pm
@kings714, I am with you on this one. Way overdue.
Osaka Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 4:25 pm
@elijah, He sounds like a young Matt Green. Isn’t that what we need?
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Kings x Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 10:49 pm
@elijah, DS needs to go down to Manchester and look at some of the talent. Maybe bring some back up. When DS said to the D guys get your crap together or you’re gonna sit he’s wasn’t playing around. Says what he does and does what he says. King has been poor. MR needs to get himself together. Penner is and has always been a joke
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I sure as hell hope he wears #4 like he did in Florida.
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California Royalty Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 9:24 am
@Michael J., I will hate this player if he tries to wear #4.
He should have enough common sense to switch numbers.
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pr0cess Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 9:26 am
@California Royalty, why who wore 4 that was important to us?
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Goring 19 Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 10:00 am
@pr0cess, Dave Hutchinson, haha
Jim Martin Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 11:18 am
@pr0cess, Rob Blake wore number 4.
Kings x Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 10:50 pm
@pr0cess, Blake = turncoat traitor. Should still be booed
Michael J. Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 9:28 am
@California Royalty,
Oh, I get it. Eberly wearing #4 would be like some soldier today picking up Benedict Arnold’s serial number.
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Shakes Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 9:44 am
@Michael J., Don Draper!
KINGSFANSINCE1969 Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 11:41 am
@Michael J., CAPT CRUNCH GILES MARRIOT WEAR #4
Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com) Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 9:46 am
@Michael J.,
He’ll be wearing #5.
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Michael J. Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 9:54 am
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com),
Wait! That was Aki Berg’s number…
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Shakes Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 9:57 am
@Michael J., #NeverForget
Real 7 Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 11:21 am
@Michael J., Bob Murdoch is the most memorable wearer of the number 5 …
an awesome D-man for the Kings…
KingMe20 Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 11:24 am
@Michael J.,
TIm Watters in the house!
mask0425x Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 1:24 pm
@Michael J.,
My first thought exactly – Aki Berg, also a first rounder. Hopefully, the curse has worn out over the years.
Darrell Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 11:22 am
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com), Watters
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kinglouie Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 11:44 am
@Darrell, Jerry Korab for President!! How about the greatest defenseman the Kings let get away for a bag of used pucks-Larry Murphy!!
Kenny44 Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 12:47 pm
@Darrell,
Muddy! Remember that low-bridge he gave Foligno in Game 7 of the 93 Campbell Conference Finals? A guy tries to go his whole career not being noticed and then BAM!
Real 7 Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 1:17 pm
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com), Bob Murdoch was a +39 for the Kings in 74-75, and Terry Harper a +38 that same very memorable season…perhaps a team record..
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thirty3 Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 10:44 pm
@Michael J., he’s gonna wear #5, same number he wore in juniors
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DL why would you do this, we have been playing so well this shortened season – said nobody ever
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Problem Solved!
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Have to say this…
Number One priority is a new 4th line center.
Fraser appears done. Too slow, poor positioning, not winning faceoffs…
–Help!
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Token Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 9:55 am
@BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy, we got centers galore on the active roster. 8.
What we don’t got us RW. 1
Nolan, Lewis, Carter are all centers playing RW.
Gagne – Lewis – Toffoli on the third line sounds delightful.
Cliffy – Stoll – Nolan on the 4th don’t sound that bad either.
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BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 10:15 am
@Token,
I was hoping Carter to center a line, push Fraser out, push Stoll down…
Your point is made. Keep in mind the size requirement/ faceoff proficiency requirement…
Tired of seeing Fraser pull up behind a forward who just scored.
Think Greene covered a lot of his deficiencies.
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Kings20 Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 11:43 pm
@Token, Sorry but Toffoli does not belong in the third line. I would move Williams to the second and put Toffoli with Kopi. That will give a kid some confidence. Do not burry this talented kid with Lewis an Gagner.
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Token Reply:
February 9th, 2013 at 8:08 am
@Kings20, Having two snipers centered by reliable, responsible two-way centerman is a bad thing?
Remember when Stoll was scoring 20 goals a season with Brown and Smyth as wingers.
Don’t overvalue the unproven prospect over veteran NHL players. Toffoli is gonna have to earn a spot, not be anointed one.
KingMe20 Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 11:25 am
@BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy,
I’d play Richardson there in the next game and sit Fraser for a game.
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mash-ola Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 12:47 pm
@KingMe20, I agree… I think he provides more of an offensive threat. And if DKing doens’t start showing more, I’d rather have Penner in there. Yes, I said it. Penner has more to offer offensively than DKing at the moment in my opinion.
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Looks like we got Hickey back. Another high draft under achieving defenseman. Pointless?
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hiway39 Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 9:42 am
@punkgothdoc, i’ll take a hickey with size than a hickey without size!
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Cry Baby Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 9:45 am
@punkgothdoc, Except that Hickey was 5’4″ and 117 lbs!
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mash-ola Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 12:49 pm
@punkgothdoc, And while Ellerby has been bouunced around between the big club and their minor league affiliate in Syracuse, exactly how many games was Hickey able to play with the Kings? And after being claimed by the lowly Isles, how many games has he played with them?
Exactly. As far as NHL pro careers are concerned, Ellerby > Hickey
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Rob Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 3:53 pm
@mash-ola, hickey has played 6 games and the Isles are in the middle of the pack. The guy’s only 24, so still too early to write the guy off as a failure.
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perhaps he’ll provide the much needed grit in the blue line. i hope he fits in rather than a bust. could it mean drewiske’s days are numbered?
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mash-ola Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 12:51 pm
@Ro, I don’t know about Drewiske, but if I’m Muzzin, I would start calling up my buddies in Manchester and tell them I’ll be back soon…
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kingfan Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 2:54 pm
@mash-ola, Well if Muzzin has to clear wavers to now go back to Manchester he will be snapped up in a heartbeat. Think the Oilers want him
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Token Reply:
February 9th, 2013 at 8:12 am
@mash-ola, Nah, muzzy is safe. Puts up 20+ shots per game and doesn’t blunder much. Whiskey puts up 10 shots a game and is like a dear in headlights on the first pass and clearing the zone.
If anything it will be special teams, PK and PP that may tip the scales one way or the other.
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Welcome to the LA Kings Insider blog, where the Kings faithful have passionate views towards our 4-6 defensemen. Thank god the lockout is over (i’m not being sarcastic here)
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jgomez Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 9:55 am
@Shakes, A lot of passion haha.
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lets hope this is a case of Florida giving up too quick ala Moulson
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I just had a wonderful breakfast burrito from Big City Burritos in Boulder CO…almost as good as an Astro Burger breakfast burrito at 2:30 in the morning. I miss LA!
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Munchrat Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 9:56 am
@Cry Baby, Burrito for breakfast? Sounds like you have already hit up the local dispensary…
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Fanchernicity Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 10:22 am
@Munchrat, questioning breakfast burritos? You’re not from so cal are you?
[Reply]
Munchrat Reply:
February 10th, 2013 at 12:38 pm
@Fanchernicity, Sure I am! That’s how I know he must have been to the dispensary…
Cry Baby Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 12:14 pm
@Munchrat, It is Boulder!
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KINGSFANSINCE1969 Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 11:44 am
@Cry Baby, HOW ABOUT A BIG KAHUNA BURGER AND A SPRITE TO WASH IT DOWN.
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Stoll is totally useless,just running in circles.. Frazer is a liability on offense or defense.
Richards is not earning his dimes. But..Penner is sitting out!? I’ll take his skill and size any time over any of these guys.
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In DL I trust!
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mash-ola Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 12:53 pm
@Lake Forest, I know, right? Guy gets flamed for everything he does. He gets the Kings to a Final and to a Stanley Cup championship. We’re 10+ games into a sluggish start of a shortened season and the sky is falling….
Maybe the Mayans were right, but that it was meant for the Kings in 2013???
[Reply]
vegasking Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 4:25 pm
@Lake Forest, I agree, in DL I trust
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I guess we dont have depth at defense….Hickey was that bad that he didnt rate ahead of any of the 6th -10th defensive players?? also (and no way of knowing) how much of the Kings problem is the lockout….hangover….injuries(Kopitar,Quick,Mitchell,Greene).The Kings havnt had a training camp with DS ever.IMO you put all those problems together and you have a slow start.
[Reply]
Rob Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 4:07 pm
@neil, Hickey is gone because he was claimed off waivers, not because he was bad or LA had given up on him. Quite the contrary. They ran the same risk with others including Bodnarchuk, but only Muzzin avoided that risk by staying w Kings.
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For all those complaining about only getting a 5th pick for Lokti, now you can say we got a 1st for him.
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Michael J. Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 9:59 am
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com),
What would the comments have been had DL traded Lokti for Ellerby straight up?
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mash-ola Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 12:54 pm
@Michael J., wow… what a great move! lombardi fleeced’em!
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Even though Ellerby’s numbers are horrible, This is a great pickup. Especially considering how bad Lokti sucked.
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Shakes Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 9:58 am
@Munchrat, Agreed…at the end of the day we turned a forward with no future here (both due to his own talents and the teams needs) into a defensemen who could actually play some minutes for us.
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Kingsfanone Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 10:52 am
@Munchrat,
Change of scenery could help him. We’ll see.
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Looking at this deal helps me to understand DL’s “humanness” a bit more (Humanness not to be confused with the Human Fund). Apparently other GM’s #1 picks don’t pan out either! Who would have ever thought it?
I can see the comments over at FloridaPanthersInsider.com right now:
Snakes: I like this guy, he’s got good size.
Boring19: This GM sucks, another wasted #1.
Drunkard: I love his brothers, they sing real good… mate.
Kneel: This was a terrible deal… we’re doomed…
Yuck73: B……….
Saul Armbreaker: I’ll have video of that 5th round pick up soon.
Pourdude: Clemenson will take us to the cup! Make him the #1!
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Ravens Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 10:35 am
@Michael J., That is too damn funny
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Forum Gold Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 12:11 pm
@Michael J., Who are these guys? GO KINGS GO!!!
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WAKingsFan Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 12:25 pm
@Michael J., Nice. Very Punny!
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vegasking Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 4:26 pm
@Michael J., Good one
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
February 9th, 2013 at 8:52 am
@Michael Jackson, At least your brothers sang real good …..
PS B000000000
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@ J.R. When will we get the straight scoop on Mitchell?
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JonRosen Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 10:07 am
@Munchrat, as soon as I have it, I’ll provide it, but there’s nothing new on the Mitchell front at this point.
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NOW IMPRESSED Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 11:16 am
@JonRosen, Jon, If you can find out why the doctors gave Mitchell the green light and why Mitchell isn’t ready, that would be good.
[Reply]
pr0cess Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 10:16 am
@Munchrat, This right here is BS… What we have heard is he was not as bad at this point but isnt skating? I dont like how info is hard to come by….
[Reply]
Michael_DD8 Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 10:38 am
@pr0cess,
HMMMM. lets go down to el segundo and ask Mitchell ourselves!
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Kingsfanone Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 10:54 am
@Munchrat,
Mitchell apparently still dealing with swelling in his knee.
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brianguy Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 12:30 pm
@Kingsfanone,
yep last word is it keeps swelling up with activity, though the doctors already said out will be fine and he ‘should’ be able to play on it. note the quotes.
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mash-ola Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 12:55 pm
@brianguy, Willie Mitchell… meet Dwight Howard… Dwight… Willie…
3 pts out of a playoff stop isn’t too bad considering…
The defense to me as been ok. Not great but they’re doing their job. Offensively is where I think they need to pick it up. Top 6 forwards need to get it going. Gagne hasn’t looked good to me recently. Not being creative enough to stay in that role.
Not worried yet. Hoping they hit their stride in the coming week.
GKG
[Reply]
kings714 Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 1:35 pm
@jgomez,
before nashville gagne either had 5 assists in his last 5 games or 6 in 6, i think he has been fantastic and shown a creativity not many on our roster are capable of. i definitely hopes he stays in a top 6 role. i’d like to see us tussle the lines a bit and go
gagne-kopitar-carter
brown-richards-williams
clifford-stoll-lewis
richardson-fraser-nolan
i think gagne could set up plenty of goals for kopi and carter, and brown could team up with richards for a more physically imposing line. clifford deserves higher than 4th line as well
[Reply]
kissmyblarneystones Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 3:03 pm
@kings714,
There is something ominous about a line consisting of Brown-Richards & Williams.
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I’m not sure how this helps LA when the Doughty/Scuderi pairing have been letting plenty in recent games (even at the start of games when they are not potentially tired from playing too many minutes). But I’ll keep my fingers crossed I guess. Maybe instead of losing by three they might lose by one or two now.
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At least Ellerby will have a guy like Mitchell or Greene to mentor him. Oh, wait. Never Mind.
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Kingsfanone Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 10:55 am
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com),
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Surprised … I knew DL has been looking for D-man but thought it would be a veteran with a size. Since there’s really none in the market, this is actually a great deal tough. Kid must have something for 10th overall pick.
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neil Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 10:36 am
@goldielocks, Just like Hickey????
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goldielocks Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 10:41 am
@neil,
Lol yeah. Who knows? He might fit the Kings system not the panthers.
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Ravens Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 10:38 am
@goldielocks, He skates good for his size, and has an edge to him, now if he can add the brains and instinct
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goldielocks Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 10:43 am
@Ravens,
All I can say is worth a try, hoping he surprises everybody.
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Meh, you gotta score to win games.
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goldielocks Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 10:53 am
@Subby,
I think, with the Kings system, the stability in the D-zone brings that, too. It’s a timing thing whether F3 commits the defense or switch to the offense. At the moment, it’s a little bit off. Our Ds must be thinking ‘Hey, where’s the help?’, and at the same time, our Fs must be thinking ‘Yo, we’ve got to attack when we see the chance.’ Our whole system is out of sync because of that.
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vinny Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 12:26 pm
@goldielocks, really good take
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Kenny44 Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 1:11 pm
@goldielocks,
Excellent point. The rythym is not there this year. Much of our playoff success last year was getting out of our zone quickly and together with that good first pass and D holding the offensive zone to keep our forecheck going.
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8 minor peanalites this year!!? Doesn’t look like he’ll be helping out our PK much this year.. haha
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Deke'r Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 2:30 pm
@jcarson17, ….8?…..18….in 9 games 36pim(as stated above)….let me see….relying on my higher math skills that works out to be…..hey!….2 penalties per game…awesome!…
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Deke'r Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 2:41 pm
@Deke’r, ……belay my last…..my bad…..8 minor ….the rest major……..feel shame go to the box….
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This shortened season has resulted with a poor product on the ice. Kinda a bummer, the kings seem to be one of the teams to suffer the most. Lets hope ellerby gets a nice confidence boost and plays well.
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Yes! The cup is ours!
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Weasel Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 11:07 am
@Cav Pilot,
Why yes it is. But, it was ours even before the trade. In fact, it’ s”opurs” all season long!
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mash-ola Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 12:58 pm
@Cav Pilot, I thought the EXACT same thing last season when the Kings were sliding in the spring and Deano called up Dwight King and Jordan Nolan!
Who really knows how this will affect the team???
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Scuds is playing too many minutes and it sounds like WM might not be back. I think Muzz has a bright future just not now with the lack of vets on the blue line.
The biggest difference this year is the lack of size on D and the fact the Kings are NOT nearly blocking the amount of shots they did with Greene and WM. More pucks getting through and not getting the bounces the other way.
Solid defense will help our offense. I’m seeing guys wide open in front of the net…didn’t see that that last few years.
This is DL’s first move before he has to make a bigger one, one he doesn’t want to have to make out of desperation and might not even be necessary.
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Don’t care what he’s done in FLA….just bring it as a King!
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This team needs heart and guts. And they can get that by bringing up Andreoff, Vey and Toffoli!!
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vinny Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 2:03 pm
@Jim Martin, I’d love to see andreoff brought up!
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The comments on TSN’s article about this trade overwhelmingly indicate that this could be a real steal for the Kings. A lot of Oilers fans are not happy that they didn’t try to pick him up at this price, so take that for what it’s worth.
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Thanks Lokti.
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would columbus consider moving Jack Johnson? would welcome him back…say for Bernier and king and they can probobly swap bernier in a 3 deal trade..just a thought…
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What is the deal with Mitchell? Last I heard, he was medically cleared but kept himself out and Sutter seemed a little irritated with that if I understood correctly. Then he skated, then he took a couple days off it. Did he have a setback?
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brianguy Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 12:33 pm
@paige,
yes, he’s had repeated swelling even after medical clearance.
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paige Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 7:23 pm
@brianguy, ah. thanks for the update!
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Deke'r Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 2:33 pm
@paige, ….old folks need more time to heal….
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if we are replacing willie with ellerby we are in trouble
imho willie is better than doughty
just imagine how bad we were pre-willie 3 years ago, now add slava, alec and we still struggle
and quickie is fine, subtract pronger from philly and Bryzgalov becomes a sieve
[Reply]
luc20rules Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 1:11 pm
@Toughd, Willie is more than his play he is an extra coach on the bench, one on the ice, and the grit on the backend. Willie improves the other Dman on the team he is a force multiplier.
[Reply]
paige Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 7:27 pm
@Toughd, What is the ruling on Quick so far this year…same goaltender, bad D? OR Bad D, and struchhling goalie? I haven’t made up my mind.
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paige Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 7:28 pm
@paige, whoops. i meant struggling…me no type so good.
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When are Deadmarsh and Allison coming back?
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jcarson17 Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 1:09 pm
@MK Ultra, Haha as soon a we get Modry and Stumpel back!!
[Reply]
mask0425x Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 1:32 pm
@jcarson17,
Don’t think Modry is coming back… He’s got a beef with Drewiske.
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KingMe20 Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 1:39 pm
@MK Ultra,
Zig-gy! Zig-gy! Zig-gy!
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Just hoping the Kings flip the switch and start playing like they did to win the Stanley Cup. All these minor changes have to have the main guys thinking that its only a matter of time if things don’t improve that DL will make a major trade. Really maybe that is the point?
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What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 1:27 pm
@luc20rules, I think that switch is named Mitchell. They’re playing like they did without Mitchell last season. This is not good.
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Since Campbell was sent back down, I’m guessing Muzzin’s (really struggling) going to press row and Ellerby will now get his shot. Can’t hurt.
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mr_higgns Reply:
February 9th, 2013 at 5:31 pm
@KingsOfLA, Ya…I don’t see Muzzin really struggling — you must be more keenly in tune with the game than I am – like..is he getting beat by guys shift after shift…scrambling all over..never completing break out passes? He’s developing – team may not have time to share that with him at this level. I’m sure another NHL club would be interested.
Btw – just saw DD on the NHL Goals of the Week – (number 1 goal) – as he gets stripped of the puck before the dude flukes it in while on his knees..
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This is a good low risk/high reward move, it also rights the wrong from the ’07 draft which saw Lombardi pick Hickey over Ellerby/Alzner. Maybe we can trade Bernier for Alzner.
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Go Kings Go!
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I know we’ve been hurting on D a little, but isn’t lack of scoring part of why we are losing? How we cannot score a PPG with Richards, Carter, Kopi, Doughty and Brown out there, I will never understand.
Why can’t we get some movement with those 5? I’ve never seen such a stagnant powerplay. They also pass up a lot of opportunities to shoot. I’ve seen a lot of passes right across the middle that should be one-timed, but instead they stop the puck, hold it (letting the D catch up) and then try passing it back to the same person who does the same thing? One time that baby!!!!
Either the puck needs to be moving quickly or the players need to be moving…or both. Right now, we’re getting neither. Maybe that would help us compensate for the few extra goals going in due to a little weaker D…
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So Ellerby is wearing #5, uh?
Well, let’s hope it’s a good sign and that he is the second coming of one ‘obscure, retired, no name loser’ Nicklas Lidstrom from Detroit. Wouldn’t that make DL look like a super duper mega GM genius?
Welcome to LA, kid. Make the best of it. It’s sorely needed. We’re all ready to cheer for you if you excel..just as we are ready to tear you a new AH if you screw up…
[Reply]
With Doughty playing like a rookie and giving up pucks in his own end, along with Mitchell and Greene out, the Kings could have arguably the worst defense in the NHL. This ship is seriously sinking fast. It would be nice to see Doughty play somewhat close to that $7 mil/yr contract. That could go a long way.
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Where are the A-Holes screaming for Lokti Now. The ones that think they know more than the DS, DL and apparently now LL?!?!?!?
Did you hear what LL said? They need a center to shore up the deficiencies in their MINOR system!!!
Clowns!!
[Reply]
vinny Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 2:19 pm
@kissmyblarneystones, still here, thanks for asking! ..although I do have some pins to juggle and balloon animals to fashion in a few minutes, so thanks for the reminder! Good thing for the fellow insider brother’s eh?
[Reply]
Deke'r Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 2:37 pm
@vinny, ….HA!….
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DLB Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 2:25 pm
@kissmyblarneystones, Well, aren’t you just a bundle of sweetness and light
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kissmyblarneystones Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 2:36 pm
@DLB,
I already like you!
[Reply]
kissmyblarneystones Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 2:35 pm
@kissmyblarneystones,
And oddly enough, you two fell below my radar. I was baiting 1, actually 2 particular insiders who sadly, haven’t bitten. Yet!
[Reply]
linny Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 4:53 pm
@kissmyblarneystones, here I am. U dont have to “bait” me (which is probably against the “rules” around here, though it doesnt bother me) i was taking care of my invalid mother, if thats ok. So…how can u even begin to claim that this is a steal without seeing what the guy can do? A former #1 who cant be a 5/6 d-man with the ‘powerhouse’ Panthers…WOW. How bout waiting until he plays a game or 2?
[Reply]
kissmyblarneystones Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 7:07 pm
@linny,
It wasn’t you either but now that I have your attention, It’s not what we got, its the actual value of the guy we got rid of, which by all appearances was ZERO.
Osaka Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 4:56 pm
@kissmyblarneystones, I understand seeing our prospects through rose colored glasses, but Lokti? Didn’t they see him in the 2 playoff games last year against Vancouver? The intensity and physicality of the playoffs showed how ineffective he is. If you can’t play a guy in the playoffs what use is he? Instead they dump on Fraser, Lewis, and Stoll who were playoff studs.
[Reply]
kissmyblarneystones Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 7:34 pm
@Osaka,
I hear you Bro. As I’ve said before Stoll is a pest, but a pest can be useful if he can throw opponents off their game, which he can do.
Guys like Fraser and Lewis, made jobs for themselves by being a presence. All Lokti wanted you to do is give him the puck, so he could, er, score.
There is more to playing hockey than just scoring. Scoring is the result of good hockey, not the other way around!
CB14 Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 6:12 pm
@kissmyblarneystones, You rang? Give Lokti a little more than 1 day before saying he’ll account to nothing in jersey.
[Reply]
kissmyblarneystones Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 7:28 pm
@CB14,
Dude, He was acquired to shore up their Minor league team LL said it himself.
I get your anti-Stoll position which is cool with me as I think he’s a worm, but trust me, Lokti was a non runner. I take comfort in the fact that DS, DL, plus LL have confirmed what I have always suspected of him. That Lokti lacks the required skills to be an NHLer.
Those 3 guys no more about Hockey potential than you and I do. That is for sure.
ToughD Reply:
February 9th, 2013 at 1:00 am
@kissmyblarneystones, really doubt any GM makes a trade JUST to improve their minor league team’s standings. Lotki relatively fits the Jersey mold. Don’t trust LL.
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Yes muzzin looks lost but had anyone looked at DD’S (Drew Doughty) plus/min +8. He looks like a overpaid hot head. It he learns to keep things simple in his own zone and we get willie back we will be alright. Remember just get in then may the best team win. La 4 life
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Great patch work.
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Ellerby couldn’t make it with Florida, but he’ll make it here? I don’t see it happening.
[Reply]
Kingsfanone Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 4:16 pm
@CB14,
Let’s see what happens first. Remember some players not making it here, yet they leave for other teams and good things happen? Example, Moulson?
I don’t expect we’re getting Scott Niedemeyer. But let’s see what we got.
[Reply]
kissmyblarneystones Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 10:56 pm
@Kingsfanone,
You can’t convert him!
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Rob Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 4:20 pm
@CB14, the guy’s only 24. Don’t write him off just yet. For the Kings, a 24 yo 1st rounder is a better bet than any 5th-rounder in 2013. For the panthers, it’s grab the 5th round pick; otherwise, you’ll lose him through waivers and get nothing for your former 1st rounder. They, too, like LA with Hickey, would have preferred to keep him, but that’s not always possible with the way the NHL works these days.
[Reply]
CB14 Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 5:59 pm
@Rob, He’s played 125 NHL games already on some poor Florida teams and hasn’t managed to even hold down a spot on the team. I’m not saying giving up a 5th for him was a bad trade, I just don’t see him panning out with the Kings.
[Reply]
JD Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 9:52 pm
@CB14, it’s to bad Lombardi didn’t trade that fifth rounder for weber
Repeat Anybody? Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 4:31 pm
@CB14, Better than nothing at least, right?
[Reply]
Osaka Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 4:40 pm
@CB14, Look at Matt Greene’s first couple seasons in the league, compare the stats. Why can’t this kid be effective? As a #10 overall expectations were higher, but if he plays his role there isn’t a reason he can’t be a shutdown D.
[Reply]
CB14 Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 6:07 pm
@Osaka, I did what you mentioned and perhaps you too should look at the stats before you compare Ellerby to Greene. When Matt Greene was 23 years old, his second year in the NHL, he played in 78 games, managed 17:36 of ice time, and averaged 2:45 on the penalty kill. When Keaton Ellerby was 23 years old, his 3rd season in the NHL, he played in 40 games, managed 15:23 of ice time, and averaged .52 on the penalty kill. I don’t see a comparison there.
[Reply]
Osaka Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 6:18 pm
@CB14, And in 78 games Greene had 10 points while posting a -22
None of these recent moves has much if anything to do with the perceived shortcomings of the play of the Kings’ defence. Bodnarchuk was sent down because the guy’s gotta see some ice and the Ellerby trade comes about because Lokti wants out and Ellersby becomes available. The Kings’ probs, such as they are, won’t be solved by trying to find “another Willie”. To quote the cliche, their best players have to be the best players, and they haven’t been that.
[Reply]
Osaka Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 4:59 pm
@Rob, You lose the best defenseman on the team and the offense is going to suffer. Forget Willie doesn’t put up numbers, offense is going to suffer.
[Reply]
what’s next, trading dustin p for henrik sedin’s nephew???
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Ok, now I want to hide under a rock.
http://www.rotoworld.com/player/nhl/1112/willie-mitchell
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Welcome to LA Ellerby. Time to pick up your play!!!
I was hoping to get to see Campbell, too bad…
[Reply]
Moving Lokti makes room for Tofoli to move up one step. He won’t come to LA until he’s our best option in a top 6 forward spot…not enough grit for lines 3 or 4. At a certain point, he will surpass Penner and Gagne, and crack the roster…likely on a line with Richards and Carter (interesting, no?)…
Mitchell is a huge factor for us…proved it last year…when he plays, we win, when he’s out, we lose. We need to learn to play team defense again, and we need toughness…Muzzin and Whiskey have not been able to replace Greene and Mitchell in the toughness department…toughness is important at this level. So is the desire to compete for every loose puck, etc. So, we cleared an obstacle from Tofoli’s path and got tougher on the blue line…not a bad week personnel wise…now if the product on the ice would come together a little tighter, we might have a winner…
[Reply]
U@Michael J., mine would b: why would they give us a # 1 for lokti? What specifically islands?? wrong with the Guy to warrant it? But my most logical thought would be: lets see how it works out
[Reply]
linny Reply:
February 8th, 2013 at 9:11 pm
@linny, oops…this was a reply to someone above who asked what people would say if we traded lokti for him straight up
[Reply]
Well I understand Lombardi and Co. are worried about the lack of defense in front of Quick, but it sure would help everyone out if they could score more than 0-1 goals a game. This is what happens when you only have “2” goal scorers on your team (Kopitar, Carter). The Kings have a bunch of average/tough/defensive wingers, and an aged out 3rd line center on their roster and not enough playmaking impact guys. It’s an organizational decision in that the Kings want only good 2-way forwards who have a great (+/-) but at some point you need to look at your offense and run for the hills in cover of its utterly anemic self. It’d be nice to make a splash on a high-upside young forward to ignite some life into this team. I’d gladly trade some people on this roster for a young goal scorer.
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We needed some left shot depth on the back end and for Loktionov … very good pick up. Especially since d-men often develope later in their career.
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