-On my original look at Jeff Carter’s first goal Monday night, I credited his speed in getting past David Backes unmarked into an area where Slava Voynov could get him that puck. On closer inspection, that’s just a terrific read by Voynov jumping into the rush after Mike Richards stepped away from a hit to leave the puck for him. Voynov outwaited Alex Pietrangelo, who committed and dove to block the pass a moment too early, and then threaded a needle through a tiny channel between Pietrangelo and Brian Elliott right onto the blade of Carter’s stick. Carter was moving his feet all night and exhibited his elite speed, but that play illustrates Voynov’s skill as much as anyone else’s. I’ll have more on Slava later today. Also: Wade Redden, last player back into the defensive zone on a four-on-four? Hmm.
-On Carter’s second goal, the last comment made by the St. Louis television broadcast team before depicting the mini breakaway was “Another big hit by Clifford.” Keaton Ellerby put that puck right on Carter’s stick to spring him loose, but Kyle Clifford’s hit on Alex Steen to win a puck battle set that play up. I don’t see that Clifford-Carter-Williams line changing any time soon. Clifford had six hits to lead all skaters.
-That 200-foot game that made the Blues such a difficult team to play against a season ago – where have you gone? L.A.’s zone entry improved as the game progressed due to wide lanes exiting the defensive zone and through the neutral zone. It was a power play, granted, but on Davis Drewiske’s goal, there wasn’t one Blue in the neutral zone to encumber the Kings’ entrance into the attacking end. There wasn’t much consistency in the Blues’ forecheck. Not to be too down on St. Louis, but they looked like a team that was winless on their homestand.
-I’ve seen most of the comments from the game thread, and I do not really understand some of the angst towards Simon Gagne. I thought Gagne was fine yesterday. Among the notes I took during the game were: Gagne – breaks up 3-on-2 (Tarasenko); Gagne – good game most zones? Smart game, got puck deep. I also remember him taking a hit at the blueline in the second period to get a puck into the attacking end. What didn’t you like? What was I missing? It was up and down at points, but I thought Gagne raised his game overall on this trip.
-Meaningless, anomalous stat about how the Blues should offer me a reward to stay as far away from them as possible: I covered St. Louis in Anaheim twice last year. I covered them twice in the regular season at Staples Center last year, and all four playoff games. I covered Monday’s game. The Blues lost all nine of those games, going 0-8-1. They were two points away from the President’s Trophy in 2011-12. Bizarre.
Although @Tornado12 reported it last night, I can confirm this morning after reading the LA Times that Alec Martinez has indeed been put on injured reserve, and Andrew Campbell has been recalled.
[Reply]
40YearKingsFan Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 10:09 am
@puck73, I hope they don’t put him on Willie’s rehab program.
[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 10:12 am
@40YearKingsFan, Correct. That would be well below average.
[Reply]
tornado12 Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 10:21 am
@40YearKingsFan, i saw 408kingsfan bring this up previously, but i am beginning to wonder more and more if WM is having recurrent symptoms related to his prior concussion issues…
[Reply]
40YearKingsFan Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 10:46 am
@tornado12, This is purely speculation on my part, but a while back Paul Armbruster posted some video of Willie skating by himself at the TSC while the team was on the road. There were no visible issues with the knee, but he didn’t seem at all enthusiastic or upbeat and watching it, I wondered if there was something else wrong. Like I said, just speculation and I don’t have any theories on what the problem might be. I just wish Willie the best and a full recovery from whatever is ailing him.
vplaza Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 10:23 am
@puck73,
Any other teams in the league lose three of their top 6 defensemen this year? When you think about it, we lost our #1 stay at home dman, one of our top penalty killers, and his normal partner at even strength.
[Reply]
LA_1968 Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 10:34 am
@puck73, I hope he didn’t jar his plates loose in his face. I’m sure the bones are still filling in around the screws.
[Reply]
Pasadena Hockey Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 10:51 am
@LA_1968, Yea, the bones in his face or a concussion? Did he have a concussion last year when he was out with and upper body injury and we brought up Slava?
I can’t believe Mitchell could be having re-occuring concusssion issues. He hasn’t played in 9 months. Also, I think they would have to call it an upper body injury.
The best franchises (Detroit) rely on young players from the minors to step up. Now is the time to see if these kids can play. I have thought Muzzin has looked good, but perhaps a bit nervous at times. Great to see Davis D. get a goal last night.
[Reply]
BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 11:32 am
@LA_1968,
That was my thought, complications from the facial reconstruction…
Ironic that that would be more easy to overcome than some concussion issues.
[Reply]
crashin'da net Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 11:40 am
@LA_1968, what I was thinking yesterday….bad news either way,
[Reply]
Hey Jon, any word on what happened to Marty? The mysterious, ambiguous “upper body injury” which placed him on IR is very disconcerting. Hope he gets better soon
[Reply]
JonRosen Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 10:17 am
@Robyn, The team is off today; we’ll likely gain a better perspective of Martinez’s injury at tomorrow’s practice. Teams rarely report anything more than upper/middle/lower body injury immediately after it occurs, so unless a player or coach opts for more specifics, it’s all we’ll have for now.
[Reply]
Jammer06 Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 2:04 pm
@JonRosen,
Thanks Jon!
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 10:25 am
@Robyn, The hit was at the 16:20 mark of the first period, near boards at the blue line. Didn’t look like a big hit at all. Perhaps a spear to the chest or left shoulder/collarbone issue? Didn’t look like he took a hit to the head.
[Reply]
Robyn Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 10:29 am
@KC23, I missed the first period because the NHL tweeted the game had been moved to 8pm CT so I didn’t see it. Hope Marty feels better soon.
[Reply]
@Jon Rosen, did you get any update on Martinez? Also any word if Mitchell has been skating? thanks!
[Reply]
LB Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 10:14 am
@LB, By the way, agree with you about Gagne, he was solid, but probably not first line material at this point.
[Reply]
JonRosen Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 10:21 am
@LB, Mitchell skated last week, but with DL’s report that he will “operate on the premise” that he’s gone for the season (http://www.latimes.com/sports/sportsnow/la-sp-sn-kings-keaton-ellerby-20130208,0,5898381.story), I don’t anticipate an immediate update. He was not with the team on the roadtrip.
[Reply]
Wow. 3 defensemen out now.
It’s like the Hockey Gods saying: “We forgot all about this bad Kings luck last April. Oops. But now we’re on it again”.
I’d register a complaint, because they may think they’ve been even handed but they STILL owe us big time for Allison and Deadmarsh…..
[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 10:20 am
@HockeyNerd, You have to play thru pain. I want players that can give me even more. At practice, they need to give more then 100%, and gassers and bag skating are a must! This kind of stuff gives you more mental resolve. Trust me, I have coached at the highest level.
Best Regards, and thanks for the interest…Andy Murray, Unemployed Former NHL Coach
[Reply]
vplaza Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 10:26 am
@puck73,
At first, I thought you were channeling your inner Kobe Bryant….
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 11:27 am
@puck73,
….Currently the Manager of the Super Pain Relief Clinic….
[Reply]
crashin'da net Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 11:44 am
@DesertKing, And moonlighting at the Heavy Sticks Rainbow Room Nightclub Wednesdays & Thursdays.
Kingsfanone Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 10:20 am
@HockeyNerd,
Agreed!
[Reply]
Gustavo Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 10:25 am
@HockeyNerd,
Allison and Deadmarsh were forwards. Now the gods hit us with injuries to the D men
[Reply]
Michael J. Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 10:26 am
@HockeyNerd,
Thanks for bringing up those two again. For a few months I had forgotten about them.
[Reply]
crashin'da net Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 11:44 am
@Michael J., Still got my Allison sweater…
[Reply]
Hi Jon. I agree that Gagne was ok last night. He is a sniper and that is what he has not been doing and what we need him most to do. Lets hope he gets that part of his game going!
[Reply]
Gustavo Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 10:28 am
@krash324,
Gagne has no physical presence whatsoever. Last night he showed that (again).
[Reply]
goldielocks Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 10:38 am
@Gustavo,
Wow … you serious? I thought Gagne showed what veteran player can do, reading the situation and being right place at the right time defensively. Overall, I thought I saw the sign that his game is coming around. He didn’t score last night but I saw his quick hands that the most goal scorer essentially has.
[Reply]
BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 11:34 am
@goldielocks,
Agree…
Wonder about some of those posters…
mrbrett7 Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 12:11 pm
@goldielocks, I do too…people wonder why I don’t come around much anymore…
OB randy Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 1:05 pm
@goldielocks,
+1
press box scratch Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 11:55 am
@Gustavo, He and Williams are probably the Kings LEAST expected to provide a physical presence … however, they are among the top couple of guys expected to finish around the net, which so far is only happening with Carter and to a degree Kopi
[Reply]
HockeyNerd Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 12:30 pm
@Gustavo, Not every forward we have has to be able to knock a defenseman senseless in the corner. In fact we already have TOO many of those types of forwards. Speed, positional play, instinct and a good shot are also important. The 2 greatest players in the history of the Kings (Dionne and Gretzky) may have also been the 2 least physical players in the history of the game. A line just needs ONE of its players to be a big physical presence. Keep Gagne paired with Brown and we’ll see some things start to happen.
[Reply]
PurpleRocks Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 2:51 pm
@Gustavo,
He did get credited with one hit last night so he did hit someone. Playing on all four lines in just nine games is a little crazy – I think if he stays on one line for a little and has a chance to settle in he will be fine.
[Reply]
KingsATX Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 11:00 am
@krash324, Gagne’s game has been decent recently and he’s definitely pushing harder. Hasn’t translated to the scoreboard much but he’s a good fit w/ Kopi and DB. I wouldn’t read too much into the comments. This is the last place I’d look for educated player evaluations.
[Reply]
Osaka Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 1:58 pm
@krash324, I think his role has evolved a little. I don’t think at this stage of his career he is our go to guy.
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 11:50 pm
@0 sake, So is that ‘devolved’?
[Reply]
The Kings executed on some of the things they wanted to, but the win was also, as pointed out, a result of the Blues not executing on their end. The Kings effort was there, but they caught a team on the downslide that’s trying to turn things around.
That said, two games in a row of good effort (albeit, only two points to show for it). Let’s see if they can make it three in a row this Friday.
[Reply]
great Job so far Mr. Rosen….difference between JR and the Hammer….It was a job for Rich and its a passion for JR…. Really enjoying it!!! Thanks ….P.S. I told Westy how great this site is !!!
[Reply]
Kingsfanone Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 10:25 am
@neil,
I think the Mayor posted a pic of Westy sitting in pressbox flashing his Cup ring!
[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 10:46 am
@Kingsfanone, Westgarth in the press box….LMAO
[Reply]
LB Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 10:29 am
@neil, I don’t think Hammond had any less passion for this gig, just that he doesn’t have the kind of hockey background that Rosen appears to have.
[Reply]
LA_1968 Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 10:39 am
@LB, I agree with you about the background. Fair is fair. Thank you @JonRosen. Terrific job.
[Reply]
FKA PakiFro Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 10:50 am
@LB,
Umm..Rich covered the Kings for like a decade. He certainly had a “hockey” and more specifically a “Kings” background. He just opted to be a neutral journalist rather than a home-team centered blogger in his writing style.
Rich was good at what he did here. Jon appears to be as well. Let’s move on.
[Reply]
Sancho Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 11:28 am
@FKA PakiFro, JR>RH Just my opinion
DesertKing Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 11:29 am
@FKA PakiFro,
Excellent points. Two great people utilizing different styles to keep Kings fans engaged with their team.
west coast ram Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 11:30 am
@FKA PakiFro, I agree that Rich was a neutral journalist but isn’t the whole reason you go to blog sites is for opinions. That was the only thing that I think was lacking in Rich’s write ups. Maybe the fact that the site is controlled by the team limited his ability to provide commentary but if the only thing I wanted was the game facts I could just as easily read the LA Times or the AP story on ESPN.
BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 11:36 am
@FKA PakiFro,
Not a criticism of either, IMHO.
Rich had a different approach, unfailingly neutral, reporter first.
Jon speaks with his inner fan’s voice.
Different approaches, each with its advantages…
Munchrat Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 11:51 am
@neil, JR has made me a full on Kool-Aid drinker!
[Reply]
phil sykes Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 3:00 pm
@neil, hey everybody …… yea it appears i jumped the gun on ellerby being so bad ……….. he looked fine last night ………. im an idiot …… certainly not the first time i goofed up
anyways regarding our new leader jon rosen vs. rich hammond ………..
i find it extremely ironic that hammonds hitleresque , censorship campaign on this site , ended the day he himself was not allowed to publish what he wanted to publish …….. lol lol full circle buddy ……………. way to take a stand hammond – you go girl
[Reply]
I had no issues with Gagne’s game last night…he didnt light the place up but as Jon mentioned he made some real good defensive plays and took that hit in stride to get the puck in the zone. Richards looked better last night than he has all season IMO and I think he is finally coming around to the player we know he can be. Slava is a monster, Carter is a monster, Cliffy is a monster, and Stoll…well, he did get a goal, and didnt shoot high right so ill give him credit for that…would still like to see his name on the score sheet a bit more though. Bernier played great…I would love to see Sutter start Bernier next game. He looked better and more composed than JQ has so far this season and the team played a better game in front of him. I like what ive seen the past 2 games..lets keep this thing rolling!
[Reply]
Any thoughts as to whether or not the lines will change again? I know the team is off today, but I think the lines are working right now…
[Reply]
JonRosen Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 10:35 am
@Robyn, doubt they’ll change soon. DS said the line adjustments were made to offer more of the ice to Carter and let him use his speed, because he’s been very effective thus far. Also, over the last two games, I’m seeing four lines that are contributing. Not bad forward depth if the “fourth line” is Penner-Stoll-Lewis…
[Reply]
King John Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 1:13 pm
@JonRosen,
I thought they were the third line—but perhaps we have two “third lines”.
Who is the first line?
Brown – Kopitar – Gagne …or…
Clifford – Carter – Williams
Who is the third line?
Penner – Stoll – Lewis …or…
King – Richards – Nolan
I would go 1-2-3-4 in the order I have them.
[Reply]
Both goals by Carter were the result of the creative minds and hockey intelligence of two of our low budget D men, Voynov and Ellerby.Everyone is drooling over the play by Voynov, quite deservedly so. But the pass by Ellerby from the left board right onto Carter’s stick was a thing of beauty.
More plays like that and I’ll stop worrying about the state of our defensive corps.
[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 10:52 am
@Gustavo, Dude, Ellerby a hockey mensa? I hope your boy Phil Sykes doesnt spot this or you are in for a long day! lol
[Reply]
Gustavo Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 11:45 am
@puck73,
Kings won nicely. My day is long and happy, lol.
[Reply]
phil sykes Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 3:07 pm
@puck73, lol ive cooled down on ellerby …. i might have been wrong …. he looked fine last night
[Reply]
Forum Gold Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 11:11 am
@Gustavo, It seemed like we had more players driving for the net last night versus the perimeter plays that we have been watching. 4 goals will cure a lot of what ails us. GO KINGS GO!!!
[Reply]
Jon good point on Gagne. He is plus 2 compared to a combined -26 between Brown, Richards, Doughty and Scudes. I put the slow start squarely on those four players.
[Reply]
tornado12 Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 10:35 am
@KC23, and Quicks performance thus far?
[Reply]
Wilmonde Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 10:54 am
@tornado12, The performance of goaltenders is generally directly related to the defensive play of the teams in front of them. The Kings haven’t been playing very well in front of Quick, thus, the slow start for him. They played much better last night in front of Bernier and got the win.
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 10:59 am
@tornado12, Pretty unrealistic to expect Quick to play like he did last year, especially with two starting defensemen out. So no, I don’t put this on Quick nearly as much as those four mentioned.
[Reply]
LVKINGS88 Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 11:01 am
@KC23, I think Gags has played great since he was moved to Kopi’s line,both Brown and Kopi haven’t been lighting it up lately,Gags is in the top 5 in points, keep him there maybe they all will come around.
[Reply]
BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 11:40 am
@KC23,
Think Brown and Richards have been spotty…
Doughty and Scuderi have been burned by the young speed guys of the other teams, along with playing greater minutes…
Quick just hasn’t been as sharp as last season.
This team is about to play like the Leviathan it is… For a sustained period of games.
[Reply]
mrbrett7 Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 12:14 pm
@KC23, Quick’s start to the season has quite a bit to do with it as well.
The four you mentioned haven’t been stellar, but you can take about at least 15 of those minus points due to soft goals where they were in proper position.
[Reply]
@Jon Rosen,
I think what has so many (including myself) irked at Gagne’s play is that he is no more effective that either Lewis or Richardson at this point. Maybe it was a little too much to expect him to regain his “thirty something” goals a year. Nevertheless, to garner his salary, eat up cap space, and contribute as few points as he does is disconcerning.
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 11:01 am
@Michael J., Perhaps, but Brown, Doughty, Richards and Scudes have been worse than Gagne especially when you consider their cap hit.
[Reply]
Michael J. Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 11:10 am
@KC23,
Perhaps… I am dissapointed in Brown’s absence thus far. I am concerned about Richards’ play-is his career on a downward spiral? I think Scuds is getting older and that he has been asked to do more than what he is capable of. I have never been the $7,000,000 man’s biggest fan.
Go Kings!
[Reply]
phil sykes Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 3:16 pm
@Michael J., just doughtys abilty to get the puck in the defensive zone with just the littliest of space , and then just out skate people to get away and possess the puck is what makes him worth his 7 million ….. he does it better than anybody in the league ………… and he plays good defense ………… hes never going to be the offense guy people want him to be – hes overrated in that area ….. voynov has a better offensive touch than doughty …………. but as sutter says …. just be a good player defensively … i mean thats his primary job …. and i believe he is ……… if the points or goals come – they come – if they dont – they dont ….. dont worry about it and just be a good player ……its the exact same way trotz handles weber …………. drew is fine in my opinion
DesertKing Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 11:31 am
@Michael J.,
Gagne was known for his goal scoring in his prime. We expect more goals, which isn’t happening. He may be doing other things well, but the biscuit ain’t going in the basket for him.
[Reply]
I wanted to see how Cliffy was going to look last night against a younger, well rested team and him playing back-to-back. He is in awesome shape but last night showed me he is vastly improved. @puck73 said maybe his coming out party. I’m in.
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 11:06 am
@LA_1968, Agreed, Clifford is playing at a different level this year. It’s obvious. He is going to rack up some points playing on the top two lines.
[Reply]
vplaza Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 11:08 am
@KC23,
Cliffy is, hands down, the most improved player from last year. Looks like he’s making a statement that he shouldn’t be taken out of the lineup anymore.
[Reply]
harty Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 11:47 am
@vplaza, agree with all above……Kyle Clifford is coming of age as one would say……
If given the chance night after night, he can play this role on 2nd line, however when something happens that is not of a positive note DS has to build his confidence and say get back out there on the 2nd line and get it going again.
On Gagne Jon, I comment often that he is soft, really soft. I would comment, Simon Gagne is not a top sniper in this league…..if he is where are the points to justify since trade to LA.
Some of my issues are….. he does play hot potatoe with the puck at difficult times. (*when pinned, someone coming at him, not willing to stand in front of the blue ice, etc) I just have a tough time with a player floating around the outside all the time and getting quality playing mintues. I realize each player is different but these are the items that upset me with Gagne. “get your nose dirty man, stand up for yourself and win the 50/50 battles”
The key to the playoffs last season and this season..Penner. With Penner you can run out 4 good lines.WRT finishers…The Kings have 8 players who have scored more then 20 goals in a season..plus King,Nolan,Cliffy and Lewis. So we do have goal scorers.The Kings avg. more goals when they traded for Carter and DS came in to coach.11 games is too small of a sample size to say that the Kings are not going to score alot this season..I think the Kings will…Too much talent not to score…
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 11:07 am
@neil, Agreed. When Brown and Kopitar start clicking again we’ll be very hard to beat.
[Reply]
Michael J. Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 11:13 am
@neil,
Kings are currently averaging more goals per game than:
Colorado
Colombus
Minnesota
Edmonton
Dallas
Nashville
That’s just the Western Conference – Yes, I’m saying there’s a chance
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 11:32 am
@Michael J.,
Good point!
[Reply]
To my fellow posters, I’ve noticed a lot of critique on Doughty but not nearly as much on the other D guys. I thought he’s been playing well
He might not be VMFV but everyone seems particularly harsh on him. Any thoughts changed based on last night’s performance?
[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 11:03 am
@Robyn, Im not down on Drew at all, I think he is doing the best he can at the moment. #33 being out has hurt the team, especially #8 and #7.
[Reply]
vplaza Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 11:05 am
@Robyn,
IMO, DD is the least of their concerns on D. He is playing so much better this year compared to last year (especially at the start of the season last year). He looks to have continued playing the way he played during the playoffs.
I’m glad that Voynov has stepped up his game. It’s one of the reasons the team has been able weather the loss of three starting defensemen.
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 11:08 am
@Robyn, Doubty is -10, the team’s worst plus/minus and Scudes slow start hasn’t helped either.
[Reply]
vplaza Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 11:10 am
@KC23,
I think that the team’s scoring woes have made that stat a bit more glaring than it should be…kinda like the Kings not scoring when JMFJ was around…oops, did I say that?
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 11:12 am
@vplaza, I agree. Our top forward line has a ton to do with DD poor start.
KingsGRT Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 12:11 pm
@vplaza, Especially considering that with the top line playing as badly as they have he has been expected to be the shutdown D man on the team, and he and Scud were being played primarily with the 1st and 4th lines at the beginning of the season, both of who were miserable.
west coast ram Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 11:38 am
@KC23, Agreed that the +/- might be deciving but in watching the games I’ve noticed that DD is having trouble with turnovers this year.
[Reply]
Forum67 Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 12:17 pm
@west coast ram,
+1
DesertKing Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 11:35 am
@Robyn,
I have really liked what I have seen from DD this year. He is focused, playing hard, taking and giving the body, came into camp in great shape, and playing massive minutes. I think the lack of offense by the Kings is really skewing the +/- along with his extended ice time and PK time.
[Reply]
cup4kings Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 11:46 am
@Robyn,
You serious? Doughty has been terrible! He consistently gives away the puck in his own end leading to goals or putting his teammates in a bad forcheck situation. He did it again last night as well and luckily Bernier was there for the stop. Just remember, this is the same guy that held out a couple years ago after having a sub par year following his Norris Trophy campaign. Doughty wanted to be paid as a Norris type player, and after putting the Kings in a bad situation to start the year he got what he wanted. $7 mil/yr comes with expectations and he’s not even playing like a B player at the moment.
[Reply]
vplaza Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 12:29 pm
@cup4kings,
I’ll have to beg to differ. He has not been terrible. He has had some lapses (much like the beloved JMFJ had during his tenure here), but he is by no stretch of the imagination playing “terrible” hockey. Every defenseman on the team has had their share of defensive mistakes.
I’m one of the people who absolutley hated how that contract negotiations played out, but I’m not going to let that cloud my view of how he has been playing. He can’t be expected to play a perfect game every night just because he’s the highest paid player on the team. That’s pretty unfair to expect.
Even my wife, who was very critical of him during the contract negotiations and the start of last year, mentioned that she thought he was playing well this year. Especially given the circumstances that he has had to play so much because of the injuries to the other defensemen.
He’s not playing perfectly, but he’s far from terrible, IMHO.
[Reply]
tornado12 Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 11:46 am
@Robyn, DD needs to learn how to get his shot through better. He seems to have at least a few shots blocked per game, esp on the PP. other than that and my his own admission his play behind the goal line, he has been spot on this year
[Reply]
jess Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 11:49 am
@Robyn,
The chemistry between DD and Scuds is struggling a bit. Might just be a good idea to keep VV with Scuds and maybe try DD with someone else? He’ll be fine.
[Reply]
cup4kings Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 12:02 pm
@jess,
Doughty has been playing with Ellerby and I kind of like that pairing going forward. With Martinex out now, the pairings should be interesting. Sutter might be playing with those in the next few games.
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jess Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 12:07 pm
@cup4kings,
Yeah I saw that. But them in a couple of situations last night I thought I saw him out there with Scuds again.
I like the idea of having a D vet (which DD now kind of is) with a new guy like Ellerby. It places a unique responsibility on DD’s shoulders which I think can be a positive thing.
A bit off topic, but I thought you all should know that the Kings won’t make the playoffs. This from the great Craig Button…
From ESPN’s website…
NHL Network analyst Craig Button, for one, doesn’t like their chances at all.
“I think it’s very slim right now. You can’t start off the way they have.” Button said on NHL Tonight. “They snuck into the playoffs last year. I don’t think they’re going to do it this year.”
There’s more than 75% of the season left, the Kings are 3 points out of 8th place, and their chances are “slim”? It’s not like the team could get on a roll or anything; after all they did lose 4 of the 20 playoff games they played last season… What a buffoon…
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west coast ram Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 11:41 am
@SLG1013, How can you trust ESPN when they do nothing but provide the AP game recap for the SC champion? If the Rangers had won the Cup we would be seeing stories every day from the ESPN hockey writers about what a great team we’re seeing.
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DesertKing Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 11:42 am
@SLG1013,
We no longer recognize an he-who-is-the-fastening-device-on-the-front-of-my-pants as an “analyst,” rather, we just recognize it as being “anal” and a personal friend of the Evil Load.
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jess Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 11:57 am
@SLG1013,
Perhaps the most disturbing thing I’ve ever seen, was watching Craig Button cross a darkly lit residential street and then fully bottom out his suspension whilst struggling to scuttle up the face of the curb. I think it was the sound of his little claws making short quick scratching noises desperately trying to find traction.
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cup4kings Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 12:05 pm
@SLG1013,
ESPN writers for the NHL are such East Coast homers. I kind of like it that they’re saying the Kings have no chance. It will just make it that much more sweet when the Kings prove them all wrong!
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mrbrett7 Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 12:16 pm
@SLG1013, You know Craig Button absolutely hates Los Angeles, right? He has ever since we bounced them from the playoffs when he was GM of Calgary back in the 80′s/90′s.
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jess Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 12:21 pm
@mrbrett7,
He ate a little crow at the start of the new season but that didn’t last long. Looks like he’s returned to his old skullduggerous ways.
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SLG1013 Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 12:27 pm
@mrbrett7, True, but you would think that he would try to sound credible. How any teams chances can be “slim” at this point in the season is ridiculous. The Kings (or the Flames, Blue Jackets or any team sitting near the bottom of the standings) could go on a 5 game winning streak and suddenly be back in the middle of the top 8. San Jose, after winning 7 games to start the season, has now lost 5 games in a row and they’ve fallen back into the middle of the top 8 (only 3 points from being out of the playoffs)… Of course, Button could be brilliant… His entire scheme of getting fools like me to comment on his inane predictions working perfectly…
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tim chaney Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 3:56 pm
@mrbrett7, i second that. he’s a hater from way back… picked vancouver to roll over us on the way to the cup last year.
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vplaza Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 12:24 pm
@SLG1013,
Button’s a tool.
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ForumFan Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 2:45 pm
@SLG1013,
Craig Button is predicting our demise? I feel better already.
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phil sykes Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 3:36 pm
@ForumFan, the only reason he has even a chance of being right is our injuries ……… yes , our injuries could easily prevent us from making it .. but that would be the only reason – not that the kings were some sort of fluke as he implies ……….. if kopitar plays completely 100 percent healthy in any given season (hes not this season) then the kings will make the playoffs every year until he becomes too old … and i dont care who is playing defense for us …………. hes the best player in the league , and obviously , the most underrated player in the league ………. big , strong , offense , defense , skill , beast mode ……………… its a shame we probably wont get to see that kopi this season
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Jon,
There are some Kings fans that are preconditioned to just hate “x” player and they will never see reality, I’m seeing that in the hatred towards Gagne and Richards, and even some towards Doughty. By the way, great details on the game. I didn’t think anyone could improve this blog and do more than Rich did, but I love the game detail you provide. Great job!
-Mike
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pr0cess Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 11:45 am
@Mike J., Only thing i hate right now is the lack of info on mitchel….
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Good point by JR about Wade Redden being last in the zone on that 4-on-4. The Blues clearly have some problems right now and play like that will not solve them.
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I think Doughty tries to much and feels the pressure he needs to relax and play a simple game as for Voynov is there not a better passer on D who picks his head up and looks to move that puck quickly out of the zone, also on shots Drew makes to many moves just get the puck on net and let your forwards do their job.
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DesertKing Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 11:49 am
@David H,
That’s the problem. The forwards are not doing their jobs.
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cup4kings Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 11:55 am
@DesertKing,
Hasn’t seem to effect Voynov. Doughty just isn’t playing well, no need to sugar coat it. Doughty falling down in his own end or bad passes out of his own zone have nothing to do with our forwards. I think his +/- is right on. His miscues have easily lead to direct scoring chances by the other team. $7 mil/yr….aside from the playoffs last year, has Doughty even come close to being the player that held out for top $$?
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DesertKing Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 12:00 pm
@cup4kings,
Sorry, I just see that as part of being on the ice so much in all of the top pressure situations. There are 30 teams in the NHL. 27 of those teams would gladly take DD with his contract and make him their #1 defenseman. I also seem to remember 4 or 5 defensive plays where DD either prevented a goal or a significant scoring chance by his excellent play. I guess we will just have to agree to disagree
cup4kings Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 12:06 pm
@cup4kings,
Agree to disagree
Forum67 Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 12:32 pm
@cup4kings,
Doughty is a very good defenseman. Due to injuries he is playing more minutes than he probably should and he is probably trying to do too much. I do not think Doughty is the franchise level defenseman the Kings thought they were getting. I predicted two seasons ago that Voynov would ultimately be the Kings best defenseman and I stick by that prediction. Further, I predict that Doughty will not be a Norris Trophy finalist again in his career. Finally, I predict he will be traded prior to the end of his current contract.
jess Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 12:37 pm
@Forum67,
Myself and @puck73 were also among those who made a similar prediction regarding Voynov. However, I do not share your opinion regarding DD. I believe he still has a long bright future with the Kings.
DesertKing Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 12:50 pm
@cup4kings,
Just fyi, watch the replay from last might. 8:08 and 6:08 of the 1st, Dd puts the puck right in front of the net with 2the forwards there and they dont score. Same thing around 14:07 of the second. Havent got to the 3rd period yet.
cup4kings Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 12:56 pm
@DesertKing,
I hear ya my friend. I’m sure I can go back through last night’s game and past games to find his many miscues as well. I’ve just seen way too many turnovers leading to goals this year. And aside from last year’s playoffs, I haven’t seen anything close to a $7 mil/yr defenseman. He’s not even sniffing a Norris mention since he held out, not even the previous year to that hold out. As you can tell I’m a little bitter at Doughty
His potential is there, maybe that’s why I’m so hard on him.
DesertKing Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 1:10 pm
@cup4kings,
You are correct, we could all even nitpick #99 to death
Premature for sure, but many are RFA or UFA next season or in 4 months……..who do you sign and for what?
Or do you allow some to pack up and move along?
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cup4kings Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 12:00 pm
@harty,
Go check out CapGeek, that website does a great job breaking everything down. As for UFAs, you have Scuderi (must resign) and Gagne, Penner, Richardson, Drewiske. I don’t see the last four being brought back unless they lead us to another cup run or something. Kings have a lot of RFAs to take care of, most noteably Voynov and Clifford. Bernier as well, that should be interesting going forward toward the trade deadline this year.
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harty Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 12:33 pm
@cup4kings, did it reason I asked when I see so many potential changes…….
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Michael J. Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 12:01 pm
@harty,
Definitely re-sign Penner.
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Lake Forest Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 12:15 pm
@Michael J., give that man a raise
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vplaza Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 12:23 pm
@Lake Forest,
He needs more pancakes.
harty Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 12:33 pm
@Lake Forest, com’on seriously????
I think enough is enough, for the production he provides. I know LA is a big spending town but you really think so……
just kidding I know its a shot at Dustin Penner disbeleivers…
Mr. Rosen’s taking this blog to a whole new level with great insight & knowledge. Love it.
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rick Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 12:46 pm
@press box scratch, Agreed.
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ForumFan Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 2:41 pm
@jonrosen,
I wasn’t sure what to expect on the blog when Rich left, but I do love the different perspective and information being provided. It was especially nice to see Jon comment on the negative remarks on Gagne, reaching out and asking the reason for that, given his own game notes.
We will always miss Rich, but thank you for taking things in a different direction and being ‘Jon’.
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According to some of our bloggers…If DD…DD2…Gagne….Ellerby…Richards…Quick….Bernier…Stoll…Williams…are so bad…and are having really bad games…how do we ever win????
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jess Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 12:09 pm
@neil, I’m one of those who think we’ll be just fine
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Forum Gold Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 12:12 pm
@jess, +1. GO KINGS GO!!!
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vplaza Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 12:22 pm
@neil,
We only win if the other team sucks worse than we do?
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Anyone else see how bad NHL Network botched Stoll and DD2 names last night? I doubt they’ll put that on their site like DOTY. They called them Dwisky and Stall. They had no clue on how the game was played last night nor at Detroit.
PS
@lakingbob(chi), ??? I guess he hasn’t been around in a couple weeks. Hoping to see him.
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jess Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 12:27 pm
@LA_1968,
Yeah I think NHL Network is still using like 3 or 7 courier pidgeons to report on west coast games. Someone must’ve mispelled something at landing post 4.
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neil Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 12:42 pm
@LA_1968, He was here the game before last…
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Jeff_R Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 2:35 pm
@LA_1968, I would certainly think he would be here Sunday if not before.
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LA_1968 Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 6:09 pm
@Jeff_R, @neil, Thanks guys.
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Glad to see the blog panic has subsided a little today. Amazing what a win can do.. imagine what 4 or 5 in a row will bring!
The team speed and pressure the past two games has returned to playoff levels, so I’m not worried about the compete level (yes, I said compete level), just worried about so many young bodies on D. But they have to get a chance to be mixed into the blend sometime and I think DS is a good mentor for them – he demands effort but doesnt fault you if you dont have the experience. He gives positive reinforcement to those players who are striving to improve and gives the steely glare to veterans who arent 100% trying to stay on top. Imagine how much better we’ll be as an organization once all these young guys have had their mettle tested in the Show.
As always, it’s all about the Big Picture.
GKG!
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vplaza Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 12:35 pm
@bbb7,
Let’s not get ahead of ourselves. They’re showing signs of life, but can they sustain it beyond two games? Better yet, can they string a few wins/points to really get back into the picture?
And as you pointed out, losing defensemen and having to rely on unproven kids to hold down the fort is cause for concern.
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cup4kings Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 12:37 pm
@bbb7,
The dominating forecheck is getting back to playoff levels, I love it! Voynov is becoming a star. Cliffy is playing like Brownie. Carter has been scoring and leading the way. Lots of bright aspects to the Kings right now. Big Picture indeed. Just get into the playoffs baby!
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DesertKing Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 12:52 pm
@cup4kings,
+1
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puck73 Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 12:38 pm
@bbb7, Compete level? Prepare for an all out assault on TM…BOO
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neil Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 12:44 pm
@puck73, can anyone “compete” with puck73 ???
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jess Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 12:45 pm
@neil, -Not when it comes to throwing soap on a rope @ bruce mcnall.
puck73 Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 12:47 pm
@neil, Not when it comes to organizing insider events, and getting bloggers up into suites. My ” Generous compete level” is unmatched there !
DesertKing Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 12:52 pm
@neil,
I tried once, but after he kicked my you-know-what in the penalty box, I knew who was boss.
LVKINGS88 Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 1:20 pm
@neil, Nope!
God, I love this team! I will check in after Friday night’s game to report on whether my feelings have changed any…
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Missed the game last night. NHL network has the game blacked out right now, one day after the game was played. AARRRGGHH!! Why black out a game a day after it was played? Highlights it is.
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cup4kings Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 12:51 pm
@Steve W,
You missed a good one. Solid effort all around. I guess I’m lucky and have DirecTV and Channel 692 to watch the local broadcast.
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DesertKing Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 12:59 pm
@Steve W,
I am watching it now on NHL Network. I just always wonder why any game being called by that Pang guy makes me think I am at a Broadway musical. Joe Buck not to bad on the hockey play -by-play.
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I had heard on one of the Canada networks that Mitchell had a set back when he started skating where the knee was swollen and had pain so the kings took a step back with his comeback and workouts. Happens often after work on a knee.
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God…you are so much better than Hammond.
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Anyone watching the news? Shoot out with Dorner right now in Big Bear.
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Michael J. Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 2:10 pm
@cup4kings,
Wow!
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cup4kings Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 2:30 pm
@Michael J.,
Yea, crazy! I work from home so been watching it for the past hour. Glad they found him, but it looks like he’s going out in a blaze of glory.
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DesertKing Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 3:54 pm
@cup4kings,
No such thing as a “blaze of glory” for a coward.
Duncanz Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 3:32 pm
@cup4kings, Rogue Robocop.
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Great recap Jon. I noticed Richards’ and Clifford’s hit on Carter’s 2 goals, glad someone else appreciated their efforts. Those plays are just as important as the nice passes and the finish by Carter. Those plays were what Backes was referring to when he ripped his team after the loss. St. Louis players weren’t making those plays. Yet too many fans here seem to be stat watchers and throw too many of our boys under the bus.
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fsd1 Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 3:43 pm
@Osaka, Agree, throw out the Nashville game and this team is getting better each and every game. I look at the line changes in two ways, motivation and to show all the players, it doesnt matter who you play with or what “line” you may be on, trust all of your teammates at all times. The mode we were in last year the last 10 games of the season and the playoffs is not some switch you can flip, it is a process and i think we are on our way to another run at the cup.
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Osaka Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 4:29 pm
@fsd1, Great points!
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Jon – I have liked Gagne’s game. Considering he has played nine games and spent time on all four lines and has five points it is a plus in my book. I think if he can settle on one line the production will go up. He is definitely improving. Also he doesn’t spend alot of time on the PP or PK so in games where there are quite a few penalties he doesn’t have as many opportunities as he should. But like you and others have pointed out he has made some great defensive plays and I think that is what DS wants to see – DS did make a comment about his veteran forwards being more responsible on D. As we know it doesn’t matter if you score 4 goals if you give up 7 – both side of the ice are important! Also he was credited with one hit last night so he did hit someone. I look forward to seeing what he will do in the future – I think his hockey IQ is quite impressive! Go Gags!!
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Osaka Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 3:37 pm
@PurpleRocks, exactly! His value is in his ability to play on any of the 4 lines. He is a veteran, responsible, 2 way forward. Could his production be higher? A little maybe, but he is pretty much producing in the range to be expected. His pints project out to 45 points in an 82 game season. Maybe ideally he would hit 50 pts in 82 games with 20g and 30a. The Kings play a defensive system, keep this in mind when stat watching.
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phil sykes Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 3:49 pm
@Osaka, ive cooled on ellerby … he was fine last night …. it appears i may have been completely wrong
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Osaka Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 4:08 pm
@phil sykes, Either our system is easier for defenseman to play or our players are easier to play with right? It is still to early to see either way.
Wow!
Well over 150 comments and it’s not even a game thread!
Keep up the great work JR!!
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Did I just hear that right? Sheldon Souray is a ‘+10′ ??
Fire DL!
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Michael J. Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 3:41 pm
@Duncanz,
Trade him for Doughty.
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trytodethroneus Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 4:23 pm
@Duncanz,
Melrose mentioned him as an early Norris Trophy candidate.
Last week he had the sharx as a Stanley Cup finalist.
’nuff said
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phil sykes Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 4:53 pm
@trytodethroneus, and regarding melrose at tampa ……… what the hell happened .. why only hire a guy for 14 games or whatever it was and then give up and fire him that soon ………… i mean its 90 percent the players …. but really , a brand new coach after only 14 games or whatever it was ….. just strange …. (and im not talking like davis payne last year – he was already the coach the whole year before or longer)
i think if i remember correctly melrose was sitting the rook stamkos some nights saying hes not strong enough or whatever … and managment maybe didnt like that ……. but then they bring a new guy in and they end up decideing to sit stamkos for like half the season so he can workout and get stronger …. huh? ……….. i mean i really dont have an opinion on melrose either way , but just found the whole situation strange
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jimmyo777 Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 7:02 pm
@Duncanz, Can’t you ever write something that makes sense rather than something any nine year old could contribute ?????
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Duncanz Reply:
February 12th, 2013 at 9:59 pm
Show me one other 9 year old that has the pleasure of a reply from @jimmyo777.
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Foxy also made a comment during the broadcast last night about Gagne’s good defensive plays. I honestly don’t care if he scores goals as long as he keeps getting assists. At one point he had five assists in five games. To me it doesn’t matter if it’s a goal or an assist – either one you still get a point, you’re still one the ice celebrating with your arms up and most of the time you’re still getting a plus 1 so either one is fine with me and Gagne made some pretty sweet passes!
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