-Yes, I am aware that it is not exactly an early morning and “Waking up with the Kings” sounds slack when it’s posted at 11 am. Think of this as “Sleeping in with the Kings.” Actually, that sounds strange. Forget I said anything.
-The Kings are beating the teams that they need to beat to make the playoffs. The Flames will not be a playoff team, and the Oilers are likely a team that will be on the wrong side of the playoff bubble. While the hockey in both games wasn’t particularly crisp for the full 60 minutes, both games did appear to be vintage Los Angeles wins (at least, in the last two years’ sense) in which they controlled possession, limited their opponents’ chances and relied on excellent goaltending. Jonathan Bernier was the Kings’ best penalty killer Wednesday night, stopping all eight Calgary shots during the man advantage. In even strength play, shots on goal were 31-19 in favor of Los Angeles, and the Kings won 40 of 62 faceoffs. That’s a strong road effort, regardless of the competition. If L.A. is a game above .500 despite A) no goals and a -10 performance from Drew Doughty B) only one player with more than four goals and C) having played the fewest home games in the league, I’d say this is a good time to buy stock in the Kings, who will play 13 of the next 16 at Staples Center and will only leave the Pacific Time Zone to go to Phoenix over the next month.
-If Darryl Sutter assumed responsibility for the goaltenders’ slow starts this season, he’s also responsible for managing them back to consistency. The week off for Jonathan Quick to practice and refocus aided both goaltenders’ rhythms. Since the end of the Detroit game, Quick and Bernier have combined to stop 116 of 123 shots for a .942 save percentage, while three of the seven goals allowed came during an opponent’s power play. Four even strength goals against over the last five games is a remarkable step forward for the goaltending consistency, which leads into…
-There is reason for some optimism over the play of this young defense in the absence of three members of the team’s top-four, though, to be fair, Alec Martinez wouldn’t necessarily a part of the top-four were Willie Mitchell and Matt Greene available. Individually, there have been some mistakes made by Keaton Ellerby, Davis Drewiske and Jake Muzzin, but this is a results-based business, and it’s tough to find major faults when the team defense and goaltending combines to hold five consecutive opponents below their seasonal goal output. Again, there have been mistakes. Ellerby was danced around in the first period against Edmonton and struggled to keep pace with the Oilers’ speed. Drewiske rushed to fling a puck over the boards that led to a delay-of-game call and Edmonton’s only goal. Muzzin turned a puck over in the first period last night, leading to Calgary’s goal. Collectively, this is a back end that has improved since Martinez’s injury and enters Thursday tied for 10th in the league by averaging 2.47 goals against per game. In one week, they’ve jumped 10 spots in the goals against rankings.
Lines for Saturday, any ideas?
[Reply]
Harvey Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 12:09 pm
@Harvey, Who is sitting and who is getting traded?
[Reply]
paige Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 1:06 pm
@Harvey, This is the first year in a long time, where I wouldn’t care if we didn’t trade anyone by deadline. But with 45′s contract up at the end of the year, what does that mean for his trade status?
[Reply]
Harvey Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 1:55 pm
@paige, How many RFAs do we have this year and should Bernier or Voynov be the 1st to take care of.
cup4kings Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 2:37 pm
@Harvey,
Check out CapGeek, good website to have on your favorites. Breaks down everything. I would say Cliffy the way he’s playing is right up there with Voynov as being important RFA re-signs. Martinez and Lewis a close second. I think Bernier gets traded at some point before next season. Don’t forget he requested to be traded.
Glimpses of last year….and while they made their run it was often “never went to sleep…with the Kings.” They’re. 2-0 on what I thought could be a 7-2-2 run
[Reply]
fsd1 Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 11:26 am
@linny, and 4-1 in their last 5
[Reply]
This is a big bed
[Reply]
Jim, I haven’t posted on here for some time, but I must say that I do enjoy your work and have been following closely.
I agree with your assessment about the Kings back end. I would however argue about whether or not Martinez would be a top 6 given a healthy Mitchell and Greene. I don’t think there is anything wrong with Ellerby and I think he was a good pick up, but I would still favor Martinez over Ellerby in the traditional Doughty/Scuderi, Mitchell/Voynov, Greene/Martinez d pairings. I have always been a fan of Martinez because I think there is still a lot of upside in his game which only seems to spark at times. I am not quite sure what it is or why he hasn’t taken it to a whole new level but Martinez, on his game, with confidence can contribute quite a bit offensively without being a defensive liability. Doughty/Voynov/Martinez are probably the three best puck movers on any club COLLECTIVELY when all on their game. At least I think so. That’s not to say that Martinez is in the same category as Doughty and VV but the three as puck movers? I don’t see many clubs with that kind of talent on the back end.
[Reply]
neil Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 11:18 am
@EASportsMgt, Its Jon…Not Jim….
[Reply]
Robyn Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 11:20 am
@neil, I was wondering who Jim was…
[Reply]
Shakes Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 11:28 am
@neil, and boom goes the dynamite
[Reply]
Robert R Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 12:04 pm
@Shakes, Ah, an Internet classic. You should check out “Awful Weatherman” too.
Robert R Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 12:02 pm
@neil, You noted that too, eh Nat?
[Reply]
dmoney Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 12:48 pm
@neil, My favorite is that he mentions how closely he’s been following along. I think from now on, we should address Rosen with a different ‘J’ name every time we post. For example:
“Jeff, while I agree with your assessment of the goaltending …” or “Jake, you make an excellent point about team defense …” or “I agree with Julio on this one …”
I’m just sayin’.
[Reply]
EASportsMgt Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 1:33 pm
@dmoney, That is quite funny but as I stated earlier it was an honest mistake. Trying to multi-task one too many things this morning. I’m displeased how the discussion has been on how I got Jon’s name wrong and not on the play of the 3 young defensemen as it was intended to be. I am curious now that it has been pointed out if “JON” meant to say top 4 as @Neil mentions below or if he believes that Ellerby would actually replace a healthy Martinez?
@JonRosen any chance you can weigh in on that?
EASportsMgt Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 12:49 pm
@neil, Jon, my sincere apologies really. I feel terrible. I was writing an email to a Jim and then saw your post and decided to write my thoughts about Martinez and accidently wrote Jim instead of Jon. I know very well you are Jon Rosen. And when I meet you, I owe you a beer, or a diet coke, or whatever else you wish to drink.
[Reply]
neil Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 12:56 pm
@EASportsMgt, Better to do it with Jon then someone like your wife….or always call your wife/boyfriend/girlfriend BABE so you dont get in trouble !!!!
dmoney Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 2:07 pm
@EASportsMgt, I intended no disrespect – certainly an honest mistake. Speaking of which, I believe Jon has also amended his mistake, and you are correct that he meant top 4 and not top 6. I think your comment about the play of the young defense was so well stated it required little discussion.
Let me also say that I think coming up with different ‘J’ names for Jon would be done as an homage to you and not to disparage you (and would give you a certain infamy on the blog). Regardless, I owe YOU a beer or a Diet Coke for my reckless (albeit quite funny) comment.
Plus I still think it would be funny. What say you @JackRosen?
neil Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 11:32 am
@EASportsMgt, I think Jon meant top 4 wrt defense. Of course Marty is one of the top 6….
[Reply]
BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 11:38 am
@EASportsMgt,
…Insider Suite Game?
[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 11:48 am
@BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy, Trust me on this one Bako…….dont do it
[Reply]
paige Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 1:10 pm
@puck73, I feel like there is a story behind that…
EASportsMgt Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 1:26 pm
@puck73, I am actually quite shocked that you would write that. If I remember correctly, you always had a huge smile and were very excited and appreciative of the Insider Event suites and thanked me several times for them. I guess that was all false.
Nevertheless @BakoCAkingsCondorsGuy, no we are not planning on nor has there been any discussions with Larry about doing an Insider Event this year. But I love your company and the great pics that you take my man so if you want to join us at our suite on Monday, of course you are more than welcomed to come. I have details up on my site if you want to cruise by sir. Would love to see all of you there.
Haven’t seen any Sutter quotes after the game. Did he interview??
[Reply]
JonRosen Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 11:24 am
@Brett, DS did not make himself available for interview after the game.
[Reply]
Brett Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 11:26 am
@JonRosen, Interesting. I wonder if it was due to his Calgary connection. Thanks, Jon.
[Reply]
neil Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 11:33 am
@Brett, Maybe he had a hangover……
Robert R Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 12:05 pm
@JonRosen, Had to get back for cows milking.
[Reply]
Thanx for that Excellent analysis, Jon….everything on ice is certainly indicating the Kings have it headed in the right direction…any update on Alec Martinez.?…
[Reply]
That is a positive way to look at it Jon, Good read.
You failed to mention, Brown Hitting = Kings win!
JC is on fire too!
[Reply]
Robyn Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 11:27 am
@Mars, that’s true. Brown looks like he’s returning to form. They not be bone crushing hits, but they still count towards team morale.
[Reply]
kingswings Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 12:32 pm
@Robyn, Trevor Lewis had a bone crushing hit on MacDonald…
[Reply]
Mars Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 1:03 pm
@kingswings, I think MCD embellished that a tad, sure it would know him back of course, but he did a half summersault and a twist.
mrbrett7 Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 11:34 am
@Mars, Amazing how that works. Teams play as goes their leadership.
[Reply]
The boys were pretty happy after the win at Edmonton.
Last night there was a lot of joy as well in this photograph:
http://db.tt/xCWZXZWa
[Reply]
rogiesbackup Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 12:01 pm
@LA_1968, lol…there’s a gap between stoll and quicks glove where you can see Penner’s gap! LOL
[Reply]
TheThirdVopat Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 12:13 pm
@LA_1968, Cool Pic
+1
[Reply]
In keeping with the theme of “waking up”, it seems as if Mike Richards may be doing that. He looked completely out of shape at the beginning of the season. He’s now starting to get the energy back and has a little more fire in his play. He and Carter feed off of each other and are a good tandem.
[Reply]
RobSD Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 12:00 pm
@Jeff,
I couldn’t agree more. When I watch games, I don’t really pay attention to the individual players unless they do something very good or very bad. The past few games I’m finally starting to notice Richards again. He is definitely in better shape after 15 games. If you aren’t exhausted, your talent shows. If you’re exhausted, doesn’t matter how much talent you have.
[Reply]
trytodethroneus Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 1:55 pm
@Jeff,
He started off the season as “rickety richards”
Last night he was “rico suave”
[Reply]
Over the last five games (including four on the road) the Kings have allowed seven goals… AND they’ve done that with three seldom used D-men, one great but still young 2nd year guy and just TWO established D. As unexciting as their offense might be, it’s hard to argue with those kind of results under those kind of circumstances. Full credit to DS and his staff and their system.
NOW… dont take a back step when coming home!
[Reply]
Deke'r Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 2:26 pm
@bbb7, ….I’m afraid it’s inevitable….what’s the Kings record on first home game following a road trip….and a day game to boot….not good odds….
[Reply]
I like your assessment, Jon. It’s fair and honest. I thought Ellerby improved significantly last night.over the EDM game and.DD2 and.Muzzin also improved. Yeah Muzzin had a turnover, but to be fair, no one checked Bodie until t was too late.
I thought Doughty was getting better. Why is his+/- still so bad?
Overall, good game for the Kings
[Reply]
mrbrett7 Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 11:37 am
@Robyn, I am not a proponent of the +/- statistic myself because it’s largely a team statistic. You could receive a minus when you have covered your guy, and somebody else doesn’t. You can get a plus when you had absolutely nothing to do with the goal being scored.
HOWEVER, in the case of Drew’s play thus far this season…I think his +/- is pretty accurate.
[Reply]
Robyn Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 11:43 am
@mrbrett7, I knew he was-11 through the first 9 games of the season and at EDM he posted a +2 (I thought he did…). I didn’t notice any major flubs or anything from him last night… I wonder what it’ll take for him to get a + rating… goals, maybe?
[Reply]
xeropoint Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 12:14 pm
@Robyn, He was fantastic against Iginla, all night.
mrbrett7 Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 1:01 pm
@Robyn, Overall, I think he needs to stop trying to do too much with the puck in his zone, and just move it North to the forwards on the breakout.
The kid is an outstanding defenseman…I don’t think anyone can argue that he isn’t (and if they are, they’re insane). I just think that with all the injuries, he is putting too much on himself to get the team going.
Last night’s game was awesome….but some bloggers seem to take advantage of the rules.I really dont like to see name calling and bloggers being disrespectful to each other. Its ok to disagree but when it come to name calling or put downs..thats not what this blog is about…Also please read the posts…Puck73 NEVER said he wasnt a Kings fan but said he wasnt spending his money on this team.He is allowed to feel that way without being called out.I know we have newcomers(or old timers using new names) BUT without censoring any one..Respect is needed.You can disagree with me BUT please dont call me any names(unless its in jest) cause Iam sensitive !!! You guys are all like Fam …lets keep it civil Thanks
[Reply]
Shakes Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 11:34 am
@neil, +1
i gotta admit i usually post a lot but (1) i really don’t have anything interesting to say lately and (2) i’ve seen a bit more blurrying of the lines in the comments so i’ve kinda stepped back a touch
[Reply]
Melissa Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 11:48 am
@Shakes, I don’t post much but I read a lot of comments. I agree with you both about crossing the lines a lot more recently. I can’t even read comments from some people anymore.
[Reply]
mrbrett7 Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 11:38 am
@neil, I’ve stepped way back, and I did call out Puck73…furthermore, I don’t think anything that I said was remotely out of line.
[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 11:51 am
@mrbrett7, Welcome back Mr. Brett, its been a while. Your posts and critique are always welcomed. no matter the topic.
[Reply]
mrbrett7 Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 1:03 pm
@puck73, Thanks man…
I tend to stay away when the freaky freaks come out of the woodwork.
SDGolfer Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 8:52 pm
@puck73, 1-800-eat-crap
tool
neil Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 11:58 am
@mrbrett7, I dont think it was you calling out Puck but someone else…
[Reply]
Goring 19 Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 11:59 am
@neil, I never call anybody names out of respect for the bloggers opinion and the integrity of the blog itself. However, if I have a take on something and I am attacked for my opinion, I will fire back, but not by insulting someone.
[Reply]
xeropoint Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 12:05 pm
@neil, It was a little testy last night, to be sure. It’s just words though. The blog can police itself. Nobody died.
[Reply]
neil Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 12:11 pm
@xeropoint, Compete level was high !!!!
[Reply]
Save, Hrudey! Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 12:34 pm
@neil,
People were strong on their sticks too.
Mars Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 1:09 pm
@neil, Agree.
It doesnt keep me away, but when that crap starts I just step away from the blog once I cannot ignore it.
Last night I was sick tho, so I just layed on the couch after the first goal or there abouts.
Kinda hazy, I was really not feeling well at all.
[Reply]
KC23 Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 4:42 pm
@neil, I also echo your feelings on the put downs and name calling. I enjoyed that stuff not being tolerated with Rich.
[Reply]
First of, Playing rookies is a good thing. By the end of the year they will
no longer be rookies. I understand that everyone blames the defense for the Chicago loss. However the complete lack of effort by the forwards was the reason for the loss. The renewed effort by the forwards in Edmonton and Calgary should prove to everyone that when the forwards come to play the defense is just fine. On Jonathan Bernier, when he is on, he makes it look so effortless that it looks like the defense is doing all the work for him when the opposite is true. Jonathan Quick also played extremely well in Edmonton. I just hope Jonathan Bernier continues to get starts. There is no sense in burning out Jonathan quick when Jonathan Bernier is extremely capable of providing this team wins. I also hope this team is allowed to compete for the playoffs without making any trades. They are playing very very well, and deserve the chance to do it intact. Dustin Brown looks like he’s finally rounding into the form and Justin Williams also looked very good. I have all the faith in the world in the present roster.
[Reply]
Cyling last night was the best I have seen from the Kings in a long time.Muzzin is a better fit with Doughty then Ellerby. Great game….Get the team at a hotel tomorrow night and lets win on Sat.
[Reply]
Robyn Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 11:35 am
@neil, not sure if I agree with that. IMHO, Muzzin is trying too hard to be the best and I think he’s better with a homer like Scuds or playing with DD2 because he seems most familiar with his play style. I think DD is best with Ellerby (again, just IMHO) because he seems to really thrive on that mentor ship role. Maybe I’m just seeing things
[Reply]
RobSD Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 12:03 pm
@Robyn,
Muzzin and Ellerby are not good. Muzzin makes tons of bad passes and needless turnovers, IMO.
[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 12:23 pm
@RobSD, They do, and its not surprising at the least. These guys are all under 27, and still have alot of growing to do. And you can throw Doughty and Voynov there as well. As good as DD and VV are now, wait til you see how much more consistent they will be when hit 27.
Again…defense is the hardest position in the NHL to become good to play for most guys drafted at 18.
Mr_higgins Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 1:01 pm
@RobSD, “IMO” not withstanding if this is results based than I would suggest the game statistics would not show “tons” of bad passes — his 18 min TOI last night and numerous well delivered passes would be evidence. No doubt that pass was a bit of head scratcher but as others have pointed out — they had time to recover from it and Muzzin had his man tied up in front when the goal was scored. Watch the replay and see how out to lunch King and Penner are as the D man waltzes in from the point to receive the pass and score. The breakdown there led to the goal. Mistakes will be made but they’re made by all at times – witness Scuds pass out front of the net at one point that was only saved by Bernier’s great save. Keep your buses warm for others but lets keep some balance IMO.
peace
mrbrett7 Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 1:04 pm
@RobSD, As puck stated…a turnover or two from a young defenseman is to be expected.
Mars Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 1:10 pm
@RobSD, Muzz needs to keep his stick on the ice, I swear I thought he had a hole in his stick last night.
Martinez possibly not part of the top six? You’re not really serious?
[Reply]
neil Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 11:34 am
@Walte, Jon is still waking up..I think he got the top 6 (forwards) mixed up with top 4 WRT defense….
[Reply]
JonRosen Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 11:41 am
@Walte, -1 for me. “Part of the top four”. Will edit; thank you.
[Reply]
Kenny44 Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 11:56 am
@JonRosen,
No fair editing posts! Unless you want to install an edit button for the rest of us.
[Reply]
Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com) Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 11:43 am
@Walte, Yeah, not sure what he means there. He’s talking defense so maybe neil is right he meant top 4 or the top 2 pairs. But if he means Ellerby would replace Martinez if we had a healthy defense, then I disagree.
Scuds/DD
Willie/VV
Greene/AM
Ellerby extra, Muzzin Manchester, Whiskey I’m afraid would be the odd man out.
[Reply]
neil Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 11:56 am
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com), Jon changed it..top 4 ….
[Reply]
mrbrett7 Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 1:06 pm
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com),
Actually…Drewiske has been impressing me. Muzzin has as well. They have had their flubs, but they are consistently improving.
Ellerby on the other hand, well, to me, he looks slow and out of place.
[Reply]
Deke'r Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 2:36 pm
@mrbrett7, ….Ellerby is young and has a great reach….once he gets his footspeed up to par he’ll rival the best….
Maybe you should title these late morning posts Waking Up With Penner
But it’s still a bit early…
[Reply]
Robyn Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 11:40 am
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com), not for those of us that have been at work for several hours already lol. I swear the people on this blog were just waiting for this post LOL
[Reply]
Mars Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 1:13 pm
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com), mmmmmm pancakes (quiet you, it is not old)
Penner is a funny guy, would like to hear from him too, not just Fras
[Reply]
Only 20 Minutes left in the trading deadline……..Opps…My bad..This aint Basketball….wrong blog…my bad…
[Reply]
Real 7 Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 11:44 am
@neil, ..and I’ll bet it’s plenty cold in Acton…LOL
[Reply]
Poor Nopitar wasn’t having his best game ever. He was doing well, but was sadly denied 3x. But the Carts-matic (to steal Paul’s expression) was on freaking fire last night
[Reply]
fsd1 Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 11:44 am
@Robyn, Disagree, Kopi had his best game of the year last night.
[Reply]
RobSD Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 12:06 pm
@fsd1,
He has been taking horrible minors all season. Almost all of them in the O or neutral zone. I didn’t think he looked bad other than that.
Brownie missed another open net by firing it into the goalie. Then the announcers act like the goalie made the save of the century. When in fact, Brownie just blew it big time.
[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 11:53 am
@Robyn, Hey Robyn, be careful of the “Nopitar” posts. Last night, a guy named @Marty Mulls came in and lit up @Kingsnewsdailey and @Jess because of posting too much Nopitar stuff.
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 11:57 am
@puck73,
He came in, got destroyed, never came back. Must have been a Vancouver troll fan. He couldn’t stand up to the combined power of the Insiders.
[Reply]
neil Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 12:00 pm
@DesertKing, We stood up for our fellow bloggers even if it did get ugly….
DesertKing Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 12:08 pm
@neil
Only we can hate us
SLIM Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 3:35 pm
@DesertKing,
I think he was a Slovenian…
Very proud people and they love their Kopi..
Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com) Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 12:01 pm
@puck73, Yeah a whole three times it was mentioned. Really out-of-control! Basically just an opportunity for a cheap shot by an anonymous poster. Brave.
[Reply]
Robyn Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 2:06 pm
@puck73, that’s a little sad that people take it so seriously. I’m a huge Kings fan and I thought it was very clever on Paul’s part. However, I promise to abstain from using it. Is Carts-manic still OK or should I justbe real polite and only use his last name? Sarcasm aside there, I really will stop using Nopitar
[Reply]
Every time I see that title, “Waking Up With The Kings”, I always see this in my mind:
Yaaawwwn, Good morning Jarrett, time for some pro-biotics!
Scratch, Scratch, Good morning Erin.
Yaaawwwn, Good morning JarJar, my Great Two!
Scratch, Scratch, Good morning Paulina.
Yaaawwwn, Good morning “J”, my little cougar cub!
Scratch, Scratch, Good morning Rachel.
SCRATCH, SCRATCH, Good morning Strollsie, have a great game!
Uhhh, Good morning Frank the Staples Parking Security guy?
[Reply]
Michael J. Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 11:47 am
@DesertKing,
For some reason I don’t think Rachel would be good with that scenario
[Reply]
Robyn Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 11:53 am
@DesertKing, I’m kind of afraid of this image… LOL but very entertained at the same time.
[Reply]
Lake Forest Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 12:04 pm
@DesertKing, at least he’s scoring somewhere.
[Reply]
xeropoint Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 12:09 pm
@Lake Forest, Zing!
[Reply]
Deke'r Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 2:42 pm
@Lake Forest, ….unlike Kopi…..waaa waaaaaaaa…
[Reply]
All I can do is echo what was said above-the Kings d-corp is doing really well. I think their play is a testimony to the coaching staff.
Also, at sign-off last night Patrick said something like: “Next game, Saturday at 12:30″ to which my wife replied: “Well, there’s an automatic loss.”
I really hope our guys will be ready to go this Saturday.
[Reply]
puck73 Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 12:12 pm
@Michael J., The Kings playing crappy and losing on an afternoon game at Staples….who would of thunk it.
[Reply]
Michael J. Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 1:46 pm
@puck73,
So even Patti thinks they’re in for a tough go at it Saturday?
[Reply]
What’s the injury status of Martinez? Is he playing on Saturday?
[Reply]
Rosie,
Thanks for keeping the site going. I very much appreciate everything you are doing for us and The Kings. I do like your analysis.
Every once in a while we need a voice to calm us down from the ledge and it’s nice to get someone without emotion to make simple comments like that.
[Reply]
Gustavo Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 6:31 pm
@Lake Forest,
Rosie????
Rosie Palm?
[Reply]
The break outs and the passing last night was crisp….The Kings had a look of a defending Stanley Cup champions last night..The Kings took the momentum of the last period against Chicago and have kept it going….
[Reply]
It was great to see Trevor Lewis get rewarded for all the hard work the guy puts in. Last night, he didnt look out of place at all playing along side of JC. It looked to me that the guy really used his speed to his advantage last night playing with a skilled forward.
Keep it going Trevor !
[Reply]
xeropoint Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 12:46 pm
@puck73, I can’t help but root for the kid, he doesn’t ever give less than a full tank. I think this experiment will be short lived. Along the lines of Clifford playing with Rick and Carts. It’s Richards finding his legs and game, with JC continuing his strong play that will factor into success more than whoever they plug in on the wing.
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tornado12 Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 12:48 pm
@xeropoint, Penner really needs to be on that line. he has the best hands and offensive abilities of all the other options…
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nykingfan Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 12:47 pm
@puck73,
It seemed like they moved Clifford back to the 4th line pretty quickly. I agree about Lewis. I love his game.
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harty Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 12:55 pm
@nykingfan, Odd isn’t it, the Clifford kid continues to produce, skates his butt off. Fights for every inch of ice and yet for DS he is a 4th liner with no hope of moving up in DS’s eyes.
Sutter has been told who to play based on dollars being spent.
Next Clifford will be sat out for Gagne because how can they have this happening……..
I like Lewis on the Richards, Carter line.
Clifford should replace King, he is the biggest most useless player in the Western Conference.
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fsd1 Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 1:16 pm
@harty, “Sutter has been told who to play based on dollars being spent.” Really? Since I didnt see the sarcasm font, I will say that I doubt anyone tells DS who to play. Cliffy is perfect for the 4th line. And how fast do players that made the difference last season fall in the fans eyes. Cliffy will be fine on the 4th line and King will be fine on the 3rd or 4th lines.
nykingfan Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 1:20 pm
@harty,
I disagree with you that Sutter is told whio to play and where to play them.
He’s going to make the best decisions for the team. I think winning the cup has given him carte blanche when it comes to roster and line combinations.
Michael J. Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 1:50 pm
@harty,
C’mon man… that’s getting real old. Cliffy is a third-liner right now. He can’t make plays in the offensive zone right now. His day is coming. He’s clearly playing at a higher level than ever before. Nevertheless, there is no conspiracy out to get him. We all love the kid from your home town.
Great job on the between-periods interview last night. I have no idea how you, and Daryl Evans, both just make it look easy.
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DesertKing Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 12:27 pm
@PlayerXatHoldThePoint,
Its Darry’s suit. You can’t stop paying attention to it that you would never notice anything else.
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Michael J. Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 1:51 pm
@DesertKing,
Grapes II
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They should keep line combos as they are. It was the best cycling-down-low game yesterday. Lewis was complementary for that line, and that was exactly DS had been looking for. And I admit that wasn’t what I expected but what do I know? He scored the first goal of the season.
I wrote before the game; Not likely but I hope Lewis scores the goal, and finally breakthrough.
I don’t know why I wrote it but I kinda had feeling that he will.
Funny thing was, he was actually moving backward in order to make himself available, and that wasn’t the element he had before. He did not have a lot on it but shot the puck anyway. I remember he broke his stick a couple of times before when he tried one- timer in the slot. I thought it showed how hard he was gripping the stick. I suspect that backing up motion made him to use soft hands instead of hard shot he had been taking. Irony, isn’t it? And here’s my hope that that was exactly he needed to finally breakthrough.
Again, he needs to put up some numbers to stay in the lineups otherwise sooner or later someone will take his spot. So I’m hoping my assessment is right, and Lewis will score some more goals in this season*with softer hands). Oh, and don’t forget … he is very complementary to Doughty as a friend, too.
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neil Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 12:44 pm
@goldielocks, Lewis scored lots in the minors..I know that is not the NHL but..Being a first round pick he must have more skills then just speed….DL isnt the only one looking at draft picks…..I really think Lewis can become a 15 to 20 goal scorer with the right players/system…
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bbb7 Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 1:53 pm
@neil, He did score 29 in his one season in the OHL but that’s not a lot for that league. And his max at Manch was 20 so we cant expect him to score more than 10 max in the Show. His defensive prowess and speed make him a good cog in the Kings team, but he just has little offensive skills and we also have King and Fraser and Nolan and Richardson in that category and that’s too many. Other good teams’ 3rd and 4th lines contribute significantly (meaning all the forwards score at least 8-10 per season) and we are missing that finishing skill in our bottom 6.
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Michael J. Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 1:55 pm
@goldielocks,
Lewis the sniper
Liked your Doughty referrence. Yah, is teaming DD with TL the antedote to living with Simmonds?
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That “game above .500″ is very misleading. I would claim the Kings are a game below .500. The source of this paradox is the “Bettman sympathy point” where a point is awarded to a loser that is not taken from the winner. Wins have to equal OVERALL losses for the entire league. The Kings have won 7 games and lost 8 hence a game UNDER .500.
OK now that we got that cleared up and I bored you…..
Given the fact that 1) Kopitar is not 100%, 2) we are missing 3 of 6 starting defenseman 3) Quick was struggling early on and 4) we played so much on the road I’m certainly not going to panic and assume we aren’t going to make the playoffs just because Craig Button says I should. I think we’re in pretty good shape all things considered. The biggest concern now would seem to be getting Mitchell back.
Oh, and I don’t see that we really NEED to deal Bernier at this point. Sure, I’d listen to offers and pull the trigger if 1) we can get something really good and 2) we have a plan for a backup. Otherwise he’s a very good insurance policy against something happening to Quick.
And finally while DS forgets more hockey in his sleep than I will ever know I wish he’d ease up on the players a little. I’ve never been crazy about calling anyone out in the media — that stuff belongs behind closed doors. Pick a set line up, set lines (although to be fair perhaps part of that is so that home coaches can’t match lines up effectively) and exhibit some patience. I think what may be happening with some of the guys is that they are so worried about being in Sutter’s doghouse that they get off their game and try to do too much. We need to get back to the TEAM game and confidence level from 8 months ago. Which is already starting to happen.
Go Kings Go!
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neil Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 12:47 pm
@HockeyNerd, I wonder if the line changes bother us(fans) more then the players….Also Cliffy was playing great yet he had the second least amount of time yesterday…Wonder why???? What must Cliffy do to get more time????
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harty Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 12:59 pm
@neil, he’s not a favorite…….DS just has him kicking around the door mat……
He cannot possibly get more time, too many guys making millions and have to play big minutes as its a business and DS is told to play them.
Neil do you not think Clifford should be at least on the 3rd line instead of Penner or King??
If not, com’on what game are you watching.
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neil Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 1:06 pm
@harty, instead of King for sure….Hopefully D.S. wont destroy his confidence/growth….Unless there is something we are not seeing… Would love to know DS’s thinking on this…
HockeyNerd Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 1:23 pm
@harty, So it’s OK to bench Penner and Gagne and give Bernier 2 consecutive starts but it’s not OK to play Clifford?
No I cannot tell you why Clifford isn’t getting more time. Maybe he has an injury we don’t know about. Maybe he isn’t in as good a shape as we think. Maybe he is making subtle mistakes we don’t see. Or maybe DS is simply making a mistake.
But to say that a coach (who won the Stanley Cup!) is being told by management how to do HIS OWN job is utterly ridiculous.
nykingfan Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 12:54 pm
@HockeyNerd,
There’s certainly no need to move Bernier at this point, although the way he’s playing, his stock is rising. I think the Kings will wait until the off season.
With the shortened season, having Bernier playing and sharp is extermemly important. Much more than I originally thought.
I have no problem with DS calling out players….I’m sure he talks to them in private first. We all see who’s not playing well and for the coach to sugar coat it to us, is a disservice. These are professional adults. They get the million dollar salaries, they can handle a little public flogging every now and then. Each time he’s done it this year, it’s been well deserved.
I’m not going to worry about whether wwe’re technically over/under .500 as long as we’re one of the top 8, we get a chance to repeat.
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HockeyNerd Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 1:31 pm
@nykingfan, I’ve just never understood what that “public flogging” is supposed to accomplish. No I don’t want a coach to sugarcoat everything but there are ways to say someone is capable of playing better without being so harsh. Admittedly it’s a very fine line. Calling a player out may be “well deserved” but to me that isn’t the point. I want the reason for it to be that it helps the player and / or the team. To be fair, maybe it does. TMs philosophy which seemed to match mine sure seemed to grow stale.
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Gustavo Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 6:28 pm
@HockeyNerd,
TM’s philosophy won how many playoffs games, rounds, conference banners and Stanley Cups?
Nykingfan Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 6:42 pm
@HockeyNerd,
I don’t think there’s a right or wrong way. I respected the way TM handled things. It’s a change in philosophy that came with the coaching change.
I’ m sure there’s some players that it helps and others it has no effect.
As a fan I get a kick out of sutter. I find humor in most things he says.
He’d have been a great character on Seinfeld.
Pesus Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 1:08 pm
@HockeyNerd,
Regulation win should be 3 points
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HockeyNerd Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 1:39 pm
@Pesus, They proposed that a few years back and the owners voted it down! Unbelievable!
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HockeyNerd Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 1:45 pm
@Pesus, BTW nearly ANYTHING is better than what we’re doing now. Either make regulation wins 3 points, or just keep a won-loss record like baseball and basketball. Do you get a half game in the standings free in THOSE sports because you are tied at the end of regulation or 9 innings? (In fact does basketball have a free throw contest or baseball a home run derby???). Heck, I’d even be OK with regulation win 5 points for winner none for loser, overtime win 4 points for winner 1 for loser shootout win 3 points for winner 2 for loser. But to give away a TOTAL of 3 points in some games and 2 in others is the most absurd thing in all of sports.
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bbb7 Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 1:56 pm
@HockeyNerd, Agreed. I have felt this way for a long time, but every year towards the end I recalculate the standings figuring a 3-2-1 system and, truthfully, it rarely makes a difference in the final rankings – maybe one team per conference will shift a spot up or down. But just for the sake of consistence they need to fix it.
xeropoint Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 2:08 pm
@HockeyNerd, Not a fan of it either. The only saving grace is that everyone has to deal with it. Maybe things can be streamlined once they do realignment…. Bwahahaha! Who am I kidding?
Here are my thoughts on defense…..I think Martinez is top six for sure,great shot and fast enough to keep up with forwards coming at him.. Ellerby is not good at all, he is too slow and not physical enough for his frame.Any other defenseman in Manchester can bring what Ellerby does to the game. I think Muzzin has a canon shot and just needs more experience in the league and he will be fine, those mistakes will start to be less and less.
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In regards top DS and his line changes, IMO, I believe DS simply goes with the “What have you done for me lately” approach during the game. If a player is hot, he gets more time and moves up and down the lines. If a player is cold or makes a bonehead mistake, there goes his ice time during that game.
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harty Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 1:00 pm
@King Alex, Really and what mistake or bonehead play did Clifford make last night??
Nope its favorites and friends…….his bond to his millionaires……
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Lake Forest Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 1:12 pm
@harty, I think we are getting a little emotional about that.
I KNOW you KNOW that isn’t true. I wouldnt say Clifford has been playing bad, but other players are playing better.
and if you disagree with that, you know that Sutter has nothing to do with “paying” these players.
I think Cliffy has been playing well, but they all have their roles including clifford.
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fsd1 Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 1:19 pm
@Lake Forest, +1
fsd1 Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 1:19 pm
@harty, Kinda out in left field today?
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trytodethroneus Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 2:06 pm
@fsd1,
Must be something in the AYR
SLG1013 Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 1:24 pm
@harty, I think it’s more about getting other guys going. When Sutter played Clifford with Carter and Richards, it was to try and get Carter and Richards going (well mostly Richards because Carter has been pretty good most of the year)…
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King Alex Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 2:16 pm
@harty, Never said Clifford made any bonehead plays but he was not as hot as he was earlier in the season. Cliffy is a good young player with a bright future although I personally do not see him as a top 6 on our team skill wise right now.
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Deke'r Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 2:50 pm
@harty, …quite humorous….
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During the playoffs last year, it often looked like the Kings were playing with an extra guy on the ice even while in even strength situations. Last night was probably the first game this year where I saw that same level of play for sustained stretches. I am cautiously optimistic that we are going to see even more of that kind of performance moving forward.
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Having the majority of the coming games at home seems like a good thing. But in the past few years, this team has been better on the road than at home Let’s hope they give the local fans plenty to cheer about during this homestand.
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bbb7 Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 1:57 pm
@vplaza, Yes, normally this would be a time to fatten up on pints but the Kings havent always been strong in defending their house. Let’s hope this season is different.
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Robyn Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 2:18 pm
@bbb7, they have some of the beat fans in the NHL, right? Right, so as long as we keep cheering for them, I’m sure they’ll do well. They’ve sold out every game so far this season, so I expect good things to happen to the Kings. Rhyme unintended
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They’ll be a game above .500 when they have more wins than losses.
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Mike Richards sucks, Mike showed up out of shape, Mike needs to start playing……
He is tied with Kopi and Carter for scoring lead on the Kings. Maybe he hasn’t been great, but was he as bad as everyone says?
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PalmSpringsKingsFan Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 3:14 pm
@Osaka, Richards is a vital part of this team. We could not have won the cup without him. Anyone who says he sucks does not watch the games. He is most likely the smartest guy on the team.
I am worried about KOPI but when the LA KINGS train starts rolling you better get of the tracks. anyway I completely disagree with Richards comment. the whole team had problems in the begining…Except for CARTS.(thanks high and wide JJ, best trade ever)
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Osaka Reply:
February 22nd, 2013 at 6:18 pm
@PalmSpringsKingsFan, Agreed!
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Hey Jon, the Kings won’t even leave the time zone for the Coyotes. AZ doesn’t have daylight savings, so when the Pacific goes on daylight savings early next month, the Yotes will be in the same time zone as the Kings. The Kings don’t leave our time zone for over a month from now…
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Forum Gold Reply:
February 21st, 2013 at 6:15 pm
@Naturallawyer, Great observation. Now we need to take advantage of it. GO KINGS GO!!!
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With Mitchell, Greene and Martinez out, I thought that the defense was going to crater. This hasn’t happened and props to Drewiske, Muzzin and Ellerby for stepping up. What the defense lost in puck moving ability and experience has been made up for in big bodies that throw their weight around and players who are trying to prove each game that they should get minutes the next game.
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