-Darryl Sutter loved the contributions from “the four kids” on defense as he mentioned the performances by “Muzzin, Voynov, Ellerby and Drew” without referencing 25-year old Alec Martinez, who logged a blue line-low 11:16 of ice time and continues to work back into his rhythm after missing eight games due to an upper-body injury. Of Jake Muzzin, whose play this blog has been bullish over for the past month, the gradual shift towards earning more ice time alongside Drew Doughty has been an encouraging trend that has seemed to benefit both the team’s results and Muzzin’s individual statistics. Muzzin has three goals, five points and a plus-four rating over his last five games and continues to make intelligent decisions with the puck in the offensive zone. His ability to draw St. Louis with him as he drifted to the right after a clean Mike Richards faceoff win was the savvy move that opened up the space for Jeff Carter to unleash the powerful wristshot that served as the game-winner. Also, Slava Voynov continues to show that intelligent physical play is a part of his all-around package – he had an good, clean hit on Alex Pietrangelo along the boards late in this game amongst the seven hits that led Los Angeles in a physical affair.
-Despite earning only 11:29 of ice time last night, I liked what Dustin Penner provided as the game evolved. His contribution to Mike Richards’ early third period goal is exactly what the team needs from him as the goal served as a major momentum boost in the team’s comeback. He separated Ian Cole from the puck – lots of Kings separated Ian Cole from the puck last night – with a hit behind the net while on the forecheck before stealing the puck from Kevin Shattenkirk. Jeff Carter should also be recognized for his poke that disrupted Shattenkirk’s attempt to skate the puck out of his own zone. Richards sensed the play developing and drove through the slot unmarked to convert his own rebound after Penner had fed him in stride with a pinpoint backhanded pass. The Penner-Richards-Carter line was outstanding for the Kings in the playoffs last year, and if Penner can continue to replicate his efforts from that impactful shift, that second line will continue to raise the ceiling of the team’s offensive capabilities.
-So finally there was a push back from the St. Louis Blues after having lost six consecutive games to Los Angeles – once in a shootout at Staples Center late last year, all four to the Kings in last year’s playoff series, and a 4-1 defeat to L.A. in St. Louis that included a mostly uninterested Blues performance on February 11. There were three first period fights and plenty of jawing and unpleasant exchanges between the two teams as the visitors attempted to use a heavy approach that hadn’t consistently been there in the most recent meeting between these two teams. It worked for two periods as St. Louis won most of the puck battles, was outstanding around the net in front of Jonathan Bernier and Jonathan Quick and offered an example of the strong depth scoring it receives, even in the absence of Alex Steen and Andy McDonald. Where had this Kings-Blues antagonism been before last night? I’m not advocating anything that resembles that ridiculous Pittsburgh – Philadelphia series last season, but until the first period of last night’s game, I really hadn’t seen St. Louis demonstrate its frustration over what has developed into a one-sided rivalry over the span of a calendar year.
Last night was such a great example as to why you should never give up when it comes to sports. A lot of people thought the game was over when the Kings were down 4-1. So proud of the Kings and their perseverance. The fact that they did that in the second game of back-to-backs makes it even better. They showed why they are the reigning champions!
Go Kings Go!
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JWR Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 1:09 pm
@LT21,
I will admit I almost considered turning off the TV last after Stewart’s goal put the Blues up 4-1 but a voice in my head remembered what Bob Miller used to say pre-lost season “A 3 goal lead is the most dangerous to have”
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IN King Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 1:27 pm
@JWR,
I think it’s a 2-goal lead that they often refer to that way, but I might be mistaken. If the losing teams scores the next goal they are only down by one, and they have the momentum.
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Shotongoal Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 3:59 pm
@IN King, three goal lead, worse lead in hockey
PRMan Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 1:30 pm
@JWR, I was going to go to bed, but DirecTV delivered the wrong receiver to my house so I had to call them and complain. After 2 CSRs, because the first put me on “eternal hold”, I got it squared away but was angry enough not to be tired anymore.
Good thing. I was soon happy to be up watching the game.
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JJC Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 1:40 pm
@LT21,
You could see the tide a-changing towards the end of the 2nd period as our Royalty kept picking up their play and getting back to their grinding game (albeit LATE). Slava’s goal to put them down just 2 at the end of 2 HAD to be the locker room catalyst that Coach DS drove home as the 3rd period put the EXCLAMAT!ON point of a Kardiac Kings’ Komeback! Slow starts are becoming a bit of a worrisome trend with our Reigning Champions…but their resilience and perseverance last night was a STATEMENT to those nay-sayers thinking our Royalty wasn’t Championship quality! Lest we forget that KFC Big Red Dawg simply and utterly pummeled Polak into submission (flash of birdies flying around his noggin)!! HERE HERE TO OUR MIGHTY KINGS!!! Ye have earned a well deserved night of rest!
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The new “kids” are amazing. DS is bringing them along nicely. The coaching staff has really groomed this guys to be great hockey players. Sutter’s philosphy of “you play and practice well, you earn the right to play” is shown here. The young guys seem to help the seasoned players pick up their game. Go, Kings, Go!
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Carter’ wrist shot is a thing of beauty. Plus, that guy can skate. He had one rush last night where he was absolutely flying through center ice…Speaking of great moments, that breakaway by Voynov was one of the most exciting plays I have seen in a long time. To see four guys racing for a loose puck all the way down the ice was fabulous. The whole crowd was on its feet screaming!
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shiny Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 12:44 pm
@rick, I think that’s the thing that helped the Kings rebound last night. At Vancouver they struggled because they were the opposing team & the home team clearly fed off that energy. I think same thing happened yesterday. Kings stayed in the game through sheer will power. They won it in regulation because Staples was behind them. 18k fans screaming and cheering for the home team. After they came back within 1, fans were on their feet going nuts. There was electricity in the air
From there on out, fans had no doubts Kings would win it
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ItsAKingThing Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 2:46 pm
@shiny, Damn that felt food didn’t it. Staples was rockin last night. Still recovering. So intense! GKG
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Penns is not scoring a lot but has come up with some amazing ‘first’ assists lately.
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PRMan Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 1:31 pm
@Duncanz, I agree. Penner has been getting the puck on a board battle and finding people wide open in the slot like no one else.
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Deke'r Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 3:16 pm
@PRMan, …actually I’ve found it unbelievable more players don’t go to the net when Penns has the puck because 9 times out of 10 he finds a way to get it to the slot…
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LA_1968 Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 3:28 pm
@Duncanz, He’s getting very creative. Nice to have that space. Amazing what happens when he skates.
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jet Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 7:38 pm
@LA_1968, true, but the creativity is a good thing in the O zone, not so good at his own blue line.
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rogiesbackup Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 4:07 pm
@Duncanz, Thanks again Duncanz….you were a class act after the Nashville game.
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Haha I had this hilarious Road Runner/Wiley Coyote image in my head with this gem ” He separated Ian Cole from the puck – lots of Kings separated Ian Cole from the puck last night […]”
I’m happy for Penner, though. He’s really stepped up his game this season and bonus: he managed not to kill anyone with his incredible hulking size (yes, I am beating a dead horse here but I still think it’s funny that Detroit makes Penner out to be a monster)
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mrbob25 Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 2:37 pm
@shiny,
Or the quote structure, “He seperated Ian Cole from the puck…..hey, a lot of people seperated Ian Cole from the puck.”
“My girlfriend is in there…..hey, a lot of people’s girlfriends are in there.” – Wayne’s World 2
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jet Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 7:40 pm
@shiny, It was more like, Penner seperated Cole from his jersey
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the last sentence there –
‘long-suffering’ fans will recall that “what has developed into a one-sided rivalry over the span of a calendar year” has, more often than not, been a one sided rivalry for the better part of 45 years; and it seems the Kings spent most of that time on the wrong side of a one-sided rivalry (check the 97-98 playoffs). the infamous Courtnall run at Storr and its outcome epitomized LA’s frustration with the Blues’ former dominance. the Blues have historically been a black hole on the Kings schedule, making this turn-about sweeter for Kings fans
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I think DL should be more adventurous for those kids. If Mitchell and Greene weren’t hurt, Muzzin never had chance to play with big boys, and we’d never know what Muzzilla capable of. He’s too strict to call up youngsters. If he wants to test some of those kids, now is the time before the real race to playoffs starts.
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shiny Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 12:50 pm
@goldielocks, I think since Kings find winning difficult at times, now may not be the best time. Early next season after a full camp would be better as there is more wiggle room in the schedule for W-L / point.ratios
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Duncanz Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 1:00 pm
@goldielocks, Well, winning two in a row doesn’t necessarily allow the luxury of ‘testing’ younger guys and the season being as reduced as it is, the playoff race will be upon us before we know it.
Heck, we’ve already got a slew of youngsters, including both goaltenders and in 5 of the 6 ‘D’ positions.
According to NHLN, Kings are again the youngest squad in the whole of the NHL!
Like @Shiny says, next season there’ll be breathing space to try out a few guys at the big club.
Right now, with injuries to prominent defensemen, we’re relying on every vestige of experience we’ve got.
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PRMan Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 1:33 pm
@Duncanz, It makes it easy to not resign Greene and Mitchell after next season, that’s for sure. We could even trade them at the deadline this season at any time (assuming they get healthy before then).
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Duncanz Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 6:40 pm
@PRMan, I’d like to believe Willie and Greener aren’t as expendable as all that.
Coach Mike Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 1:06 pm
@goldielocks, “He’s too strict to call up youngsters.” What about his call up of King – Nolan last season?
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goldielocks Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 1:12 pm
@Coach Mike,
DL said he should have called them up earlier which means his decision making is questionable to himself.
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Purple and Gold Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 4:12 pm
@goldielocks, or hindsight is 20/20
jet Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 7:47 pm
@goldielocks, I somewhat disagree, because he brought Marty up for some games for a couple of years prior to getting his big shot. Also, King got half a dozen games a couple of years ago. Everyone on this blog critized DL, but he went back to Man. with an exact idea of what he needed to improve. He did well last season, because of that taste.
You also need to consider that defencemen need more games to grow. Muzzin still needs to work on his own end. His attack is fine.
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goldielocks Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 9:20 pm
@jet,
Yes. DL said Voynov is playing well bacause he payed the due in the miner. I agree with him because like you said D-man needs more time to develop compare to a forward. But forward guys are tricky. You never know how good they can be until they taste the big game. And when you watch the NHL Network, you can tell othere GMs are more adventurous because there are always multiple teams making transaction between NHL and miners but the Kings. I just found it’s weird.
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jet Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 10:07 pm
@goldielocks, I understand and agree that it helps the kids development if they can get a few games. I just think that is challanging when there are so few games and the standings are so close. Every game matters. I figure there will be 2 injuries during March, if so we should see someone new.
Waking up after noon !!! I like how Jon rolls !!! WRT Muzzin playing well…His price keeps going up.How do we fit him in next season.Some team can/will offer him a contract the Kings cant match….
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shiny Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 12:54 pm
@Neil, Not necessarily. He’s doing well, agreed, but his caliber is nowhere near VV or DD. Yet. He’ll be there, but he needs more time. My guess is that it’ll be very fair, probably a low entry level contract at a mill or just over
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wes Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 1:03 pm
@Neil, Willie Mitchell goes UFA in a few weeks. Mitchell’s been a solid warrior, when he’s been solid, anyway. It’s wonderful that he didn’t go down last season, but the guy has a history of getting badly dinged. Lombardi’s got some heavy lifting to do, decision wise. I expect Lombardi will find a way to open some cap space and keep the guys he wants to keep and see as part of the club’s future.
Penner will be UFA, too. Pancakes can be a big asset, or he can be something else. Maybe some of this comes down to whether a couple of veterans will accept pay cuts to stay with LA.
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Michael J. Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 1:25 pm
@wes,
“Mitchell goes UFA in a few weeks”??? What does that mean? Last I remember was that he signed a two-year extension about this time last year.
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shiny Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 1:31 pm
@Michael J., I don’t recall seeing Willie’s name on Jon’s UFA/RFA list either. Paul A. suggested he might retire this year.since he’s 35 but I dunno the specifics of anything about him
kings714 Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 1:14 pm
@Neil, i think you’re off here, he has been inconsistent and you don’t get big money for a few games. Look at king, had an amazing playoffs and we resigned him easily. i’m a big fan of whaf muzzin is doing, but getting re-upped for anything more than 1.25 mil would be robbery by him, and that is probably even generous. I don’t think we face any chance of losing him, unless we decide we don’t want to keep him
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kings714 Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 1:15 pm
@kings714, the guy that other teams might try to poach from us would definitely be voynov
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shiny Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 1:29 pm
@kings714, Muzzle has great potential and would be a great asset for teams struggling on the blue line. If he were to.test free agency, he could land a million dollar contract. I just don’t think anyone is struggling defensively enough to really want him badly enough for a contract DL can’t match. Perhaps Nash, but they called up young guys out of AHL.so perhaps not
Neil Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 2:01 pm
@kings714, if Muzzin keeps playing well…his price will go up.It just takes one stupid offer to price himself off the Kings…Agree right now…but if the rest of the season goes this well for Muzzin…then watch..
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Deke'r Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 3:29 pm
@Neil, ….if another team want’s to overpay then so be it……Kings are DEEP…..
A good deal of the Blues’ latent animosity appeared to be against a very targeted Dwight King last night, especially in the 1st period.
The Blues seemed to be hibernating for a few weeks at the beginning of the season there and hit a real low point when they slept through that 1:4 game vs the Kings in St Louis on Feb 11.
It’s very conceivable they’d felt they’d lost their chance to make a statement to the Kings in that game in response to the drubbing they were handed in the WCSFs and used that and Kingers crushing hit in Game 1 that put Pietrangelo on IR as huge motivation going into the game last night.
Coming out in the 1st playing classic, brutal ‘Hitch hockey’, it veeeeery nearly paid off for them.
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shiny Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 1:08 pm
@Duncanz, maaaaybe but Cliffy lighting Polak up was great for team.morale
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Duncanz Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 2:52 pm
@shiny, Ha ha.
Yeah that on-ice execution was epic and, as was mentioned at the game, probably left a hole in a certain living room ceiling somewhere in Ayr, ONT.
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Deke'r Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 3:32 pm
@shiny, …Cliffy says….”BOOM BOOM out go the lights”….
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I haven’t seen if anyone else has commented on this, but I give a big thumbs up to Dwight King for standing up for his team last night when it was his turn. Ryan Reaves is a pure goon and a very good fighter and he was on the ice to exact some revenge. With Cliffy and Fraz out of the picture and Nolan probably not able to go because his nose was injured fighting Testito, Kinger stepped up, nuetralized Reaves, and got him off the ice. That took some stones as I’m sure after The Big Red Dog’s highlight reel uppercut, Reaves was loaded for bear and Kinger is not in his league as a fighter. I’m sure the boys acknowledged him in the room for that one!
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shiny Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 1:01 pm
@40YearKingsFan, if you saw his face, he looked super annoyed that this guy was coming after him. To me, his expression was just like, “really? Can’t we just play hockey?”
If it weren’t for the refs literally holding him back, MR’s temper would’ve gotten the better of him.
Cliffy’s fight just ignited the crowd at Staples and I love that he just skates off, like, “I’m done with this trash. Someone clean him up.”
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Mars Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 1:47 pm
@shiny, Yeah, after Cliffy pounded him, he was over it. Classic.
I gotta check out hockeyfights.com for the fight grades.
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jet Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 10:11 pm
@40YearKingsFan, So true, so important. This stuff gets around the league pretty quick these days. Not many teams have 5 or 6 guys who can give the knuckles, so we are more likely to have our way as far as hits going forward. this was a huge game in so many ways
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WRT not playing well in the first period…..I think we are(even DS said we had a awesome start against Nash)…Teams are amped up facing the champs….A win against the Kings is bigger then any other…The opposition burns themselves out…Kings make adjustments BOOM …WE WIN…
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jet Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 10:14 pm
@Neil, agree that we are holding our own, but the chances allowed the past 3 games have come from right up the middle. this cannot continue, especially against skilled teams
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Maybe it’s just that time of the month?
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When TM kept playing Westy cause he felt the need for an enforcer….well that the theory was shot…We have enough players that can play and be tough…..
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shiny Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 1:07 pm
@Neil, MR is good enough as an enforcer. And as you said, the guys on this team can stand up for themselves and there is no need for a goon.
Proof positive once more that DL made the right call. Again.
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Purple and Gold Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 4:20 pm
@shiny, MR is tiny compared to most of the enforcers in the league, he’s barely a mid-weight. He isn’t afraid to stand up for team but you don’t want your skill guys giving up that much weight every night, which is why it’s nice that Nolan and King have stepped up. especially considering they are still usually giving up at least 15-20 pounds to most of the enforcers of the league.
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BluLiner Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 3:05 pm
@Neil, But not until the Kings brought Nolan and King up. Before that the Kings only had a game, but small, Richards, and a shell-shocked Clifford (after the Reeves fight).
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jet Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 10:17 pm
@Neil, westy was critical to protect our young players until our draft picks developed. Once DL could bring up Nolan and King, them Westy became unnecessary
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Hey how about Penner taking a roughing penalty? That was surprising to me
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Blues are Just a bunch of Crybabies!!!! Cliford, Had to put the blues in their place and in the crib they went….)))
GO KINGS GO!!!
This team starting to play as they did in the playoffs… After the loss toDetroit game, Again they should’ve gone, Kings are unbeatable…
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Sammuch Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 1:03 pm
@Sammuch,
Won
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Took my daughter to her first live LA Kings game we were right behind the Saint Louis bench as matter of fact I kept yelling to Hitchcock move his big head so we could see the rink. her eyes look like giant saucers after that Clifford fight and how it electrified the crowd was insane. when we were down 4 to 1 she said “dad were bringing all the good luck to the Saint Louis side we need to move behind the Kings bench” I am an eternal optimist when it comes to being a Kings fan probably to a fault. I told her if we get it to 4 to 2 by the end of the second we are going to win watch. sure enough we scored and then the third was history it was classic. When we got to 4 to 2 then 4 to 3 then 4 to 4 I kept yelling to Hitchcock here we come here we come! then once we tied and went ahead I was yelling what are you going to do Hitchcock what are you going to do I think my daughter thought I was crazy. anyways what an insane beautiful game I don’t know how we could ever top that 1 but I think Clifford has a new fan in my daughter as she was bugging me for a Clifford shirt after the game.
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Blues Clues #6 – When fighting big red dogs, don’t send a Polak!
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shiny Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 1:35 pm
@DesertKing, Cliffy easily skating away is still my favorite part of that fight
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jet Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 10:18 pm
@shiny, not as good as him telling Penner to go take a seat, I’ve got business to take care of
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@Michael J.,
@Lake Forest,
@LucRules20 ,
Its was nice being able to put faces to names. I had completely different images in my mind of you and @Lake Forest. You’re both younger looking than I imagined. (that’s a compliment) Your intelligent, insightful and at times humorous posts on this blog are always appreciated by me and one day I hope we can visit longer during a game or watch party.
Thanks again to @Kiwi and The Dude (@Jeff_R), always a pleasure. I’ve yet to meet a jerk (in person) from this blog!
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Michael J. Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 1:37 pm
@kissmyblarneystones,
Always nice to meet fellow bloggers – although there is one I’m not so sure about… But I guess James (@Bubbles) makes up for a lot
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kissmyblarneystones Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 1:52 pm
@Michael J.,
If it weren’t for that little guy, I’d defiantly have my suspicions!
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Duncanz Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 3:59 pm
@kissmyrubeyrings, Well, in the context I guess ‘defiantly’ sounds better than ‘definitely’, so thanks, I think …..
Neil Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 2:04 pm
@kissmyblarneystones, Well if Duncanz wasnt a jerk.. you will never find one ….JUST KIDDING…
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Duncanz Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 4:00 pm
….JUST NEILING…
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luc20rules Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 7:13 pm
@kissmyblarneystones, +1, great time hanging out with every one. It was kind of fun how there was an easy calm during the 2nd intermission down 4-2 both @Lake Forest & I agreed that the Kings could easily come back having a 14 GF vs 3 GA in the 3rd. Then we came over to visit and you had basically the same thought. Cool talking to folks that know their hockey, definately don’t find that around home in the OC.
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Another note on the Clifford fight last night – I love it when the Richards line skates toward the circle and Cliffy waves Penner back to the bench motioning something like: “I got this one”
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ozIvEITbMDY
It’s at about the 38 second mark.
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shiny Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 1:38 pm
@Michael J., yeah, you’re right. I think he was going to come on for a line change or something and Cliffy being the OG he is.was like, it’s ok, this is between me and Polak
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DesertKing Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 1:43 pm
@Michael J.,
That was very cool. MR shouldn’t have to fight goons like Polak.
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vplaza Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 1:56 pm
@Michael J.,
Did not notice that. Very cool.
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kissmyblarneystones Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 2:04 pm
@Michael J.,
So, players do have a little autonomy. I’d love to know the politics on the bench for something like that. Coach sends in a line, Player on the Ice send one guy back so he can take care of some unfinished business and coach goes ‘OK’?
No line changes right before a beat down. Sutter Hockey! I love it!!
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vplaza Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 2:22 pm
@Michael J.,
And just realized, the knockout was not because of the uppercut to the face but to a very strong punch to the chest area that must have knocked the wind out of Polak. That’s why he was able to come back. He didn’t suffer from a head hit.
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luc20rules Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 7:18 pm
@vplaza, Thats actually more impressive isn’t it. It takes a real powerful body punch to take a guy down. Unless its to the solar-plexus just below the sternum.
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DesertKing Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 2:29 pm
@Michael J.,
Clifford : must-control-fist-of-death
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vplaza Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 2:47 pm
@DesertKing,
Good thing he doesn’t know the Five Point Palm Exploding Heart technique…
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BrokeKingsFan Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 3:06 pm
@vplaza, Pai Mei to the white courtesy phone…
DesertKing Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 3:15 pm
@vplaza,
If he did, they would have to keep Lindros and Kane off the ice when Clifford is playing.
@goldielocks, This IS the real race to the playoffs. We cannot afford to have another bad stretch of games. We are 8-2 in the last 10, only Chicago has been better in that stretch. Don’t fix what ain’t broke.
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goldielocks Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 1:51 pm
@HockeyNerd,
Maybe so. But comparing offensive depth with the Black Hawks, I must say they have a huge advantage on 3rd and 4th line. In the playoffs, we will face them sooner or later. So question still stands. What do we do with the players who are not producing as much as we expected?
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HockeyNerd Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 2:04 pm
@goldielocks, Nothing. Last years playoffs Penner, Stoll, King, Brown, Doughty and Williams all stepped it up from what they did in the regular season. All we should worry about now is MAKING the playoffs. Once we are there do you really think we are better off playing Toffoli, Vey, and Pearson than Penner, Willuams and Stoll?
[Reply]
goldielocks Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 3:24 pm
@HockeyNerd,
I’m not comparing 1st or 2nd lines. Last tiem I checked, Penner and Williams are on 2nd and 1st line, and they are pretty much even strength with Hawks. But if you need to use new guy on 3rd and 4th lines, they should be used before the playoffs start. And for the Kings, making playoffs is an obligation, going deep in playoffs is must.
HockeyNerd Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 3:48 pm
@goldielocks, Again I ask: 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th line take your pick: what player that is now playing in Manchester should be playing ahead of someone that is already here and why? Fraser, Nolan, King, whoever, why do you need to replace them or anticipate needing to replace them? You are obviously trying to make some kind of point but you are losing me and I suspect everyone else too.
[Reply]
goldielocks Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 4:07 pm
@HockeyNerd,
Look … you always seem to create your point out of points I did not imply. All I’m saying is pointing out DL’s lack of ability to make a decision on youngsters. Do you think Muzzin is playing now if Mitchell or Greene playing? I’m pretty sure DL is surprised with what Muzzin is showing right now. And I said “If DL wants to call up” which doesn’t mean it’s the right move but no one can tell who is better if they are not even looked. So assuming he makes the move, I think it should be now or never. That’s all.
Duncanz Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 5:37 pm
@goldielocks, Why can’t it just be ‘now or later’?
HockeyNerd Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 5:38 pm
@goldielocks, He HAS made a decision and that decision he’s made is NOT to call up anyone at this point. What’s wrong with that? Why would he call up someone when we are doing just fine right now with what we have. Suppose you like Toffoli and you want to “take a look” at him. Who sits? Why would you call him up and sit Penner or Williams or Stoll? What does it buy you? DL has no plans to bring anybody up from Manchester nor should he. Maaaaaybe Stewart since we do have 1 spot open. Otherwise this is NOT the time to break someone in, not when a few mistakes by an inexperienced player can COST US THE PLAYOFFS. DL knows this. Get it?
[Reply]
goldielocks Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 6:31 pm
@HockeyNerd,
Think about the timing. When Nolan and King were called, it was before the trade deadline. Deadline will be 4 weeks from now so in order to make final move via trade, now is the best time to call up to test their abilities if any help is needed offensively or defensively. It all comes to the final trade move before the playoffs whether it’s necessary or not. And if I remember correctly, it was DS’s recommendation that made DL to call up those guys, not by himself.
I’m not specific to anything or anyone. You made it specific by mentioning some names, not me. You should stick with the initial subject and make your point when you argue with someone. That’s my advice to you. You’re welcome.
HockeyNerd Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 7:14 pm
@goldielocks, So DL should call up a non-specific player to replace a non-specific player just in case we need help later on, which we don’t right now. Did I finally get your point?
Please. This isn’t all that hard to understand. Last year we were struggling, and Loktionov and Hunter were next to useless. Right now we have (except for Gagne and the injured defensemen) THE VERY SAME TEAM that won the cup, going 16-4. That team has gone 8-2 in the last 10 games. THERE IS NO NEED TO MAKE CHANGES FOR THE FORSEEABLE FUTURE UNLESS SOMEONE GETS INJURED. You are criticizing DL for not taking an action THERE IS NO REASON DL NEEDS TO TAKE. You don’t want to name names and you don’t want me to name names but IF DL is going to “take a look” at anyone RIGHT NOW he will have to substitute a REAL PLAYER with a REAL PLAYER. If you cannot give me those names why do you think DL is making a mistake? Why isn’t all this making any sense to you?
[Reply]
goldielocks Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 8:15 pm
@HockeyNerd,
Hey, do you remember last time we argued over UFA and RFA? I said there’s a concern among our veteran Ds so maybe DL should look at it. And you said there’s no need to change a thing. Then what happened? Greene went down and we deperately needed a veteran D, and actually DL was seeking a trade to get one but unfortunately there was none available. Everybody except you knew Greene’s physical play was taking tall on his body. At the time, our defense struggled big time but thanks to the call up(Muzzin), our defense is stabilized again.
It was the same argument you made with specifics like which UFA is good enough or who should waived or traded or sent to the farm. I do not care who. Who do you think you are, a GM? That’s what they make decisions not us, OK? My point is right now, Hawks have advantage on their offensive depth so if we are to look into the future … which are trade deadline and playoffs, we need to match up with their strength. That’s my opinion, nothing more.
I see your pattern to make your argument has a point but you simply ignore the point which you can’t argue with and make up another. We would not know how good Muzzin is if not Mitchell and Greene are out, would we? And I said this over and over, DL admit his mistake that he should have called Nolan and King up earlier last year. He is indecisive when it comes to youngsters. Please, make your argument on this.
We have 2 extra Ds right now and if kids play well and establish themselves, there’s no need to carry 2. And I don’t know how our extra forward goes but he, too is maybe tradable.
You stay with we are fine now no need to change a thing again. That’s fine. But your opinion was dead wrong before because things change everyday. I’m looking into the future and possibility so don’t argue with me because we are totally not in the same universe. Peace out.
luc20rules Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 7:22 pm
@goldielocks, We get back an in shape and health Mitchell back. I think we can shutdown Chi Offense, and then grind their D-men into down into incopetent fools in a best of 7 format.
[Reply]
goldielocks Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 8:19 pm
@luc20rules,
Yup. That’s my hope, too. Their offense vs our defense. But their 3rd and 4th lines are way better than ours, and that’s the fact.
HockeyNerd Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 8:39 pm
@goldielocks, For the 7th or 8th time what is your point? How can I be arguing with it when you won’t tell me what it is? The only thing I am getting is you are using two SPECIFIC situations (Greene’s injury and the King / Nolan callouts from last year) to argue…..what? What? If you can’t tell me maybe someone else can. The only thing I’m understanding here is that we should have gotten a physical defenseman earlier but it’s OK that we didn’t because Muzzin is working out but we should bring up someone but you won’t say who just in case we need them later but we don’t now.
You’re not making any sense whatsoever!!!!!!!
[Reply]
goldielocks Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 9:08 pm
@HockeyNerd,
Hahaha … I don’t understand anything you said either. But you were dead wrong before that much I understand. You are such a stay in the moment guy, and I’m not.
1. Our top 2 lines are only productive while Hawks production comes from all lines.
2. DL traded Gagne to make cap space for what?
3. Before he makes a trade, he should look into our weakness and decide if he can use some young players to strengthen the production. That’s basically what happened last year before Carter trade.
4, DL showed his indecisiveness over young players before and he admited it.
With reasons above, I think he should be more adventurous. Now you tell me what’s not so difficult to understand? And don’t play the card with which players in or out because that’s not a thing we(amateurs) should discuss which is total wasting time.
HockeyNerd Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 9:58 pm
@goldielocks, The only thing I am still trying to understand…..is every single thing you said. Every time I think I am making some small sense of it you bring up something else entirely. But I will try again.
1. …And? That’s true. So? What are you trying to argue by saying that? We have better Goaltending than the Black Hawks. Should they be trading Crawford? Our 3rd and 4th lines work with OUR system.
2. To make cap space. PERIOD. We will find out later what DL uses it on. It may be Tommorow, next month or next year. Why do you need to know right now. Again, what on earth is the point of the question.
3. You lost me again. DL is a pretty smart guy and he and his staff are watching the players at Manchester I’m sure. If you mean “bring someone up to look at them” no that ISN’T what he did. Loktionov and Voynov were already there and King and Nolan were brought up specifically to keep on the roster, not to have a look at.
4. INCORRECT. DL admitted that in a SPECIFIC situation that occurred LAST SEASON he should have brought up TWO SPECIFIC players earlier. He said nothing about being indecisisive toward young players IN GENERAL. Besides this is not March 2012. ****THAT**** situation no longer exists.
5. You criticize the GM than dismiss any counter argument by saying “it’s not appropriate to play GM”. YOU CAN’T HAVE IT BOTH WAYS. If you want DL to take a look at someone in a King’s uniform it has to be A TANGIBLE REAL PERSON. Nobody is going to take you seriously if you can’t offer some suggestions. I’m trying to make sense of all this STILL. The only thing I’m getting is you want a GM to be perfect and plan for every possible contingency and emergency that can arise. That’s crazy. Everything has a cost and downside attached to it. If you’re going to argue the potential benefits outweigh the cost you will have to be more specific.
[Reply]
goldielocks Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 10:50 pm
@HockeyNerd,
You are unbelievable. You manipulate the 1-4 reasons lead to the one conclusion and making argument with each one of them. Wow …
1. We have better goaltending? Their two goalies are arguably best tandem right now. And it is commonkly known secondary scoring is very important especially in the playoff situation.
2. I did not use “?” so it’s wasn’t a question. It’s just a fact I’m looking into. And I would never ask anything to you because I don’t think you can give me an answer.
3. You are making that up. DL never knew if King and Nolan stay with the big boys. It was Sutter who went down to Manch during the all-star break and recommended to DL. If not Sutter, they were never be on the team.
4. Who would say “Hey, I’m indecisive”? Again decision that brought up King and Nolan was not his, and he regreted he didn’t.
5. No, I don’t have to go into specifics. My opinion is plain and simple. DL is not decisive so he should be more adventurous. What’s need to be spacific about it? You think you can go into specific but the fact is you can’t. Because you don’t know everything about every aspect to make a proper transaction. Can you tell everything about cap space, individual contract, what’s available on the market, prospect’s readiness, new CBA, unknown injuries, and future plan? Those are the factors GM has to grasp in order to make a right move and deal. And you want to talk about specifics? Don’t make me laugh. Do not demand things you can’t answer.
HockeyNerd Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 11:17 pm
@goldielocks,
1. The point was that just because a team that has yet to lose in regulation does something better than we do doesn’t mean it’s an area we need to address. However, specifically if you think EITHER of their Goalies would out perform Quick in a series you’re crazy. Remember that you can’t use 2 goaltenders AT ONCE.
2. Yes you did. It’s right there. Look at it . Besides, If you didn’t want me to respond to it than why did you post it.
3. I am making up the fact that you lost me? That DL brought them up because he hoped they would stick? That Lokti and Voynov were already known? Which of those things am I making up?
4. Someone saying they do not regret making a SPECIFIC decision does NOT prove they are indecisive.
5. So now, the 9999th time I ask you for your point it’s “DL is not decisive so he should be more adventurous”. Wow, nothing wrong with that except 1) The premise isn’t true, 2) You’d think a GM that won a Stanley Cup and resigned the entire team that did it just MIGHT know what he’s doing and 3) “Being Adventurous” is as clear as mud.
But hey, maybe it’s just me.
Good Night.
[Reply]
goldielocks Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 11:54 pm
@HockeyNerd,
Almost every team is improving in at least some area. Especially, Hawks and Ducks. And you think having the same lineup is enough to repeat, you should look around again and tell me Hawks 24 game straight point is just a coincidence. The Hawks are better team at the moment, and our 2 previous meeting proved it. And that is why I think we need to improve in some areas.
You avoided my question 9999 times. Do you know the every aspect of transaction making? If you can’t what’s the point to argue about specifics? Are you pretending your knowledge is equal to GMs? Do you admit what you said before that we were fine without any helps but we weren’t?
So your point is we don’t need to upgrade because we have enough assets we need, right? Well, we’ll see what DL do about that but I don’t think he’ll call up anyone unless someone gets hurt. He’s that indecisive or should I say stubborn.
HockeyNerd Reply:
March 7th, 2013 at 1:39 am
@goldielocks, * Sigh *
Of course we should upgrade if we can. I never said otherwise! Calling somebody up from Manchester RIGHT NOW is NOT automatically an upgrade, in fact DL has strongly implied nobody is ready. If you disagree and have a player or players in mind (as well as who they would replace) you have a case. But you don’t. You’re making zero sense! You’re basically saying “DL is making a mistake because he is afraid to try rookies in the lineup, but I can’t tell you who he should try and who they would be an improvement over”.
That’s nonsense.
[Reply]
goldielocks Reply:
March 7th, 2013 at 2:22 am
@HockeyNerd,
See? you are avoiding the question that you don’t want to admit or answer. You are kind of guy only take the fight inside your own arena, aren’t you? And who said DL is making a mistake or made a mistake? All I said was he should or he should have. That’s not an accusasion but simply my opinion. And I never said who should be replaced or traded because my opinion is about DL’s questionable method to call up guys from the farm. It’s about “method” in the first place. You understand? The method is the subject but you changed it by bringing up names and specifics. That’s always your method, isn’t it?
Read the thread from the begining. Other people simply disagreed or agreed because the subject is about the method. Nobody is questioning or mentioning about which player should be replaced or traded because they responded to the subject. Look at the thread above, Mr, spesific.
DL has strongly implied nobody is ready, huh? That was his assessment back then when Sutter had a different opinion on the matter otherwise he would have called up those two before DS made a recommendation. So I think he should try other method this time around and that’s my opinion. There is always you never know until you try factor, and that factor could make a big difference. Like rookie Adam Henrique was the force for the Devils last year.
HockeyNerd Reply:
March 7th, 2013 at 7:52 am
@goldielocks, “I am asking you a completely and totally different question each of the 9999 times I post but you are avoiding it and don’t want to answer it”.
OK. Whatever.
[Reply]
goldielocks Reply:
March 7th, 2013 at 10:53 am
@HockeyNerd,
Hey, good morning. I didn’t avoid. I just don’t have the answer for the silly question like which player should go or in. I don’t have all the data available. Do you?
jet Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 10:26 pm
@HockeyNerd, This year’s playoffs will be determined by which players get injutied. you can sure bet that with 17 games in one month, that there will be injuries.
Every team is in the same situation. After tonight, the Hawks are down Sharp,Shaw and Hossa. that is going to put a dent in the record run.
[Reply]
Go to
http://stateofsportawards.com/pro-male-athlete-of-the-year.html
and vote for Trevor Lewis for Utah’s top male professional athlete.
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 5:28 pm
@wes, Hmmm, Nick Rimando, RSL goalkeeper, Jessie Wright, PRCA bronco rider or Lewie…
Having a hard time deciding ….
Little help anyone?
[Reply]
shiny Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 5:55 pm
@Duncanz, Who, who, who, and who? Who are any of these people? Never heard of a single one.. ‘Specially not this… “Lewie” character.
[Reply]
Last night was epic, goals from all around the camp.
Everyone stepped up to play a huge game and bring home 2 points.
Staples is fast becoming a place teams will hate to play at.
[Reply]
shiny Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 2:28 pm
@Mars, too bad about that mysterious on ice breeze in the dying seconds of the game
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anyone know where to find full highlights of last nights game? the nhl.com one doesnt work
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kissmyblarneystones Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 2:07 pm
@ashykins,
All of them do bar our game. Typical.
All sites link to that feed too. SO it appears we’re SOL.
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 5:04 pm
@kissmylakeyscenes, or S(L)OBs..
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Lake Forest Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 2:25 pm
@ashykins, yeah the video crew sucked on that upload. I would try to find highlights on any other sports site. who knows though, they probably link it back to NHL.com
[Reply]
shiny Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 2:31 pm
@Lake Forest, Kings Vision embeds video on the Kings’ NHL site and uploads it to YouTube as well
[Reply]
shiny Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 2:30 pm
@ashykins, kings vision. They always post videos the next day
Heck, usually within an hour or so of the game
[Reply]
Forum Gold Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 3:09 pm
@ashykins, Paul always has great stuff. http://kingsnewsdaily.com/pretty-good-eh-kings-6-blues-4/ GO KINGS GO!!!
[Reply]
MG, NHL Network acting like Mark Staal got killed last night. Geez, he got hit by a puck. Where was all this attention when Scuds and DD2 got it. Freakin’ east coast drama queens.
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 2:49 pm
@DesertKing, Just glad I’ve never been hit full on in the eye by a puck.
Just the other week, Manny Malhotra dropped out for the rest of the –/’13season (and will never play for the Canucks again) two full years after he lost sight in one eye in a similar occurrence.
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 3:13 pm
@Duncecanz,
Completely agree with you, it is a terrible injury that can ruin a career, but they are acting like he died. It is just a bunch of bs hyperbole. Just cover the games, the play of the players, shut up reference whether players wear visors or not, talk about teams on both coasts, discuss standings, stats, and trends, but part of the game is players getting injured and don’t go overboard just because the player is from NY. By the way, took a puck of my head during Kings warm up last season and it hurt like crazy, even though it was only moving at 1/8 speed, so I can’t imagine how much it hurts at full speed.The worst part was the look on the little kid’s face in front of me when I picked it up. Damn, that kid got that puck (it was his first Kings game).
[Reply]
Wow, Kings really beat up on the Blues so much that they recalled a goaltender from their minor league team and will carry three goaltenders for now. Maybe if they put all three of them in net…
[Reply]
kissmyblarneystones Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 2:10 pm
@vplaza,
I said, as the Blues were leaving the Ice, I’d hate to be in that locker room. Apparently, he’s put it all on the goaltenders!
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 2:18 pm
@kissmybackupstoppers, The reviews on both SLB goalies last night were less than stellar.
[Reply]
vplaza Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 2:21 pm
@kissmyblarneystones,
That’s one locker room in disarray at the moment.
[Reply]
shiny Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 2:36 pm
@vplaza, any idea what happened to the team from last season that was making history with one of the longest undefeated home stands? Did they lose key players to free agency?
vplaza Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 2:44 pm
@shiny,
Well, the recent injury to McDonald doesn’t help, but their problems have been numerous.
I still believe that they overachieved last season and that I think there were unreasonable expectations of that team when this season started.
shiny Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 3:08 pm
@vplaza, if they have the same talent and same coach, how are they sucking so bad? I mean, their record is pretty abysmal and last season they were one of the strongest home teams in the league. Aside from injuries, I wonder what’s going on with them.
Our team has managed to make due with injuries and poor starts and is starting to turn it around. I’m not rooting for the Blues, I’m just surprised
Short & Sweet – Thank Goodness I witnessed ‘Miracle on Manchester’ – I always stick it out for the whole game.
[Reply]
For those of you hat were fans in the 90s, would you agree that Voynov is already as good as Zhitnik? He hasn’t even hit his ceiling, so may end up as an annual all-star type player if he keeps on the same learning curve.
[Reply]
vplaza Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 2:27 pm
@LB,
Loved Zhitnik, but VV is going to be a better player if he isn’t already at the same point in their careers.
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 2:32 pm
@LB, Zhitnik might be horrified at your comparing him to a ‘Russian’!
[Reply]
LB Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 8:23 pm
@Duncanz, He’s Ukrainian, but played for Russia at Olympics and World Championships.
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
March 7th, 2013 at 12:30 am
@LB, Ahh, he was an ‘honorary’ Russian.
NOW IMPRESSED Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 3:46 pm
@LB, I thought of the simularitites too. About the same size and style. I also think Voynov will probably be better. Zhitnik played more NHL games than any other Russian defencemen.
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 4:55 pm
@NOW IMPRESSED, You could say, “more than any Russian defenceman”.
He’s Ukrainian.
[Reply]
Neil Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 5:12 pm
@Duncanz, why rush..take your time…
KC23 Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 3:48 pm
@LB, Voynov is better already in my book.
[Reply]
jet Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 10:31 pm
@LB, not close yet. Zitz had a hip check in his bag that was second to none in the league. There were dozens of players that normally skated the puck in, but happily dumped when Zitz was on patrol. He could also play on the PK.
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
March 7th, 2013 at 12:36 am
@jet, Darius Kasparaitis?
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jet Reply:
March 7th, 2013 at 12:16 pm
@Duncanz, okay, Zitz had the best clean hipcheck in the league
While @Michael J and I were sitting next to the blues fans, I told the Blonde sitting next to me between 2nd and 3rd periods that we were going to win this game.
her reply was “whatever makes you feel better!”
@kissmyblarneystones, nice meeting you as well, and everyone else. As I said before it was my first game of the year and a great one at that. And you are 100% correct I am a good looking SOB! haha.
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 2:30 pm
@Look Finest, Are you sure there wasn’t an ‘L’ in there somewhere?
[Reply]
kissmyblarneystones Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 2:32 pm
@Duncanz,
LOLOLOLOL!!!
[Reply]
Lake Forest Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 2:42 pm
@Duncanz, I resemble that remark.
[Reply]
kissmyblarneystones Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 2:31 pm
@Lake Forest,
So you are, but you’re not my type!
[Reply]
Mars Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 5:01 pm
@Lake Forest, What did she say at the end of the game?
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kissmyblarneystones Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 5:35 pm
@Mars,
She left before the end!
[Reply]
Go Kings Go!
[Reply]
I will ask again. Why was Carter turning his back before the 5th goal last night and walking away from the play with his stick up? Can we interview him. Was this a fake move?
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 3:19 pm
@KingsOfKomedy, This is what I’ve got, @KoK.
Off the draw, Richards wins the puck and sends it back to Muzzin at the point. Chris Stewart (25) coming from the inside of the circle moves to close Muzzin down. Carter, positioned alongside, motions to skate across Stewarts path to buy time and space for Muzzin. Stewart moves to skate around the outside of Carter who now, not wanting to commit a penalty continues his glide but lifts his stick high to avoid any notion of an interference and expose Stewart should he take a dive on contact. But as he begins to do this, Muzzin turns inside and brings the puck into the middle and Stewart checks back behind Carter to endeavor to shut down Muzzin still. Now all of a sudden, Carter is left all by himself still with his stick in the air looking for a second like he’s asking for a change, but on the other side to the bench. Muzzin, astutely recognizing that Stewart has now left Carter and that Barret Jackman (5) has mistakenly come across to the middle to try to block also leaving Carter in an acre all by himself, pivots and plays a sweet backhander right into Carter’s wheelhouse and he finishes incisively.
That’s how I saw that play.
[Reply]
Mars Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 5:03 pm
@Duncanz, Damn fine call.
Color me impressed!
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@kissmyblarneyst The best looking fans in the world !!!!
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kissmyblarneystones Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 6:07 pm
@Neil,
Would you expect anything less in Sunny So. Cal?
[Reply]
Amazing game and happy about everyone’s work including Mike Richards who’s gaining goals and Pens hsa been the reason for those great blocks and Williams…wow. I felt Bernier was too casual at the outset.
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Kings are looking good! very pleased with the team ATM…nothing negative to say what so ever! lets keep this thing rolling! GKG!
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 3:23 pm
@BlokeKingsFan, Suffice to say, what about Luka Modric’s winner yesterday, eh?!
[Reply]
BrokeKingsFan Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 3:45 pm
@Duncanz, It was kind of bitter sweet…on one hand it sealed ManU’s fate which is good as I dont care for ManU, but on the other hand it pains me to see Modric do well since he basicly gave Tottenham the middle finger. Im hoping Madrid draw either Bayern or Dortmund in the next round and send Luka and his teamates packing…
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 4:46 pm
@BlokeKingsFan, I’ll make you feel better.
In the 2014 Euro Final, Steven Pienaar will spitefully take Modric out in the 22nd min of the final and the Toffees will go onto win 4:3 with goals from himself and a Jelly hatrick.
Modric (before his little accident) and Bale with 2 for Real!
jet Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 8:07 pm
@BrokeKingsFan, I think Modric’s leaving allowed the spurs to open up the counterattack. Modric is purely a build up player and that slowed the counter. There were multiple teams that sent two fullbacks into the attack last year, against a team with one of the fastest players in the world. I have not seen it once this year.
Blues Clues #7 – When your foot is on the gas, don’t step on the brakes!
[Reply]
so everybody is jazzed about muzzin … rightfully so … his shot is great and he has great offensive instints ….. however 2 of those redirection goals were his fault as he was not marking his man and left him untouched to do whatever he pleased with the deflection ….. there is still a big learning curve for him on defense folks
eastern conference pond hockey like we saw last night is way more exciting , and its wonderful to have it appear in kings games from time to time , but we all know how we won the cup last year , and muzzin still needs to improve in this area greatly if we are going to repeat
however , muzzin is just so good offensively – its so fun to watch
lucky for us , halak gave up 2 softies last night
great comeback by the kings , first of its kind since 2010 ………. 2 goal comeback for win in regulation ……. except this was 3 goals …… even better
say what ? ………. phoenix is playing the ducks 3 straight games ……. unheard of
duncanz – even after the wonderful comeback , still no phone call …… the dude is definately dead ……………… no ifs ands or buts about it
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 3:44 pm
@phil sykes, Get the horse saddled up and prepare for a long, slow ride deep into the sultry Sonoran desert with a worthless border officer, where you will encounter a blind man who you have a morbid wish you could be, except no one will do the right thing and put him out of his misery.
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 3:49 pm
@Duncanz,
I didn’t know Bettman worked for the Border Patrol too. Wow, double dipping.
[Reply]
Lake Forest Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 3:54 pm
@Duncanz, I picture it like this – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7yNV-GXoeCM
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 3:56 pm
@Lake Forest,
Classic!
phil sykes Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 4:32 pm
@Duncanz, and hes same exact age as me …… lifelong …. same grade classmate since middle school ………… ive been telling him for years – that we are now of the age where we can die at anytime from natural causes like cancer or heart attack or whatever ….. ive been telling it to him since our mid thirties ………… and he really didnt believe me so much … he would say “thats true” and would listen to what im saying intently …. but u could tell he really thought we had plenty of time still ….. i tried to tell him …… i have no idea if his death was a car accident or something like that or if it was natural – but either way – hes gone
if he ends up calling me oneday , and im wrong , i would be pretty shocked
[Reply]
Duncanz Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 6:48 pm
@phil sykes, you could call……..which you are averse to ……or look him up in the county records………that s what dean lombardi would do
phil sykes Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 6:55 pm
@Duncanz, i wouldnt even own a phone if my mother didnt say …. no , if i need to get in touch with you , i need that …… so yea , she and him … would be only usual callers ………………. dad or uncle ….. once every blue moon .. but thats it …… ill never ever own a silly cellphone …. i laugh at that stuff ………… when im eating somewhere and all the peeps , especially women , are staring into their phone and mindlessly texting ……. i just laugh inside ….. oh the longing to be liked … im well past that stage
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rogiesbackup Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 4:09 pm
@phil sykes, Agreed about Muzzin. Kings d HAS to get better PHYSICALLY clearing out people in front of the net. I don’t mean only knock the guy down..but use your strength to inhibit the opposing team’s stick.
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4 games a week this whole month. Love it. Take the summer off Jon. GO KINGS GO!!!
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Bailey'sCrown Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 4:32 pm
@Forum Gold, Hopefully we can keep up this exciting style of play as the fast paced schedule continues.
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Muzzilla will be on NHL Network soon.
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LA_1968 Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 3:43 pm
@goldielocks, This should be fun.
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luc20rules Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 7:27 pm
@goldielocks, Did they clock the muzzle speed of his shot.
Jake “the Muzzle” Muzzin
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Watching Muzzin on NHL Network right now and they showed his first NHL goal that he scored in Phoenix this season. I remember sitting there with my son with the puck coming right at us then hitting the net, jumping and yelling, then remembering we are not in Staples and outnumbered by several thousand, Yotes fans, then starting to jump and yell some more. We will always remember Muzzilla’s first goal.
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goldielocks Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 3:52 pm
@DesertKing,
If he wins the stanley cup as an established D-man, that memory will become golden for you and your son. Thanks for sharing the great story.
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DesertKing Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 3:54 pm
@goldielocks,
Don’t forget to thank Jason LaBarbera for making it happen
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Muzzin was actually one of the 3 stars on nhl.com last night.
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LA_1968 Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 3:58 pm
@KC23, Do they do more than one per night? They must. When I saw it it was eastern time zone guys.
Maybe the 3 stars of the week is just once then. They should have a NHLW network. Seriously.
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Jrosen…you related to Dan Rosen of NHL network??
OFF TOPIC: Can you please tell DAN Moriety to make sure there are NO athletic supporters in the background when interviewing players in the locker room. That’s gross!!! You maybe LMAOing, BUT it truly IS GROSS!!!!!
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JonRosen Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 4:43 pm
@rogiesbackup, I am not related to Dan Rosen.
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Question?!?!?!?!?!
Any chance we make an offer for Mr Iginla? I can make some offers on behalf of the kings if dean is busy?
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I am hoping the Blackhawks stay undefeated until we meet them on the 25th.
I really want the Kings to end their streak.
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Kman Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 4:54 pm
@Mars,
Should have them right where we want’em.
In their house after we are already coming off back-back games.
Meanwhile, they are resting for something like 3 days before the game.
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Chris Stewart of the Blues was a little over confident after goal #4 last night….when Muzzin made that great pass to Carter and scored for our #5 goal, I was doing the Stewart triple pump from my living room! GKG!
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Mars Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 4:59 pm
@Bailey’sCrown, Too bad you didnt have it on Video.
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I was bored at work (break of course) and looking at some stats.
I didnt realize that Kopi has only recorded 31 shots and is @ 1.00 PtsPG.
Nice to see Carts taking the #1 spot for GWG and #2 for goals.
Also impressive he has recorded 64 SOG.
Surprised to see j-Dub match VV with a +10 too!
Kings are full of surprises this year!
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jet Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 10:39 pm
@Mars, watch the first goal again, and you will notice not only does he dive to get the puck back to the point, but he spins, does a hockey stop up to his feet, pushes off the wall and is in the blue before the shot is taken. If I was DL, I would send this clip to all of the draft picks a week before rookie camp with a note saying, “welcome to the Kings”.
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IceGuy Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 11:06 pm
@jet,
Can’t argue with that approach at all.
Always a fan of visual learning.
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I’m going to say the following after reading every post on this thread: Yes I miss Rich. But our current Blog Master is clearly the more talented writer. I get the sense that he really enjoys crafting interesting prose rather than simply reporting facts. I enjoy reading him very much.
Having said that, the blog benefits greatly from the truly wonderful talents of many fans posting here. I’m not going to name you all but I do not know of a blog, sports or otherwise that can boast the level of Witt, knowledge and whimsy that can be had by lurking on this one.
So thanks. And GkG
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phil sykes Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 6:45 pm
@Fortunato, yes , you are very fortunato
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YoBro Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 7:05 pm
@Fortunato, I gotta agree with you, I too enjoy JR’s coverage. You could say he’s like Darryl Sutter to Rich’s TM. Rich built the machine, but JR has come in and refined it.
And I also like his appearances on FSW and the radio w/Nick & Darryl- very polished.
Nice work Jon!
Go Kings
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phil sykes Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 7:13 pm
@YoBro, yep … jons a stud … not a george orwell novel in here anymore ……. thank god
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Duncanz Reply:
March 7th, 2013 at 12:50 am
@winston smith, well, it can be a bit of an ‘animal farm’ in here sometimes ….. don t you think?
Hip-check Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 8:36 pm
@YoBro, I agree and very much so……..WHEN RH left the site wasnt the same and I drifted away.
Now that im back Im very impressed with JRs work here….Id even say its better than it used to be…Thanks JR
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Forum Gold Reply:
March 6th, 2013 at 9:26 pm
@Fortunato, Nice post. I and many others contributed during the lockout and helped this site sputter on until Jon took over and made his mark. Every Insider adds his or her special touch that makes this site a must read on a daily basis for all of us. GO KINGS GO!!!
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For some reason “Waking up with the Kings” makes me feel…a little slutty.
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kissmyblarneystones Reply:
March 7th, 2013 at 1:31 am
@What’s the frequency, Kenneth?,
Lol!!
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Wow … Darren Dreger just said very nice things about Carter on the NHL Network.
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What an incredible comeback! The scrapping in the first period seemed to really help the Blues. Do you think that the Kings (as little as they have seemed to scrap this season) would be helped if they got more physical like the Blues showed during the First period?
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