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The Los Angeles Kings miss Ryan Smyth.

I refuse to acknowledge the past two games. What is this ‘past two games’ you speak of? Trash.

Smyth, a menace atop the crease, and a player who always has had the knack to finish, took his valued attributes back to Edmonton over the summer. The qualities Smyth brought to the Kings’ roster for two years were underrated by some, his absence is showing a few holes in the team’s offensive output this year.

Don’t be afraid to admit this, please.

Back home this season, Ryan Smyth has 36 points in his 52 games played. If those numbers were to be compared with those on the Kings, Smyth would be tied for 2nd in points on the team with Justin Williams (36), only behind Anze Kopitar (46). Pretty impressive for Smyth at the age of 35, who was heavily targeted in Los Angeles heading into the ’10-’11 season, simply for inevitably turning 34.

There are two key things I’d like to point out before we go any farther, and before people start to stray away from the main point here. Ryan Smyth didn’t want to stay here, and even if Dean Lombardi didn’t honor his trade request, you’d have an unhappy veteran in the locker room. That’s not good. Second, when the Kings granted Smyth’s wish, they saved $6.25 million on this year’s salary cap hit. If not for this money, the Kings very well may be without Mike Richards or Simon Gagne. And of course, where would the Kings find the cash to pay this guy?

Really, I’d love to make this article as sweet as possible and imagine Ryan Smyth with today’s Kings roster, but the chances of that happening were slim to none.

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Highlight reels haven’t often caught Smyth throughout his career, they sure aren’t these days either. He has no shot, he’s got below average speed, and no physical presence. However, the guy manages to score, and is 3rd in points on an Edmonton Oilers roster that is stacked with youth.

One of the biggest misconceptions made about Ryan Smyth may be those judgments sparked by his age.

For the way this season has gone for Ninety Four, he could slinky behind the goal-line, throw weak (yet smart) close-range shots on net, and use that magical wooden blade of his to redirect pucks to hit twine at a decent rate until he’s 40. These aren’t skills that demand invigorated youth, but more smarts and experience. Ryan Smyth knows how to anticipate plays, how to position for a shot’s rebound, and how to make something out of what looks to be absolutely nothing.

Smyth is reportedly on the NHL trade market for the upcoming deadline as a loan, meaning he’d have to waive his no-trade clause with an expected mutual agreement to return to Edmonton for the ’12-’13 campaign. There will be no Smyth-LA reunion, there are too many reasons to note; And if you are aware of just one, that should be enough to close the door.

It’s just a bit unfortunate, and that’s easier to say with how this Kings’ offense has panned out this year, which is rather top-heavy with extremely notable NHL talent. Yet, much of the fanbase is in hopes for a big-time deal from Dean Lombardi before the February 27 trade deadline. The talent is already here, what you’re really looking for is 3rd/4th line depth and/or a scrappy asset like Smyth. Edmonton’s veteran is on pace to notch 57 points this season, more than he had in each of his two seasons donning a Kings sweater.

Shots on goal haven’t been the issue this year, having someone there to reinforce executing on that opportunity is. That’s what Smyth does, that’s what he did in Los Angeles.

The following clip is from Edmonton’s victory in Detroit Saturday night, and this is what it’s all about. Ryan Smyth has the assist on Simon Gagner‘s goal here – via his shot along the half-boards. That shot is ugly, that shot has nothing on it, yet the results are beautiful. That’s instinct, goals are produced in this form more often than you’d think, you just wont see them on ESPN.

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“We were real average, quite honestly.” — Darryl Sutter

Back to work: It may have been an average performance, barely topping the NHL‘s worst club in Columbus — but the fashion in which the Kings earned the two points was anything but. Before we get to the positives from last night’s contest, and how you really couldn’t ask for a bigger momentum swing to start post – All Star break play, there’s a simple explanation for Staples Center clock controversy as Drew Doughty netted the game winner with just 0.4 seconds to play. Kings GM Dean Lombardi said it best, in response to Columbus GM Scott Howson‘s premature accusations.

“Those clocks are sophisticated instruments that calculate time by measuring electrical charges called coulombs — given the rapidity and volume of electrons that move through the measuring device the calibrator must adjust at certain points which was the delay you see. The delay is just recalibrating for the clock moving too quickly during the 10—10ths of a second before the delay. This insures that the actual playing time during a period is exactly 20 minutes.”

“That is not an opinion -— that is science -— amazing device quite frankly.”

“The clock stoppage is actually common, just not always in the last seconds of a game leading to a GWG in that final second. It is the clock’s display syncing with the internal clock/computer.”

So, to get technical, it came down to coulombs in the last-second victory against Columbus.

Would Dean Lombardi be saying the same thing if this had happened against the Kings? Maybe not, probably not. But, when you’re on the losing side of a situation like that, you tend to let frustrations get in the way of clear, calm thinking. Plus, many times have I seen Staples’ clock pause in such a fashion it did last night in the final minute of a period. Drew Doughty scored that goal prior to the 20-minute mark, case closed.

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Not just Average: Kings coach Darryl Sutter was right on the money tabbing last night’s performance ‘average’, but it’s got the makings to give this club a huge boost, a great deal of momentum. If winning a game in front of a home crowd with 0.4 seconds left to play isn’t enough adrenaline to build off of leading into the season’s longest road trip, those who contributed, and in what situations, should provide some much needed optimism.

For starters, the Kings executed on two of three powerplay opportunities, which further shows the resurgence play in man-advantage situations has seen the past couple of weeks. The last time the Kings saw the Columbus Blue Jackets on January 7th, a 1-0 loss, the Kings went 0-8 on the powerplay. What a difference it can make, no?

Justin Williams, who chipped in with a powerplay goal of his own netting the first goal of last night’s contest, now has points in nine consecutive games. Williams has 35 points in his 49 appearances this season, he’s notched 11 in his current nine game scoring streak. This is huge.

Dustin Penner hounded on a turnover he caused and used his strength to find a lane straight to the net in beating a helpless Curtis Sanford for the Kings’ second tally of the night. Penner isn’t riding a point streak like Williams, but whenever you can get production from the struggling forward, you’re gladly going to take it. Plus, the guy has consistently been looking better each game.

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If you were somewhere under a rock last night, here’s a clip showing multiple replays of Drew Doughty‘s goal. If you get to the :49 second mark of this video, you’ll clearly see the clock’s stoppage at 1.8 seconds. However, there’s no reason to be afraid to see this again, as it simply was the visible clock re-syncing with the internal mechanisms. 10′ths of a second can be a bit hard to keep up with, this happens more than you think. It’s difficult to notice, as the clock had the full spotlight this time around. A good goal it is, tough break for the Blue Jackets.. yet again.

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Checked Bags: Reality hits hard when you’re coming down from a break. For the Kings, the weekend’s downtime during the 2012 NHL All Star Game was a beautiful thing, because life for this roster is going to get pretty hectic – and fast. With 32 games left on the season’s schedule, the Kings are tabbed to play 20 of those in visiting confines, only 12 dates left on the calendar for Staples Center affairs. The Kings will knock off one of those remaining home dates when getting started with post-break play, the return of the Columbus Blue Jackets. That should be an easy start, right?

Then it gets rough, the Kings scheduled for their longest road swing of the season, a six game slate in a span of nine days. I was initially going to say that having six consecutive games on the road isn’t horribly awful considering it’s the longest trip of the year, but it’s jam-packed, just three off-days to counter the heavy travel.

The Kings can afford to continue with their OT/SO trend during this road trip, something that has been a regular occurrence for the club this season. Of the six games the Kings play on their upcoming road trip, four are against Eastern Conference opponents. As long as they can pocket one point against these opponents, they won’t be giving one away to a Western Conference threat if they falter in extra time. But, we all know, the Kings need to start executing when the hockey’s free.

The Kings are no postseason guarantee right now, sitting idle with a 24-16-10 record accounting for 58 points, mapping them out for 95 points at season’s end. In the previous six seasons, the eighth-place team in the Western Conference has finished the year with 95 points or more four times. For the Kings to hit the 95 point mark, they would have to muster together 19-12-1 record, or one that earns them at least 37 points.

If there’s one thing to take in positive manner in the Kings’ road-heavy schedule, location hasn’t attributed to success or lack thereof, it’s well-known that goal scoring has covered that all year long. However, in the past couple of years, the Kings have consistently shown the ability to fare better away from home fans, both during a playoff stretch and the postseason. Boy, I could really go for one more Game 6 Western Conference Quarterfinals elimination at home!

Hotel reservations will be key for the Kings during the remainder of the season, I wonder if Bailey got to room with Jonathan Quick in Ottawa?

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Or, it could be a blessing in disguise.

Let’s dive into a couple of assets that have shown face recently, both players mighty quiet throughout the season. Neither of the following players are going to save the season for the Kings, but their recent output (if you really call it that) spotlights where this club is really hurting.

Want that big-name, proven talent top-6 type of forward to make way to Los Angeles via another Dean Lombardi deal? That’s the attractive option, there’s another way to look at it.

Kyle Clifford and Trevor Lewis have both been showing more than just hard work and dependable presence as of late, they’ve been hitting the score sheet. With the boost in play the Kings’ 4th line has seen since Darryl Sutter‘s arrival, this needed to happen sooner than later.

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Kyle Clifford has 9 points this season, he’s recorded a point or greater in 7 games this year. The Kings are 6-1-0 in those contests. Trevor Lewis has 3 points this season, he’s recorded a point in 3 separate games. The Kings are 2-0-1 when Lewis chips in. That makes the Kings 8-1-1 when these two 4th-liners ink the score sheet. These moments haven’t been just a personal boost for Clifford and Lewis, but to the Kings and their biggest problem this year – scoring. In Clifford’s 7 games with a point, the Kings have totaled 24 goals, a 3.43 goals-per average. In Lewis’ 3 games with a point, the Kings have totaled 14 goals, a 4.67 goals-per average.

Those medians are a far cry from the club’s lowly average of 2.13 goals per game this season, which sits dead last in the NHL.

This really shows what production from a 3rd or 4th line can do to a club, it has an effect on the big-name role players, alleviates some pressure. The stats, even though I’m not a numbers guy, avidly agree.

I’m a bit thrown off when it comes to hunting down a big-name on the market come the trade-deadline. The Kings have the firepower, the frustration has been it’s extreme lack in output. What has made it even more frustrating? When that top-6 firepower doesn’t do the job, no one’s going to do it – as such with the Kings this year. If the Kings are to deal before February 27th, it should be a couple of under the radar moves to solidify the 3rd and 4th lines.

Really, it should take nothing for the Jonathan Bernier trade activists to get excited about, there’s no blockbuster solution this year. For the Kings and Dean Lombardi, it may be another move similar to two years ago, roping in Jeff Halpern and Fredrik Modin – but not quite that cheap. The trade may be as boring as watching this team, but it’s one that will suit the Kings much better in the long run.

To be honest, it wouldn’t be an invalid argument to claim the Kings are a fresh 3rd and/or 4th liner away from finally hitting a stride this year.

Deals aside, Kyle Clifford has been heckling defensive zones since Darryl Sutter‘s arrival, notching 20 shots in 17 games. Only 7 less than he had in his first 33 appearances.

Sh*t starts looking like a mental ward when it gets this good

Tuh-tuh-tuh…TODAY JUNIOR!

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Sugar Coat: Darryl Sutter‘s start behind the Kings bench has attracted high acclaim of late, compiling a 9-1-6 record in his first 16 games honing coaching duties in Los Angeles. Considering where this team stood just over a month ago, there’s much to be happy about. Then again, there’s still a few knacks attracting some negativity around the Kings’ play.

Why? Because they’re consistently falling shy to what is a rather short road to gleaming success – regulation goals.

Of the Kings nine wins under Sutter, five have come in regulation. In those five 60-minute contests, the Kings tallied four goals in three of them, five goals in one of them, and two goals in the other – made possible by Jonathan Quick‘s steller 38-save shutout in Chicago.

Looking at the four victories earned after the 3rd period, the Kings managed just two goals in three of those games, and a blank-spot in the other. In fact, goals themselves aren’t coming in OT either, the Kings winning three of these extended contests via extra shots – with just one Kings OT goal recorded.

This is all harping on the Kings inability to amass the two-goal marker, where one more goal in each of these contests would have sealed the game at the final horn.

Full attention shouldn’t necessarily be directed toward goal scoring, since goaltending has been the crucial factor in allowing the Kings to extend games to extra time. It’s been proven all year long, moreso by Jonathan Quick than Jonathan Bernier, that if the Kings can count on three goals in regulation, they can almost surely count on two points.

Sure, earning one point is better than none, but failing to grab the extra point available in OT/SO, and at times giving it away to counterparts in the Western Conference and Pacific Division will seriously factor into the NHL‘s tight standings come April.

For now, it’s about continuing to ride the resurgence Sutter has injected into this roster, and continuing to work and solve the season’s hurdle of finding that third goal before the 60 minute mark. Because really, this club becomes a very scary opponent when goals come consistently before that extra point is up for the taking.

One game that will always remain a mystery since Sutter’s joined the Kings, his only regulation loss, January 7th’s horror show against the Columbus Blue Jackets. You’d think the good would come out against the bad, but good is only going to come with goals.

Let’s try regulation on for size

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After Regulation: Edmonton’s Taylor Hall (pictured right), who was drafted at Staples Center in June of 2010, put the Kings atop a certain mark in the NHL – one that’s not so flattering. With his Overtime goal Sunday night, the Kings took sole possession for the most OT/SO losses in the league. However, with the Boston Bruins successful shooutout bid tonight, the Florida Panthers now share that dismal stat-line with the Kings – each club with nine losses when extending contests to extra time.

For the Kings, it’s harped on their struggles in shootouts, something the club keyed on for success last year. Two names immediately focus on the downfall – Jarret Stoll and Jonathan Quick, who were guaranteed vices for shootout fortune last season.

The shootout frame was absolutely owned in Los Angeles jerseys last season. The Kings extended contests to extra shots twelve times last year, and won eleven of them. Much of this was due to the stalwart play of Jonathan Quick, and of course, Jarret Stoll‘s record-setting season. Stoll, who was tabbed to shoot ten times by Terry Murray, came through with goals on nine of those ten attempts – setting a single season NHL record with his 90% rate.

Jarret Stoll‘s top-right success has been tamed, due to it’s domination last season

Extending the Struggles: The Kings’ play has heeded much criticism during regulation play, and it hasn’t been much better afterward. In 15 opportunities to grab an extra point after regulation, the Kings have only capitalized six times. When it comes to Overtime losses, Eastern Conference opponents don’t prove to be nearly as detrimental as Western Conference clubs, where surrendering the extra point does it’s least damage to the Kings.

However, in the Kings’ nine losses after regulation, six of them have been to Western Conference opponents, four of them within the Pacific Division. These extra points are huge, especially when it’s within the Conference, even more so within the division. For as questionable as things have been this season for the Kings, small statistics like these are going to be a huge factor as the postseason inches closer.

Jarret Stoll is 2-8 in shootout attempts this season, but is still worth the shot.

Dustin Brown, for some bewildering reason, gets penciled in the majority of the time for his lumbering moves.

Trevor Lewis was given the green light from Darryl Sutter against Dallas for his breakaway goal. An intriguing choice from Sutter, but quit while you’re on top.

When do you put an Andrei Loktionov in there, a Slava Voynov? Something new, something undetected.

When it’s after regulation, thinking outside of the box may be your best bet – especially the way things have gone this season.

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No Streaking: You’d have to dig quite a ways through the season’s archive to locate the Kings’ longest winning streak – an extraordinary second week of the regular season. In this eight day span (November 15-22) the Kings reeled off four consecutive victories. In fact, the Kings have only managed to compile more than two consecutive victories just one other time this season, a three game win streak in the middle of November, two of which were against the Anaheim Ducks.

Now, it’s not to say that an NHL club must string together hoards of persistent winning streaks to compile an impressive campaign, but the ones that do often exemplify not only a postseason berth, but one that’s a serious threat to the other contenders. The Kings, in what may seem like a surprise to many, are a playoff club if the season ended today.

But, why a surprise? For the fan’s perspective, it’s been about being let down immediately after being drawn in, which has been the case all season long.

Excited the Kings scored more than two? Don’t watch the next game.

Excited the Kings recorded a Powerplay goal? Look away during man-advantage situations for the next week.

Not a tumultuous year, but one with little balance.

The only consistent matter you can really tie to this club has been goaltending, but neither Jonathan Quick (19-11-8) or Jonathan Bernier‘s (3-4-1) record really shows that. The Kings’ offensive woes have seriously undermined performances in the crease.

For the Kings this season, it’s now about making sure a playoff spot is situated in the Western Conference‘s top eight slots. If they do in fact reach this goal, they’re going to be an intriguing bunch come the NHL‘s postseason. They’re most likely looking at a deep positioning, which will see them once again in a road-ice situation.

This roster has had both media and fans in shambles all year long due to faulty production with the skill-set at hand. If the Kings can continue to stutter their way into a playoff berth, there’s optimism to be had. They’re due to break out at some point this season. Plenty of 6th, 7th, and 8th seeds have hit their stride in April in the past.

Then again, that’s why the NHL‘s postseason is such a beautiful thing.

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Double Deuces

Four goals in a single game

Bigger Than You’d Think: For the first time in 14 contests, and for the first time since November 22nd, the Kings managed to score more than two goals in regulation. In fact, the Kings tallied four goals – in a proverbial ‘four point game’ against the Pacific Division foe Phoenix Coyotes. With the regulation victory over the Sun Dogs, the Kings sit even with Phoenix at 39 points to share the 3rd & 4th slots in the Pacific Division‘s rankings.

Out of the Woodwork

Out of the Gate: We’re seeing clear differences with this club with Darryl Sutter housing the Kings’ bench. It’s energy, it’s effort, and we’re starting to see it early in games, and in the third period – missing components that have plagued this roster throughout the season.

When it comes down to good coaching, 2nd Period play is important, it’s about maintaining consistent effort and mentality from the roster. However, it’s not often going to make or break your overall output. Fast starts and strong finishes are the true gauge, the Kings are starting to exemplify those situations, and made perfect example of such tonight.

If you’re going the pessimistic route, you’re going to target tonight’s second frame, in which the Phoenix Coyotes took back complete control of the game. The Coyotes handled the middle frame in dominant fashion, but the Kings began, and finished tonight’s contest in a form that we’ve rarely seen all year long.

And that’s the key

Ahoy, Cap’n!

All smiles on board

Here’s some proof

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“I haven’t coached in this many seasons! *referring to finger count* LOL!“

The uneventful John Stevens era uneventfully reaches its end

Time for Another: To no surprise, Darryl Sutter has been the guy tabbed to coach the Kings by Dean Lombardi, and will make his debut behind Los Angeles’ bench Thursday night. The picking is a bit odd, seeing as Sutter hasn’t coached since the 2005-06 season with the Calgary Flames. However, Dean Lombardi is familiar with Sutter, hiring him to coach the San Jose Sharks as Sharks’ GM. Lombardi hired Darryl Sutter just one season into his Sharks tenure (1997) , and kept him aboard for more than five seasons.

There was success when these two worked together, the Sharks making the playoffs in all full seasons with Darryl Sutter behind the bench, winning the Pacific Division in 2002. The farthest the Sharks would get under Sutter is to the Western Conference Semi-Finals (’00,’02), losing in the first-round on three other occasions. Sutter compiled a respectable record of 193-167-61–14 until he was dismissed just 24 games into San Jose’s ’02-’03 campaign.

The Calgary Flames would snag Sutter almost immediately in effort to turn around their ’02-’03 disaster, but the Flames were already too deep to have any shot at success that season. Despite finishing dead last (5th) on the Northwest Division, Sutter went over .500 in his first 46 games to close the year. He would then lead that same club to the Stanley Cup Finals a year later. Sutter remained with the Flames throughout the NHL lockout, but cut ties after an early first-round postseason exit in 2006.

Six years later, it’s Los Angeles.

Welcome!

Fresh Start: The firing of Terry Murray has made the past week quite dreary in Kings country, such as their play. However, definite signs of life showed themselves Monday night in Toronto, fresh off of a team meeting organized by Matt Greene after Saturday’s 8-2 debacle in Detroit. Since Murray’s dismissal, John Stevens led the Kings to a 2-2 record on their four-game road trip. Stevens won’t get to fill that role at Staples Center, as Darryl Sutter is expected to make his debut Thursday night.

If Sutter is going to harp on any specifics in his first few days in Los Angeles, it’s got to revolve around this offense, which just continues it’s unthinkable path of mediocrity and failure.

 - In Monday night’s victory, the Kings set a new franchise record: 12 consecutive games without topping the 2-goal mark in regulation or OT – 12 straight games.

 - In Monday night’s victory, the Kings scored their first powerplay goal in 7 contests. Before this, they had executed on just 2 of their last 36 opportunities.

 - Shot totals haven’t been the problem, the Kings have amassed the 40-shot mark in four of their last six contests. In those four 40+ shot games, the Kings have recorded a total of just six goals.

 - Thursday night’s date with the Anaheim Ducks isnt just Darryl Sutter‘s coaching debut, but the one-month anniversary of Anze Kopitar‘s last goal.

Wake ‘em up, Sutt!

Key Return

Heads Up: Well, at least he’s been skating, but Mike Richards is still donning the red ‘safety sweater’ in practice. There’s still no official timetable for his return, but he’s not yet cleared for contact. Even though the Kings’ scoring woes have dated back much further than Richards’ absence, he was undoubtedly the most prominent forward for this team in November.

Richards made way to the IR while he was hot, reeling off 9 goals and an assist in 11 games before going down via Sean Bergenheim‘s questionable hit on December 1st. The Kings have been miserable without Mike Richards in the lineup, scoring just 12 goals total as a team in the 8 games since Richards suffered his head injury.

To realize how effective Richards’ output was, the Kings scored 15 goals as a team in the 8 games before his injury. Still brutal, but Richards had 7 of those 15 goals, which spotlights the misery the Kings’ offense has been all year long, even with Richards in the lineup.

It’s obviously important for Richards to be cleared for action sooner than later, but also important that he’s a part of a new coach’s early presence, important that Darryl Sutter and Mike Richards can click.

The week’s specific – Pacific

Pacific for Three: You look for the ideal time for the Kings to seriously turn things around, and the debut of a new head coach along with the start of a 3-game Pacific Division swing should be more than enough motivation.

No one’s breaking away in the standings quite yet, except Anaheim – and in the wrong fashion. The Anaheim Ducks will be the first date for the Kings in this Pacific trio, a club struggling mightily to rebound from early season struggles with the hire of Bruce Boudreau. Anaheim is a lowly 3-6-1 in their previous 10, with not much optimism stemming from any aspect of their club.

However, two clubs that are just above the Kings in the Pacific Division – the San Jose Sharks and Phoenix Coyotes (tied at 37 points, Kings at 34) are vital opponents for the Kings to find success against, and with regulation victories. The Kings have seen both the Coyotes and Sharks twice thus far, 1-0-1 vs. Pheonix and 1-1 vs. San Jose.

With the Kings-Coyotes unbalanced schedule this season, this will be the last date at Jobing.com Arena for the Division rivals this campaign. This is always interesting to note, because this could be the last game for the Kings in Glendale, Arizona… ever.

Oh man. This guy

Things looked up – up North

Showing a Pulse: The Kings impressed in Toronto. When I say impressed, I mean they showed glimpses of not being shitty. Defense rebounded from their collapse in Detroit, puck movement in the offensive and neutral zones has noticeably improved, and they finally made due on the powerplay, which was way overdue.

It’s three straight within the Pacific Division, against an Anaheim club that surely should be beat, and two other clubs that need to be beat. That’s if Dean Lombardi‘s plans rejuvenate themselves into what they’ve been mirrored to be for the last seven months. Go Kings

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Terry Murray ousted as head coach of the Los Angeles Kings

It had all gone bad

“I think it had to happen,” one Kings player who requested anonymity told me via text message. “We were dead.” – Pierre LeBrun

Terry couldn’t Carry: As much as I’ve harped on the need for the Kings to dismiss Terry Murray from duties as head coach, you never want to see this become an ultimatum for a club 29 games into an 82 game campaign. Dean Lombardi was flirting with a deadline to salvage the season, making the move at the latest point he possibly could have to counter the mess the Kings have produced thus far, and turn things around with a new voice behind the bench. I would have liked to see this action from Lombardi two weeks earlier, which especially had me frustrated with LA’s hockey media who sugarcoated Murray’s final weeks in extremely frustrating ways.

If this was happening in a major NHL city (IE: Toronto, Montreal, Boston, Detroit) complete mayhem would’ve abused TV networks, Radio stations, and the Interweb dating back to mid-November. This dragged on far too long.

The hype to cut ties with Murray didn’t really grow wings until this past week, and it had to come from the fans, bloggers were the only sources to express any distaste with the state of the team. You’ve got to understand the other side before taking shots, you’ve got to understand the point of view coming from the sources who talk to Terry Murray on a daily basis. Even with that, however, his explanations started to delve deeper into statistics, something that has been somewhat of a scapegoat for the Kings struggles this year.

Murray did a wonderful job developing a young Kings core for three seasons, and that’s been a positive attribute on his NHL coaching resume. When you’re working with a young, unproven group like Murray did for those three years, expectations aren’t going to spotlight your output. But with the moves made over the summer, and the Kings working with a roster that has come close to maximizing the team’s cap space for the first time in years, failure like this is simply unacceptable. Best of luck to you, Terry. Thank you for the good work you did in Los Angeles.

Right-hand man

John Stevens will head the Kings bench on an interim basis

Terry 2.0: Stevens, who preaches strategy and has a similar history just like Murray will be the momentary head coach for the Kings. Since he was not promoted in concrete fashion upon Murray’s dismissal, you can count out his chances of heading this bench for an extended period of time. And so, you can’t guarantee he’s safe to hold his position if a new coach hits Dean Lombardi‘s interest radar. Assistant coaches don’t feel the threat until a new voice gains strength with the club’s front office, that’s when they’re open to make co-worker requests. Whoever is chosen upon still heeds a question mark as to who fits alongside them for the job.

Who will it be?: That’s the intriguing part, and don’t expect the search to last longer than the Kings’ upcoming four-game roady. I’m hearing notions from a fellow KingsCast administrator that Tony Granato‘s name has been thrown around the inside circle, a guy who’s got the reputation of lighting locker room fires and winning – even if the tenure was rather short.

Initially hired as an assistant coach, Granato was promoted (much like John Stevens) 31 games into the Colorado Avalanche‘ 2002-2003 season, we’re a mere 29 into the season this time around. Under Granato, Colorado finished the campaign’s 51 remaining games with a 32-11-8 record, claiming a Division title. The Kings are close to meeting that mark, with 53 games remaining on the year’s slate. Granato went on to lead Colorado to a 40-22-20 season in 2003-2004, but was fired to due postseason failure. The Avalanche took another shot with Granato after canning Joel Quenneville in 2008, but the second dance just never pans out. His second stint heading Colorado should be irrelevant when considering him for the Kings.

If it isn’t Granato, I wouldn’t get caught up in big names available on the market, there isn’t much to pick from anyway. I’m not on the Randy Carlyle wagon, I’m just not. What’s appealing about Granato is his short-term NHL head coaching experience, which is why I’m interested in the Kings approaching unknown names impressing in the AHL or Collegiate (NCAA) level. I’m taking a dive to say this publicly, much like the risk Dean Lombardi and Co. would be facing to actually do so. I’m not here to pick and choose, it will most certainly be an interesting week.

Jackets on the plate

Two and Out: Columbus isn’t even a slight guarantee at this point, with the Kings struggling mightily to amount more than one goal a game. The differential isn’t terrible, standing at -2, but the lack of production from a refurbished offense that has more talent and veteran occupancy since their rebuild overhaul in 2008-2009 is disturbing. Not to mention, their lack to score early in games, especially being the team to score first. Here’s some quick bullets regarding offensive struggles…which indirectly uncover how crucial Kings goaltending has been.

- In 29 games played so far, the Kings have managed to score more than 2 goals in only 8 of those contests. The Kings are 8-0-0 when this happens.

- The Kings have been unable to eclipse the 2-goal mark in the last 8 games, scoring just 13 goals in a 3-5-1 stretch.

- If the Kings don’t score early, they don’t win. They’ve been trailing to start a 3rd period in 12 contests, and have lost them all. They’ve allowed the first goal in 14 of 29 games, and have won just 3 of those.

This just about sums it up

Wingin’ it: In the first installment of life after Terry Murray, the Kings will head way to TD Garden for a date with the Stanley Cup Champion Boston Bruins. This will be the first of a four-game road trip, the Kings carrying baggage of four consecutive losses to New England. John Stevens is taking quite an intriguing approach tonight, where all players that have traveled will take the ice tonight for pregame warmups. Only after will Stevens finalize his roster for the night. However, don’t expect to see any drastic changes coming from Stevens, and expect hometown boy Jonathan Quick to be a lock in the crease.

Stevens’ laid back approach tonight could help this roster find themselves, get away from the textbook-play that has plagued their output all season, and rebuild a bit of their shattered confidence.

Because, well, you know, the Kings just have not been able to produce any type of effective shot mentality.

The Kings are reportedly in talks with Darryl Sutter. Please, please look at all options, Deano. This would not be the ideal solution.

Looks like Terry Murray with a bitter beer face

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Cat Nipped: Thursday night’s meet with the Florida Panthers brought home two points for the Kings by way of a 2-1 victory, but at an extremely healthy cost. Willie Mitchell, the most stable Kings defenseman other than Rob Scuderi, lasted one shift before calling the night in order to tend to an undisclosed lower body injury – never to return. Mike Richards, undoubtedly the Kings’ most vital asset on the offensive side so far this season, suffered a solid – yet subtle, blow to the head from Florida’s Sean Bergenheim. Richards, who has been placed on the Injured Reserve, is very, very likely to be suffering from concussion symptoms.

Not to say our defense has struggled, because it really hasn’t. But, it has been unstable in terms of personnel and pairing, which has lost this blue-line’s aggressive impact in the offensive zone. Mitchell poses to be a new missing threat for the Kings’ back-end, the loss of a stay-at-home defenseman. So far, Davis Drewiske has filled the gap, and he may continue to dress even if Alec Martinez returns before Mitchell does. Martinez has shown to be somewhat of a liability in the Kings’ zone, Drewiske could possibly see all games available until Willie Mitchell returns to maintain solidity in the defensive zone.

Talk about the last guy you want to see seriously injured, the guy with 10 points in his previous 11 contests, 9 of those points being goals. Mike Richards, he’s been the spotlight performer in all aspects of the Kings’ offense, 5-on-5, the powerplay, and the penalty kill (two shorthanded goals, a hangnail away from three). There wasn’t much luck without Richards in uniform Saturday afternoon, a lone goal being scored off of a Dustin Penner deflection overshadowed by a game filled with missed opportunities and draggy puck movement.

Have you seen puck movement like this from Kings jerseys once this year? Here’s a nice example of entering the offensive zone in valiant form, rather than taking the puck wide for a weak, bad-angle shot with no bodies to even seek rebounds.

At least Kostitsyn’s got ties with the Russian Mafia.
That’s kinda cool to couple with an NHL gig

Just to finish

Broken Record Player: You can’t depend on shot totals to link honest analysis, because for the Kings this season, it’s become somewhat of a scapegoat. And when saying this, that’s a mental reaction to their play. Sure, they’ve got no problem going shot-for-shot with another club over a 60-minute span, but if they were to cut down shot total, while raising the percentage of shot quality, we’d be in a better suit.

Looking simple can be great, looking simple can be awful. The difference? The mental status. The Kings are at awful, and it’s coming to the point where smart (yet non-intrusive) passes and decisions are being made to cure a terribly sterile offensive strategy. That means hitting Kopitar low along the boards, or going cross-ice to a defenseman with flat feet. There’s no such thing as simple wrist-shots, snap-shots, or anything you do with the puck to just get it ON NET with this offense. Well actually, I guess there is:

While you were in total shock of Dustin Penner scoring a goal, you missed the player (Doughty) who actually made it happen. Downright spectacular foot movement inside the zone, creates space for a simple snapper ON NET. Damnit! Can’t you see?!?

The Week Ahead: This may be the most important string of contests on the slate so far this season, the Kings are set for two Pacific Division puck-drops, and a meet with the team atop the entire Western Conference and the NHL. Tonight will be the third installment of the Kings’ six matchups with the Anaheim Ducks, who continue to sputter out of contention early, honed at the bottom of the Pacific Division and 14th in the Western Conference with a 1-7-2 record in their previous ten. If Bruce Boudreau is in fact the fix for Anaheim, the results won’t show this year.

Then it’s the NHL‘s best in the Minnesota Wild, who have taken role atop the entire league with 37 points, currently running with four consecutive wins. Their offseason dealings with the San Jose Sharks have paid off dearly, both Dany Heatley (17 pts) and Devin Setoguchi (13 pts) providing serious output for their new club. To finish the week, it’s a meeting with the only club higher in the Pacific Division than the Kings – the Dallas Stars, who sit just one point ahead. This will already mark the fourth meeting this season with Dallas, the Kings faring well for the most part going 2-0-1; however November 23rd’s meltdown still remains a sour aftertaste.

The Five Goal Club: In the Kings’ 26 games played this year, they have managed to hit the 5-goal mark in just four of them. However, that’s where this week’s opponents share a common trait – the Kings have found offensive success against Anaheim (5-3W – 11/17), Minnesota (5-2W – 11/12), and Dallas (5-3W – 10/27). This doesn’t mean much, but facing clubs that the Kings have found relatively recent success against could be a notable mental jolt for this lost offensive group.

Ahh yes…Time for another round of this unecessarily labeled cross-town rivalry

Since Bob Miller no longer can stress the deliciousness of Carl’s Jr. chicken tenders, which are breaded “ON THE PREMISES”, I’ve yet to decide what’s better this season…

Telling us to “Feel the Mexcellence”

Or going bad-ass bold marketing the Outlaw Burger

No child’s play for the Kings this week, especially with Minnesota on the slate

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Trent Hunter will be alongside Anze Kopitar and Dustin Brown on the first line tonight.

What?

The Kings lineup has undergone complete revamp for tonight’s date with the San Jose Sharks at Staples Center:

Dustin Brown – Anze Kopitar – Trent Hunter
Simon Gagne – Mike Richards – Jarret Stoll
Kyle Clifford – Andrei Loktionov – Justin Williams
Ethan Moreau – Colin Fraser – Kevin Westgarth

Shuffled up: If there’s one common aspect shown throughout Terry Murray‘s coaching tenure in Los Angeles, it’s his tendency to make changes in the Kings’ lineup scheme. These changes, which we’ve seen very often the past couple of years, are due to a lack of consistency in Murray’s offensive sets. He’s had little success in maintaining groups that mesh for extended periods of time, which is hard to analyze with the high level of talent he’s working with.

This is why I’ve spent the majority of the season considering how this club could perform under a different helm, there’s simply too much skill among these forwards for such a lack of production and stability. It’s one thing to have an attractive roster on paper, knowing what to do with that roster is just as vital. I truly believe Terry Murray has hit a wall with the Kings, and that the organization’s output is in need of a different direction.

Questionable Calls

Top-line Hunter: That’s right, let it settle in. Trent Hunter, who I question even being on the Kings roster, will be promoted to the first line at the right wing slot. In 11 games this season, Hunter has recorded two assists, 15 shots, and 24 hits. Hunter will provide little in this role, and it probably won’t last very long at all. You’re basically putting a bad Dustin Brown on a line that has Dustin Brown on it – and he’s struggling himself. Not only that, Brown is moving to the left wing which isn’t his primary position, but did play on the left side a few times last season.

That Fourth Line: Is brutal, no questions asked. Why Murray feels the need to ice an enforcer in Kevin Westgarth has troubled me for quite some time. There is less and less need for heavyweights in the NHL these days, protection of vital players isn’t completely necessary, especially when you’re surrendering a roster spot to another player who’s got some offensive capabilities – certainly not Westgarth.

Let’s talk worthless play and stupid penalties while we’re at it, let’s talk Ethan Moreau. He doesn’t provide any positive worth to this team. Let’s stop talking about Ethan Moreau. Sadly, Colin Fraser is the only player on Murray’s 4th line that I see fit and worthy of dressing – that’s not saying much.

Brad Richardson and Trevor Lewis > Ethan Moreau and Kevin Westgarth – regardless of their point production.

In the Stolldrums

Position Swap: Two players will be put to the test in different roles tonight, but not unfamiliar. Andrei Loktionov, a natural centerman, will get the opportunity to showcase himself between Kyle Clifford and Justin Williams on the third line. This grouping may be the most intriguing new-look line Terry Murray has assembled. You’ve got Loktionov, who’s been decent at the left wing position, back to his comfort zone with two forwards who are in desperate need of production. Williams has been without a goal since October 27th, Clifford’s lone tally came back on October 20th. If you’re looking for revitalization, look for some production from this 3rd line set.

The other player changing positions is Jarret Stoll, moving from center to right wing, now playing with Simon Gagne and Mike Richards on the 2nd line. This could be a positive change as well, but you’re doing away with Stoll’s faceoff abilities. Stoll is struggling mightily this season, and notched his first goal since October 18th Saturday night. With just 2 goals and 5 assists on the season, Stoll could benefit from this change. Gagne and Richards will maintain movement and strong possession, Stoll needs to help in that department and hound on loose pucks. He’s got the shot, that’s for sure.

This guy needs some support

This guy needs to do something

Preferrably not this

Credit Puck Daddy for the find

Speaking of finding things, if Terry Murray‘s lineup changes don’t find some steady offensive output, he soon may need to find another job. Go Kings.

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Out of State: For a club that plugged through possibly the most difficult travel schedule in recent NHL history to start the season, the Kings have been settled in ideal confines for some time now. In the previous six contests, the Kings have hosted five dates at Staples Center, marking the visitors category just once with a quick jump on the highway to see the cross-town Anaheim Ducks.

In that six-game span, the Kings posted a 4-2-0 record, accounting for 8 of 12 possible points. The lingering gray areas surrounding this team’s performance certainly make those results acceptable. The Kings losses came at the hands of the Vancouver Canucks and Detroit Red Wings; both slow, frustrating offensive performances. However, the Kings were able to take both matchups from the Anaheim Ducks, although handing a point Anaheim’s way allowing a late goal that extended the first contest to OT and a shootout.

Unique Uni’s: This will be a quick road trip, with back-to-back dates tonight against the St. Louis Blues and tomorrow night against the Dallas Stars. The Kings won’t be donning their regular visitors’ wardrobe, but a sweater that has only made one regular season appearance away from Staples Center in team history – November 2, 2009 at Jobing.com Arena against the Phoenix Coyotes. It’ll be the black and purple crown hemline shirts for both contests on this trip. The Kings are 1-1 in the purple hems this season.

Berning up

Bernier for One: As expected, and as predicted, Jonathan Quick got the nod for both contests against the Ducks and for Detroit’s visit. Previously looking ahead to Bernier’s next start, I tabbed tonight’s date in St. Louis to be the most plausible – and Terry Murray has notioned those same feelings, as Jonathan Bernier will be in net for the Kings tonight at the Scottrade Center.

It’s best to let Quick occupy the crease against a Pacific Division opponent in Dallas tomorrow. Bernier has just two starts in the Kings’ previous 13 games, and the performances have been nothing above average. Then again, it’s tough to perform well under such a spotty schedule. Quick, like the rest of the Kings roster, looked flubbish in Saturday’s 4-1 loss to Detroit, and was also riding his 5th consecutive start. Murray’s goaltending decisions regarding this two-game road set are completely validated.

Not OV-er yet

Not Russian the Process: Even though Dustin Penner and Alec Martinez are now eligible to return from the IR, neither will due to further recovery needs – and maybe, further analysis from Kings’ brass about the situation at-hand. Both Andrei Loktionov and Viatcheslav Voynov immediately injected a boost into this offense, and the roster’s overall tempo.

It was clear in the Anaheim double-take last week that the Kings were playing at a faster, crisper pace than seen so far this year. Don’t be short on admitting, Loktionov and Voynov were huge factors in the upbeat play. It’s not so much that they’ve provided production at a great level, but these two players open a lot more opportunity and space when on the ice. Loktionov has been an upgrade in every facet of a hockey player’s skill-set than Dustin Penner, and Viatcheslav Voynov has shown more poise and control than Martinez on the blue-line, also equaling Marty’s 16 game point-total in the three games he’s been back in the NHL.

Chances are, it’s going to be the same old song for Andrei Loktionov, reporting for AHL assignment upon Penner’s return to the lineup. As for Voynov, there’s no question his status upon Martinez’s return is a hot front office topic. There’s plausible options to consider in efforts to keep Voynov at the NHL level, which could involve waiving Davis Drewiske, keeping Alec Martinez as the 7th defenseman, or trading Martinez. There have been talks, but nothing worth getting into right now. By keeping Martinez and Penner out for this road trip, the Kings could be buying time for more than just injury recovery.

Where ya been?

Secondary Slump: The Kings’ 3rd and 4th lines haven’t been providing too much spark to offensive production, if any at all. Quite frankly, you’re going to have to back-track to the Kings’ 5-goal outpour against the Minnesota Wild to find any evidence, Colin Fraser‘s goal. I wouldn’t go as far to say they’ve been a detriment, but consistent scoring still should be coming from your back-end forwards.

Speaking of which, Brad Richardson and Trevor Lewis have absolutely disappeared, and it looks like they literally will tonight in St. Louis – both are healthy scratches. Both players have a single assist to their names, and have dressed in a heavy majority of games played this season. Richardson got high-praise for his 5-point series in the Western Conference Quarterfinals against the San Jose Sharks, I had difficulty buying into it – Richardson’s current output is showing why. As for Lewis, he’s seriously reliable on the defensive end, he tends to disappear when crossing the red-line.

This looks like a guy who’s got an itchy ear

This also looks like a guy who’s about to get canned.
1-7-3 in your last 11 ain’t gonna cut it, bubs – even with a new contract. That sucks.

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Familiar Faces, Foe: The Kings, after a three-day hiatus from league play, occupy Staples Center tonight to finalize their current four-game homestand. It’ll be a cross-town back-to-back affair with the Anaheim Ducks tonight and tomorrow, both clubs hitting the highway to take ice in Orange County Thursday night. This will be the first time these two Pacific Division rivals meet this season.

-  Due to roster shortages in Los Angeles, both Andrei Loktionov and Viatcheslav Voynov will return to the Kings’ lineup tonight. Dustin Penner is out with a hand injury, Alec Martinez out with an apparent shoulder injury – both are on short-term IR.

- Colin Fraser, beside Mike Richards and Simon Gagne, has shown the makings to quite possibly be the Kings’ most valuable asset attained over the summer. Fraser is showing attributes that fit quite well into a 4th-line centerman role, where he’ll be positioned again tonight in his third game as a King. He’s been more involved than Ethan Moreau and Dustin Penner, tossing his frame around with 9 hits and finding opportunity with 1 goal on 2 shots in his first appearances.

- After the three-day break, expect Jonathan Quick to get the starting nod in both contests against the Anaheim Ducks, likewise Saturday afternoon against the Detroit Red Wings. I see Jonathan Bernier sliding into the rotation next Tuesday against the St. Louis Blues.

Reconfiguration – Rejuvenation?

Voynov Effect: Due to Viatcheslav Voynov‘s recall from the AHL‘s Manchester Monarchs to fill in for the injured Alec Martinez, the defensive lines will get shuffled a bit. Voynov, who appeared in 5 games for the Kings in October, was then filling in for Drew Doughty. Voynov’s stint was a respectable one, chipping in with 1 goal, 2 assists, 8 hits, 9 shots in his five appearances.

Voynov will be paired with Willie Mitchell‘s secure play, which is very sensible. The other two pairs will be Matt Greene with Rob Scuderi, and Drew Doughty with Jack Johnson. This creates a shutdown tandem of Greene and Scuderi, a balanced duo of experience and playing style in Voynov and Mitchell, and an all-facet threat with Doughty and Johnson’s partnership.

If nothing else, this will play extremely well into Terry Murray‘s matchup strategies, not many NHL clubs can ice three defensive pairings that resemble such a wide variety of strong attributes as the Kings can with these six players. Unless Voynov impresses to a degree in which the Kings would be foolish to designate him to the AHL again, expect the Chelyabinsk native to take assignment when Alec Martinez returns.

Top-Six Boost

Andrei’s Up: After failing to make the Kings’ roster out of training camp, Andrei Loktionov gets another jab at the NHL level. Loktionov’s past call-ups haven’t come with a lack of pressure, where he’s been accustomed to aggressive lineup configuration from Terry Murray. Loktionov has been thrown into vital roles on the top two lines in the majority of games he’s played as a King, switching from his accustomed role at center to left wing.

Loktionov finds himself in that position again, tabbed to hold the left wing spot on the second line with Mike Richards and Dustin Brown tonight. The high-pressure position as a top-six forward, and out of his natural position at center, actually fared all right last season. In 19 games with the Kings last season, Loktionov played along the left side of Anze Kopitar on the Kings’ top line. The results weren’t staggering, notching 4 goals and 3 assists in his ’10-’11 stint. In 17 games with the Manchester Monarchs this season, Loktionov leads the central New Hampshire club with 14 points, via 3 goals and 11 assists.

Loktionov will bring much-needed speed, something that has been a moderate issue for this offense. The bigger question regarding Loktionov will be his strength, how well he recovers, handles, and creates opportunity with loose pucks. Winning races to pucks has never been a flaw for Loktionov, his ability to attain control with heavy pressure has. The addition of Loktionov’s speed factor is an enticing look alongside Richards and Brown, but puck recovery and control will only make substantial use of that value.

Hey! Don’t get caught wearing the jersey of a former not so great underachiever like Alexander Frolov, when you can easily transform it into the jersey of someone who probably wont be that great but are maximizing their achievement ceiling like Colin Fraser!!

All you have to do is switch the ‘olov’ to ‘aser’ and you’re good to go. Just use some black tape, letter stencils, and some white paint or something and stop being a b*tch.

Here’s what Colin Fraser thinks about Alexander Frolov jerseys

Colin Fraser also doesn’t give a sh*t about mouth guards

There’s the face of a fourth-line centerman
Fraser and the Russians are on watch tonight

Bailey going Tony Montana on Wild Wing

Wouldn’t have, but it’s Kings-Ducks for two in a row. Back-to-back, Home-and-home.

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Streaky: Nashville’s the last sentiment the Kings have to build off of. The Kings, who ended their slide at Staples Center Tuesday night with a 4-3 victory, also ended their slide in general – a five game span that accounted for an 0-3-2 record. Recall however, the Kings started the season in elite fashion with a 5-1-1 record compiled in the first seven contests.

It’s been up, it’s been down: The victory against the Nashville Predators has the chance to be a path to escape from recent miseries, but what positive steps did this club really show beside growth in the standings? If they don’t build on the good aspects shown Tuesday night, problems may be deeply engrained in the system.

-  Dustin Penner has clearly played his best two games of the season, but a few shots and an assist doesn’t nearly have me sold on his long-term status with this offense.

-  Jonathan Bernier got the call Tuesday, and the results were refreshing. As for the performance, it wasn’t complete by any means. I guess you could attain some of it to his six-game backup role, previously without a start since October 25.

-  Drew Doughty‘s tally on Tuesday will hopefully balance his play, settle things down a bit. There’s no question a bit of anxiety was released when he beat Anders Lindback for his first goal of the season.

Secondary Sources

Depth: For just the third time this season, the Kings recorded more than two goals in regulation. That, without Anze Kopitar‘s name inking the scoresheet. The Kings’ blue-line finally showed some life in the offensive zone, and it wasn’t Jack Johnson. Drew Doughty and Alec Martinez both recorded their first goals of the campaign, which should open options and create a bit more space for the forwards if blue-line production can continue.

Monkey off the back

Welcoming Sight: You really couldn’t find a player on the Kings roster that was more in-need of a goal than Drew Doughty, beside Dustin Penner of course. Talk about some fresh air both the Kings’ fanbase and Doughty himself. One of the popular topics of criticism regarding Doughty’s play since his return is trying to do too much. Now that the nerves have settled a bit, this could be a serious boost to his confidence. Not to say his offensive game was the glaring issue, because it wasn’t. But, now that he’s queued Staples’ train-horn, his head may relax, focusing on balanced play, not trying to make unnecessary plays.

Right direction, More production

Dustin it: As you can see in the image above, Dustin Penner‘s production and performance since making way to Los Angeles last spring has been downright abysmal. If you can put on the blinders and focus on the past two games alone, he’s showing spurts of life. We shouldn’t be praising this, we shouldn’t be gawking at some shots and an assist.

The only positives I’ve seen from Penner is subtle improvements with his quickness and following through on plays, instead of circling off. His decisions with the puck have been horrible, even in the last two contests. Too often has he surrendered the puck with blind passes to the middle of the ice, namely on the breakout and in the neutral zone. This also feeds into his positioning, where his transformation from catching to passing is horribly rough.

Offense’ll do it

Solution?: You can manipulate the Kings’ struggles any which way, but the numbers are showing it’s leaning heavily on offensive production. When the Kings score more than two goals, they are unbeaten at 5-0-0. When the Kings are able to record the first goal of a given contest, they finish strong with a 5-1-2 record. And how about leading the game after two periods? Well, at least we know they can hold 3rd period leads, the Kings with an attractive 4-0-0 record when entering the 3rd frame on top.

As for that offense, there will be some changes regarding personnel tonight. Trent Hunter, who has been a healthy scratch for the previous four games, will be playing on the right side of the third-line. The Kings will also finally get some use out of the exchange made for Ryan Smyth over the summer. Colin Fraser, who has been cleared to play, will make his Kings debut on the fourth-line. Brad Richardson is your surprise scratch tonight, his first sit of the year.

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- Have failed to record more than two goals in regulation in ten of twelve contests.
- Averaging 2.12 goals per game (13th in Western Conference).
- 3 for 18 on Powerplay opportunities in last five games combined.
- One goal recorded in the last 180 minutes (3 games) of ice at Staples Center.

Hmmm…

“Mmmm… Traitorade“

Damnit.

Short Leash: Well, all right. The downtail the Kings are riding isn’t anything extraordinarily bad, in fact it’s been pretty tolerable – until last night. Heck, 5-0-1 out of the gate is going to buffer the nerves for a bit. Here’s the difference between this season and years’ past, there isn’t a lot of room for testing patience. The Kings have done that to themselves through success within the draft and development departments, and a handful of impressive recent moves from GM Dean Lombardi. Not to mention, the results laid out from a young core of players the past two seasons, many of whom are still here.

Beside Alec Martinez and Drew Doughty‘s mild struggles on the Kings’ back-end, the offensive department has been the glaring scapegoat – you can even dip into the latter part of the Kings’ 5-0-1 start to see their struggles. See: Jonathan Quick shutouts. How about some back-up for the blame? The Kings are averaging 2.12 goals per game, have scored more than 2 goals in regulation only twice in twelve puck-drops, and are just about the worst scoring team in the entire Western Conference sitting in the 13th slot in front of the Anaheim Ducks and Minnesota Wild.

“Everybody’s on my f*cking tail, Anze. Let’s go with that ‘hitting the net with your shot’ theory we went over in practice. F*ck.“

Creating Chances: Beside the Edmonton contests, shot totals haven’t been the telling issue, shot quality has. In the Kings previous two games, they outshot the Colorado Avalanche 32-16, and the Phoenix Coyotes 39-32, and were still fighting just to maintain pace on the scoreboard. They’re not creating opportunity for those quality chances, most of which stem from second shots and slot presence. There’s been a lack in recovery of rebounds, or traffic in front of the opposition’s net to disrupt shots, or open lanes for short-range passes.

To add to the misery, the former King renown for his success in front of the net and rebound recovery, Ryan Smyth, put the hurt on the Kings and their offensive issues in potting the game-winning goal Tuesday.

Look, you could count on defensive stability in a pretty confident state heading into the season, but where with you regarding the offense? OK, we’re working with two major additions here, Mike Richards and Simon Gagne. We’ve got the top-line left-winger we’ve been sought after and another premier centerman to fill holes in an already somewhat stable offensive scheme. Is Terry Murray‘s heavily defensive mindset disrupting what should be gleaming production from these new assets? It very well could be.

Flat Feet: Recovering loose pucks in the offensive zone has been hampered by a lack of quickness and solid positioning in the 5-on-5 game. As for Jamie Kompon‘s powerplay, which has executed on just 3 of the last 18 powerplay opportunities has fallen victim to a lack of movement. A lot of idle passing, a lot of in-place shots, keeping lanes stagnant and giving opposition time and space to react to Kings puck movement.

Struggles at the ‘Stape

The Bulin Wall: For the first time in in Staples Center history, the Kings have gone without a goal in two consecutive games. For the second time in history, Nikolai Khabibulin has shut-out the Kings in Los Angeles after they’d been held scoreless in the home date prior. The last time this happened, which took place in 1998 at the Great Western Forum, Khabibulin was in the second year of a three-season tenure with the Phoenix Coyotes.

Happy Feet: Answers are going to need to start presenting themselves in tonight’s date with the Pittsburgh Penguins, where the Kings will see Pittsburgh for the second consecutive season without Sidney Crosby. Don’t consider the Penguins shorthanded without Crosby, as they’ve managed to sustain an incredible start to the season without #87, tied atop the Eastern Conference at 19 points with the Toronto Maple Leafs.

It’ll be one of the NHL‘s best goaltenders in Marc-Andre Fleury for the Kings to fight their woes tonight. Fleury is posting an astounding 1.96 GAA with a 7-2-1 record, in front of a stalwart back-end allowing just 2.09 goals per game. The Penguins are finalizing a three game road trip in tonight’s date at Staples Center, a venture away from home that has disrupted their recent 5-game winning streak. The Penguins dropped a contest 4-3 against the Toronto Maple Leafs Saturday and gave way via extra shots Thursday night in a 4-3 OT loss against the San Jose Sharks.

Shot mentality: Winning’s reality

Cold as an Igloo: Due to Conference alignment, these two clubs usually only see each other once every season. You’ve got to back-track to February 10th of 2011 to find the last date, where Pittsburgh exposed similar problems engrained in the Kings offense at the Consol Energy Center. The Kings battered Fleury and the Penguins with 33 shots, yet could only find the scoresheet once. Jordan Staal queued ushers in OT beating Drew Doughty to the outside on a mid-range rush. Traffic is going to be the storyline tonight for the Kings, and shots fired into that traffic. Fancy is off the table right now, bounces have been known to swing spirits.

Tune into KingsCast’s Episode 127 HERE
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Here’s your latest from Gann Matsuda at Frozen Royalty – News and Views on the Los Angeles Kings and National Hockey League. Gann focuses on two rough edges in the Kings’ offense – Scott Parse and Dustin Penner, and how their contributions outweigh those of Drew Doughty’s right now. Capped off with a quick update on Simon Gagne’s return to the Kings lineup tonight.

EL SEGUNDO, CA — Eleven games into the 2011-12 National Hockey League season, the Los Angeles Kings have a 6-3-2 record, placing them second in the Pacific Division, and fourth in the Western Conference, through games played on November 3.

In other words, although things could be better, especially in the attacking zone, there are a lot of positives for the Kings at this point in the season.

“I feel good about the start of the year, very good, actually,” said head coach Terry Murray. “When I take into consideration how the schedule was for us, through the week before we went to Europe, it was very busy. [We played five games in seven nights], then, we go overseas, we had a couple of games over there, and then make the adjustment to come back to the East Coast. That was demanding in itself. That was a big test, and I was very, very concerned about it during the off-season, looking at that part of the schedule.”

“How fast do you get re-adjusted? I’ve never done that before as the coach of a team,” added Murray. “I did it as a player, but you never pay attention to it. You just do it. I’ve seen where teams come back, and have a tough time getting back on track, settled in, getting the fatigue out of the way, and start to play the game at the right pace again. But I really like the way we handled the schedule here. Emotionally, the players understood what it was all about, and prepared themselves very well.”

Although the Kings only managed to break even on their last three games, going 1-1-1 on a three-game road trip to Dallas, Phoenix and Colorado, Murray was not disappointed with his team’s performance.

“Our game, going into this last road trip that started in Dallas, was high energy,” he explained. “There was compete, great pace to the game, we were playing a very good game going into Dallas, and we wound up winning it.”

“There was a nice continuation over the next two games,” he elaborated. “We only got the one point. Still, coming out of Colorado, I felt good about it. I was proud of the way the players played—three [games] in four nights.”

“I’m very pleased with how the early part of the season has unfolded for us.”

Read the rest on Frozen Royalty.

Matt Greene’s face doesn’t feel that laceration.

That laceration feels Matt Greene’s face.

Even-Keel: Just about everything for the Kings was on perfect terms when I last did the Inter-web thing. Jonathan Quick was inking record books, the Kings’ accounted for every point available during their first 3 games against Western Conference opponents, and most notably had yet to lose a game in regulation.

As common trend and perception would have it, such a start wouldn’t last forever – a few setbacks are expected, nothing out of the ordinary. But really, does this fanbase now have the ability to direct certain attention to smaller, finite details, things that may have been overlooked in the past due to the team’s struggling aroma? Those details are engrained in the club’s previous four games, the result of which was a 1-2-1 record with just three points earned.

The criticism motioned toward Terry Murray‘s goalie decisions is warranted to a certain degree, but not a valid issue to point blame. In order for Jamie Kompon to institute powerplay success, which went 3 for 15 in the last four contests, shots need to start hitting the net. Really, how much is Davis Drewiske worth to this defense? I think he’s worth waivers for Slava Voynov‘s cause. Scott Parse is scoring goals, but his 12 penalty minutes in 3 games are threatening to overshadow those contributions – Stop getting booked for interference and tripping. Anze Kopitar is awesome. This is looking to be the start of the downward slope to the end of an NHL hockey career for Dustin Penner.

That other guy: I’m in the minority here, but I both liked and respected Terry Murray‘s decision to start Jonathan Bernier Tuesday night. What was the big goaltending issue just a couple seasons back? Trust. Murray didn’t trust Erik Ersberg, so Murray worked Quick like a tax-return agent gets worked in April. You can’t have trust issues with a goaltender like Bernier, and Murray showed where his head was. Bernier hadn’t played since October 8th, his only start in the Kings’ first six games.

And yes, I realize Ersberg is no Bernier, but Murray can’t rest on the back of one guy again. Whether you want Bernier played as trade bait, or played for the right reasons, it doesn’t matter. Mix occasional and consistent together, he deserves that. In fact, I’d like to see Bernier get one of these next three dates. Spotty, but consistent appearances for Bernier will play into Jonathan Quick‘s favor down the road.

Here’s the goal that effectively ruined Erik Ersberg‘s ’09-’10 season, and ultimately his NHL career. That was the only shot the New York Rangers took in that fateful 3rd period, and that also may be the most disgusting shot Marian Gaborik has ever released.

Stick around for a while.

Accommodations: Drew Doughty is on everyone’s radar with every stride, which makes it easier to pick apart his unsettled play thus far. It also makes it harder to accept Slava Voynov‘s AHL demotion. Doughty’s got a lot on his shoulders right now, and that weight will probably sit for the majority of the season. He’s working to overcome a late arrival, a minor injury, and appearances that haven’t exactly matched the status his name holds. However, unfair to take jabs this early.

It’ll be a bit of time for Drew Doughty to get in full-sync with the team, and himself. That’s where it hurts to not have Voynov in the mix. With Voynov’s AHL assignment, you’re putting – from what I’ve seen, a back-end responsible, offensively aware young defenseman who many believe is NHL-ready in no man’s land in regards to the status of his progress. Voynov’s development and exposure is ready for a lengthy NHL gig, his future with the Kings puts Davis Drewiske‘s to shame.

That’s where legalities come into play; for the Kings to option Davis Drewiske and keep Slava Voynov, Drewiske would have to clear waivers. Oh no, don’t take Drewiske. Another name that has popped up is Alec Martinez, but I wouldn’t even consider it. Martinez would also have to clear the waiver wire, and he is far too valuable to even give it serious thought. Drewiske has been hanging around too long, I guess the underlying issue here must be the emergency back-up role if one or two blue-line men hit the IR for a lengthy period of time. Davis Drewiske or Thomas Hickey? Pick your poison.

Thursday calls for an old friend.

Still Going: The numbers show, Ryan Smyth didn’t go back to Edmonton to die. In the Oilers’ 11 games, Smyth has racked up a hefty 5 goals and 5 assists. Smyth isn’t hinging his output strictly on crease presence either, he’s released a whopping 30 shots in those 11 games, averaging 2.7 per game. I don’t see that ratio holding up throughout the season, but that’s more shots within a short time-frame I can ever remember Smyth taking in Los Angeles.

Smyth’s reception on Thursday night at Staples Center should be an interesting one. There won’t be a grand applause, nor will there be a sea of boos. Although Smyth’s name triggered drama within the Kings’ organization that lingered throughout the summer, I’ve gotten over it – I think most have. At the end of the day, you’ve got to realize both Ryan Smyth and the Kings are better off apart. Get there early for warm-ups to see the best hair the NHL has to offer.

Thursday calls for an old dress.

Return of the Hem-Lines: The Kings will be donning the newly-tabbed third jerseys against the Edmonton Oilers on Thursday. This template is slated to be worn six times at Staples Center throughout the season, with the vintage purple and golds making three appearances for heritage night celebrations.

There’s an eye opener regarding the Kings’ alternate jersey schedule, something you rarely see happen. The crown hem-lines (above) will make a couple of cameos on the road this season, planned to be the wardrobe for back-to-back contests November 22 @ St. Louis Blues and November 23 @ Dallas Stars. The Kings have only worn these templates once on the road before, back-tracking to November 2nd, 2009 during a date with the Phoenix Coyotes at Jobing.com Arena. That unique uniform instance was never presented as an official plan, nor explained after the matter.

In rare form.

Check for moths, you’ve got some threads for Thursday night.

Tune into KingsCast’s Episode 127 HERE
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Solid Seven: There’s little to complain about when looking back at the Kings’ first seven regular season contests, a seven-game start that has claimed a 5-1-1 record sitting on a wealthy 11 points. In fact, if you could dive into a negative aspect regarding the Kings’ start, you’re referring to a non-issue at this point. There are no glaring heroes carrying the club, everything is seeming to click in all aspects of the Kings’ game, and their roster.

Not only are the top players feeding off of new acquisitions, but the depth needed to maintain those top roles are shaping the strength of this team. The Kings have an offense averaging 2.4 goals per game, a stalwart blue-line allowing just 1.3 goals per game, all in front of Jonathan Quick. This wall is sporting a 5-0-1 record with three shutouts and a disgusting .973 save percentage, simply the backbone to the threatening core the Kings have developed.

Pipes

Shattering the Books: In result of another absolutely stellar performance Saturday night, Jonathan Quick became the first goalie in Kings history to record three consecutive shutouts. This is elite status, folks. Quick hasn’t allowed a goal in the last 188 minutes and 10 seconds of live-play. That sets another Kings record, Rogie Vachon now down to second on the list, his former streak of 185 minutes and 55 seconds set during the 1975-1976 campaign topped.

Quick’s playing a sound game, his positioning cuts angles like corporate cuts jobs. He’s rarely out of position, and when he purposely does so to play the puck, it’s a little easier on the nerves than in the recent past. Regardless of the streak Quick’s riding, Jonathan Bernier will get the start tomorrow night against the New Jersey Devils. I like this move from Terry Murray, an Eastern Conference opponent, much-needed action for Bernier, and early rest for Quick.

Blue-line

Deserves a Look: Don’t ignore the defensemen who have subdued primary scoring opportunities, shooting lanes, and the opposition’s use (or lack there-of) of the offensive zone slot. They’re keeping everything along the boards and to the outside, this develops angles that are friendly to Quick’s positioning while reducing traffic.

Jack Johnson has been the highlight star among the group, netting three game-winning goals with two coming in OT. Johnson seems to be more open with his shot this season, directing a puck toward the front of the net whenever the opportunity arises. Also, he’s developed what may be a continuing role/position on the powerplay, where his usual threat atop the zone with his shot is uniquely positioned low in the zone for secondary looks.

The absence of Drew Doughty, who is set to return either Thursday in Dallas or Saturday in Phoenix hasn’t really been an issue, Slava Voynov‘s impressive debut at the NHL level has filled the role rather nicely. However, chances are Voynov will return to the Manchester Monarchs upon Doughty’s return. Since Davis Drewiske would have to clear waivers in order to be assigned, Voynov will most likely be paying another visit to central New Hampshire and the AHL.

Red-light

Electric Bill: Consider the importance this organization stressed about having a dependable “Top Six” in the offensive department during the past couple of off-seasons. Now, look at the players headlining the Kings’ statistical output. Albeit Dustin Penner with his lone assist and trudgy stride, Anze Kopitar (10), Simon Gagne (7), Justin Williams (7), Mike Richards (6), and Dustin Brown (4) are leading the Kings’ roster in the scoring department.

Someone give Jamie Kompon a get-free card for the next couple of weeks, the Kings’ powerplay ranks 6th in the NHL with a success-rate at %25. Now, if Kompon was still pulling ugly results, this would be a different story. With Richards and Gagne, the options should be near countless when drawing up a system. A successful powerplay shouldn’t be a common acclaim for this club, it should be expected. This is good for now, but struggles similar to those seen the previous two seasons on the man-advantage shouldn’t be tolerated.

“Ahh.. so this must be what it’s like to play at Jobing.com Arena. *Sigh…”

“Hey sweet cheeks… I can last longer than Halak”
(50 Bucks says that’s at an Applebees or something. Maybe a Chili’s)

My friend spotted Jonathan Quick hanging out in public the other day, and he was able to snap a sweet candid pic!! Look at that smile.

“Eww I just touched Brodeur! He’s so old!! And mediocre!! And hurt!!”

It’ll be ‘The Moose’ for the Devils tomorrow night.

The Brodeur Cure: Quite ironic, actually. I’m well aware of Johan Hedberg‘s background, and know that his nickname derives from his 16-game stint with the International Hockey League‘s (IHL) Manitoba Moose in 1998. Well, not his 16 appearances exactly, but the “lucky” helmet he wore while tending for Manitoba and thereafter in his transition into the NHL with the Pittsburgh Penguins. The Manitoba Moose, an organization that successfully tenured 15 seasons in the difficult market that is minor league hockey (IHL, AHL) were forced to relocate to St. John’s, Newfoundland when the Winnipeg Jets confirmed relocation from Atlanta. The majority of Hedberg’s NHL career took place with the Atlanta Thrashers, housing the crease for the now defunct NHL club in 136 games from 2006-2010.

Tune into KingsCast’s Episode 126 HERE
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Tic-Tac, Tic-Tac

Paddywhack

Working Overtime: The Kings have closed cases on both of their victories in two fashions that would surprise most, considering the club’s recent past. Both defeats have come in the extra frame while on the powerplay, and off of Jack Johnson‘s stick. How about some deserved breathing room for Jamie Kompon, and some substance to Johnson’s healthy contract extension he took the ink to in January. Sure, you could call both of these Mike Richards – Jack Johnson connections botched plays. However, the recovery, or impressively quick reaction/adaptation to a fumbled setup is what what makes both of these finale’s absolute gold. In both instances against the Rangers’ Henrik Lundqvist and the Flyers’ Ilya Bryzgalov, Richards’ exploited his ridiculous ability to make plays in touchy situations, where Johnson’s aggressive positioning opened opportunity. This is your diamond found in the Kings’ early mediocrity.

A fair guage

Sideshows aside: We’re done with Europe, we’re done with the North American opener, and we’re done with the homecoming-reunion affair in Philadelphia. Dennis Bernstein, the Senior Writer and Director at the Fourth Period Magazine said it best over the weekend through twitter, citing:

“True barometer for #LAKings early season will be next week when they go STL/at PHX/DAL.“

And yes, that is certainly the case. The Kings have the St. Louis Blues, Phoenix Coyotes, and Dallas Stars on the week’s slate. All Western Conference opponents, two of which reside in the Pacific Division – all teams the Kings are expected to beat, the Kings need to beat. Regardless of the early starts these opponents have chalked up, their season outlook doesn’t behold the level of expectations, or talent, that the Kings do. All three of these opponents would consider their 2011-2012 campaign a success with a playoff slot. For the Kings, it’s renown that multiple playoff rounds conjoined with a threat to be a Stanley Cup favorite is the tag-line.

Speaking of tag-lines

It’s also time for a new marketing department.

Kings O’Clock – The hype’s ripe: Hockey’s back in Los Angeles, where excuses for failure will be as valid as your reasoning for scrapping 5th period Algebra in 10th grade. That’s what makes the week’s schedule stand out. This roster has developed serious credentials to look down upon lesser opponents. That’s baggage for attention, that’s being a target, that’s being good. This week should see absolutely no less than four points attained, unless another home-ice relapse is witnessed. For the first time this season, the setting is steady, especially with the only road game this week taking place in Phoenix, which has to be one of the weakest road environments to perform in. The downside? The Kings are without Drew Doughty, but not for contract reasons.

V for Voynov

Slava-Rama: After falling victim to a solid cross-ice hit in Philadelphia, Drew Doughty has been placed on the Kings’ Injured Reserve list for the next 7-10 days with an undisclosed upper-body injury. This opens up another opportunity for prospect Slava Voynov, a defenseman that would grace most NHL rosters out of training camp. Voynov, who made a case for himself during the preseason with steady defensive coverage coupled with a goal and an assist, is coming off of a 2010-2011 campaign in the AHL with the Manchester Monarchs that saw him record 51 points in 76 games. Voynov, who was assigned to Manchester following Doughty’s signing, has called for a goal and an assist in two games with Manchester – along with a +5 rating. Expect Voynov to get regular time, even ahead of Davis Drewiske, and maybe an appearance or two with the Kings’ second powerplay unit.

Jack-O Lantern

Back in the States

Turning back the clock – :27.3 left on the clock

Dancing with the Devils: This will be the first official road game for the Kings this season, as both contests abroad had the AEG-owned club slated in the home category. Kings owner Phil Anschutz holds ownership of the O2 Arena in Berlin, Germany and the Ericsson Globe in Stockholm, Sweden – both arenas that housed the Kings’ two regular season contests during the NHL Premiere. Fair? Probably not, but who’s to say two less puck-drops at Staples Center won’t benefit the Kings down the road, stemming from their knack to bring the bulk of their sub-par performances to Los Angeles over the past few years. And of course, this will be the first game in which the new road uniforms present themselves in official fashion.

That doesn’t count, man!!

It’s Early: Both clubs enter tonight’s contests holding 1-1 records, but the New Jersey Devils have been graced with settled hospitality, making tonight their 3rd consecutive game at the Prudential Center in Newark. The Devils began the year on a sour note, blanked by the Philadelphia Flyers 3-0, the team in which the Kings visit after tonight’s game. The Devils rebounded in hosting the Carolina Hurricanes, while embracing an impressive offensive performance after an M.I.A. debut. Ilya Kovalchuk netted the Devils’ game-winner, and Zach Parise pitched in with two goals of his own – finishing Kovalchuk’s tally with empty net insurance. And who would’ve known? Former terribly inefficient King Alexei Ponikarovsky netted his first of the season, his first as a Hurricane.

Good to see!

But still not that good.

Roster Notes: Expect to see Martin Brodeur penciled in tonight, although Johan Hedberg showed flashes of his old self Monday night. Brodeur and Hedberg’s playing time could very well fit the rationing Kings’ goaltenders Jonathan Quick and Jonathan Bernier will be subject to this season. Quick will be tonight’s starter, you can’t expect Terry Murray to attend to his “hot goalie” strategy this early, nothing fits. Smart rotation until serious difference in performance is evident.

After missing the first two regular season games with an undisclosed lower-body injury, after a summer ravaged by conditioning criticism, Dustin Penner will be back in the Kings’ lineup. There’s been less hype than concern, but that’s not a bad thing. If you’ve looked into the details of Penner’s off-season regimen, or tuned into Episode 124 here at KingsCast, you’ll know that suffering a minor injury in the body area where heavy work was centered on isn’t uncommon, and something you shouldn’t lose any sleep over. Quite frankly, I’m approaching his performance this year as if last year never happened. Fresh start. And of course, a big thank you to the state of Maryland for hosting Kings practice skates during the 4-day hiatus.

Of course they’re Devils fans out there in MD, but someone’s gotta watch the guy managing the sign.

Hey, at least the guy’s got his head on straight with this one!

You can do so, here. Go Kings

Los Angeles Kings @ New Jersey Devils
4:00PM PST – Prudential Center

**Please Note: The practice photo used in this piece is credited to Rich Hammond of the LA Kings Insider. A credit is inserted in first use of the photo.

“Be a pal and step-in on this dance for a minute, Craig.
@KingsCastBlog just hit me up on the Twit!“

“I’ll be in the lobby, fools.“

Back on board: We’re back to celebrate tonight’s commencement of the NHL regular season, and of course highlighting the Kings’ opener tomorrow at the Ericsson Globe in Stockholm, Sweden. This will be the first official contest overseas for the Kings, after putting a cap on preseason action Tuesday choking out a 5-4 victory in Germany against the DEL‘s Hamburg Freezers. The Kings will open the work-year against the New York Rangers, the second consecutive season the Kings start in the Eastern Conference. Let’s take a quick back-track and see how the Kings’ preseason ventures shaped out.

Early Preformances

As bland as tumultuous gets: Take exhibitions with a grain of salt. You’re going to catch a few striking moments, and a few that kill the nerves. Up-down, up-down, which seemed to be the ride taken during the eight-game preseason stretch. The Kings tallied 4 wins and 4 losses in the eight contests that were spattered with heavy roster movement in some unfamiliar buildings.

Manchester’s got V’s: Slava Voynov took advantage of Drew Doughty‘s absence, potting two goals and an assist before his dismissal to Manchester. Don’t be surprised to see Voynov in Los Angeles sometime this season, as he was the leader to be tabbed Doughty’s replacement if the holdout ensued into regular season play. Andrei Loktionov, who’s familiar with Los Angeles, failed to overcome the hardship that is being a prospect at the center position in the Kings organization. Nevermind the top two centerman, but Loktionov just isn’t a better option than Jarret Stoll or Trevor Lewis. A strong transition to a wing position may be the harsh reality to Loktionov’s near future with this organization. A goal and an assist, Loktionov back to Manchester as well.

Familiar faces: You look at the numbers game, Anze Kopitar headlined the roster with four goals, Jack Johnson topped the assists category with three. However, back to the up-down concept. September 28th provided it all; Beside the 6-0 Colorado Avalanche drubbing, all of Johnson’s assists were recorded this night, as well as three of Kopitar’s four goals. And how about Alec Martinez? I’m tabbing him as the dark-horse for the Kings defense this season. Not only has he shown the knack to be downright steady in the defensive zone, but netted two long distance calls with a shot that’s going to be a threat on the Kings powerplay unit this season – Book It.

Eight’s gotta be great, that’s baggage for the fashionably late.

Opener’s Outlook: The player that sparked the most off-season ruckus is settled with the roster after a controversially late arrival, while the player that sparked the most off-season criticism looks to be out for tomorrow’s contest. Drew Doughty in, Dustin Penner out. Expect Jonathan Quick to get the crease call, cross-end from New York’s Henrik Lundqvist, who will be the hometown tender tomorrow night, a Swedish native from Åre, a bordertown of Stockholm. Not only is this an absolute superb goaltending matchup for an opening contest, but against an elite name Quick rarely gets to front the pipes against.

Offensive Factor: The Kings’ offseason acquisitions centered on forwards. The Kings’ offseason acquisitions have fueled huge expectations. We’ve got big changes in offensive personnel, and we’re dealing with seven defensemen that share familiarity and growth as a group. The fact of the matter is, the forwards are expected to spotlight tomorrow’s contest, especially against this goaltender. Drew Doughty‘s going to hear the gripe unless he’s absolutely flawless, but you’ve got to expect this defense to be somewhat of a safe haven for the club. There are no holes on the Kings’ blue-line, just instances of passive, under-performing play. SEE: Jack Johnson.

Old Friends

While we’re in Sweden: How about a quick update on former Kings prospects Oscar Moller and Bud Holloway. Both players, respective in their 2nd and 3rd round draft positions in concurrent years, have scoped out a different route, and you really can’t blame either of them. In fact, you’ve got to respect it in some manner. Both players signed with Skelleftea HC of the Swedish Elite League during the summer, and the numbers symbolize a smooth transition. Both Moller and Holloway have dressed in Skelleftea HC‘s first seven contests. Oscar Moller is sitting on 5 points with 3 goals and 2 assists, while Bud Holloway has chipped in with 4 points in the form of 3 goals and an assist.

Bailey goes f*cking chow-town on the MLB Playoffs for random snacks.

“OH SH*T! It’s f*cking opening day.“

“OH SH*T! I better not play like sh*t.“

Let’s do this until June – Go Kings.

 Live from Two Places

The Simultaneous Series

Los Angeles Kings @ Phoenix Coyotes – 7:00PM – Jobing.com Arena
Los Angeles Kings VS Phoenix Coyotes – 7:30PM – Staples Center

This means three things: Empty seats, gaudy uniform numbers, and goals.

Main roster players from both clubs will get their first live in-game action tonight, along with a heavy slew of prospects who are still in tryout mode. The Kings won’t make their first Training Camp cuts until tomorrow, deeming this do or die for a handful of names, most of whom wouldn’t be in serious contention for a roster spot anyway. So yes, that means split-squad, where both the Kings and Coyotes will ice two rosters balanced with veterans and prospects.

The Phoenix Coyotes’ season-ticket holders (4) had a little fun with this gig last year, deciding to “Split-Squad View” the games. How clever! Fred and Marissa (pictured) stayed put in Glendale, while Bob and Kim (not pictured) traveled to LA! Bob and Kim won’t make it this year unfortunately, they sold their season seats to subdue the tax raise they’re getting slammed with just to keep the Coyotes in town.

But it’s hockey!

Don’t let it burn you like the sun at high-noon.

Meehan’s probably taking calls from Cancun, let’s talk Brandon Kozun.

Looks at the Rook’s: This is about as exciting as it gets when the Phoenix Coyotes are involved. The Coyotes Sun Dogs symbolize two things from a Kings fan’s perspective: A boring regular season opponent seen way too often, and a major part in the commencement to a brand new season of Kings hockey – a feeling that doesn’t present itself often enough. Both clubs capped off their Rookie Training Camp this week with a two game Rookie Series at the Toyota Sports Center along the shores of Redondo Beach in El Segundo.

The Phoenix Coyotes took the first contest on Wednesday evening with an 8-7 victory fueled by a relentless 3rd period 5-goal ambush. The Sun Dogs exposed Kings’ goaltender Christopher Gibson in his first appearance with the Kings organization since being drafted 49th overall in the 2nd Round of the 2011 NHL Entry Draft. The Kings earned the split Thursday afternoon, after surrendering yet another 3rd period lead. Jordan Nolan capitalized on a 5 on 3 powerplay advantage with just 1:58 remaining to notch a Kings victory.

Brandon Kozun was the spotlight performer for the Kings’ rookies in these two contests, no questions asked. The 6th round, 179th overall selection for the Kings in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft has forcefully transitioned off of an extremely impressive campaign in the AHL with the Manchester Monarchs. In 73 games with Manchester last season, Kozun tallied 48 points in the form of 23 goals and 25 assists. This, after a two-year surge with the WHL‘s Calgary Hitmen in which he recorded 215 points in 137 regular season games and 48 points in 41 postseason contests.

Kozun, with 2 goals and 4 assists recorded in the Rookie Series, exploited two impressive aspects a forward of his size must entail to play at the NHL level. These being: An accurate, quick shot – and good passing. Passing is everything for a player like Kozun, who has the speed and strength to win battles to the puck, but not necessarily to finish plays. He proved his ability to possess the puck, and coupled that with good vision, quickly transitioning the puck through an open lane with a well-placed pass.

When you’re looking for quick, accurate release, refer to Brandon Kozun‘s goals on Wednesday. Kozun capitalized on two offensive zone faceoffs to record the 1st and 6th goals for the Kings. Goals that stem from offensive zone faceoff wins aren’t as easy as they look, where the shooter is often flat-footed with a well-positioned defense distracting open lanes. Kozun, however, managed to react to those well-placed pucks with quick, well-placed shots.

Looking for help? Look for Brandon Kozun. Kozun followed up his two early goals in the Rookie Series with four gorgeous assists. First, by threading the needle to feed a Ray Kaunisto goal with 02.8 seconds remaining in Wednesday’s contest, and three crucial feeds on Thursday. Kozun was the storyline for Thursday’s victory, assisting on the Kings’ final three tallies in their 4-3 win. Why does Kozun’s vision stand out? All three of his assists Thursday were the results of cross-ice passes, the kid has the sight and instinct to go with his quick release.

Don’t expect to see Brandon Kozun in a Kings uniform this season, but don’t be surprised to see him either. His stature of 5’7″ at 164 lbs calls for further testing and development in the AHL with the Manchester Monarchs, at a first or second line Right Wing position. However, Kozun’s starting to symbolize himself as a small forward who already amasses Oscar Moller in potential per square-foot. Some have referred to Kozun as the next Martin St. Louis, I’m referring to him as a young star who has earned serious and credible attention, unlike others. This isn’t the last we’ve seen of Brandon Kozun in a Kings uniform in the near future, look for the Calgary native to don Kings gear for the remainder of the pre-season. There’s more to see here, folks.

At least give your Hockey Fest ticket to someone else, man. Those b*tches are SOLD OUT.

An offer of nine-years at $61.2 Million has reportedly been denied by Drew Doughty‘s camp.

Leaning Toward Dean: Here’s my chance to be blunt about the Drew Doughty contract situation, straight forward. That door was opened today amidst reports of Doughty’s most recent contract denial offered by Dean Lombardi. Lord help me if I didn’t worship Doughty’s timeline to re-sign and waste more important thoughts this summer. If the Kings weren’t trying, it’s another story. That’s three offers Lombardi has thrown on the table this summer, the most recent offer carrying Anze Kopitar-type money. Still, not good enough. The guy is 21 years-old, arguably the highest-touted young defenseman in the NHL, and a celebrity in the Canadian hockey market after his stellar performance during the 2010 Winter Olympics with Team Canada. So yes, Doughty’s camp is in the hunt for serious pay and solid job security; But is nine seasons while equaling the yearly salary of Anze Kopitar not good enough?

Thinking it’s time for a gut-check.

Shut the f*ck up Penner. Christ.

Back To The Future
Queue the first installment of June’s KingsCast Summer Hockey Roundtable for a serious dose of honest Doughty critique. Food for thought.

Sour Aftertaste: Please realize here, the members in this group of hockey media in the Episode above are not bashing Doughty’s skill, his value to the Kings blue-line, or his career potential. That’s been well advertised by Doughty himself, but the issues at-hand center on his attitude, his conditioning, feeding to the question that’s building solidity: Is Drew Doughty really worthy of being the highest paid-player on this team?

Attitude wasn’t the only downfall last season.

Trying To Find A Balance: Let’s swap those statistics, and if Doughty’s camp is being this stingy with contract negotiations, then so be it, you can’t argue with 82 games and 59 points. However, a pretty drastic downfall is the reality here, and there seems to be a bit too much demand for the supply – at this point in time. On August 30th, less than ten days ago, Helene Elliott of the Los Angeles Times reported what seemed to be a concurrence of terms between the Kings and Drew Doughty:

“Lombardi said he spoke Monday with Doughty’s agent, Don Meehan, and made an offer that “codifies what we’ve been talking about for a while.” Lombardi said the offer includes “different lengths for him to consider,” likely six to eight years.”

I consider this report to still be deemed ‘recent’ the way this summer has gone, and the Kings’ latest offer of $61.2 million over a 9-year span must be a result of it. Once the funds are broken into a yearly-salary, Doughty is earning just as much as Anze Kopitar – and situated until he’s 30 years-old. I’m lost here, what’s wrong? They may not want more money overall, but a chunkier yearly-salary over a shorter term, positioning him young and rich with NHL freedom in a few years.

Thirsty for Attention.

M.I.A. – Missing In Appearances: Doughty’s lack of public appearances have jolted the nerves of fans all summer, stemming from his cancellation to boarding the LA Kings Fan Cruise to the recent revelation that #8 will not attend Sunday’s Hockey Fest. The common justification for this will be something along the lines of “Doughty is afraid of getting hammered with contract questions.” If Doughty and the Kings were seriously on the same page, and confident in negotiations, this problem is fixed in an instant. What do scrap employees go for these days, 8.50 an hour? That’s what I make, so I’d consider that fair. “No contract questions for Mr. Doughty, Ma’am”. Simple. If everything is on-par internally with the Kings and Doughty, there’s no shame in shielding certain questions from fans in public environments.

Speaking of Hockey Fest, let’s back-track to last year’s event to take another look at Dean Lombardi‘s “Passionate Proclomation”. Check 3:19 – 5:10 in KingsCast‘s Episode 69.

What’s It Going To Be?: It’s starting to have a negative effect on the Kings’ fanbase, who will miss Doughty’s presence at yet another team event Sunday at Staples Center. That, a team can withstand, but when it begins to have an effect on the team itself, that’s when we’ve got real problems; and the way negotiations have been going, they’re flirting with that possibility. As Keith stressed to me earlier tonight, you don’t want to play games with team chemistry, and any sort of holdout from Doughty would do so. Believe me, I want Drew Doughty to re-sign, and I think Drew Doughty will re-sign. But, does he deserve what he and his agents are asking for? How much more will Dean Lombardi‘s stiff reputation on the hockey market withstand the displeasure coming from Doughty’s camp? One of the sides needs to swallow a slice of pride here, and the way this process has been trending, its time for Don Meehan and Drew Doughty to sacrifice a slice of that cake.

Probably too much, probably.

About that time – Interior Design

Fresh Surface: The Staples Center staff began paint application to the Kings’ new ice surface this morning, a process that will likely take a day or two longer to complete. As noted in a couple of previous blogs, the new ‘LA shield’ logo will make it’s center-ice debut on September 21st in a split-squad preseason contest against the Phoenix Coyotes. This replaces the black, purple, and silver crown as the rink’s featured art-work, where it was tucked inside the center-ice circle since the 2002-2003 season. However, the crown is hanging around, creatively implemented into the red-line.

Talking Aesthetics, Again: Just when you think the Kings were settled on uniform plans for the 2011-2012 season, another questionable decision blindsides the fanbase. It was understood that the Kings’ former primary home uniform would be implemented as the new home alternate, making room for the new ‘LA Shield’ primary home and away sweaters. Well, not quite the case. In what was first reported via MayorsManor, and later released in an official statement from the Kings, purple has been dropped from the repertoire. But, has it? Not really, which justifies this decision as being terribly senseless.

The purple-less crown (left) will take place as the new crest on the template shown (right).

And it makes no sense: The Kings didn’t actually rid of purple from the wardrobe, unless I’m missing something here. So, while keeping purple on the elbow piping and shoulder caps on the “new” alternate uniform, you’re going to eliminate purple from the uniform’s crest? This is going to look terrible, and it will last for two years – maximum. Mark my words. Talk about an ugly ending for the crown and the black hem-lines.

Speaking of ugly endings.

Joe Thornton will never have a bigger moment than this in his NHL career.

This is your final sighting of the Kings’ Crown on ice. Let’s talk in two years, I guarantee more uniform changes. This has been a complete disaster, I’m looking forward to the amendment of this summer’s uniform debacle. I can deal with it, this club is a legitimate Stanley Cup contender. Unfortunately, the organization failed in providing a solid wardrobe for the show.

Afternoon games suck.

KOPI – For Three!

My sources are telling me this probably won’t happen, but what better to scribe about during the dog days of August. Always better under the lights, no?

Come on now, Tim. The Columbus Blue Jackets were one thing, but at 1:00PM? Better give that Ticket Rep a call, or hop on board here! A solution? Maybe.

FOR THREE!: Three, the number of dates Staples Center has vacated for the Los Angeles Clippers that force the Kings to host opponents in the early afternoon during the 2011-2012 season. Two of these dates call for 1:00PM puck-drops, the other at 12:30PM. However, the Clippers may not be able to honor their 7:30PM reservations on those nights with the status of the NBA‘s lockout showing no signs of being resolved before the start of the 2011-2012 campaign. So, with that, I’m vying for the Kings to push for later starts for the three afternoon home games on the schedule. For Staples Center to fill those time-slots the Clippers held would be nearly impossible at this point in time. The fall/winter time-period wasn’t designed for concerts or any other major events that demand anything more than a rink or court, the Kings should and will have the run of the building. But, will it happen? Here’s how the Kings look while the sun is out at Staples Center this season:

- – -

- Saturday, November 19 -
Los Angeles Kings VS. Detroit Red Wings – 1:00PM
Los Angeles Clippers VS. Chicago Bulls – 7:30PM

- Saturday, December 3 -
Los Angeles Kings VS. Montreal Canadians – 12:30PM
Los Angeles Clippers VS. Indiana Pacers – 7:30PM

- Saturday, January 7 -
Los Angeles Kings VS. Columbus Blue Jackets – 1:00PM
Los Angeles Clippers VS. Milwaukee Bucks – 7:30PM

- – -

If you look at the three opponents the Kings plan to host this season for matinee affairs, it seriously adds to the substance of this opinion.

Detroit Red Wings – November 19: This may be the final year in which the Kings host the Red Wings twice during the regular season. With the Atlanta Thrashers relocating to re-establish the Winnipeg Jets, there will more than likely be realignment between Conferences, implemented for the start of the 2012-2013 season. This means instead of seeing the Detroit Red Wings 4 times a year, 2 times at home, it will be 1-2 times a year, 0-1 times at home. Welcome this storied franchise appropriately, during prime-time. Yes, the red apparel floods the building, but you can’t help but deal with the presence of such a respectable organization.

Montreal Canadians – December 3: Yet another historic franchise, so far we’ve racked up two of the ‘Original Six’ teams and have accommodated terribly. Good or bad, it’s the Montreal Canadians, and they’re making a rare venture to Los Angeles, their previous visit to Staples Center being March 6, 2010. So again, it all seems sensible, doesn’t it? Begging for prime-time, if I say that one more time Deion Sanders is getting involved.

Columbus Blue Jackets – January 7: Having trouble with this one, I think it comes down to… Something like, it should be illegal for the Blue Jackets to play afternoon games on the road? Does that sound right?

Over a cup of coffee.

Pancakes for Kopi

Could it Happen?: Obviously, each of these clubs resume with their own schedule after the meeting in Los Angeles. The afternoon start-times more often suit Staples Center‘s basketball scheduling needs, but also factor’s into the opposition’s travel from the west coast. Here’s how the three opponent’s look following their skate in Los Angeles.

- Detroit Red Wings -
AT Staples Center: November 19, 1:00PM
AT Honda Center (Anaheim Ducks): November 20, 5:00PM
About an hour on the highway, certainly doable.

- Montreal Canadians -
AT Staples Center: December 3, 12:30PM
AT Bell Centre (Home Rink): December 6, 7:30PM
No travel issues, here. Do it.

- Columbus Blue Jackets -
AT Staples Center: January 7, 1:00PM
AT Honda Center (Anaheim Ducks): January 8, 5:00PM
Again, about an hour on the highway, doable.

Do the Kings and Staples Center actually pursue such an idea, pending the NBA‘s lockout negotiations? If the changes become a serious possibility, and these evening dates are considered available, I don’t see why not.

“Back-order my ass. Listen up hammerhead, my KingsCast Tee’s were supposed to be here three days ago.”

“You’re acting like there’s a Kings watch party at Hooters tonight or something. No man, because it’s f*cking August. That means McSorley’s on-call, buddy. How about taking one more look in that truck.”

PART THREE.

Déjà vu, for you: Our guest from Part II of today’s THREE-PART SERIES commemorating Wayne Gretzky‘s arrival to Los Angeles on August 9, 1988 joins us again for the final segment. Daniel Kim, who walked us through the happenings at the Los Angeles Kings Valley Ice Center in his role as hockey manager, now talks about his hockey career which began in Los Angeles during Gretzky’s hey-day with the Kings, topping it off in the pro’s skating with clubs in the WCHL and ECHL. Kim’s timeline fits in perfectly with the Gretzky trade, a positive result of a successful hockey product raised in Los Angeles during the specific time period we’re shooting for. Gretzky can make you want to play the sport, but he can’t provide a shot in the pro’s. So really, Kim fits the specific example I’m looking for.

Kim (12) with the ECHL‘s Bakersfield Condors

- – -

Backdrop: There are few professional hockey players that originate from Korea, very few. If we’re talking the number of Korean’s to ever play in the NHL, we’re talking two. Kim’s family moves to Los Angeles from Seoul, South Korea in 1982, Tinseltown not exactly a booming hockey market, either. Well, Koreatown. Nice choice on location though, Koreatown is fucking awesome.

Kim picked up the sport ten years after the move to LA, three years into Gretzky’s stint with the Kings. As a youth hockey player in Los Angeles, Kim skated with two Midget AAA travel clubs, the Anaheim Junior Ducks and the Ventura Mariners. After that, Kim spent some time at the Junior level with Bay City Bombers, and then went Collegiate with Santa Monica College and West Los Angeles College. Kim did indeed ‘Live The Dream’ according to the true hockey player, making his way to appearances in both the WCHL and ECHL over a span of four years. Let’s get to the talk, shall we?

- – -

KingsCast: Daniel, you were born in Korea, where hockey is not considered a major sport by any means. Then, at the age of 3, your family moved to Los Angeles, a city where hockey isn’t a major sport for the locals. So tell us, how did hockey become such a major part of your life, and eventually your early career?

DK: “I started hanging out at the rink with friends during Public Session and I had a friend who played hockey and got me interested.”

KingsCast: Hockey’s a tough sport to get involved in if there’s little interest from your parents. Were they familiar with the sport when you started playing? Did they encourage it?

DK: “My Dad played soccer in Korea but didn’t know anything about hockey. My parents were very supportive when it came to sports and studies. My parents sacrificed a lot of time by driving me to pretty much every rink in southern California to get me on the ice. I remember my mom working all day, then having to drive over an hour in traffic to get me to a rink for practice. I didn’t realize the sacrifices that my parents made until I was much older.”

KingsCast: Wayne Gretzky’s move to Los Angeles definitely added more buzz to the sport on the West Coast, did his presence have any effect on your youth career?

DK: “I was a Dodgers and Lakers fan growing up because of the coverage they had on TV. After Gretzky got here, the Kings were getting more coverage and I started to watch hockey on TV. I didn’t know how to play, but I was watching Gretzky and the Kings on TV. Once I started playing hockey, I became more of a Kings fan.”

KingsCast: Did you notice an overall change in the popularity of youth hockey once the sport’s icon played for the Kings? Was there an increase of youth programs instilled in the city?

DK: “It’s unbelievable, the numbers of rinks and travel hockey teams there are now because of Gretzky. He had an effect on roller hockey as well, there even used to be the Wayne Gretzky Inline center where kids can try to play hockey.“

KingsCast: To be able to play professionally, you need to develop your skills around other talent. Was it difficult to find skilled opponents in LA? Was there a lot of traveling outside of the city for games?

DK: We were the only AAA team out of Southern California at the time, we were traveling at least once a month to Colorado, Western Canada, Seattle, and all the way to Alaska to find competition.

KingsCast: When did you know you had a shot at playing in the ECHL?

DK: “I really never thought about it. I played in the WCHL prior to the league merging with the ECHL. Once they merged, I just focused on getting a job without giving it a try. I was working in Bakersfield as a Hockey Manager and the Coach of the Condors knew that I had pro hockey experience asked me to play a some games for them while I worked there.“

KingsCast: You were lucky enough to play with two California-based teams, the Long Beach Ice Dogs and the Bakersfield Condors. Take us through the overall experience of getting the chance to play pro in your local state.

DK: “The experience was awesome. I was lucky to have my Friends and especially my parents at every home game and some road games. Being born in Korea, a lot of the local fans didn’t know that I was from Southern California. Which was pretty funny because they wanted to know how the Hockey in Korea was.“

KingsCast: Best moment, story, you can share with us from your pro hockey career.

DK: “My first pro game was the home opener in Long Beach, I remember I was so nervous standing in the tunnel waiting to come out. During the first home game they announce the players and we skate out of the tunnel. My number was 2 and they announced the names in numerical order so I had to go first. I remember saying to myself “Just don’t fall or run into the referees and I’ll be fine.” The game itself was a blur, but that moment I will never forget.“

KingsCast: First Kings game?

DK: Against the Pens at the Ingelwood Forum. My dad bought tickets to watch Richard Park another Korean Native from Southern California.

KingsCast: All-Time Favorite Kings player.

DK: Wayne Gretzky and Ian Laparriere.

KingsCast: Favorite current Kings player.

DK: Drew Doughty

- – -

Hoping Drew Doughty agrees to a deal soon, for both your sake and mine. However, I think I may have you beat here. Circa the IHL’s Cleveland Lumberjacks 1996-1997 season.

Richard Park and Jim Paek, the only two Korean’s to ever play at the NHL level, and on the same team. The Cleveland Lumberjacks were my team at a young age, skating in the city where I was raised, and playing at the highest level (IHL) within the city’s limits. Richard Park played in 50 games for Cleveland in ’96/’97, whereas Jim Paek dressed in 74 games during the ’96/’97 season. Considering my frequent viewings, and the fact that it’s mathematically impossible that those two never played together, I can more than probably say I’ve seen a pretty awesome part of hockey history. Ironically, Jim Paek played for the Los Angeles Kings. During the ’94/’95 season, Paek dressed in 18 contests for the Kings, racking up a goal and an assist, ten penalty minutes, and a -1 rating.

And there you have it, words from Daniel Kim, a prime example of success during the ‘hockey boom’ in Los Angeles. Contact today’s guest, information available in Part II, and check out the ice at the Los Angeles Kings Valley Ice Center.

Hey you! What’s cooler than watching KingsCast, or reading KingsCast?!?

Easy answer, man. That would be: Watching KingsCast or reading KingsCast in your brand new awesome KingsCast T-Shirt. Gretzky probably would have done the same.

PART TWO.

In due celebration on this 23rd anniversary of Wayne Gretzky‘s trade to Los Angeles, we continue with today’s THREE-PART SERIES to celebrate the day that changed the game of hockey forever – August 9th, 1988. If you’ve missed out on Part 1, where the trade is analyzed along with it’s effect on the NHL, you can get it here. The NHL‘s expansion was the public’s broad view of Gretzky’s impact playing on the West Coast, but what about the city of Los Angeles itself? The sport’s popularity in LA certainly grew in the late 1980′s, early 1990′s as the Kings’ became more popularized around the city. But has it sustained consistency, with even more growth?

Kings’ logo revamp seems to be in effect, here.

- – -

During the past week, I had the opportunity to chat with Daniel Kim, the hockey manager at the Los Angeles Kings Valley Ice Center. A pretty prominent figure at the rink, Daniel operates the many aspects needed to maintain successful youth hockey programs, also helping out behind the bench with the local travel team in Panorama City. The development of youth hockey in Los Angeles feeds straight back to August 9th, 1988, and the sport seems to continue to build on that growth. Without further ado, let’s check out a bit of the local youth hockey scene in Panorama City with Daniel Kim.

- – -

KingsCast: For those who aren’t familiar with the Los Angeles Kings Valley Ice Center, can you provide a quick rundown of the facility, what it has to offer to the public, and how long it has been in existence?

DK: “We are located in the San Fernando Valley about 30 minutes north of Downtown Los Angeles. We offer 2 sheets of ice with a snack bar and pro shop located inside. We have Skate school, Sticktimes (drop in hockey or stick and puck), Pick-up Hockey, Freestyles, Public Sessions, Special needs hockey and Broomball.”

KingsCast: With your position as ‘Hockey Manager’ at the LAKVIC, can you describe to us what that job description entails on a day-to-day basis?

DK: “I manage all youth hockey that the rink offers including in-house hockey, hockey classes and clinics. I also help manage the facility by scheduling employees, booking and selling ice, and make the rink schedule on a weekly basis. I also coach the travel program the West Valley Wolves.“

KingsCast: Hockey is obviously the aspect we’re targeting in this piece, how would you describe the current youth hockey scene at the LAKVIC?

DK: “Family environment, we cater to the youth hockey players either travel or house players by providing them sticktimes and public sessions.“

KingsCast: Have the LAKVIC‘s youth hockey numbers increased or decreased since your inception as hockey manager? Do you know why?

DK: “With the help of our coaches the numbers have increased by providing a strong house progam which feeds the travel program.“

KingsCast: How has the hockey scene at LAKVIC been affected by the success of the Kings?

DK: “Our Mighty Mite(ages 4-6) and Try Hockey Free programs have grown due to the success of the Kings.”

KingsCast: Do you provide both youth house and travel leagues?

DK: “Yes, we have a 9-under and 10-older program for our house leagues. The West Valley Wolves is our A/B travel program and The California Heat is our Tier progam. The California Heat Peewee AA won Nationals last season.“

KingsCast: How and when did the LAKVIC become affiliated with the Kings and can you describe the partnership?

DK: “We got the deal from the Kings in February of this year. Basically it’s a cross promotion with brand marketing of the LA Kings.“

KingsCast: Can you give me a few names of players that are either playing at the junior level, major collegiate, or professionally that have come through your program?

DK: “There have been so many hockey players that has started their hockey careers here that moved on to the ECHL, USHL, WHL, D-1 College and Prep schools. Here’s a few. Matt Ford (ECHL), Billy Ruggiero (CHL), Darren Rowe (USHL), Shane Harper (WHL), Billy Blasé (Yale) and Merrick Madsen (Prep).”

West Hills, CA native Matt Ford (middle) with the AHL‘s Lake Erie Monsters

KingsCast: How do you promote hockey to the youth at the LAKVIC; Special programs, deals, Kings player appearances?

DK: “We offer “try hockey free”, we rent out equipment to the kids, so they can try hockey for free. We also have a Special Needs program which the Kings are heavily involved. Every year the Kings send at least 3 players to the rink at the beginning of the season. The kids can skate with them and play hockey with them.”

KingsCast: If parents are interested in enrolling their kids into programs, how do they contact you?

DK: “E-mail me at d.kim@lakingsvalleyicecenter.com, reach me by telephone at 818-893-1784 x 225.”

KingsCast: Which local LA-based rink did you play at as a youth, on your path to the ECHL?

DK: “Growing up I lived in Los Angeles, and every rink was 20-45 minutes away. So I played at pretty much every rink. Other than this rink, I played at Valley Plaza, Pickwick(Burbank), Iceoplex (Simi Valley and North Hills), Anahiem Ice, Riverside Icetown, Culver Ice Arena, Paramount, and Bay Harbor(Torrance).“

Fresh ice, Always nice.

Well there you have it, folks, head over to Panorama City and test the skates out – brush off that summer rust while you’re at it. Check out the official website of the Los Angeles Kings Valley Ice Center for further information on the facility and the numerous hockey programs they offer. And of course, note Daniel’s information in the interview, get in touch with him to get involved in their hockey community. This isn’t the last we’ve heard from special guest Daniel Kim in today’s celebration of August 9th, 1988. Be on the lookout tonight for yet another interview with Daniel, as he shares the story of his path to playing professional hockey in the East Coast Hockey League.

“I don’t think anybody really believed it would happen. And, when it did happen they (Canadians) were – you know, it was like the Prime Minister being sent to another country at that time.” – The same guy as Glen Sather

Where were you?: It happened 23 years ago today, a date that deserves to be celebrated for it’s colossal relation to our modern era of hockey. Whether it’s to honor the greatest transaction in Los Angeles Kings‘ history, or to honor the immense amount of positive change it rippled into the NHL‘s system, it’s a historical aspect of the game that deserves annual recognition.

Hold on now, there’s more: Wayne Gretzky put hockey on the map in Los Angeles and across the Southern half of the United States, which is why you’re getting hit with a THREE-PART SERIES to celebrate the occasion. We’re scoping out the trade itself in this article, followed by two interviews as I dig into the local LA hockey scene. Look out for an interview with the hockey manager at the Los Angeles Kings Valley Ice Center in Part II. Then, to top things off, I’ll profile a former ECHL player, raised in LA, who crafted together a stint in the pro’s in Part III. Keep them eyelids peeled, folks.

Relocation Station

There’s no question, Wayne Gretzky‘s venture to Los Angeles planted NHL expansion to unfamiliar areas, the league hoping to feed off of the success the Kings’ franchise glorified in after the trade. If there’s anything to seriously symbolize the explosion of hockey in LA upon the Gretzky acquisition, it’s the Kings becoming the first professional sports team in Los Angeles to ever sell out it’s seats to every game in one full season. “KO-BE!” *Air Jumpshot* Air ball.

Expand, the NHL did, and in rapid fashion, which is probably why a few clubs on the map find themselves troubled. Am I the only one displeased that Round two in Atlanta couldn’t work out? Starting in 1991, three years after Gretzky arrived in LA, the NHL was planting teams on the Southern end of the country faster than your local nursery was potting tulips in April. Until 1999, a quick eight-year span, ten clubs were placed in the Southern half of the United States. Nine of the ten Southern clubs are still operating in their respective markets in a well-balanced group, some with a reputation of striking success, others scraping to stay afloat.

California, most notably, has had much success with the San Jose Sharks and Anaheim Ducks, two teams residing in the region where the NHL was reborn. Raleigh, NC and Nashville, TN have embraced their teams from the start, validating those moves. Florida seems to be getting by just fine, no booming markets in Tampa and Miami by any means, but they’ve seemed to make ends meet since their expansion. Hockey in the desert is running dry, the Phoenix Coyotes having to reach out to the taxpayers in Glendale for financial support – just to survive another season. As for Dallas, attendance numbers have been ugly as of late, and ownership is in the process of trying to sell the Stars. Overall, not too shabby of a result to the Southern experiment.

Get on the Buss, Execute the Deal.

In attendance for the 1985 NHL Awards, former Kings owner Jerry Buss reached out to former Edmonton Oilers‘ owner Peter Pocklington to express interest in Gretzky. On the night Buss approached Pocklington, Gretzky was receiving his sixth consecutive Hart Memorial Trophy, fresh off of the best season of his NHL career. In ’84-’85, Gretzky notched 73 Goals, 135 Assists, totaling 208 Points. Disgusting. Inhumane. If you’re looking for good timing, or the right place, don’t look here. It’s like trying to be in the right place at the right time, to propose a trade for Wayne Gretzky, and you’re going to the ’85 Awards to do it. Not your best bet, by a long shot. But it’s a bold move, and that had to stick with Peter Pocklington.

This may have been a ‘one last shot’ ordeal for Buss as Kings’ owner, as Bruce McNall began to purchase shares of the franchise in the summer of ’85, ultimately taking over full ownership in 1988. McNall followed up with Peter Pocklington about Gretzky numerous times, building off of his predecessor. McNall finally struck serious interest from Pocklington in the summer of ’88, as relations between Gretzky and the Oilers were scuffling through unhealthy contract communications.

Pocklington wanted cash: the Kings had cash. Pocklington wanted draft picks: the Kings handed over a full-line’s worth. Marvelous work by McNall here, who cashed in on a vulnerable Pocklington, who was working in the midst of frustration and panic about Gretzky’s contract. Not even five years later, McNall pleaded guilty to five counts of fraud, swiping $236 million from six banks on defaulted loans. Nice. Great job getting Gretzky to LA, though, man.

“We went from having 5, 6, 7,000 fans a night, to all of a sudden being mobbed, sold out every game, having celebrities running around locker rooms, you have President Reagan calling me for seats on the ice. It was the place to be, and the place to be seen.” – Bruce McNall

“Maybe hockey’s not LA’s #1 sport, but all of a sudden there was so much notoriety about Gretzky’s arrival in Los Angeles, some people called up right after the trade and said: ‘I’ve never been to a hockey game before but I want four season tickets.’ Ticket reps replied with ‘I don’t know where you’ll be sitting’. ‘I don’t care, here’s my credit card number, put me down for four’.” – Bob Miller

He may have won his four Stanley Cups with the Edmonton Oilers, but Wayne Gretzky‘s broad-based legacy will forever be seen through his history with the Los Angeles Kings. When a player and a certain team can combine to be larger than four Stanley Cup championships, it was something special, and it still is something special. The impact Gretzky had on the NHL and the game of hockey is astonishing, he didn’t just put Los Angeles on the hockey map, he made it a landmark. His involvement in the game is crucial; a position in the NHL is open when he’s ready, and don’t believe for a minute that the Kings haven’t thrown out the offer.

“It’s like selling the Mona Lisa. You think it’s yours, and suddenly he’s gone. Wayne Gretzky put Edmonton on the map.” – Jim Matheson

More than just Edmonton, Jim.

“The bottom line for me, I would have rather invested my money with Bernie Madoff than invest in Edmonton’s word.” – Dean Lombardi per Helene Elliott

“My history with players is that if I get a guy that wants to be traded, I probably don’t want him. I want the guy who’s hurt by the trade.” - Dean Lombardi per Dennis Bernstein

A well deserved dagger tossed by Dean Lombardi earlier in the month, and a sensible view on dealing with unhappy players during Mike Richards‘ introductory media event. Unfortunately, no player was hurt in the deal that sent Ryan Smyth to the Edmonton Oilers just over a month ago. Instead, June 26′s transaction quickly grew to become a nasty, lingering aftertaste throughout the Kings’ front office and fan-base that could be no more satisfying than a healthy punch to the gut. What’s the most distasteful part about the entire process and it’s result? Tough to rank ‘em from worst to worst-er, so let’s just compile a nice list:

1) At some point in Late-April until June, Ryan Smyth requested a trade out of Los Angeles,  to the f*cking Oilers and no one else  preferrably to the Edmonton Oilers.

2) Word got out, Smyth denied the allegations. Those allegations ultimately caused his nose to get even larger. #pinocchio

HOLY COW!

3) He says it’s for family reasons, Edmonton being a very familiar and friendly setting for his family, the Oilers being a comfortable and historic team to end his career with.

4) Dean Lombardi shows respect to Smyth by acting on his request, a quirky one at that, considering where the Kings and Oilers stand in 2011-2012 respectively.

5) Dean calls Oilers’ GM Steve Tambellini.

6) “Oh hey Dean, yeah not much, just being a huge douche. How have you been?”

7) They agree on a deal, giving the Kings forward Gilbert Brule and a 4th-round draft pick for Smyth. The Kings planned on dumping Brule once the deal was finalized, but you can’t dump a player that’s not cleared to play, RIGHT STEVE TAMBELLINI? Brule’s health conditions called off the reportedly done-deal, his history of head injuries, one of which a concussion he was still recovering from, and a rumor of depression as the cause. OK, there’s one down.

Number 8 still unsigned.

9) They agree on a deal after the initial deal they agreed on was no longer concurred upon. This time, it’s forward Colin Fraser and a 7th-round selection in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft. This deal is actually finalized, just two days after the Gilbert Brule report. Fraser, however, was a player the Kings planned on keeping in their system. And what do you know, further analysis by the Kings’ medical staff after the trade showed his ankle fracture not properly healed, deeming him ineligible to play. Fraser’s facture was publicized, but the Oilers stated that he would be clear to play in just a few days. Word had it that the ankle may require surgery, and that it did, with Fraser going under the knife this week in Cleveland, Ohio – he is out indefinitely.

10) Dean Lombardi, 34 days after the trade, lands the blow I’ve been waiting for since June 26. Lombardi files a formal grivance to the NHL regarding Colin Fraser‘s health conditions at the time of his trade to Los Angeles.

“This is twice. There comes a point where you say this is wrong.”

Here’s the way it needs to go, the way it should go. It’s not “if” the Kings get anything from this lawsuit, but “what”. The trade won’t get revoked, Smyth is 100% done in Los Angeles, scratch that possibility off the board. What adds even more fuel to this fire is the proposed deal BEFORE Colin Fraser, the transaction falling short with Gilbert Brule due to last-minute medical revelations. Look at it any way you want, but the Edmonton Oilers attempted to deal two injured players in the span of two days. Excuse my french, but fucking up like that doesn’t happen to honest professional franchises twice in as many days. Sorry, but this is on Tambellini and the entire Edmonton franchise.

The grievance has been filed, which calls for NHL commissioner Gary Bettman to open his schedule for a hearing. Bettman, who analyzes and files all grievances has yet to set a date for the meeting. Don’t fall for the Red Herring, Gary. This is an obstacle for Bettman, unlike many would think. His decision sets a strong precedent for trade grievances from here on, an issue that hasn’t been addressed too often since the lockout. If we’re staying true to the rules, Lombardi and the Kings pay off from filing this grievance.

We’re not in Kansas City, yet: But the marketing released is warming up the approach to the start of the season. As touched upon a few weeks back, the Kings will make their return to Kansas City’s Sprint Center for a preseason contest after a one year hiatus from AEG‘s Missouri-based complex. This will be the farthest the Kings travel at that point in time, September 27, after a home-and-home split-squad series against the Phoenix Coyotes and an exhibition with the Anaheim Ducks at Staples Center. A promotional advertisement has been released for the affair, and tickets start at just $10 – The exact same price charged by the person who produced and edited the commercial. What a deal.

Let’s just go over things here:

Horrendously banal hockey metaphors – CHECK
Footage of a former King: Wayne Simmonds – CHECK
Footage of  that scumbag another former King: Ryan Smyth – CHECK
Footage of Tom Preissing as an Alternate Captain – WHAT (Seriously, look close)
Is that Jonathan Quick wearing an all-white mask? – Check, I’m not sure.
Horrendously banal hockey metaphors – CHECK
Like more than 30 Jarret Stoll highlights – CHECK

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Hey, if you think John Ahlers and Brian Hayward are downright f*cking atrocious at calling hockey games, discretely present your stance by wearing four-leaf clover sunglasses.

Now we know where Bob and Jim stand, others seem to think it’s a pretty fair consensus as well.

Kings ‘Caster’s Ranked High: A contributing writer over at SB Nation provided solid insight into the TV broadcast teams associated with each NHL club, in ranking them from worst to best. According to the list, the Bob Miller and Jim Fox tandem are ranked at five-stars, which only includes three other commentator couples – the voices of the Nashville Predators, the Florida Panthers, and the Dallas Stars. Jack Edwards of the Boston Bruins is ripped to shreds in this piece, and it almost wasn’t enough. Man, – He’s just terrible, bottom line. And what do you know? Ahlers and Hayward are hit first, and deservedly so. Oh, and to my Red Wings buddy, who constantly degrades the in’s and out’s of the Kings franchise in comparison to that of Detroit’s, often slamming the Kings’ tradition. Well, looks like Ken Daniels, Mickey Redmond, and Larry Murphy are traditionally bad at calling games. Eat that cake, Arthur.

Swede Additions

Where there’s Vacancy: Now, the only sources I’ve been able to find are on European websites, forcing me to send along this news thanks to a few attempts with a translator. However, the news is reliable and %100 true. Bud Holloway and Oscar Moller are giving their career’s a shot in the Swedish Elite League for the time being, agreeing to terms with Skellefteå AIK.

For Bud Holloway, this is an outlet he needed to pursue because of his situation in Los Angeles, a situation that simply wasn’t the best for his personal doing. It’s a decision you’ve got to understand; Holloway has consistently produced at the AHL level the past three seasons, tallying 145 points (65 goals and 80 assists) in a Manchester Monarchs uniform since the 2008-2009 season. Not once has Holloway dressed in a regular season game for the Kings, he’s been battling a heavy slew of prospects at the wing position since he left the WHL. The Kings’ moves in the offensive department this summer didn’t help his outlook, either.

As for Oscar Moller, his rookie contract failed to reach agreement on negotiations, and the Sweden native returns home by inking a two year deal with the same club as Holloway, Skellefteå AIK. Moller, who dressed in Los Angeles for 87 games, could never cement a role with the Kings. In his time in a Kings uniform, Moller supplied 26 points (12 goals, 14 assists). Often shifting through various lines, Moller never clicked with a certain pair to seriously instigate a permanent spot on the roster. His stature has been one of his biggest setbacks, where his speed becomes undermined. He may be able to get first-step to loose pucks, or track down an opposing player who’s possessing the puck, but retrieving that puck was an issue with his size and strength. The SEL looks to be a smart move for Moller, where he’ll see an increase in skill level and a decrease in physical play – compared to the AHL.

Who’s taking bets?

If there’s a pool for preseason hockey that exists, the Fox Sports West site might be of help. We’re losing to the Anaheim Ducks on October 3rd, at Staples Center. *SIGH

“I’m telling you, it’s 3-2 Ducks over Kings in October 3 Exhibition.”

Welcome to Los Angeles, Mike Richards.

Honda Center might lose it’s NBA dates, too. Oh wait, they didn’t get that team.

“Ok Stolly, I’ve got two ruts and a puddle in sight. Send word back – ‘Stay to the right!’”

Most have heard about the lockout threatening the NBA‘s 2011-2012 campaign by now, but who would’ve known that the Association’s labor talks actually hold some interesting implications for the Kings? The NBA houses two clubs at Staples Center, two clubs that vacate a minimum of 82 dates each year. For every single one of those dates, the Kings’ playing surface sits under multiple layers needed for configuration of the basketball courts. And every single time it happens, the quality of that ice is constantly battling damage – not exactly ideal. Ice conditions at Staples Center could very well be on the upside during the coming season, a building that has a shaky resume for maintaining a quality sheet.

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During the 2011 NHL All-Star Weekend festivities in Raleigh this past season, the players voted on the worst ice sheet in the league.

Here again for some quick updates regarding discussion in Monday’s Pork And Beans.

Guilty of riding an off-season glittered with overrated applause for his 5-point postseason performance.

Richardson Renewed: Just four days after the Kings agreed to terms with Alec Martinez, the only other arbitration threat for the Kings, Brad Richardson and the Kings did the same. Richardson’s raise sees him cashing in for $1 million next season, and $1.35 million in 2012-1013, an improvement from the $900,000 earned this past season. Sure, I moderately agree with the signing, but I was bothered with Richardson’s performance this season. I had high hopes last summer while coming off of an 11 goal, 16 assist campaign, those hopes weren’t fulfilled. The statistics don’t portray a sharp decline in performance, due to games played, but his presence was quite weak this year. Great on the forecheck and transition game, Richardson had trouble MAKING plays. He can initiate turnovers with his consistent pursuit to the puck, but he rarely gets to it, or recovers it. Richardson may be able to initiate quick transition with his movement without the puck, but there’s no threat when entering the opposing zone when he has the puck.  Whether it’s late decisions, opting for a top-circle wrist-shot instead of challenging the outside with his speed, or a giveaway dump-in where he’s overcome by strength, the execution just isn’t there.

Do not touch!

Concept for Ice at Staples Center in 2011-2012.

Training Seminar: I correct myself from my last blog, claiming the crown has been imprinted since the inception of Staples Center in 1999. For the first time since 2003, the artwork at center ice will require new stencils. I hope the maintenance staff, which unfortunately were quite difficult to speak with, are really frustrated with this change. As expected, it’s the Kings’ new primary logo. I heard back today from a Staples Center receptionist, who “claimed” to have followed up on my request, but the only word in her dictionary seemed to be “yes” – to everything. Probably just trying to get me off of the phone. But before that, KingsCast reader ULVkingsfan got me the credible source I needed. The 3D seat viewer on the official website has the new primary logo at center ice, which all but deems it official.

So, Dustin Penner‘s getting in shape, eh?

Party for Marty!

What say you, Drew?

Paint Job: Roll through the countless Kings headlines this summer, and one of the most important issues has been tossed to the side like downtown cab cards. I’ve made an attempt to tackle that forgotten topic, making a formal request to the Staples Center maintenance department late last week for some insight on the plans for the design at center ice this season. Since the Kings made the move to Staples Center in 1999, the center ice has logo has remained the same – the silver, purple, and black crown – the now defunct primary logo for the Kings. You’ve got to put your money on the ‘LA shield’ logo as the new imprint at center ice. However, cutting that logo down the center (for the red line) might be tricky, as the ‘LA’ isn’t exactly centered, and the crown below is a lot smaller, where the red line would eliminate a lot of it’s presence. Don’t expect to see any purple at center ice some September, but maybe this? I’d almost give the purple-less crown a better shot than the new primary logo, hopefully we’ll know soon. I’m expecting to hear back from a member of the maintenance department early this week. For those who are attending Development Camp at the Toyota Sports Center, send word this way if you’re seeing any changes to the artwork on their ice sheets.

Paid in due.

Martinez Renewed: No surprise here, the Kings avoided arbitration with defenseman Alec Martinez by agreeing to a two-year deal worth $1.475 million on Friday. Martinez, who was called upon in November from the AHL‘s Manchester Monarchs, solidified his name on the Kings roster immediately. Martinez arrived in Los Angeles to provide a spark to the Kings’ 2nd powerplay unit, and that he did. Along with that came sound defensive coverage coupled with an above average offensive skill-set for a back-end player. Martinez, in his first full season in the NHL recorded 5 goals and 11 assists in 60 games during the regular season. That doesn’t scream success, but when you back it up with a +11 plus/minus, you’re talking about a key asset. Let’s not get started with the value of the +/- rating statistic, the guy is dependable on the blue line – that you cannot argue.

Court Date: Unlike Martinez, Brad Richardson hasn’t been as fortunate this summer. If the Kings and Richardson can’t come to terms by July 21st, the negotiations will be decided by way of arbitration. Richardson made $900,000 last season, and has just 10 days to see the Kings agree to improve upon those numbers. I agree with the Kings’ strategy thus far, as Richardson bothered me throughout most of the year. Numerous fans praised his postseason performance, but other than his forecheck and transition presence, I haven’t seen much else. He’s got trouble finishing plays, winning loose pucks, and triggering production. In 68 regular season games, a lowly 7 goals and 12 assists were in Richardson’s name. The guy pours out 8 points in the San Jose series, and fans love him. Haven’t seen anything good enough to demand a raise, I expect the Kings to take this contract to court.

Paper Chasin’

Business Approach: It’s taking a lot longer than most fans have hoped in Drew Doughty agreeing to terms on a new contract with the Kings. The kid wants money, and his agents Don Meehan and Mark Guy are pushing for a healthy pay-day. Reports have surfaced that Doughty is looking to become the highest paid player on the roster next season, where Anze Kopitar tops the list, due for a $6.8 million salary next year. Doughty is apparently looking for $7 million a year, while Dean Lombardi has offered something in the vicinity of $5.5 million per season. Taking contract negotiations personally as a fan is difficult not to do, but you’ve got to understand the strategy from Doughty’s camp here. Something will get done, Doughty will remain a King, and probably for quite a while.

Looks at the Rook’s

Development Camp: The first taste of 2011-2012 Kings hockey takes place tomorrow at the Toyota Sports Center in El Segundo. You can find the schedule and roster here, where most of the prospects withing the organization will be skating in preparation for Rookie Camp and Training Camp. Last year’s first selection for the Kings in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft, Derek Forbert, is questionable for participation. Forbert reportedly is dealing with a bad back, possibly stemming from his struggles with mononucleosis during his freshman season at the University of North Dakota last year.

When Alexei Ponikarovsky is considered to be a GM’s ‘Plan B’ while musing the free-agent market, things aren’t good. When Alexei Ponikarovsky is shipped to Carolina simultaneously as  a ‘Plan B’ of Simon Gagne is inked in Los Angeles, things are downright stupendous.

What a fu*king train-wreck that Ryan Smyth deal turned out to be, eh? Might’ve been better off trading him for a bag of pucks, but chances are, those would’ve come with defaults too. We wouldn’t want Steve Tambellini sending fair product or anything.

But far more important are the stellar acquisitions Dean Lombardi executed this past week to land Mike Richards and Simon Gagne from the Philadelphia Flyers. The additions of Richards and Gagne add some serious credibility to the Kings being tabbed Stanley Cup contenders next season. If there’s reasonable dispute to that, th – - there is no such thing.

Out of Town

Alexei Ponikarovsky and Michal Handzus have found new digs, riding free-agency out of Los Angeles. Ponikarovsky has a new home with the Carolina Hurricanes, agreeing on a one-year deal worth $1.5 million. Good riddance, attributing for a lowly 5 goals and 15 assists in 61 games this season. Ponikarovsky, who was brought to Los Angeles to replace Alexander Frolov, was a non-factor all season long. Carolina may be Ponikarovsky’s final stint in the NHL, with the KHL likely to embrace the final years of his pro career. A more notable departure is that of Michal Handzus, who has commited to the San Jose Sharks for two years at a combined salary of $5 million. Handzus ends his 4-year tenure in a Kings uniform, marking his symbol with the franchise as a solid, dependable, 3rd-4th line centerman. He honored his quiet, under appreciated duty, and always with pure class. Unfortunately, the team is straying away from his need, which is not to say he doesn’t still belong in the league – just as San Jose has noticed.

Is this Wade, James, Bosh status? Just call 7 Cups with some smoke machines behind you.

Along with Ilya Bryzgalov, Wayne Simmonds and Brayden Schenn found their way to Phildadephia, prime assets in the deal that brought Mike Richards to the Kings.

Philly West

Adding these two players to the Kings’ roster is absolutely outstanding, and has the writing on the wall to elevate the team to being a serious Stanley Cup threat. Richards brings a prominent name to the 2nd line centerman position, totaling 158 points in his last two seasons – including the postseason. He’ll add security for Anze Kopitar, who will most likely remain atop the centerman depth chart. When you’re talking Richards, you’re talking prominent – you’re talking elite. The Kings haven’t just added another offensive outlet, but one that instills a resume with serious playmaking ability.

After falling short in the Brad Richards‘ sweepstakes, the Kings agreed to terms with Simon Gagne for 2 years at $7 million. Gagne, who spent last season with the Tampa Bay Lighting, is coming off of consecutive 40 point seasons with 17 goals and 23 assists. Gagne, at this point, can be considered as a fixture on any of the Kings’ top three lines.

The Ryan Smyth deal couldn’t get any uglier, as reports are claiming that Colin Fraser is still recovering from an injury that will keep him out for the first four months of the season. Fraser was the second player offered in the Smyth talks, after Gilbert Brule was nixed from the initial deal for his concussion history. Man, talk about leaving a sour taste.

The inevitable has taken form. The best of luck on your future endeavors, Smytts.

Not many players can pull off white skates, either. We’re talking Fedorov status here.

Sorry to see him go, the seasoned veteran who was hitched to this club in Dean Lombardi‘s marvelous acquisition in July of 2009. He brought with him experience to mold the development of an extremely young roster, he immediately proved himself worthy of still being a top-six forward, and the guy always got it done on the power-play, smack-dab in his roundhouse – the crease.

It was only a matter of time, really. Initial word had gotten out that Ryan Smyth approached Dean Lombardi in request of a trade out of Los Angeles about a week ago. When confronted about the revelation, Smyth firmly denied the allegations, which soon after turned out to be true. You’ve got to be somewhat happy for Smyth, who now can end his career where it started, and where it was embraced – with the Edmonton Oilers. Family has been said to be the fueling factor to this entire soap opera, where making home in Alberta was top priority. But, a bigger priority than a decent shot at the Stanley Cup with the Kings? The Oilers are about two years behind the Kings in terms of developing a young roster, and the way Smyth lagged during the second-half of this season, a renewed or extended contract with the Oil is far from guaranteed. That could give Smyth one final season in Edmonton, where Cup hopes are nothing but hope and optimism, compared to one final season in Los Angeles, where serious contention is in full gear. Welp, it is what is it.

I mean, come on! The guy still used lumber, a true vet.

Sure wasn’t LeBron James leaving Cleveland-like, but I was a bit turned off in the manner Smyth handled the whole ordeal. At first, I backtracked to his denial of the rumors, and tabbed him as a liar. But think, really, what does a professional athlete of Smyth’s caliber do in that situation? Keep it quiet, better for yourself, better for the internals of the team. The whole thing was true, that’s all that mattered.

The Kings received two assets in the trade, Centerman Colin Fraser and a boost in Cap Space. Fraser, unlike the first player the Oilers offered, Gilbert Brule, will actually get a shot to make the Kings’ roster. The cap space freed from dropping Smyth’s contract allows for more leverage in renewing Drew Doughty‘s contract or hitting the market again for a pursuable top-six left winger. Bittersweet.

I’m done analyzing draft prospects for three reasons:

1) Chances are, I’m one of the last resources on earth you’re coming to for insight on draft selections.

2) I’ve got no ability when it comes to predicting a player’s professional career, and not many people do. However, a lot of people think they do.

3) I’d probably be twisting a healthy combination of opinions and analysis from others into banal summaries, so let’s just scrap it.

Don’t mean we ain’t talkin’ draft, though! What’s in the closet Mr. Gibson?

“Yeah yeah, heartwarming stories about your childhood, save it for an FSW intermission feature segment or something, Chris. But how fu*king crispy are those new roadies?!?”

Apparently I’ve been completely unaware that clubs unveil new sweaters during the NHL Entry Draft, or this is something new. Along with the Kings completing their new set, the Florida Panthers and Nashville Predators both introduced pieces of their new wardrobes. I expected an unveiling of this jersey to come at LA Kings Hockey Fest on September 11th, but I was obviously wrong. Most of us knew what was coming, including myself, so how’s the newly officialized outfit combination fit your taste?

I figured the Kings would keep purple in the wardrobe for the alternate, but never expected the black hem-line sweater to take the position. Quite frankly, last year’s throwback specialty jersey should’ve been tabbed as the full-time alternate.

Fortunately, these beaut’s will grace the roster’s dress-code three times during the 2011-2012 season, once again designated as the Kings’ ‘specialty jersey’.

I’ve got to tab the newly released road uniforms as my favorite to the new set. Ironically, I’ve got a strong distaste for the black version, which was introduced in November 2008. The decision to make the former home uniforms, the black hem-lines, as the new alternate doesn’t make much sense. Usually an alternate uniform presents a fresh look, instead the Kings are keeping grasps with a template that not only represents a somewhat bleak era in Kings history, but a design that simply does not fit in with the new look. Contrast is all right, but if you’re looking to do it the right way, you implement something with roots to the franchise. I’ve grown on the new looks, and the sharp addition introduced this weekend strengthens my acceptance to the change.

*NHL Network Fail

Not dogging on the crown, but get your sh*t straight!

Word has it Ryan Smyth wants out of Los Angeles, musing dreams of a return to Edmonton.
Word has it Ryan Smyth doesn’t want out of Los Angeles. Cat and Mouse games.
Say it ain’t so, Smytts. I never expected a move like this from you, regardless of your value to this team. Unprofessional, Edmonton shouldn’t even be impressed with the allegations.

“Sick Hair.” Smytty Hair.

He asked for it. Clues have been piling up since the initial leak, pointing all signs to this claim to be truthful. I’d like to get something out to you folks first, before the actual hockey part is discussed. Disappointment – that’s how I feel about Ryan Smyth right now. Regardless if you think he’s still a good fit for the Kings’ roster or not, this isn’t a tactic I’d ever expect to see from Smytts. Yeah, he had the bad fortune of his words hitting public ear, but these revelations are a pretty big turn-off. If he likes his chances in Edmonton for the next three years, then he must really want out of Los Angeles. Didn’t expect this from a respected, seasoned veteran who has been a huge asset to this club’s growth over the past two seasons. I’m a huge Ryan Smyth fan, and please don’t let his horrid second-half relate to my appreciation for him, and denounce the rest of this entry. There are too many allegations and rumors ablaze, let’s just talk about the pros and cons in the situation that has developed around #94.

Can’t help but say, something smells downright fishy in this b*tch!

Pass the Tartar Sauce.

Whenever any player requests a move, chances are the reaction from the current club’s fanbase won’t be too sincere. For Smyth and those of the Kings, that has been the case. The majority of the fans seem to be welcoming a move, rather than sorting things out with the 15-year veteran. Unfortunately, that’s fueling a lot more hatred toward Smyth than I believe necessary. He was attacked on a consistent basis last summer from various analysts, as his age suddenly became a glowing negativity to his future. Smyth started the season on fire, contributing to Kings’s offensive production at a torrent pace. The overall consensus is a decline in Smyth’s performance, even though he recorded just six fewer points this season than he did in ’09-’10. However, Smyth tallied his 47 points in 82 games this year, compared to 53 in just 67 games the previous season. The ratios will clear the air. But is a near 50-point season a burden to this roster? That may not matter, the player may not match the role anymore.

Revelations have recently come about that there was a disgruntled veteran on the roster this season, and all fingers point at that being Smyth. You’ve got to be crazy to believe the Edmonton Oilers have a better shot at the Stanley Cup than the Kings in the coming three seasons. Is this selfishness we’re witnessing, an ego that can’t subdue itself? Smyth is clearly willing to surrender a decent shot at the Cup before his NHL career ends, in order to return home to headline a roster bundled with young, inexperienced prospects. But would he headline that roster? Edmonton’s core can develop on it’s own just fine, the past is nothing the Oilers need to flirt with. Smyth needs to realize his role in Los Angeles is more valuable, and that the opportunities are much greater with the Kings. Has he burned that bridge?

If Smyth does in fact get dealt, it only means a jump in the process for prospect initiation, or more action from Dean Lombardi in the free-agent market. If I had to guess a sensible time for a trade, it would happen in Minnesota this weekend at the 2011 NHL Entry Draft. I could see Lombardi acting on an offer that included a couple of mid-round draft picks, the Edmonton Oilers happen to have two in the third round. Edmonton can’t exactly handle Smyth’s price easily, as they’ll be hesitant to give up cap-space, while the Kings’ are looking to drop some numbers for the free-agent market.

“Dustin Penner needs to workout ‘this much’ during the summer.”

“This is also my reaction every time we’re on the Powerplay.”
“Ryan Smyth‘s nose is this big.” Next Question?

Per Rich Hammond of the LA Kings Insider, who sat down for an interview with Kings’ General Manager Dean Lombardi earlier today, a preview was provided of their transcribed dialogue. No direct quotes are provided, but Hammond gives a pretty clear view of how their talk played out. Of course, the first topic of discussion revolved around the NHL Entry Draft, which takes place in Minnesota this weekend. The two continued to touch on an intriguing contract renewal offer to a well-known defensive asset, the offseason free-agent market, Dustin Penner‘s summer, and the status of players on the mend. Quite frankly, Dean Lombardi seems to be on par with my outlook.

“The Kings, whose first pick in the draft is scheduled to be No. 49, would consider options to trade back into the first round but only for a deal that makes sense, not just for the sake of it. This year’s first round is not considered especially deep.”

Couldn’t agree more, and don’t expect Lombardi and the Kings to find a sensible deal this weekend either. Prospects aren’t atop the list of priorities this club needs to approach in the coming years, there is plenty of development in the Kings’ system. This isn’t the type of draft you throw a party for, the Kings are slotted for a 1st selection at #49 overall in the 2nd Round, and the year’s group isn’t too deep from the looks. This feeds into the mindset that trading up for a selection is clearly unnecessary, the Kings take the best player at their given time, nothing more needs to be done this weekend.

“Within the past few days, the Kings have made a “major” offer to Drew Doughty’s agent. Lombardi has made two trips to Toronto — location of the office of Don Meehan’s, Doughty’s agent — within the past four weeks, and the Kings would like to get a deal done before the draft, if possible. Lombardi said he is certainly aware of the risk of an offer sheet to Doughty but is not overly concerned.”

Key word – major. This quote screams long-term deal for Drew Doughty, just about cements Doughty as a King for the majority of his NHL career. Did I expect this to be an off-season move for Dean Lombardi? Not necessarily. Lombardi has preached work ethic and offseason conditioning since he’s been in Los Angeles, two departments many agree Doughty has lacked in. However, the smarts, the skill, and the presence are too much to risk parting ways with, especially when there’s experience and maturity still needed. I was 50/50 when it came to offering a long-term offer this summer, I was leaning toward a 2-3 year deal. Really, you couldn’t go wrong either way, and the player we’re dealing just has too much promise to even consider breaking ties with.

“The Kings are still in the market for a top-level forward, either through free agency or trade. Lombardi said that even if it was guaranteed that Dustin Penner would have a big season, statistically, the Kings would still seek outside help to improve their scoring numbers, both 5-and-5 and on the power play. Penner, Lombardi said, has been dedicated to working hard so far this summer, and Lombardi expressed optimism.”

Stop showing up looking like you spent your previous night engulfed in High Life’s after dinner at some grease barn. And, stop playing like shit. Liking that Lombardi stresses staying on the market this summer, as there are a few notable names in the mix that would fit the Kings’ direction. I’ll talk Zach Parise until it becomes a favorable rumor, as the New Jersey Devils filed for arbitration on their contract negotiations just days ago. He’ll be 27 years old at the start of the season, and is coming off of 92 and 84 point campaigns prior to just playing 13 games this year due to injury. He’s undoubtedly a top-line left winger, and will provide other options for fitting Dustin Penner into the system.

“Anze Kopitar is making great progress from his recovery from ankle surgery, Lombardi said, as is Justin Williams from his shoulder surgery. Willie Mitchell and Jonathan Quick also had minor medical procedures but will be ready for the start of training camp.”

As expected, good news coming regarding injuries, which is usually the case during the offseason. Anze Kopitar, who is back in Slovenia for a part of the summer, was feeling good enough for a round of golf just a few days ago. Kopitar played in a charity event, with some sick shorts and ankle tape for support. Rich Hammond blogs it here, and the original article here.

Get your fix. Get it here, and get it now. No looting on this side of town, folks.

KingsCast‘s annual Summer Hockey Roundtable has all six episodes running LIVE. If you’re behind on the times, or itching for a double dose of satisfaction, we’ve got you covered with clear-cut HD streams filled with offseason Kings analysis right here – all on one page. Keith and Chris bring this high profile cast straight into your living room with Kings banter from all angles.

While it’s hot!

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You’d hate for the kids to think that you lost your cool.
This guy must be on cloud 9.

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Touching on a broad array of minor topics here: I’ve got some updates on the Kings’ preseason schedule, the NHL Entry Draft – which sits just two weeks away, a bit of free agent discussion, and an ode to the hockey fans out in Atlanta. Also, KingsCast is right on par thus far with our predictions to the outcome of the Stanley Cup Finals. Check out our picks along with those of a few members of the Los Angeles hockey Media in my last segment.

Also, if you haven’t been keeping up with the annual KingsCast Summer Hockey Roundtable, you can tune in to the first five segments below – don’t get left out. This prime slew of guests are talking everything Kings hockey, from Drew Doughty‘s conditioning to Jack Johnson‘s disappointing post-contract play. Catch it from some of the best in the business, as Keith and Chris rep the Fourth Period Magazine, NBC Sports, ESPN Los Angeles, INSIDE SPORTS, HockeyTalk.biz, Frozen Royalty, and Mayor’s Manor. How do you beat that? You don’t.

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If it’s not the Royals…: The preseason venture to Missouri is nothing new for the Kings, but not something that the team took part in last season. The venue is Kansas City’s Sprint Center, and a September 27th date is expected to see the Kings play the Pittsburgh Penguins. Pittsburgh is a rare opponent, making this an intriguing exhibition in itself. Also factor in the possibility of this game being the return of Sidney Crosby, who sat out the second half of the season after suffering a concussion in the Winter Classic. The Kings’ travel itinerary that graces the preseason and the commencement of the regular season is already looking brutal.  With the overload of travel, expect the remainder of the preseason schedule to stay within the vicinity of the Los Angeles region, most likely split-squad contests with the Phoenix Coyotes and a date or two with the Anaheim Ducks. Here’s how the Kings travel plans look heading into the start of the season:

September 27 – Kansas City, Missouri: @ Pittsburgh Penguins (PRE)
October 1 – Las Vegas, Nevada: VS Colorado Avalanche (PRE)
October 4 – Hamburg, Germany: @ Hamburg Freezers (DEL) (PRE)
October 7 – Stockholm, Sweden: VS New York Rangers (REG #1)
October 8 – Berlin, Germany: VS Buffalo Sabres (REG #2)

Draft Outlook: Nothing to get too excited about when looking at the Kings’ scheduled selections in this year’s draft. When Dustin Penner was acquired, our first-round selection was shipped to Edmonton as part of the deal. Now, Dean Lombardi‘s looking at a first selection at #49 Overall in the 2nd Round. Lombardi is no stranger to trading up for higher picks, as he did last year in order to snag Derek Forbert. However, the Kings, at a developmental standpoint, are in promising condition. I wouldn’t have a problem with Lombardi holding off on working any deals, as I feel we’re simply at a point where we take the best player available at our given time. The core of our depth doesn’t have many glaring holes, I don’t see Lombardi chasing after players with specific assets unless they fall into our allotted selection.

Market Musings: Attention has once again centered on the Kings filling the left-wing void with a top-six forward. The Dustin Penner experiment is far from over, but his disappointing start has most looking for an alternative solution. A name that’s been tossed around the premature rumor mill is Zach Parise of the New Jersey Devils. They’ve yet to reach an agreement on a new contract, and it looks as though the Devils will be filing for arbitration within the week. The Kings aren’t struggling with cap space, and they do have a few contracts that would be considered “tradeable”. Word has also lingered that Parise isn’t fully on board with Ilya Kovalchuk headlining the team, unfortunately for him that won’t be changing anytime soon.

As heartless as it gets.

Losing your team is tough, and Atlanta’s puckheads know this feeling all too well. This is the second time Atlanta has lost an NHL club – and likely, the last time. The degree of brutality in which the process was vindicated is what garners my attention. Anyone knows Atlanta is no striking marketplace for hockey, and the ownership surrendered to that theory – in pathetic fashion. They didn’t just play into the stereotype, they fueled it. Why people are questioning Winnipeg’s ability to support an NHL club is astounding to me. Sure, they failed the last time around, but you’ve got to be crazy to believe the financial situation won’t be one of the best in the league for years to come. Not only is Winnipeg starved for an NHL return, but they’re housing this club in an AHL building suited for just over 15,000 spectators. You want to talk revenue? Talk to this cheesy ownership that sold out Atlanta. My condolences to those in “Blueland”.

Take a break from those talking heads on the collective networks tracking the NHL‘s Stanley Cup Playoffs. We’ve got eight local Los Angeles-based analysts and media members in this segment providing predictions to the outcome of the final series, which sees the Vancouver Canucks and the Boston Bruins getting together for a few dates.

Straight-cut here, with each member predicting the series winner, the number of games needed, and who they see as best fit to win the Conn Smythe trophy. We’re repping ESPN, The Fourth Period Magazine, INSIDE SPORTS, Hockeytalk.biz, Frozen Royalty, and NBC Sports – and it isn’t Pierre McGuire!

Series Outlook

These two clubs met just once during the regular season, the Boston Bruins coming out on top on February 26th in the Vancouver confines that houses one of the toughest atmospheres in the NHL. The Bruins won 3-1, overcoming an early one-goal deficit with a Milan Lucic go-ahead tally with under five minutes to play, and Patrice Bergeron shutting the door with some empty-net insurance. Roberto Luongo faced 24 Boston shots, with 22 saves. Tim Thomas took on a heavier load, facing 28 Vancouver shots with 27 saves. The Boston Bruins finished the campaign with 103 points, winning the Northeast Division and taking the third slot in the Eastern Conference. The Vancouver Canucks finished with 117 points, and not only won the Northwest Division and Western Conference, but took the NHL‘s Presidents’ Trophy. Predictions from some of the top Los Angeles hockey media and analysts are below, with mine included at the end.

Dennis Bernstein – Senior Writer/Director at The Fourth Period Magazine

Vancouver Canucks in 5 Games – Ryan Kesler for Conn Smythe Trophy

“It’s the Canucks year, after slaying the Blackhawks dragon, they’ve gotten better with each round. Roberto Luongo, thought to be the weak link, put up his most impressive effort of the post season in the elimination game vs the Sharks. The Bruins were life and death against the East’s 5 and 6 seeds and are 2nd best in every facet of the game.”

Charles Smith – Executive Producer at INSIDE SPORTS

Vancouver Canucks in 6 Games – Ryan Kesler for Conn Smythe Trophy

“Roberto Luongo should have no problem being the equal of Tim Thomas between the pipes. Bruins are tough, but lack the mobility on defense to shut down the Sedins. Ryan Kesler has taken his game to a stratospheric level. Vancouver has been building up to this for the past several seasons, and finally, the team has achieved critical mass.”

Matt Reitz – Writer at Pro Hockey Talk for NBC Sports

Vancouver Canucks in 6 Games – Ryan Kesler for Conn Smythe Trophy

“If the Bruins thought the Lightning power play was tough, just wait until they see the Canucks who were the best with the man advantage this year. Then there’s the Bruins’ PP that has been absolutely anemic, which won’t get any easier against Vancouver who had one of the best PKs in the NHL. Tim Thomas is the kind of goaltender who can steal a few games in a series, but the Canucks are just too good in every facet of the game to be denied.”

Dave Joseph – Morning Sportscenter Anchor at 710 ESPN Los Angeles

Vancouver Canucks in 6 Games – Roberto Luongo for Conn Smythe Trophy

“The Canucks’ offense will exploit a less-than-mobile Boston defense while Vancouver’s back line will neutralize the Bruins offense. Roberto Luongo will continue his stellar play this post-season and bring the Conn Smythe and the Cup back to Canada. Vancouver’s depth will prove too much for Boston.”

Gann Matsuda – Executive Publisher at FrozenRoyalty.Net

Vancouver Canucks in 5 or 6 Games – Ryan Kesler for Conn Smythe Trophy

“With the Sedins and Ryan Kesler leading the way, Boston won’t have the answers to what the Canucks will be throwing at them, not with the Canucks holding an advantage in terms of skill and speed, which should negate Boston’s ability to play a physical game. The Canucks also hold a huge advantage on special teams, which spells big, big trouble for the Bruins.”

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Chris Kaliszewski – Co-Editor and Producer at KingsCast.net

Vancouver Canucks in 6 Games – Roberto Luongo for Conn Smythe Trophy

Selfless was his demeanor: Welcoming conversation, advice, and help to anyone and everyone.
Charismatic was his presence: Lighting up any room with witty opinion and insight fitting into a broad array of discussion.
Affectionate was his attitude toward others: Always taking dialogue to a personal standpoint, showing you he truly cared about you as an individual.
Momentous was his résumé: A well-traveled man who had been a staple in the sports media industry for over two decades.
Warm and considerate was his heart: A man who wore it on his sleeve in every aspect of life, protruding its love and care to everyone and everything around him.

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That heart of his stroked it’s final pulse today, Jonathan Moncrief passed away this morning at the age of 42. Jon died after suffering a pulmonary embolism, believed to be sudden. Jon and I were just talking on Saturday, bruising our thumbs in a text message conversation as he was en route to Santa Monica for the second annual KingsCast Roundtable. As I cycle through waves of tears – the biting of my lip the only thing granting me respite, my heart yearns for one last goodbye; one more banter about the Kings, one more personal conversation to check up on each other, one more. Before I move ahead with the coping process, I’d like to share my relationship with Jonathan Moncrief, the extraordinary voice for the Los Angeles Kings for the past three seasons at the LA Examiner.

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A displaced Kings fan I currently am, situated on the other side of the country for the time-being. In my second season as the blogger here on KingsCast, I invested in a two-week hockey trip to Los Angeles in late December. Along with my plans to have a few drinks and put in some work with the fellas here on the site, I followed their recommendation and reached out to Jon for some advice and guidance in the sports media industry. Advice and guidance doesn’t justify what he did for me. Damnit, Jon…

Not many industry professionals would respond to an e-mail from a 21 year old kid in pursuit of joining them hand-in-hand to divulge in their every day work, let alone take it seriously. That, he did, and put forth effort in every imaginable way possible to make it the best experience for me.

His initial plan was to get me credentials to join him in the Staples Center press box for the January 6, 2011 contest when the Kings hosted the Nashville Predators. His attempt in asking the Kings’ front office was rejected. That wasn’t good enough for him; Jon emailed his chief editor, requesting for him to personally approach the Kings about granting me credentials. Unfortunately, that didn’t work out either. The funny thing is, the kindness exuded in his substantial effort was plenty in satisfying me.

To substitute my press box experience, Jon met me on the Staples Center balcony during each intermission of that January 6th contest against Nashville. Here, he dished out raw material from the Kings, Predators, and the NHL to provide me with the exact documents that were provided in his chair upstairs. This isn’t basic stuff, folks.

During my visit, we hopped on the Metro Rail together a couple of times with El Segundo as the destination, in pursuit of getting close looks at the Kings in their pre-game skates. We were both in bliss as we took in a couple of mornings in the Redondo Beach-side confines that securely houses two sheets of ice from the California heat. It was business and pleasure for Jon; Coca Cola in-hand, notepad on the dashboard, and a tape recorder ready with a fresh battery. That tape recorder was handed to me, loaded with interviews, passing on the responsibility for me to write the next Kings article on the LA Examiner – under his name. I mean really, what else could the guy do. Above and beyond, fucking above and beyond Jon…man oh man.

I asked him for an interview, I wanted it to be a feature segment here on KingsCast. He accepted the request immediately, and we sat down days later for the recording. We chose the Denny’s on Figueroa, three blocks from Staples Center. What can I say, the guy had good taste. I think our table rotated through two different waitress shifts, it was non-stop dialogue, and boy was it great. I had hours of transcribing ahead of me, and flew back home to a heavy semester at College. Jon pushed for me to concentrate on school, making a strong point to me that my studies should be top priority. I then made plans to make it an off-season feature, a 2-3 part summer series. That plan was tabbed to be my next published article, with transcribing beginning this weekend. Instead, this is. The audio from our interview sits just a double-click on the mousepad away from me. I’ve got to wrap my head around this. Whether or not I decide to go through with publishing that interview, the audio file will remain with me for life.

“Keep writing.”, he would tell me. And that, I will, Jon.

I’ll miss you, buddy.

Gann Matsuda of Frozen Royalty also had a nice write-up. Find it here.

As noted in the last piece, we’ll be finishing the TOP FIVE segment here at KingsCast in compact fashion, breaking down the top three games in one blog. You can only flirt with the past for so long, plus there are more important things to get to. Look out for an in-depth interview coming soon with Jonathan Moncrief, your go-to voice for the Los Angeles Kings at the LA Examiner. What was once considered the impossible has reveled into existence! Your TOP THREE Los Angeles Kings games of the 2010-2011 campaign crunched into one segment. Hit it now!

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March 24, 2011 – Regular Season Game #74
Los Angeles Kings 4 – San Jose Sharks 3 (SO)
Staples Center – Los Angeles, California

Why it’s #3: All was right in the world for the Los Angeles Kings after this respectable victory. However, the game to follow would put a premature ending to Anze Kopitar‘s season – but that’s beside the point. The powerplay showed some late-season glimpses of existence, with Dustin Brown capitalizing on two man-advantage opportunities. The final minutes were quite wild with the Kings taking a 3-2 lead with 1:42 remaining, only to see the Sharks tie the contest with just :05 to play. Alec Martinez, who has become my favorite defenseman on the roster, posted assists on both of Dustin Brown‘s PP goals. Jarret Stoll continued to be automatic in the shootout, cranking one off the cross-bar to juice up his 8-9 record in breakaways this season. Dustin Brown with the unnoficial hat-trick to clinch a crucial win later in the shootout.

December 4, 2010 – Regular Season Game #25
Los Angeles Kings 3 – Detroit Red Wings 2 (OT)
Staples Center – Los Angeles, California

Why it’s #2: The Kings were fresh off of a much needed victory against the Florida Panthers, which happens to be #4 on the list in TOP FIVE. Even with the win against Florida, the Kings were stumbling, allotting just two victories in their previous nine games. The Kings overcame two deficits in this contest, eventually pocketing two points with Anze Kopitar‘s goal in OT. Kopitar’s goal was huge for this team, a game-winner from your premier player can certainly be a shot in the arm for any group. The Kings would go on to win seven of their next ten games, proving the worth of Kopitar’s finish. Justin Williams was his brilliant self netting the first Kings goal, and Alec Martinez continued to solidify his roster position with the second tally. Peter Harrold notched an assist on Martinez’ goal, likely to be his last ever point in a Los Angeles Kings uniform.

November 4, 2010 – Regular Season Game #12
Los Angeles Kings 1 – Tampa Bay Lightning 0
Staples Center – Los Angeles, California

Why it’s the best: These two teams should meet more often. The night this game took place, I recall mentioning the fact that this could end up being the contest of the season. Well, it was. It was also determined by the Kings’ top goal of the year as well – argue if you wish. Holy jeeze, Justin Williams. Earlier in the year, I related the Tampa Bay Lightning to the Kings, but just one year behind our process. I’m either wrong, or playoff success has too many variables to dictate credibility. This was an honest game throughout; the numbers in Shots Taken, Hits, and Faceoffs were shoulder to shoulder. Tampa Bay’s coach Guy Boucher said “That was a real playoff game,”, while Kings coach Terry Murray mentioned “There were a few hits, a few confrontations, a little old-time hockey.” Those two excerpts almost say it all.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT. EATING AND THINKING. AND KINGS HOCKEY. HELL YEAH.

Kopitar’s tint is more publicly acceptable to me than most of the sunglasses people wear these days – helmet included. Circa 2007. Circa Still Awesome.

TOP FIVE Update: Due to time constraints, which are the cause of me roughing through the last week of a semester at College, and the mind edging away from the hockey scene as the summer commences, there will be some changes to the TOP FIVE countdown here at Dancing in the Reign. The top three games will be crunched into one final segment, due by the end of the weekend. Look out for it, cause it’s going to be an absolute f*cking crisp dollar – I assure you. You can catch #5 on the list HERE, and #4 on the list HERE. Get ready for some memory remedy with recaps of vital victories against another Florida club, a California counterpart, and a Detroit dandy.

Someone Set The Table, We’re Coming At You With Summertime Kings Talk.

That’s Right Folks, The Off-Season Roundtable Is Taking Place This Weekend.

KingsCast Roundtable: Keith and Chris will be hosting yet another off-season roundtable this weekend. They’ll be welcoming a slew of guests to recap the 2010-2011 Los Angeles Kings season, while looking ahead to next year. Here, you’ll get insight analysis on free-agents, trade possibilities, and how the Kings look going into the 2011-2012 season. You can expect to see some solid names in the discussion:

Keith Korneluk & Chris Kaliszewski – KingsCast.net
Jonathan Moncrief – LA Examiner and Inside Sports
Charles Smith – Inside Sports and HockeyTalk.biz
Dennis Bernstein – Senior Writer & Producer – Fourth Period Magazine
Gann Matsuda - Frozen Royalty
Matt Reitz – View From My Seats
John Hoven – Mayors Manor
Dave Joseph – ESPN Radio & ESPN Los Angeles

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Leaving a Trail

Purple to the side, Black and White’s All Right

Purple Nurple: The Kings have all but confirmed uniform changes, it’s all hinging on a public showing, which I expect to come on September 11 at the annual Los Angeles Kings Hockey Fest. The Kings’ website has dropped purple from it’s repertoire like 5th period Algebra, leading you to believe what the club’s future color scheme will look like. The marketing directed toward the 2011-2012 season has been predominantly coded in black and white, further adding substance to the non-official official announcement from Rich Hammond of the LA Kings Insider. Ever since I realized the new “LA” logo was supposed to mock a shield, I’ve grown to like the template a bit more. It took me two and a half years to not see it as a “home plate” or “UPS” design, and that instantly jacked up it’s credibility. I’m shocked at my inability to see this, as it has me questioning my self-proclaimed NHL uniform expertise. But still, they need to knock it off with the unnecessary shoulder piping, and how about adding some shoulder patches?

It’s a clear-cut photoshop job, but figure this as the most credible first look at the new Road uniforms for the 2011-2012 season. Anze, watch that f*cking walk signal and keep the pressure off of that right ankle.

Not huge into politics, but I do keep up with the major topics that swirl through the media’s feed and filter into the hands of biased major networks deeming me helpless to reality. Most of it isn’t too bad, especially when it’s something so glorious in respect to our country’s efforts in the past decade. Yes, he’s dead, but some striking revelations came out last night: The guy apparently had plans for an attack on the Los Angeles Metro Rail System. Holy dang, holy jeeze. However, they were reportedly only to be in the initial stages of planning. HERE! The underlying issue was immediately perceived the moment these findings were released to the public.

He had me at efficient. I’m not missing warm-ups for some bullsh*t security check-point.

Re-election Vote – Pocketed. Also, I’m pretty sure Michal Handzus lives in a sector tunnel between the Hollywood/Highland and Hollywood/Vine stops.

But on a serious note, Metro is making some comfort-zone type changes for the public which is nice to see. Metro is putting money into what already has been a well-known tight budget situation, with some pretty key stuff. The article is linked up top, but what’s the most important part to all of this? They’re not holding you up. If I’m flirting with 50 minutes prior to puck drop and one of those tan-suits stops me for what I’d consider the worst usage of two minutes in the history of mankind to pat me down, I’d be f*cking ticked-off to the max. That probably doesn’t do justice to what I’d actually be feeling, but what if that guard later stops someone holding a bomb? What if Ryan Smyth scored a goal from a range farther than two feet from the net?

Metro is obviously making some solid investments here, it’s nice to see them reacting in a proactive fashion to Al-Qaeda’s reported plans. Metro is also obviously making some bad investments as well, like the commercial they produced for the Los Angeles Kings this season. This thing is horrible. Two things struck me here: For one, I didn’t know you could find a bad director/producer in the city of Los Angeles. Isn’t that the “thing” in LA? Secondly, I’m perplexed how this could become the final project for a company/organization looking to represent themselves in respectable fashion. Am I being too blunt?

Watch out, this monster might eat your computer screen before the 31 seconds tick off.

If there’s an award for “Worst crowd-to-crowd transition when basing the entirety of your setting on a full-house at Staples Center“, this has got to be a top nominee.

OK, legit.

Candace Parker is a reportedly 6’4″ tall, and she claims to love her seat!

Either they’re dropping in Candace Parker‘s lunch from a helicopter on the live set, or she’s trying to peek over the invisible King Kong sitting in the seat in front of her.
Popcorn seems to be the arena snack of choice, tonight.
That is the most saturated group of minorities to be attending a Los Angeles Kings game I’ve ever seen.

Kevin Westgarth polishes off the casting for this dandy. No wonder the Lakers never take part in Metro commercials.

That guy above the Clippers’ Craig Smith right shoulder looks to be well-indulged. With what, who knows.

ALL ABOARD!

The Kings were on Staples Center ice for just the third time in nine contests, sulking into Los Angeles along the 5 freeway with an ugly 1-7-0 record that symbolized their previous eight dates — talk about a low-point. The lone victory during that slump-fest happens to be #5 on the list in TOP FIVE. Florida’s visit to Staples Center was quickly overshadowed when the Kings pulled off an absolute dandy against the Detroit Red Wings on the premises just two nights later, but it certainly still deserves recognition. This night had some substance. The Smyth-Stoll-Williams line does it’s thing in due fashion before it’s sudden downfall, Peter Harrold scores, Anze Kopitar with a pre-injury golden moment, and Peter Harrold scores. Oh, and it also fueled December’s resurgance, the Kings snagging two points in eight of the next eleven games. Can’t go wrong here, really.

BAILEY Cameo – TOP RIGHT

For the “Sunshine State”

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December 2, 2010 – Regular Season Game #24
Los Angeles Kings (3) – Florida Panthers (2)
Staples Center – Los Angeles, California

Highlights can be seen below, Bob and Jim with the Fox Sports West feed. Not the prettiest game you’ll see, but a crucial one at that. Does Florida even have a broadcast team anyway? And why does their arena have bright green seats, I’ve never understood that. Probably designed the place around an early ’90′s Arena Football League team or something that folded two years later.

Why it’s #4: There are no green seats in the background because this game was not in Florida. That comment above was completely irrelevant to anything recognizable to this game. Anyway, not necessarily one of the most appealing wins this season, to the casual viewer at least. However, it came with a marvelous finish and kicked the Kings out of the valley they were trapped in. That valley was located in Shitty F*cking Defense-ville, in the country of WhereTheFuckIsJonathanBernier-istan. The eight games prior to this win against the Florida Panthers saw the Kings grab just two of sixteen points available, seven losses in regulation, but stole a Shootout win in Boston to curb the dismal state of play. After the refresh, the Kings went running, pulling off an 8-2-1 record in the next eleven games, taking 17 of 22 points on the board.

Defense Due: I shoulder a lot of blame on defensive struggles for the Kings’ November slump, but they were due for a win. In the two games prior to Florida, the defense was showing signs of it’s early-season form, the offense just couldn’t take advantage of it. A 2-1 loss to the Chicago Blackhawks and a 2-0 dud against the Anaheim Ducks had everyone waiting for the offense to hop aboard. The defense stayed honest, surrendering just 6 goals in the next 4 games. The offense joined the party too, putting up 12 tallies in the same next 4 games. Talk about making ends meet, the Kings would go 4-0-0 after the forwards started to put some pucks away.

Prior To Vacation: Unfortunately, tonight was one of the last memorable sights of the formerly-known “geezer line”. Jarret Stoll wouldn’t score a goal for the next 15 games, totaling just 3 assists in that span. For the Williams, Stoll, Smyth line as a whole, it all went downhill with Stoll’s numbers, which queued Terry Murray to call out the centerman in public fashion. Murray sent the message in late December, and Stoll responded almost as well as you could have expected. Jarret Stoll is certainly an interesting offseason subject as his contract with the Kings has expired. The guy deserves some serious consideration for a new contract, he’s a staple in the face-off circle and can fill multiple roles in a team’s offensive scheme.

PETE!: Always nice to see Peter Harrold put one in, his only goal of the season would come in this game against Tomas Vokoun and the Florida Panthers. He gets the game-tying goal here, only for it to be his last of the season. In the following game, Harrold assists on the game-tying goal, to also be his last of the season. 9 more times he’s etched into the lineup, but with a questionable presence you really couldn’t tab as either valuable or harmful. He’s an under appreciated player in this organization, there’s no doubt. With an NHL career dating as far back as the ’06/07 season with the Kings, Harrold has been a comfortable substitute, especially as a swingman. He can fill slots anywhere on the ice except the crease. Not only does he have a two-sided skill set, but he can do it respectively at an on-call basis. Not easy to do. His status as a King isn’t necessarily expected to continue into next season, tougher issue to delegate than it looks. Best of luck with your future endeavors, Pete.

You bet your ass he’s staring at that two-spot. Either that or the Jumbotron captured the guy I saw rocking a Peter Harrold jersey two years ago. Peter Harrold probably likes seeing people in Peter Harrold Jerseys. Then again, it’s probably him staring at the scoreboard that’s been juiced-up due to his snapper after intercepting a Florida clear-attempt, thinking about how many more people are going to buy Peter Harrold jerseys because of his CRUCIAL goal.

Anze Kopitar ends it late in the third period. More from him later. If you recall what happened in the game scheduled after this one, the writing’s on the wall.

Like a drunken townie reminiscing their high school athletic career, we’re taking a look back at the TOP FIVE LA Kings games played this season. The NHL Playoffs are in full-swing, and we’re just getting started with offseason coverage here at KingsCast.net. Look out for a new episode of Overtime by the end of the week, Chris and Keith will be at you with a Season Review in Episode 107. For the time-being, let’s get to #5 on the list.

November 20, 2010 – Regular Season Game #19
Los Angeles Kings 4 – Boston Bruins 3 (SO)
TD Banknorth Garden – Boston, Massachusetts

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Highlights can be seen below, unfortunately we’re working with the Bruins’ NESN feed here. Enjoy yourself a nice helping of Jack Edwards, the same guy who related a Bruins playoff victory to the Revolutionary War. Please now.

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Why It’s #5: When targeting the low points to the Kings tumultuous season, the second-half of November stands out as the worst stretch of hockey played by this club. From November 14th to December 1st, the K