.

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.

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“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.

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 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!

l

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.

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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.

I

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:

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- 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.

 I

“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

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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.

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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.

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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.

“Wayne was traded for $15 million and five draft picks. I wouldn’t have traded him for an entire organization.” – Glen Sather

“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.