Dancing in the Reign: Summer Scribbles

If you ask the majority of Kings fans how their off-season is going, don’t expect a pleasant response. But, were we expecting too much? As some say, were our eyes bigger than our stomachs? (Not literally, of course). In no way am I saying the Kings are staying mum for the remainder of the season transaction-wise, but a lot of expectations have been built up for Dean Lombardi to make some big moves early, and he has failed to do so. The Kings were labeled as buyers, and certain ones at that, when it came to the free agent market and the off-season in general. Many fans are griping, and they have reason to. However, that doesn’t mean I agree. Below, I’ll be breaking down the market that has eluded Dean Lombardi, what could still happen, and other off-season headlines:

Chuck any thoughts of Ilya: Consider the Kings attempt at signing free-agent left-winger Ilya Kovalchuk all but over with. Rich Hammond of the LA Kings Insider quoted Dean Lombardi responding to a question about Kovalchuk’s “choices”. “We are not a choice.”, said Lombardi. Many are upset, not I. Never did I have a comfortable feeling in regards to Kovalchuk joining the Kings roster. Yes, we need a talented winger, but Kovalchuk never felt like the right addition to me. I’ll admit, Russian free-agents scare me. Don’t pull the discrimination card. Did Kovalchuk seem like an odd-ball in a locker room full of youngsters and solid, seasoned veterans such as Ryan Smyth, Rob Scuderi, and Dustin Brown? I pictured it….not working. But what do I know? Honestly. I just hope Kovalchuk works out better for the Isles than Alexei Yashin. But not really. Deano, can’t blame you for staying idle on this one.

Richardson getting Richer?: It was reported yesterday courtesy of Rich Hammond of the LA Kings Insider that Brad Richardson has filed for arbitration. And the man deserves to get paid. Arguably the hardest working player on the roster, Richardson earned a salary of $587,500 last season. He won’t rack up astounding points, but his effort makes up for it. A right-winger who develops offensive-zone possession with his ruthless work in the corners, I’d be surprised to see the Kings take this to court. Richardson deserves the raise, and with the Kings quiet in the market, expect them to reach an agreement.

Gagne? I say, NO WAY: The Kovalchuk talk is dead, and now reports have been popping up regarding Kings interest in Philadelphia’s Simon Gagne. Yeah right. Maybe four years ago, like Keith mentioned. Not worth it. Rumors show Philadelphia is interested in either Jonathan Quick or Jonathan Bernier along with winger Wayne Simmonds. It’s really simple to me. Gagne costs too much to take the risk with the young core we have. Lombardi is smarter than to break up the young offensive group we have to acquire an 11-year NHL veteran who is on the down-slide. If we’re talking about acquiring a defenseman, different story. With the exit of Sean O’Donnell, the Kings don’t necessarily need a top-four defenseman, but a smart, proven veteran.

Final Thoughts: I’m happy with a quiet off-season. Give this young roster another year to mature together. Lombardi had, and still has, the opportunity to make moves. I’d like to see the Kings acquire a veteran defenseman, but I won’t push for a trade for an elite forward. I have confidence in the growth of the team we have. What are your thoughts? Trade possibilities? Any remaining fee agents you’d like to acquire?