The Los Angeles Kings are on a long road-trip that could very well define their season. In this episode we talk about the games against the St. Louis Blues, Carolina Hurricanes and Tampa Bay Lightning. We also take your Kings questions from Twitter and Facebook and talk about Dean Lombardi’s next moves.
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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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The Los Angeles Kings dropped a snoozer to the Columbus Blue Jackets on Saturday and fans were ready to renounce the team. In this episode, we talk about the game against the BJ’s, the 5-2 win over the Washington Capitals, the Manchester Monarchs AHL All-Stars and, of course, LA Kings hockey.
KingsCast is back in action with exclusive coverage and interviews from Tip A King 2011. In this installment we interview Kyle Clifford, Simon Gagne, Terry Murray, Willie Mitchell, Dustin Penner, Anze Kopitar, Mike Richards, Drew Doughty, Justin Williams, Kevin Westgarth, Jarret Stoll and Ethan Moreau taking everything from team chemistry, Staples Center nicknames, the 1-3-1 trap, pranks and so much more!
The Los Angeles Kings were facing elimination tonight in Game 5 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. The San Jose Sharks were smelling blood in the water. But, the Kings would not go quietly into the night. They got goals from Simmonds, Clifford and…wait for it: Dustin Penner in a 3-1 win in the Shark Tank. Jonathan Quick made 51 saves in a stellar performance. Icing on the cake: Dennis Bernstein of The 4th Period guest hosts the show!
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Jarret Stoll was suspended, Anze Kopitar was still injured. There was no way the LA Kings win Game 2 in San Jose…right? Not a chance. The team collectively stepped up and shut out the San Jose Sharks at home. Jack Johnson and Drew Doughty got the defense scoring. Quick made some great stops. Kyle Clifford showed some heart with a nice goal. So, we get a Game 5. Do we get a Game 6?
Keep that remote control idle, Chris and Keith are coming at you with the recap to tonight’s glorious victory with Episode 102 of Overtime. Stay on that couch.
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I was harping on conservative defensive play tonight, and boy was I wrong. But really, can you blame that mindset? The Kings’ powerplay has come out of nowhere and has suddenly become the storyline of the series. Jack Johnson with two points, and Drew Doughty doubling the pleasure riding the four-wheeler.
Jack and Drew, I sure don’t mind it, do you?
DIRECT DEPOSIT
The one aspect that has proved to be a struggle throughout the year for the Kings has become the most domineering factor for the club’s offensive production in the playoffs. Save yourself the trip to Downtown, Los Angeles for the weekly ‘Art Walk’ and watch video of the Kings’ powerplay in the first two games of the Western Conference Quarterfinals. Vincent van Gogh has got to be rolling over in his grave. Remarkable puck movement, astounding control and use of space in the offensive zone, and executing on open lanes for shots. No hesitation, and utilizing opportunity to stretch the twine in San Jose. Folks, we’ve got a roster that can win this series.
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Quick Satisfaction
You can’t ask much more from a goaltender than what Jonathan Quick has provided for this team in the first two games of the series. Although a loss in the opening contest, Quick maintained poise and posture after surrendering an early goal to keep the Kings in the game. You can’t pin Joe Pavelski‘s OT winner on Quick, there’s nothing you can do to defend a shot like Pavelski unloaded on a smooth transition odd-man rush off of an offensive zone turnover. Not only does the guy regroup from such a heartbreaking finish, but he epitomizes a brick-wall and silences the Shark-Tank with a shutout. The HP Pavilion was quieter than a college library during finals week, and boy was it a beautiful thing.
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And for Dessert, Kyle Frank Clifford
I’ll take another goal, please. Your chocolate cake tastes like shit.
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The White Hem-Lines Survive Another Day
My cult-like addiction to hockey uniforms took another step forward tonight. If the Kings were to get swept in the series, tonight’s contest would be the final installment of the current road uniforms. Well, you can stamp a ticket back to San Jose, and throw those white hem-lines in the washing machine. They’ll need something to wear for Game 5, and these beauty’s are what the closet will be calling for. Fashion show.
A sad day it was for the Los Angeles Kings community. Tanner Raboin, an avid fan, passed away this morning from his lengthy battle with Chronic Granulomotous Disorder. My thoughts and prayers are with the Raboin family, who have been a fixture among Kings fans since the mid-1980′s. It is only due respect to take a moment and grieve such a sorrowful loss. Here’s to the Kings making an honest push for the Stanley Cup in honor of Tanner Raboin. To get the full, in-depth story on Tanner, head over to Mayors Manor. R.I.P.
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There’s no easy way to transition to basic news, but there were some promising looks today in El Segundo at this morning’s practice. The Kings, who are just three days away from the Western Conference Quarterfinals against the San Jose Sharks, may not head into the Shark-Tank on Thursday night as short-handed as initially thought.
Looks like Alexei Ponikarovsky is giving Kyle Clifford a hard-time about the shiner that’s warped his left-eye. Funny thing is, that internal bleeding is probably better at maintaining puck possession in the corners than you, Alexei.
It may have more points, too.
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Just-in Time?
Justin Williams seems to be recovering from his shoulder injury at quite the pace. Suffering a separated shoulder on March 21st against the Calgary Flames, Williams was tabbed to miss up to six weeks. However, it is possible to see Williams on Thursday night in the postseason opener. On the ice today, Williams took part in contact drills, which is as good of a sign as you’re going to get from a victim of a separated shoulder. Talk about what would be a crucial return, Williams allotted 57 points with 22 goals and 35 assists before the injury. Even if not at 100% the Kings will gladly take what they can get, as the depth of the roster has seen a steep decline in talent since the recent string of injuries. Williams, who returned to the roster late last season after missing three-plus months to a broken leg, was a complete non-factor in the playoffs. The difference this time around, Williams has missed just about three weeks, and has been able to continue his lower-body conditioning. Further analysis will feed a stronger memo from the Kings tomorrow regarding Williams’ status. By the looks of it, I’d expect to see Justin Williams in the first-round, but not necessarily in the first game.
Who?
Things are also looking good for Scott Parse, who has played in just five games this season. Parse has been hampered by a hip injury he suffered in August during training camp. After more than a month of rehab, Parse attempted a return in early November that was cut short after five games. His short-stint was quite impressive, etching his name onto the score-sheet four times with a goal and three assists. Unfortunately, his ailing hip called the party. After a successful surgery and five months of rehabilitation, it looks as though Parse may be yet another last-minute addition to the Kings’ playoff roster. However, I can’t see Parse’s return more likely than that of Williams. Not only has he been out since mid-November, but his strength and conditioning has been idle. Just as important as the surgery itself is the strengthening of the muscles and tendons that support the affected area. Is it worth it for the Kings to bring back Parse at this point, or is four more months of rest and conditioning the smarter tactic for the long-term? Needless to say, if he’s cleared and willing to go, hop on board at-will, Scott.
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*Photo Credits:
Tanner Raboin: Mayors Manor, at ‘Mayors Manor’ on Facebook, and www.mayorsmanor.com
Kyle Clifford and Alexei Ponikarovsky: Meg Jarrell, at ‘Kings Court’ on Facebook, and at www.lakingscourt.blogspot.com
Justin Williams: Michael Zampelli
Scott Parse: Michael Zampelli
Santa’s dropping an early gift and it’s a brand new show! In this episode we sing you a little LA Kings Christmas song, give out a few gifts to players, talk about the games and show you the Christmas cards we got from several Kings players. Happy holidays! What’s on your Xmas list this year?
I don’t expect imminent change regarding Kevin Westgarth‘s position on our active roster. It would be a different story if the Kings’ were desperate to find open spots. Not the case. So, why am I bothering to touch on this? He hasn’t done anything. Really, he’s yet to even drop the mits. The enforcer role that factored into Westgarth making the team out of training camp has been nonexistent. The other enticing aspect of having the Princeton alum on the Kings’ roster was his respectable offensive output last year with the Manchester Monarchs. His contributions to the Kings’ offense this season? Snag your thesaurus for synonyms under ‘nonexistent’. The enforcer types of the old NHL are flirting with extinction. With the league’s recent evolution keying on speed and skill, teams can’t afford to ice 4th line players solely for intimidation. You need a player that boosts a 3rd or 4th line both physically and offensively. He’s failed in both roles. Already with four years of experience in the AHL, is more time in the minors a viable solution anymore? I’m not sure, my gut says no.
This is where Kyle Clifford joins the picture. He’s a better fit for the 4th line enforcer role. He’s got the physical dimension to go along with an offensive skill-set that has deemed much better this season than Westgarth’s. Clifford, more so than Brayden Schenn, is better off staying with the Kings this year. His style of play is begging for more immediate NHL experience, whereas Schenn still needs to utilize the WHL to polish the flashes of brilliance he’s shown this season. He needs to learn how to finish.
Kyle Clifford won’t take Kevin Westgarth‘s role by way of a roster move this year. He’ll have to do it throughout the course of the season with his play rather than Westgarth’s miscues. Westgarth needs to become a satisfying asset, and soon. More important than his fighting is his presence to the Kings’ offensive game. He’s got one shot on goal in ten games, and is doing nothing spectacular on the other end of the ice with a -4 rating. He has shown an inability to adapt to the NHL, and Clifford may enhance that weakness. If Kyle Clifford does remain with the Kings, which signs are pointing to since he’s dressing tonight, he’s going to get ice time. You don’t keep a prospect with the big club to be a healthy scratch. Ice time isn’t a problem for Clifford in the OHL, development is.
