The Kings have mutually parted ways with their 5th round selection from the 2008 NHL Entry Draft. This, for a 5th round selection in this summer’s 2013 NHL Entry Draft.

Andrei Loktionov requested a trade last week, Dean Lombardi cooperated.

It all comes full circle.

The Kings’ Russian prospect has been traded to the New Jersey Devils, who the Kings defeated in last season’s Stanley Cup Finals series. Loktionov, who played 39 regular season games and made two playoff appearances with the Kings last season, was nixed from the list of players and personnel to have their names engraved on the Stanley Cup after last season’s success.

So, all you have to remember of Andrei Loktionov‘s time in a Kings uniform, is a player that fell victim to a roster too heavy in depth to provide the 22 year-old native of Voskresensk, Russia a true opportunity to blossom at the NHL level.

Now there’s a positive way to say goodbye.

Loktionov spent stints of three seasons in a Kings uniform, but skated most with the AHL‘s Manchester Monarchs. There was just no room for him here. The Kings are healthily and heavily platooned at Andrei Loktionov‘s position, with Anze Kopitar, Mike Richards, and Jarret Stoll locking up the centerman positions on the first three lines for years to come.

And you already know Loktionov has no business being a fourth-liner.

It’s not so much that Andrei Loktionov couldn’t fit in at his natural center position, but he wasn’t valuable enough working elsewhere. Terry Murray experiemented with Loktionov at the wing position during the 2010-2011 campaign, but results were unsatisfactory.

And that really spelled Loktionov’s fate with the Kings, or at least foreshadowed it. Another problem with his fit in this organization was that the Kings have a number of versatile forwards who could be used in different roles/positions that were clearly a better option than Loktionov.

A lot of it had to do with size, and as it ultimately comes to; production.

Andrei Loktionov played a total of 59 regular season games with the Kings over the course of three years, and two in the postseason last spring. In that time, the young Russian potted seven goals and seven assists for 14 points.

May I compare him to a lesser Ryan Smyth? Loktionov never queued a red-light from more than three feet outside of the crease in his time with the Kings.

If you see Andrei Loktionov, you’ll find him inside – regardless of the uniform.

Long Island strut

Phoenix on the Boards

Andrei on his toes

Follow up in Columbus

Capitals-izing

Crowning Beantown

Everyone remembers their first

You’d be wrong not to acknowledge the most awkward interview ever.

The kid was probably sh*t scared of Daryl Evans’ suspenders

Andrei Loktionov has spent the entire season in the AHL with the Manchester Monarchs. After starting the season as one of Manchester’s top scorers during the NHL lockout, he’s simmered down and currently has 22 points for seven goals and 15 assists through 37 games.

He’s seen his last days in New Hampshire, but not in the AHL. Loktionov has been assigned to the Albany Devils through the trade, the New Jersey Devils‘ AHL affiliate.

Adios, Andrei

The Kings are in Tennessee Thursday night for a date with the Nashville Predators.

Episode 178 KingsCast TV: What’s the deal with Mike Richards? – HERE
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Imagine all of this with a full 82-game schedule. You know what a hurdle is?

Now it’s a scramble. You have to recover quickly. You have to.

Tuesday’s contest with the Colorado Avalanche presents a string of sudden roster moves to the Kings’ lineup. As though recovering from Saturday’s lackluster loss wasn’t a challenge in itself, the Kings must now adapt to a tornado-like whirlwind of roster moves.

These changes have come in all facets. With some of the good, you better expect a bit of the bad.

The Good: You’ll see a #11 sweater Tuesday evening. Anze Kopitar will be in the lineup against the Colorado Avalanche, fully healed from the knee injury he suffered in Sweden playing with Mora IK.

The Neutral: We barely knew the guy — Anthony Stewart has been placed on waivers.

The Bad: He’s traveling with the Kings has they embark on a three-game road trip over the course of five days, which hints at an imminent return for Willie Mitchell, who injured himself training just after the NHL lockout ended.

The Ugly: This is about as bad as it gets. Kings’ defenseman Matt Greene suffered a herniated disc during Saturday’s contest against the Chicago Blackhawks. Initial reports claimed Greene was likely to miss the entire season, but most recent words hint at a three-month recovery process for the Kings’ stay-at-home defensive rock.

Bottom Line: Greene’s gone, and the only question is whether he can return late in the regular season, or playoffs, or.. next October.

Equally as missed as his shut-down defensive coverage will be, is his voice.

Word of Mouth

You think Jack Johnson would listen.

But, many also thought Johnson would be a top-tier elite NHL defenseman.

Blue-line Blues

Blindside: The Kings returned defensively in a very attractive way this season, seeing all six defensemen – Willie Mitchell, Matt Greene, Vyacheslav Voynov, Rob Scuderi, Drew Doughty, and Alec Martinez return to the roster. The Kings controlled many games in the latter part of last season, and all throughout the postseason, with their arrogant defensive scheme.

One of the last problems you could foresee hitting the Kings this season is one that applies to defense. With Willie Mitchell still on injured-reserve, and Matt Greene‘s entire season now threatened, the Kings must adapt immediately.

Unfortunately, for now at least, this means Davis Drewiske will remain in the lineup. He will skate alongside Alec Martinez in Colorado tonight. And it also means digging into the product on the farm with the AHL affiliate Manchester Monarchs for some assistance.

Manchester’s Muzzin: The Kings will call on Jake Muzzin, who was called-up from Manchester as soon as news broke of Matt Greene‘s injury. This will be Muzzin’s second NHL-stint, his second with the Kings. At the start of the 2010-2011 campaign, Muzzin played the first 11 games of the year in a Kings uniform.

He hasn’t seen any action with the big club since, until tonight. His performance, along that of Drewiske’s will not just once again determine the length of their time with the Kings, but if Dean Lombardi should trigger another trade to acquire a defensive body.

Only time will tell, and the way this season has been structured, “too late” can sneak up on you with the blink of an eye. For now, the Kings are going with what they’ve got within their system to fill the big holes exposed. And, they have the assets to make moves if tonight’s defensive tandem can’t hold their own.

Jake Muzzin will play alongside Vyacheslav Voynov tonight. The two are quite familiar with each other as teammates with the Manchester Monarchs.

The burning question – Who will Jarret Stoll ride to games with now?

Ambitions As A Rider

Strollsy and Co. are now hit with a dose of adversity to play through early, and it’s going to get late – fast.

But it’s nothing an Anze Kopitar goal can’t put a positive twist on. Welcome back.

Episode 177: L.A Kings Raise the Banner – HERE
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The lockout benefited none more than the Kings. There’s gold in this mess.

112 agonizing days later, it’s finally over. All is back in gear for the NHL.

The league’s operations have quickly gone from a stand-still state to full-on mayhem. The Kings are expected to start training camp, which would last approximately one week, as early as Wednesday. As far as an opening regular season date is concerned, Staples Center has an evening (7:30PM) slot available on January 16th, or a matinee ordeal (12:00PM) on January 19th.

Whichever date is decided upon, it will be sure to include the long-awaited ceremony that sees the Kings raise their first ever Stanley Cup banner into the rafters of Staples Center.

All we really know now is the basics, but it’s the most important information – that being a guaranteed start to the season. The Kings, along with all other 29 NHL clubs, will play a shortened schedule of either 48 or 50 games. Regular season length, along with official schedules, are expected to be decided upon in the next couple of days.

The Kings will not host the New York Rangers on opening night, as originally planned in the NHL‘s original 2012-2013 schedule. Expect to see a Pacific Division opponent, or another Western Conference rival, such as the Vancouver Canucks.

The opponent is still unknown, but everyone will be home.

Catching an Aeroplane

Now boarding: Nine players will be on immediate paths back to Los Angeles from other hockey clubs in the next couple of days. Three of those players will return from European confines, four from the Kings’ AHL affiliate in New Hampshire, one from the ECHL, and one from the CHL.

Trevor Lewis – #22

Utah Grizzlies (ECHL)
GP: 6 G: 3 A: 6 PTS: 9

Alec Martinez – #27

Allen Americans (CHL), TPS Turku (SM-liiga)
GP: 11 G: 1 A: 1 PTS: 2 – *SM-liiga
GP: 3 G: 1 A: 1 PTS: 2 – *CHL

Jordan Nolan – #71

Manchester Monarchs (AHL)
GP: 21 G: 2 A: 4 PTS: 6

Andrei Loktionov – #48

Manchester Monarchs (AHL)
GP: 26 G: 6 A: 12 PTS: 18

Vyacheslav Voynov – #26

Manchester Monarchs (AHL)
GP: 35 G: 7 A: 9 PTS: 16

Dwight King – #74

Manchester Monarchs (AHL)
GP: 28 G: 5 A: 12 PTS: 17

Jonathan Bernier – #45

Heilbronn Falken (2.GBun)
GP: 13 W: 6 L: 7 GAA: 2.57

Dustin Brown – #23

Zurich (Swiss-A)
GP: 16 G: 8 A: 5 PTS: 13

Anze Kopitar – #11

Mora IK (Allsvenskan)
GP: 27 G: 9 A: 20 PTS: 29

Where are they now?: As for the rest of the Kings’ roster, they’ll either return from their homes where they’ve been conditioning and playing through the duration of the lockout, or continue to settle in Southern California where a handful of players on the club have been stationed.

Comeback effect

Lockout’s opened it up: Let’s start with the withdrawal effects the lockout had, and there weren’t many. Kings fans are more than used to a lengthy offseason, which had a commond trend of starting in early April, and stretching all the way to October.

That’s an estimated four months without hockey each year in Los Angeles.

This year, and fresh off of a Stanley Cup victory which saw this club play until June 11th, fans suffered through a six-month hiatus. If the joy of a Stanley Cup didn’t cushion that extra two months of life without the NHL, then you’re pretty hard to please. Especially, considering it was the franchise’s first championship in it’s 45-year existence.

I find it hard to imagine how things have been for fans of the other 29 NHL teams. Talk about a nightmare. We’ve had it good, folks.

Jonathan Quick, who underwent back surgery in June, has been granted much-needed time to recover from his operation because of the lockout. Quick practiced with the Manchester Monarchs numerous times during the work stoppage, but never saw any live action.

If you think a well-rested and recovered Jonathan Quick is a good thing, consider the fact that the Kings have their entire Stanley Cup winning roster intact from last season. This doesn’t happen often to championship teams, but the Kings hold what is quite possibly the sexiest contract line-up in the NHL.

Anze Kopitar will be absent for a bit. Don’t lose sleep over it.

And what may be most vital here, is the Kings reeling free from any symptoms connected with the NHL‘s notorious string of “Stanley Cup hangover” effects. They played until the early summer, they partied aplenty, but there were more than three months of extra rest to compliment the beauty of last season’s victory.

Really now, it’s been good.

We’ll be with you on all counts leading up to puck-drop.

Been there

How about doing it again. Wouldn’t that be a beauty.

Episode 176: KingsCast Holiday Compilation – HERE
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From untold to household, it’s been a remarkable rookie campaign for the Kings’ second-round selection in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft.

As if Kings’ GM Dean Lombardi needs any more impressive results from his recent string of moves with the organization, another prospect is fruitfully shaping into becoming a core piece of the Kings’ future.

Keep it rolling now.

Tyler Toffoli peppered the Portland Pirates with three goals Saturday night, notching his second hat-trick of the season for the Kings’ parent affiliate Manchester Monarchs. This weekend’s performance is just another taste of the promising skill Toffoli has brought to the American Hockey League in his first season of professional hockey.

The 20 year-old Toronto, Ontario native was an acquisition the Kings’ targeted for solidifying youth, skill, and size into the future of their top-six forward scheme – a problem that haunted the club’s offense for a decade.

Toffoli has shown early signs of developing into that role quite well; A role that Dustin Penner failed to satisfy, and one that two of Toffoli’s current teammates – Jordan Nolan and Dwight King, are also playing for.

However, it’s no competition for Toffoli, King, and Nolan – especially right now. Call it ‘too soon’, but you may be looking at a trio that plays together for quite a long time. And, in Los Angeles.

It’s a Show

Red-Light District: There’s been no shortage in power in Tyler Toffoli‘s game since his jump from the OHL with the Ottawa 67′s to the AHL with the Manchester Monarchs. In fact, he’s been the biggest surge on a club that’s icing a handful of NHL players among a group of AHL veterans – many of whom the Kings drafted years before Toffoli.

With 22 points in 28 games, Tyler Toffoli leads the entire Monarchs roster in scoring. This, in the form of 13 goals and nine assists. The kid’s been a menace on Manchester’s powerplay as well, tallying five goals in man-advantage situations. Toffoli’s dabbled with shorthanded success as well, potting one goal on the penalty-kill.

Cannon: Creating opportunity you say? Toffoli’s been lethal to statisticians, totaling an astounding 83 shots-on-goal in his 28 games. This is the second-highest mark on the Monarchs’ roster, only behind Vyacheslav Voynov and his 87 shots – one of the four Kings’ roster players skating with Manchester during the NHL lockout.

Now showing in NH

Say Hey

Familiar faces: As the NHL lockout wears on, four Kings players continue to skate with the AHL‘s Manchester Monarchs. Andrei Loktionov, Vyacheslav Voynov, Dwight King, and Jordan Nolan are keeping the legs at-par in New Hampshire, but things haven’t gone as smooth as they did in the spring when all four were with the Kings.

The Monarchs sit at 4th-place in the AHL‘s Atlantic Division, but are only four points behind the 1st-place Portland Pirates – who they defeated Saturday night with Tyler Toffoli‘s three-goal outburst. Manchester currently holds playoff positioning, however.

How goes it?

Andrei Loktionov: GP: 20 — G: 5 — A: 12 — PTS: 17

Vyacheslav Voynov: GP: 29 — G: 6 — A: 9 — PTS: 15

Dwight King: GP: 22 — G: 5 — A: 10 — PTS: 15

Jordan Nolan: GP: 15 — G: 2 — A: 3 — PTS: 5

But numbers ain’t everything: We’ll get back to a full-swing on updates from the Manchester Monarchs and the four aforementioned Kings players very soon. Likewise, updates from Sweden with Anze Kopitar, Finland with Alec Martinez, Germany with Jonathan Bernier, and of course, Dustin Brown from Switzerland.

Bringing home dinner

Pass the butter, Thomas Hickey.

Episode 176: KingsCast Holiday Compilation – HERE
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The Kings’ Canadian native of Ayr, Ontario will test new boundaries, and the young forward’s new-found location boasts a familiar name. But don’t let words fool you.

For Kyle Clifford, it’s off to Ontario, California.

Clifford’s new digs are just a hop and a skip away from Downtown Los Angeles and Staples Center, a friendly 40 miles East on Interstate-10. It’s home to the closest professional hockey being played during the NHL lockout for Kings fans. It’s the East Coast Hockey League, it’s a forced option these days.

So now Clifford becomes the newest member of the Ontario Reign. The ECHL is considered the NHL‘s “AA” league, if we were to put it in minor league baseball terms. The “E” is a clear-cut level under the AHL in most facets, and comparable to many of Europe’s professional leagues. Skill wise, at least.

The ECHL is well-known for it’s gritty, physical, body-intuitive style of play. Oh, and there’s fights aplenty.

Kyle Clifford is known for his gritty, physical, body-intuitive style of play, and he fights aplenty. Something tells me this could be an enjoyable chapter in the young Kings’ forward’s career.

Cliff-Hanging

When the Kings drafted Kyle Clifford in the 2nd-round of the 2009 NHL Entry Draft in Montreal, Quebec, he was signed and playing with the OHL‘s Barrie Colts.

Clifford made just one other stop before making his astounding and immediate jump to the NHL. This came with the AHL‘s Manchester Monarchs for a quick seven games during the 2010 Calder Cup Playoffs. This short stint followed his third and final season with the Barrie Colts.

Since then, it’s been NHL-play and a Kings uniform on Clifford’s back.

As soon as Clifford hit the NHL scene, it was apparent there was little looking back. In his debut campaign with the Kings during the 2010-2011 season, Clifford chimed in beautifully in 76 regular season games for a 3rd/4th-line forward. Along with his seven goals and seven assists for 14 points, Clifford introduced us to his enforcer side with a whopping 141 penalty minutes.

In the Kings’ Western Conference Quarterfinals match-up with the San Jose Sharks in 2011, Clifford was an absolute horse – arguably one of the best players in the series. Clifford buried three goals, helped with two assists, and notched seven penalty minutes – in just six games.

Clifford didn’t disappoint this past season, but he didn’t show much progress stats-wise. In 81 regular season games, Clifford recorded five goals and seven assists for 12 points, and piled up another 123 penalty minutes. All of these numbers are down from his rookie season.

But then again, growth, especially for a young player such as Clifford, comes in many more ways than the stat-sheet shows. Numbers aren’t always the telling-tale.

The Kings have undoubtedly struck some value in Clifford’s presence, who’s unpolished talents have graced this roster — and it’s playing style, in just that form – unpolished. And that’s when he’s at his best, which is something special for a player to behold.

You can’t restructure a player’s style, you can’t change a player’s role, but you can certainly instill a system that puts their natural attributes to their absolute best use.

The Kings, in their development of Kyle Clifford, have done so — so far.

Clifford’s Corner

In your Kitchen: It’s worth noting (not really) that there are four (4) Romano’s Macaroni Grill locations within 20 miles of Citizens Bank Arena in Ontario. The fisticuffs with hapless minor league ECHL journeymen Clifford is bound to get into with is going to call for a few of those hearty pre-game meals.

Just like home, eh?

Still Closed: In league-wide news, Gary Bettman and the NHL have now officially canceled all previously scheduled contests through December 14. This, including the 2012 NHL All-Star Game, which was to be hosted on January 27 in Columbus, Ohio.

Your thoughts?

The Colonel’s in town: Kyle Clifford will make his ECHL debut tonight as a member of the Ontario Reign. This evening’s contest is scheduled to see puck-drop at 7:15PM at the Cow Palace in San Francisco against their division-foe San Francisco Bulls.

The Reign, who go into tonight’s dance with 15 games played so far, are making noise in the ECHL among Clifford’s arrival. They’re holding an attractive record that sits at 11-4-0 for 22 points. This positions the Reign at the top of the Pacific Division, and in a three-way tie for first-place in the entire Western Conference.

If not tonight, expect Clifford to drop the mitts soon. Fists fly in the ECHL like the scene’s on turf in a poorly-secured prison field.

A new league means new tricks. May I suggest adopting the ‘Inglewood Jack‘?

We’re not at the Forum, anymore

Another player gone elsewhere, another day.

It’s a tough go, these days.

Episode 174 *The Lockout Edition* – HERE
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There’s always work to be done on the farm.

If it isn’t the development of young prospects, the AHL‘s a place for those newly-proven names to continue to progress when the NHL won’t allow it.

It’s the minor leagues, and it’s lockout-haven. Other than Europe, of course.

Many names from the Kings’ roster have taken refuge to Manchester, New Hampshire to stay in action in the American Hockey League during the NHL‘s current lockout.

The Kings have added another name to their list of assignments to Manchester. Goaltender Jonathan Quick will make an unlikely return to play hockey in the Granite State, although on an extremely limited basis.

The Manchester Monarchs have played eight regular season games so far this season, and are sitting pretty with a 5-2-0-1 record, tabbing them in first place position in the AHL‘s Atlantic Division.

Head Coach Mark Morris has continued his thriving success at the helm of Manchester’s bench, dressing not just a winning team – but an extremely disciplined one at that. The Monarchs are second-best in the AHL with only 118 penalty minutes, only behind the Milwaukee Admirals and their mark of 108.

As for their winning ways, the Monarchs have done so in maintaining success in close contests. Through the first eight contests, the Monarchs are averaging just under three goals per game, and are allowing just under two goals per game. That ratio certainly holds the recipe for success.

Martin Jones has been pleasantly solid between the pipes for the Monarchs. Jones has started and played in all eight contests for Manchester, allowing just 13 goals in total, while tossing two shutouts into the mix.

Jordan Nolan, Andrei Loktionov, Vyacheslav Voynov, and Dwight King have been playing in Manchester during the lockout, here’s a quick look into how each is faring.

Where you came from

Jordan Nolan #71

Not like Jordan: Nolan has had an unfortunate season thus far, or lack thereof. The Kings’ feisty left-winger has only appeared in one game for Manchester this season. In their opening contest in Rhode Island against the Providence Bruins, Nolan was injured in a fight against the Bruins’ Bobby Robins. Nolan reportedly suffered from a broken finger, and is expected to sit out a few more games. The Garden River, Ontario native exploded into the NHL scene last season, coupling with Dwight King to provided a bigger, more physical presence to the Kings’ offensive tandem. Nolan played in 26 regular season games for the Kings last season, chiming in with two goals, two assists, and 58 hits.

Andrei Loktionov #48

Andrei’s hot: After getting snubbed from the Kings’ Stanley Cup trophy engraving, Loktionov has kept his attention on playing good hockey – and it’s shown early on in Manchester this season. Loktionov is the second-highest scoring forward on the Monarchs roster with three goals and three assists for six points. Andrei hasn’t been shy to pull the trigger either, like we’ve seen in many of his NHL appearances. Loktionov has fired off 18 shots in seven games, which ranks fourth on the club. Loktionov, however, is getting the luxury of playing in his natural position at center in Manchester, something he’s been unable to do consistently when in a Kings uniform.

Vyacheslav Voynov #26

Slava’s house: Voynov has been a horse on the Monarchs’ blue-line this season, continuing to build on the promising skill and intelligence he’s shown first-hand in Los Angeles. He’s clearly shown an offensive knack in his defensive game, and has carried it over and further developed it in his return to Manchester. Voynov has tallied two goals and two assists in eight contests, but his shot-total (23) is what really stands out. Voynov will rarely score on a shot from the point, but he’s got the smarts to put the puck on net – to both ease pressure on the blue-line, and to create scoring and rebound opportunities.

Dwight King #74

Down from the throne: King was a late addition to the Monarchs roster, he wasn’t assigned until October 19th. In the four games King has played, he’s recorded two assists. King is continuing to make use of the lethal shot the NHL world was introduced to last season, ripping off over three shots per game with Manchester. His size and physical presence have continued to bode well also, King carrying a dependable +2 rating to his name. King has continued to play with a high-level of discipline, much like the entire Monarchs’ roster, and has stayed out of the penalty box. His partner in crime, Jordan Nolan, could’ve used that approach.

Safety Net

Not so Quick: For the Kings’ undrafted goaltending prospect Martin Jones, the 2012-2013 campaign has started out extremely well. Jones has started all eight games for the Monarchs, and is flying high with a 5-2-0-1 record attained by a flashy 1.62 GAA and .939 save percentage.

For a moment, the 22 year-old Jones saw his spectacular run in the Monarchs’ crease become quite threatened by the return of Jonathan Quick, who was reportedly allowed to re-join the Monarchs’ roster because of the nature and timing of his back injury.

Well, not the case. Jonathan Quick is only allowed to practice and train with the Monarchs per clarified NHL guidelines. Quite frankly, this is probably a better suit for Quick, who doesn’t want to push things too far coming off of minor, but complicated back surgery.

And, well, its a sigh of relief for Martin Jones, who survives amidst his own success in an organization that is extremely heavy in the goaltending depth chart.

Jonesin’ for Success

Touché, Martin Jones, touché.

And the Vancouver, British Columbia native does it all in the Canadian Heritage Night uni’s. A shutout performance if you will.

The Monarchs’ next contest is scheduled to be played Wednesday evening in Newfoundland, Canada against the St. John’s IceCaps. The IceCaps sit just one point behind the Monarchs in the Atlantic Division, holding a 5-6-0-0 record that accounts for 10 points in the standings.

Episode 174 *The Lockout Edition* – HERE
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And this ain’t no skiing trip.

Considering the hodgepodge of a mess the NHL finds itself in, today’s move could be the start of another wallop of players heading overseas. It’s a live look at the sport in a downward swirl of unneeded destruction – yet again.

By Saturday, the NHL is expected to axe the 2013 Winter Classic.

And it very well may be the kiss of death to any possibility of the NHL restarting operations this season.

The most recent Kings export is Dustin Brown, who has confirmed his planned departure to Switzerland on November 7th to play hockey. Brown has agreed to terms with the Zürcher Schlittschuh Club Lions, better known as the ZSC Lions.

The Lions play in National League A in the Swiss pro hockey stage, which is top-level talent in the country. This league is quite popular among NHL players; Brown joins three other NHL players already on the Lions’ roster: Tampa Bay’s Ryan Shannon, Vancouver’s Jeff Tambellini, and Toronto’s Matt Lashoff.

Downtown Brown

If the Kings’ Captain plays anything like he did through the final four and a half months of last season, they’re in good hands in Zurich, Switzerland.

Dustin Brown wasn’t just good, he was an absolute menace. After overcoming his season-lingering struggles once his name was dangled at the February trade-deadline, Brown went on a tirade. A serious tirade – offensively, physically, in every facet.

In the Kings’ quick 20-game run to the Stanley Cup, Brown chimed in with a package that included eight goals and 12 assists for 20 points. He also led the Kings with three game-winning goals, and included three shorthanded goals into the entire mix.

That’s filthy. And it’s unfortunate that he’s had to take his talents elsewhere.

Now it’s off to Switzerland for Brown, who joins a ZSC Lions club that is doing quite well for itself in the early stages of their season. Through 20 games, Zurich is in second place among the 12-team division.

Brown will also join his former coach in Marc Crawford, who heads the bench in Zurich. Crawford coached the Kings, and Brown, for two seasons between 2006 and 2008.

There’s a solid chance that Dustin Brown will spend the entirety of the hockey season in Switzerland, seeing that there are absolutely no signs to the NHL’s owners and the Player’s Association coming to a collective bargaining agreement to salvage any of the 2012-2013 season.

As for the other seven Kings players putting in time elsewhere during the lockout, there will be updates here from Finland, Sweden, and Germany early next week. Dustin Brown will not play in a ZSC Lions uniform until November 14th.

Oh, and of course we’ll catch up with the happenings in Manchester, New Hampshire.

Because, well, no one’s coming home just yet.

King Captain

Episode 174 *The Lockout Edition* – HERE
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They take a step back, so you’ve got to take a step back.

This is no demotion for Dwight King, in fact it’s far from it. In comparison to what the NHL is going through right now, you mine as well consider this a promotion.

If yesterday’s string of events has left you tongue-tied, which with many it has, don’t let today’s transaction do the same.

After his phenomenal jump to Los Angeles last season, you would never have pictured Dwight King making a return to the friendly confines of Manchester, New Hampshire – for hockey purposes, at least.

However, as the lockout continues, and with the NHL officially cancelling all games through November 1st, that’s exactly where King finds himself, with the Manchester Monarchs of the American Hockey League.

Thursday saw a possible opportunity for the Kings to punch plane tickets from Europe back to Southern California for Anze Kopitar, Alec Martinez, and Jonathan Bernier.

Instead of welcoming those Kings exports home, they’re staying put in their respective international landscapes, and Dwight King becomes the seventh player to find playing time elsewhere during the NHL lockout.

ManchVegas – Where the show’s at

In his return to Manchester, Dwight King will also be returning to play alongside three familiar teammates from last year’s Stanley Cup run. Jordan Nolan, Vyacheslav Voynov, and Andrei Loktionov are the other three Kings players to fill their hockey void elsewhere during the NHL lockout.

Jordan Nolan is out for a few weeks with a broken finger, which was injured in a fight in the Monarchs’ season opener in Providence, Rhode Island.

Vyacheslav Voynov went pointless in his first two contests back in Manchester, but tallied an assist in Friday night’s home opener. Voynov has carried over his offensive knack and physical play from last season, adding four shots and eight hits to his stat-line.

Andrei Loktionov has been the standout of the group thus far, notching a goal and an assist, all while leading the entire Monarchs’ roster in shots on goal. Loktionov’s goal came in shorthanded fashion, the first and only of that kind this season for Manchester.

The Manchester Monarchs have started their season with a 2-1-0 record, dropping their first game Friday night to the Providence Bruins in their home opening contest at Verizon Wireless Arena. It is unclear when Dwight King is supposed to make his return to the Monarchs’ lineup, but they have a date slated for Saturday night at home against the Portland Pirates.

If not, he’ll certainly be in action a week from Saturday (Oct. 27) in New Hampshire against the Worcester Sharks.

And when the Kings are back, King’ll be back. We’re talking one of the most valuable players from the Kings’ Stanley Cup run. He, along with counterpart Jordan Nolan, reestablished an identity to the Kings’ offense, one that struck Darryl Sutter and the entire club as a whole in dominant fashion.

Funny thing is, King and Nolan were Manchester, NH citizens the majority of last hockey season.

Don’t call it full circle.

King’s Key

In Manchester, Dwight’s All Right

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And so it begins, but it’s a major step back.

It’s another lockout for the National Hockey League, another lockout under commissioner Gary Bettman. In Bettman’s 19 seasons at the helm of the NHL‘s operations, this is now the third time the league has undergone a work stoppage.

It began before the 1994-’95 season, it landed again in 2004-’05, and it comes back to haunt us in 2012- ?

Things were made official at 9:00PM PST Saturday night, but anyone coherent to the sport knew of the demise to come on Thursday afternoon, after the owners and players left negotiations, yet again, with contradictions that seem to threaten NHL-play for months to come.

They’re talking money, and we’re getting robbed.

The Granite State

Manchester Bound: One of the most important aspects to cover during a lockout is to keep players active, keep them playing. For the Kings, they had three players on last year’s active roster who were eligible to be assigned to the Manchester Monarchs of the American Hockey League without having to clear waivers.

Those three players are Andrei Loktionov, Vyacheslav Voynov, and Jordan Nolan.

Loktionov played 32 games with the Monarchs last season, notching five goals and 15 assists for 20 points before being called up for his third stint with the Kings. In a Los Angeles uniform, Loktionov chimed in with three goals and four assists in 39 regular season games.

Voynov had a breakout season in his NHL debut, which saw him tally eight goals and 20 assists for 28 points in 54 games in a Kings uniform. However, Voynov began last season in Manchester, where he potted two goals and two assists for four points in 15 contests.

Nolan spent the majority of last season with the Monarchs, playing in 40 games while chipping in with nine goals and thirteen assists. Nolan was a pleasant surprise when called up with Dwight King, providing consistency on the third and fourth lines. Nolan recorded two goals and two assists in 26 games, along with 28 penalty minutes.

Just looking to skate

Open Ice: It’s not uncommon to seek a roster spot overseas in Europe during a lockout. For players, not only does it open up more money, but more importantly, it keeps the body and mind active for the anticipated return to the NHL.

The Kings have 22 players from last season’s active roster who have no other choice but to explore the international landscape if they want to play hockey on a regular basis during this lockout. Chances are, most, if not all of these players, will wait out the first leg of the work stoppage without playing to make up for their extended 2011-’12 season and celebratory offseason.

Dustin Brown has fielded offers to play in Russia’s Kontinental Hockey League and Switzerland’s Swiss Elite League. There’s some outsourcing to be done – that’s for sure.

There are five Kings players who can play within the country and join the AHL‘s Manchester Monarchs, but would have to clear waivers first. Those are Andrew Campbell, Marc-Andre Cliche, Richard Clune, Thomas Hickey, and Jake Muzzin.

Clune and Muzzin are the only two from that group to have seen time in a Kings uniform.

Don’t expect to see anyone in a Kings uniform anytime soon, because unfortunately, the reality of what this world exists on is hitting hockey fans yet again.

That’s money, honey.

All about the Benjamins

We’ll see you in Manchester

In New Hampshire, the State slogan is “Live free or die”.

For the NHL, it’s “pay to play”.

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It came from an unexpected bunch Sunday evening at American Airlines Center, unexpected much like the snow pouring over Dallas during the contest. It came from two new additions that joined the Kings from Manchester, New Hampshire the day prior.

It came from Dwight King and Jordan Nolan, both recording their first career NHL goals in the Kings’ 4-2 win in what was an absolute mammoth game of importance against the Pacific Division‘s Dallas Stars. It didn’t just come from that pair, but from another name familiar with the Granite state, Andrei Loktionov, who was in Manchester until November 14th, leading the club with 14 points through 17 games played.

The two rookies have certainly sparked a bit of excitement with some looks of promise, but you know what the ultimatum is going to be as they continue to dress in Los Angeles – regular contributions. Quite frankly, if you were to judge by their two games, I’d give Dwight King a sure pass on two great performances, and Jordan Nolan with one. Kid looked like he couldn’t even hold his stick he was so nervous Saturday in Long Island.

These two may have the potential to trigger Mike Richards‘ output more than any of his linemates have this year. Who would’ve thought, I was even skeptical after the lineup announcement prior to the 2-1 OT loss against the New York Islanders. Both of these players have similar assets to those of Dustin Penner, but are younger, faster, and would certainly give Penner a run in a battle of strength.

It’s got that 70′s feel

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Now, don’t fully expect King and Nolan to continue to be regulars on the scoresheet, but their situation is intriguing in their effect on Mike Richards‘ play – which almost holds as much value as first-hand production. To really get Richards’ full value, he needs linemates that can alleviate some pressure, rid him of some of the workload. Both rookies have been getting pucks low, winning one-on-one battles, and maintaining pretty decent puck protection and control to allow Mike Richards to key in on time and space without the puck.

Supporting Richards hasn’t exactly been the case in the two contests we’ve seen Nolan and King, with Richards assisting Nolan’s goal Sunday. However, Richards has the ability to flip the roles and make Dwight King and Jordan Nolan better players, it’s a matter of them making it work. So far, so good.

Both rookies, who are big-bodied wingers just like Dustin Penner, are now on track to seriously threaten his role in this offense. Penner, who’s shown improvement as of late, is unquestionably on the down-tail of his NHL career, and has yet to hit the stride his past resume resembles. But, it hasn’t come to that point yet, both Nolan and King are a few good games away from highlighting their names. Plus, there are a few more litigations involved in Penner’s situation; Waivers, anyone? Well, who knows, it very well could come to that.

Bottom line, the Kings have done right on the two call-ups so far, and their presence is at least stable for the next couple of games. That’s all you can go off of with this club, it’s one at a time. Standings are tight, schedule is dwindling, playoffs are in question, and the roster is desperate for scoring. It’s better not to harp on the long-term, everything’s up in the air especially with February 27′s trade-deadline approaching.

Right now, if they can score, if they can win, then put on the blinders and let it be.

The first second 48

To mention another bright spot, recent Manchester Monarchs player Andrei Loktionov scored his second goal of the season Sunday. This may be his first goal from above the goal-line, but you’re going to take what you can get. It simply redirected off of his skate, that doesn’t mean it’s a cheap goal, though. Well-placed shot to the net by Jack Johnson, good positioning in the high slot by Loktionov, good things happen when you’re smart — and simple.

Don’t trade Jack Johnson, at least in the next 11 days.

Jarret Stoll‘s injury may deem him off of the trade market this season, that’s a good thing.

There’s a bit of hope in Simon Gagne possibly returning in his recovery process from his upteenth concussion.

It’s all up in the air, but one thing’s for sure: Manchester’s development has equaled production in Los Angeles. For now, you’ve got to run with it.

“Score some goals, and make some assists.”
Well, this may be one of the most awkward interviews I’ve ever seen.

You can see King, Nolan, and Loktionov goals in this quick fix. Plus, Williams’ finisher.

The Kings return to Staples Center for a huge game tonight against the Phoenix Coyotes for the first date at home in the past 6 games, 15 days. Grammy trip is over, time to vie for a Cup. Kings at 65 points, Sun Dogs at 63. Both clubs 57 games into the campaign. Damn important if I say so myself.

Queue that train-horn.

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The postseason is no guarantee, far from it.

It’s too bad, it really is. And even more so, it’s hard to believe.

Hollywood Ink: Coming from an offseason that saw Kings’ GM Dean Lombardi reel off two major deals that brought elite offensive talent in Mike Richards and Simon Gagne to this roster, the Kings are mired in one of their worst scoring seasons in franchise history.  On paper, the moves were drastic improvements. In reality’s results, it’s been anything but. February 27′s NHL trade deadline, even though I hate to say it, may be Dean Lombardi‘s final chance to maintain his managerial career in Los Angeles.

I will say this again, and only because I think it is a major factor in the lopsided differences we’ve seen in offensive production this season and the past, that I target Ryan Smyth as the lead factor on Lombardi’s failures in Los Angeles. It was his biggest deal in 2009, reeling in the veteran forward to mature a young core, it was his biggest loss in 2011, not winning the satisfaction of a proven NHL scorer and allowing him to walk out on his own terms. Many still like the point blame at Smyth here, but it’s a GM’s job to make it work.

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Before you point finger at Dean Lombardi, consider the ultimatums in the failures of his signings of Simon Gagne and Mike Richards to bring success to this club. Gagne has been out with a concussion since December 26, who had posted 17 points in 34 games before the injury. As for Richards, he’s been without support, and his play deems little criticism, it’s hard to do the job alone. Again, this is why Ryan Smyth pops into the equation again, missing a reliable winger for Phildelphia’s former.

The trade-deadline is nothing I’m seeing big change coming from, nor am I fan of it. Really, the only player the Kings are sure to get anything worthwhile for is Jack Johnson. His contract is certainly tradeable, but then again we’re talking Dean Lombardi here. That’s a big name player, that’s a big time deal, Lombardi doesn’t fit that history, especially with the big moves he made just months ago.

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But who knows, it’s gotten to a point of desperation for Lombardi, who is starting to feel pressure as the promise he’s built in LA is crashing hard – and fast. It’s come to the Kings recalling forwards Jordan Nolan and Dwight King from the AHL‘s Manchester Monarchs to provide a Hail Mary boost to this lost offense. That’s not going to solve the problem, neither is a deal that doesn’t involve Jack Johnson.

And let me be clear, Jonathan Bernier has no business getting dealt before the 27th. Bernier is worth more than a last-ditch effort for a GM on the hot seat. At the very least, leave all other options open (including Johnson), and hope for a top-8 Western Conference seed.

That’s all you can hope for at this point, that’s what Dean Lombardi needs to maintain hopes of further employment in Los Angeles.

If you’re going to hit rock bottom, try not to do it here

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Where else would you find concourse golf at an NHL game than in Florida? I wouldn’t mind swinging away a few worthless periods at Staples Center. Something they may have to consider.

Unfortunately the only thing taking fans away from the Kings’ miseries are those $9 beers.

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The Kings are in Dallas, Texas tomorrow afternoon in an effort to salvage whatever they can from this horrible road swing. Posting a 1-4 record on the trip, the Kings have now seriously put their playoff hopes in jeopardy.

For a bit of good to the heart, here’s a classic against the Dallas Stars at Staples Center back in 2007. Six goals, in less than ten minutes. It’s hard to imagine ’07 being better times, but it flirts with you.

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LOS ANGELES — While the National Hockey League pauses its season to put on its annual All-Star festivities this weekend, what’s a hockey writer to do if the NHL All-Star weekend is not their cup of tea, especially since the game itself has become a complete bore, barely resembling the game we normally enjoy?

Sure, I could have watched the All-Star draft (yawn), and I will watch tonight’s skills competition, the only redeeming spectacle during All-Star weekend. But with some extra time on my hands, why not see how the kids down on the farm are doing?

Indeed, the time has come to take a look at some of the Los Angeles Kings’ young prospects, and, in this installment, the focus will be on the blue line corps.
Deslauriers Already Making An Impact

In his first season in professional hockey, defenseman Nicolas Deslauriers’ development appears to be proceeding at a good pace, despite not being able to crack the lineup with the Manchester Monarchs of the American Hockey League, the Kings’ primary minor league affiliate, right off the bat.

“For anyone in my place, you know that with a veteran team, it’s hard to find a spot, [with the top six defensemen, including] guys who have played in the NHL,” said the 6-1, 214-pound native of LaSalle, Quebec. “I knew that, so I worked hard to earn a place in the lineup.”

Read the rest on Frozen Royalty.

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.

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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

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.

Colten Teubert is amidst his first full season of professional hockey. Teubert pursued his development after the draft splitting time with the Regina Pats of the WHL and the Ontario Reign of the ECHL. As far as his status with the Kings organization, Teubert was ingrained in one of the most impressive defensive assemblies in hockey. He was already staring at a stalwart blue-line set in Los Angeles, and his counterparts with the Manchester Monarchs mapped a long road to Teubert’s NHL career. He was alongside blue-line prospects Jake Muzzin, Vyacheslav Voynov, and Thomas Hickey. In 39 games with the Manchester Monarchs this season, Teubert recorded 2 goals and 8 assists for 10 points. He beholds a pure defensive skill-set, and folks in Edmonton are already comparing him to a lanky Matt Greene. The Oilers have added a very promising asset to the club’s bright future. In Teubert, the Kings certainly parted ways with talent, but Dean Lombardi‘s success in building through the draft justifies the farewell.

The addition of Dustin Penner to the Kings’ lineup is exceptional. The pursuit of a top-six forward has been an issue for almost two years now. The extended hunt for a first-line left-winger has finally been put to rest, now supplying a proven forward to play alongside Anze Kopitar and Dustin Brown. A first-line of Penner-Kopitar-Brown has the capabilities of being lethal, lethal I tell you. Penner brings a physical presence that equates to Dustin Brown‘s, an unseemingly soft scoring touch for his 6’4″, 245 lb stature, and a dominant aptitude for positioning in front of the net. He will undoubtedly be implemented into the powerplay, providing another reliable fixture in the crease alongside Ryan Smyth. Penner has played in 62 games this season, tallying 21 goals and 18 assists for 39 points. His surroundings in Los Angeles are an immediate improvement to those in Edmonton, which provides more upside to the deal. His potential with the Kings is outrageously attractive, and he will certainly help in ensuring to expand on the capabilities this offense beholds.

*Photo Credits:
Dustin Penner – Edmonton Oilers, Away Primary: Canadian Press/Larry MacDougal
Colten Teubert – Los Angeles Kings, Draft Hat: Ottawa Citizen/Wayne Cuddington
Dustin Penner – Edmonton Oilers, Away Primary: Getty Images/Jeff Gross

As foreshadowed by Terry Murray‘s harsh opinion after Thursday night’s return to Staples Center, Marco Sturm was placed on waivers Friday morning. Hours later, highly-touted prospect Andrei Loktionov suffered what looks to be a season-ending injury to his left shoulder in a game against the Bridgeport Sound Tigers, the AHL affiliate of the New York Islanders, the only professional hockey organization to beat the Kings in regulation since January 20th. Loktionov filled Sturm’s void the past few weeks, returning to the Kings’ lineup for his second stint of the season, recording 3 goals and 2 assists in 12 games. Sturm’s return to the Kings’ lineup this week sent Loktionov back to the Manchester Monarchs on Sunday, a move questioned by many – including myself. Loktionov still provided a sense of security to Sturm’s injury history, with his duties just a phone call away. Instead, the hockey gods pulled the unthinkable. Just as the Kings allotted Marco Sturm for the taking to all NHL clubs via waivers, his replacement went down. Immediately, the 24-hour deadline for a team to retrieve Sturm triggered the nerves. The Washington Capitals claimed Marco Sturm early this morning, pounding the salt-shaker on Dean Lombardi‘s failed attempt to open roster options at the deadline. Instead, the Kings find themselves without Sturm, as well as the prospect responsible for upholding his void.

With the trade-deadline just hours away, the Kings find themselves shorthanded in unthinkable fashion. The options available within the organization aren’t very attractive. You’re talking players like Peter Harrold, Davis Drewiske, Kevin Westgarth, and Brad Richardson to mend the loss. Richardson aside, Marco Sturm and Andrei Loktionov are clearly better options, but no longer are they available. There’s still time for an addition, does Dean Lombardi counteract Friday’s losses with a deal? As for available forwards still on the market, the Kings could still be targeting four players; Brad Richards, David Booth, Dustin Penner, and Ales Hemsky. I don’t believe Friday’s occurrences strengthen Lombardi’s pursuit of a top-six forward, but they certainly trigger second thoughts when negotiating. Neither Sturm or Loktionov should be the cause of a knee-jerk rental acquisition, but their losses should ascend Lombardi’s hunt for a prioritized long-term offensive addition. Dean Lombardi‘s reputation for inactivity at the trade-deadline is further hampered by Friday’s bad timing. What remains to be seen is his reaction as the deadline approaches. Only time will tell, and there isn’t much left.

*Photo Credits:
Marco Sturm, Los Angeles Kings, Away Primary – Getty Images/Thearon W. Henderson
Andrei Loktionov, Manchester Monarchs, Away Primary – Manchester Union Leader
Dean Lombardi – Getty Images/Juan Ocampo

Once drafted, Voynov left Chelyabinsk Traktor of the Russian Elite League for the Kings’ minor league system. Voynov’s transition to the AHL was smooth to say the least, tallying 23 points in 61 games during the 2008-2009 season, and improved on those numbers during the 2009-2010 season with 29 points in 79 games. The defensive prospect is shattering his output from the previous two seasons, establishing himself as Manchester’s most valuable asset on the blue-line. If Viatcheslav Voynov makes the Kings’ roster out of training camp next season, which I expect, the Kings will have the convenience of icing three offensive defensemen. To say the defensive pairings would be attractive with Voynov’s addition would be an understatement. Dressing three offensive defensemen with Rob Scuderi, Matt Greene, and Willie Mitchell is intriguing. The factor becomes Alec Martinez, the most recent defensive promotion. Dumping Davis Drewiske and Peter Harrold may have to be the harsh answer to Voynov’s inclusion, starting off with Martinez and Voynov rotating the 6th and 7th blue-line spots. Expect Viatcheslav Voynov to remain with the Manchester Monarchs for the remainder of the season in pursuit of the AHL‘s Calder Cup. Expect the 21 year-old prospect to vouch for residence in Manhattan Beach in September.

Delegating his style of play, I’m not sure how much the AHL has to offer in furthering Moller’s development. He’s not a play-maker, but an underlying presence on both ends of the ice with his quickness. What must be evident from Moller is his pursuit on the forecheck and knack for recovering loose pucks. Both aspects have shown themselves quite clearly in his two games. Maintaining his positioning in the crease is quite positive, as he took part in the offensive ambush Monday night in Detroit, disrupting Jimmy Howard‘s vision, capitalizing on a rebound off of Drew Doughty‘s shot from the point. Strength, not skill, will be the ultimate factor in Oscar Moller solidifying a long-term spot on the Kings’ roster. It’s rather difficult to thoroughly analyze the updated version of the Stockholm native in only two games, other than it’s been encouraging. In a season in which he failed to survive the duration of exhibition contests, he’s got a chance to turn heads with a second look. So far, so good.

As the Kings’ continue to recover from their extensive slump, it’s important Jonathan Bernier has the opportunity to play his role. Next weekend looks to be the most favorable when it comes to Terry Murray penciling in Bernier as the starter, with back-to-back games in Nashville and Chicago. Should he get the call before? Difficult to say. The defense is returning to old form, they’ve separated themselves from the uncharacteristic play that attributed to a weak defensive zone. As team confidence continues to build, Bernier’s morale is begging for a slice. Uncertainty is detrimental when it symbolizes a second-string goalie, trust must be restored sooner than later. In what hurt this team last season, the Kings’ cannot afford to shoulder too much expectation on one goaltender. It’s difficult to push for Bernier’s return to the net, Quick’s stalwart play isn’t easy to throw to the side.

Let’s not forget what seeded the hype for Bernier’s addition the line-up this year. In his three starts for the Los Angeles Kings last season, the Manchester Monarchs call-up posted a 3-0 record with a .956 save percentage stopping 90 of the 94 shots faced. Since the 2006 NHL Entry Draft, Bernier has been one of the most promising future additions to this club. His dispute with Kings’ brass when optioned to the AHL early in the 2007-2008 season caused some concern, but his ability to recover and focus on development tabs that rough start as immaturity. He’s kept quiet during his recent stint on the bench, accepting Jonathan Quick‘s role as the main guy. Bernier has shown the ability to strengthen his mentality, let him continue that growth in contributing to a resurging roster.

King’s name didn’t catch attention of the media too frequently during training camp, often being overshadowed by the organization’s expansive prospect depth. After being drafted, King returned to the Lethbridge Hurricanes of the WHL where he capped off his 5-year tenure in the junior hockey scene with 69 and 60 point seasons. King started the 2009-2010 season with the Ontario Reign of the ECHL, and was called-up to the Manchester Monarchs after 20 games. The stats are attractive, 35 points combined with both clubs in the regular season, tacking on 2 goals and 7 assists in the Calder Cup Playoffs.

His sudden appearance has caught my attention. What makes his debut so interesting is the chance to observe a player who has climbed the ranks at such a rapid pace, while being somewhat of an afterthought just two months ago. King will instantly replace Ponikarovsky’s size; the strength and skill will be tested. He’s shown the ability to adapt to higher levels of play, and quickly. May we have a hidden gem here? You might be looking at a future 4th line winger once Ponikarovsky returns. I’m just driving the speculation bus right now. Get off. He’ll be a fun watch tomorrow night.

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.

Notes on the game:
– Great recovery on Dustin Brown‘s part to chase down a muffed pass from Alexander Frolov. Not only was he successful in retaining offensive zone presence, but slowed down, walked the puck in, and put a shot on net. Not a howitzer, but the right idea, which led to a goal.
– Fredrik Modin had an impressive game, yet again. With three solid scoring chances, he capitalized on one. His finest attributes are controlling the puck down low, and using his body in front of the net. Tonight, he did just that; Re-directing Dustin Brown‘s shot to beat Marty Turco.
– On Dallas’ 3rd period marker, Richard Clune and Jeff Halpern got caught chasing, and staring at the puck up top. Dallas capitalized on the over-committed Kings players high in the zone, eventually finding Brendan Morrow open on the back-door to beat Jonathan Bernier.
– After tonight, I’d like to see Peter Harrold take some playing time from Randy Jones. Jones had an awful game. Too many times Jones stood still with the puck, allowing defenders to close passing lanes, and shutting down offensive flow. His play in the corners has been terrible as well, concentrating more on the pressure from the oncoming hit, than making a play on the puck. This isn’t anything new with Jones, who has had Kings fans pulling out their hair with play like this on a regular basis.
– Jonathan Bernier‘s performance was quite spectacular tonight. However, I’m disappointed in Terry Murray‘s decision to sit Erik Ersberg. I felt it was a slap in the face to the current back-up goaltender, one who will be dressing come the playoffs. This has nothing to do with who I think is a better goalie, but how to manage a player who can become the team’s backbone in an instant; in the playoffs. I think it’s safe to say Bernier will be on the Kings roster come next season.

Your thoughts on the game? What did you think of tonight’s 2-1 victory? Impressed with Bernier? Frustrated with Jones? Let me hear your thoughts in the comments section below.

Why Ersberg Should Get The Call:
Erik Ersberg will be on the Kings bench come the playoffs, Jonathan Bernier won’t. That, right there, is huge to me. Teams that expect to make a run for the Stanley Cup need a back-up goaltender they can trust. Now, Ersberg hasn’t played great, but the opportunites have come few and far between. Let’s not get into stats, because quite frankly those should be thrown out the door regarding this argument. Ersberg needs a couple more starts, some live-action, something to shake off the rust; loosen the nerves. Quick has been great, but goalies can hit a wall come post-season. The fatigue starts to set in, and playing the same opponent consecutive games can be difficult for a goalie to handle. Bottom line is, the Kings, and Terry Murray, should start to realize Ersberg needs to be a viable option down the road. And what better way than tomorrow night? If he loses? Well, I still think it’s the correct decision. Look folks, this is THIS SEASON, the Kings are striding toward the playoffs, and Erik Ersberg is THE back-up goalie. Save the Bernier – Ersberg competition for training camp. Right now, it’s time to test Ersberg; Give the guy a start, and look to build his confidence.

Who do you think should be between the pipes for the Kings tomorrow night? I’d love to hear your thoughts, disagreements, and opinions on the decision at hand in the comments section below.

Let’s take a closer look at the players excelling in Manchester. Goaltender Jonathan Bernier is having quite the season with the Monarchs, and is quite possibly the hottest Kings prospect. I think it’s too early to tell what Bernier may bring to the Kings. Whatever the future may hold for Erik Ersberg may provide a clearer picture. There are so many variables in Bernier’s future I don’t even know what to say. With Quick’s success thus far, could we gain more by dealing Bernier? Will it disturb Quick’s confidence next season if Bernier’s on the roster? Remember now folks, Quick is having a stellar season knowing he’s the number 1, not with some youngster breathing down his back. This is a GOOD problem to have, remember that. What about winger Corey Elkins? The Kings draftee, fresh off of a 41 point season at The Ohio State University has recorded 36 points for the Monarchs. Here’s a late bloomer, Bud Holloway. Drafted in 2006 by Los Angeles, he leads the Monarchs in points. Still very young though at the age of 22. I could go on for pages and pages about this team, but let’s get one thing straight. If you feel content with the Kings roster now, take a minute to look at what Manchester is developing. To say this franchise is in good hands is an understatement. Whether the Monarchs provide solid players to add to the Kings roster, or provide the key to a big trade in the future, there’s a lot of up-side to this squad in New Hampshire.

While players such as Trevor Lewis and Brad Richardson could very well end up centering the fourth line next season, I don’t think they will be nearly as effective as Army. Why? Armstrong brings a grit that’s needed on the fourth line. Last season, primarily on the fourth line, Army played 56 games scoring 4 goals and 5 assists. Hell, Marcel Goc played for San Jose and, in 55 games, scored 2 goals and 9 assists…for the Sharks. Even the once great Brendan Shannahan played 34 games for New Jersey and scored 6 goals and 8 assists. Michael Peca played 71 games for the Columbus Blue Jackets and scored 4 goals and 18 assists. All somewhat comparable numbers on much better teams. Now I certainly don’t consider Armstrong a great player but he is serviceable.

As much as I love the LA Kings “youth movement” and appreciate players brought up under “the system”, I genuinely like Derek Armstrong. There was not a better guy at Kings events. The guy was a comedian, auctioneer and dunk-tank victim. Oh yeah, he could play a little hockey too. On a team that will still be very young next year, Army’s leadership, I believe, is essential.

In my oh-so-humble opinion, the Los Angeles Kings should have signed Army to a one-year, two-way deal. He either makes the team or is the captain for the Manchester Monarchs. Either way, he would have been put to good use. And, you know what? Army would have done what was asked of him even if it meant heading to Manchester for a year. Dean Lombardi constantly talks about players having the “LA Kings tattooed on their butts”. I submit the first person to receive such tattoo was, indeed, Derek Armstrong. As much as Anze Kopitar, Dustin Brown and Drew Doughty may be the “face of the franchise”, Derek Armstrong was its heart and soul.

I believe the Los Angeles Kings made a mistake not re-signing Derek Armstrong one last time. Personally, I’m going to miss him. But that’s just my opinion. Flame away…

The Manchester Monarchs, the AHL affiliate of the Los Angeles Kings, have officially released the 2009-2010 season schedule and, as in years past, we have some things to look forward to and others to forget.

The Monarchs open the 2009-10 season in Albany against the River Rats on October 3rd and kick off the home season in Manchester with the Portland Pirates on October 17th.

The scheduling powers deemed it unneccesary for a home-and-home series with a number of American Hockey League teams, and the Manchester Monarchs were no exception. For whatever reason, the usual suspects like the Providence Bruins, Worcester Sharks, Portland Pirates, Lowell Devils & Bridgeport Soundtigers were all void on a home-and-home schedule this year. Great way to build up the inter-city rivalry guys!

So what exactly does that leave us for the home-and-home series this year?

The Hartford Wolfpack on November 11th and 13th and again on January 17th and 22nd, as well as the Springfield Falcons on November 27th and 28th.

Pathetic!

On the plus side, we do pick up duplicate away games against the Norfolk Admirals on October 9th and 10th and home against the Providence Bruins on October 24th and 30th.

Some of the one and done opponents coming to Manchester this year:

The Syracuse Crunch on February 13th – Is there a better Valentine’s Day gift?

The Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Dundler Mifflin Penguins on February 21 – maybe Sid “the Kid” will be on a rehab game?

The Binghamton Senators on March 10th and the Adirondack Phantoms on March 27th – I have nothing clever or witty to say on this one.

Details on upcoming promotional games have not been released, nor have any meet and greets with season ticket holders. Prices have held firm from last season with a full price gold ticket at $22, a silver ticket at $16 and a youth ticket (honest, he is under 12) at $12. Nothing has changed with full season, half season, ten or seven game ticket packs from last year. Flex packs allow you to pick up ten vouchers for any ten games and provide you with a $3 discount off the regular pricing per game.

Best advice? Pick up the flex packs and then scope out the teams you want to see that day (remember, the Providence games will sell out fast) and secure your seats at a discount.

For more information on flex packs or all season ticket packages, visit the Manchester Monarchs Website.

Despite some of the hang-ups on the schedule, I’m looking forward to another year of Manchester Monarchs hockey!

It’s the offseason. The only part of the year when hockey fans are known to generally dislike everyday activities, write poetry, shut out the outside world and cry themselves to sleep, if they even get sleep at all…a pathetic existence, we know…but it’s all one can do while we hurry up and wait for the excitement that is training camp, preseason, and then before you know it, the kickoff of yet another mind-blowing hockey season.

For the Kings organization, there is particularly a lot to look forward to. For the parent club, Los Angeles is looking to make big waves defensively in the Pacific Division this season with the addition of Rob Scuderi, Rob Scuderi’s Championship Ring, and the re-signing of Jack “MF” Johnson and Teddy Purcell among other things, but let’s not forget about the huge, ridiculous things happening for the King’s AHL affiliate, the Manchester Monarchs.

With last season seeing the transformation of Jonathan Quick from AHL goalie to NHL superhero, one can only assume even bigger things are in the cards for the Monarchs this year…especially given the hand they are playing…

Well while every offseason, fans grasp onto some kind of ridiculous expectation for their respective teams going into the new season, waiting with bated breath for it to be realized…the Kings organization is in PRIME position to deliver on those expectations this year. They have a secret weapon…which has turned out to be not so secret after all…

Of course I speak about Thomas Hickey. Moan and groan all you want, but to any Kings fan…and ESPECIALLY to any Monarchs fan, just the though of him melts our frozen puck-like hearts and we become giddy and squeal like little school girls…why, you ask? To which I answer…Do you really HAVE to ask?? Anyone who watched even one game of the 2009 World Junior Championships would know the answer to that. At 5’11, and 190 lbs, Hickey may be small for a defenseman, but in watching the guy skate, you’d swear he didn’t know it.

As Captain of the Seattle Thunderbirds (where he began playing in 2005), Hickey’s 45 point performance (11 G, 34 A) in 07-08 earned him a spot on the Team Canada roster for the 2009 WJC (his second consecutive year on the roster)…and not only would he be representing his home country, but he would do it in style, with a “C” on his chest. Playing alongside 2009 first round pick and 1st overall, Jonathan Tavares, Team Canada was unstoppable. Winning the gold medal for the fifth year in a row, Team Canada proved that they are literally the best team in the world, and Thomas Hickey proved why he belongs wearing the “C”.

…and if that gold medal was only a sign of things to come, we have some amazing things to look forward to. In returning from the WJC, Hickey helped his team into a playoff spot in the WHL playoffs and the Quest for the Ed Chynoweth Cup, and after getting called up to Manchester on April 1st, to begin his professional career, Hickey posted an impressive 7 points in 7 games and 2 assists alone in his professional debut. It’s evident that Hickey finished off his 2008-2009 season as a two way defenseman really hitting his stride and after ending last season on such a high note, one can only expect huge things from the 20 year old defenseman this coming season.

But where Thomas Hickey really earns brownie points is in leadership. He is more mature than his 20 young years would lead one to believe and at the risk of building him up as a squeaky clean Sidney Crosby type (who needs that hanging over their head?)he may very well be on his way as establishing himself as the Monarchs go-to guy and fan favorite.

Every jaded hockey fan and every hockey team knows, there’s no point in building expectations…but then again, those teams didn’t have Thomas Hickey.

As we slowly sneak past Development Camps, and into Training Camps…the anticipation only builds for what will hopefully be a season to remember. Opening night will kick things off, and we hockey fans will come out of hibernation and start banging glass and flipping off refs like normal…then before you know it, the All Star Game will be here and we will be into the dog days of the hockey season. So I remind you: get excited, take the time to get to know your team, enjoy it while it lasts…and never, never stop cheering.

Thanks to Joanne for stopping by and guest-posting. Check out her blog here.

Ideally you attend Manchester Monarchs from time-to-time and are passionate about all things Manchester Monarchs hockey. If you have another blog, send us some of your writing samples and we’ll take a look. If you don’t, no big deal, shoot us an email and tell us why you’re right for the gig. If you’re an Ontario Reign fan, we’d like to hear from you as well. We don’t want to exclude our ECHL fans.

We look forward to hearing from you!

keith@kingscast.net

Born on October 6, 1989, Pelech is able to play in Manchester this season where his toughness and playmaking abilities should help the young Monarchs squad. He’s also excellent in the faceoff circle. In 11 playoff games with the Majors, Pelech scored 4 goals and 9 assists for 13 points.

Similarly to 5th round draft choice David Kolomatis, this pick is for Manchester. Plain and simple. While there’s always surprises out there, Michael Pelech will bolster the toughness in Manchester and will be steady on the third or fourth line. Last year, Monarchs GM Ron Hextall had to scrape the bottom of the barrel to fill his roster. Now that Kings General Manager Dean Lombardi’s draft choices are reaching AHL eligibility, we’ll soon see the Monarchs roster mature. Picking up Michael Pelech will help Manchester now.

What do you think of the pick? Is there anyone out there with a good knowledge of potential 2009 picks that think we should have drafted in the 6th round?

You can read about the Los Angeles Kings previous draft picks right here on KingsCast. So far, we’ve profiled forward Kyle Clifford, defenseman Nicolas Deslauriers, goaltender Jean-Francois Berube, forward Linden Vey, and defenseman David Kolomatis.

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EL SEGUNDO, CA — About this time last year, highly-touted Los Angeles Kings goaltending prospect Jonathan Bernier showed up at the Kings annual development camp for their young prospects with a bit of a chip on his shoulder.

During last year’s development camp, I asked Bernier how he would feel if the Kings decided to send him to the minors even if he performed well at their 2008 training camp.

“I’ll be mad, really mad,” said the very confident, if not brash, young goaltending prospect.

As it turned out, Bernier suffered an injury during training camp and did not get a chance to be mad, at least, not for that reason. But in any case, it was a rather ominous sign of things to come from Bernier, who had an up-and-down 2008-09 season because he was disappointed about not being able to crack the Kings roster out of training camp and later in the season, he was upset about netminder Jonathan Quick getting called up from the Manchester Monarchs of the American Hockey League [the Kings’ primary minor league affiliate] instead of him.

Somewhat reminiscent of a temper tantrum, isn’t it? Well, maybe not quite that extreme, but Kings President/General Manager Dean Lombardi indicated that Bernier’s attitude was poor, especially for a young player who has the National Hockey League in his sights.

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