Dancing in the Reign: Oscar Moller’s Name Stands Out On Today’s Scratch List

A few Kings players got their farewell notices this morning. Only four were released today, as opposed to the 23 who were shown the door on Friday. With today’s cuts, that leaves the Kings roster set at 33 players, four of which are injured. This may allow a few players to stick around longer than usual with more spots on the bench, allowing more time for evaluation. Makes sense, right? Anyway, let’s get to the point. Like I mentioned before, the Kings cut four players today, and one name is a bit surprising, and a little premature in my opinion. Alec Martinez, Johan Fransson, Andrew Campbell, and Oscar Moller were let go, and most notable was Oscar Moller‘s assignment to the Manchester Monarchs. I’m just miffed, with three exhibition contests yet to play.

Moller, who was expected to compete for the left wing position on the 2nd line, came into camp with high expectations. The Swedish native has had three stints with the Kings throughout the past two seasons, recording a respectable 11 goals and 11 assists in 74 games. His size and strength has been questioned throughout his professional career, often knocked for inability to win possession battles low in the offensive zone. But is that his job? I’ve always regarded Moller as ‘bothersome’ to opposing break-outs. His speed, coupled with his small stature creates hesitant play from defensemen behind the goal line. Not an overpowering forward to say the least, but his quick mobility buys time to stimulate offensive zone positioning, leading to turnovers. But once play has settled is where issues with his size and strength present themselves. Not great in front of the net, and not great at fighting for the puck in the corners…well, not true. He’s got grit, but he’s got trouble finishing plays, a la coming out with the puck.

With Scott Parse rumored to be the favorite to win the 2nd line left-wing job, the Kings are clearly looking for a physical presence. Don’t let Oscar surprise you though, expect to see #9 at some point this season. At only 21 years of age, he’s got plenty of time to continue with his development, and the rate at which so far has been quite impressive. A little more time in the minors can only help, but the prompt manner in which it was determined was a bit too early for my taste.