It was a close one. But, in the end, the Kings lost 3-2 in a shootout.
Here are some quotes from the Penguins locker room following the game...
Pittsburgh coach Dan Blysma - "Tonight was an entertaining game. We kind of allowed them an opportunity to get in the game at that point with a 1-1 tie. It was certainly entertaining at that point. And then we had a huge effort at the end there at the last five minutes."
Blysma on Chris Kunitz’s shootout goal - "He’s done that move quite a bit. It’s his go-to and it seems to get goalies to open up and he scored and had success there. I don’t know if Quick remembered that one."
Kunitz on the game tying goal - "Really good fore-check by Duper [Pascal Dupuis], he kind of jumped the guy and the puck, I think the people lost it, it was kind of up in the glass. He took it behind to make the play out to [Jordan Staal] coming out to the net and hit his skate, then he made a pass back and I just took it around the net and put it in."
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Kings coach 'happy with our compete' in loss to Penguins
Kings lost 3-2 tonight in a shootout. After the game, LA coach Terry Murray had this to say...
On the overall game - "That was a good game. The number of power plays [Pittsburgh] had in the first period; we did a great job on the penalty kill. I know we gave up one but the attitude was tremendous to get in those lanes, blocked shots, and just to really dig in. And then we carried through to the second period. The pace of the game picked up, the compete level got real heavy, our dot to the board game was as good as it’s been all year long in my opinion and I like that, it’s the way we have to play. Unfortunately, on the tying goal they got at the end, a strong play by them, over all I was really happy with our compete.”
On the Kings goals - "They’re good goals. They’re the kind of plays in a good hockey game. The puck is transitioned, there’s lots of battle, a lot of compete. Again it was a good, solid hockey game here tonight. Those are the kinds of goals that you’re looking for. The guys step up and make the plays, they score, same for [Pittsburgh]. They got a couple big plays from their top guys. But I think everybody went away pretty happy tonight."
Check out quotes from the Penguins locker room here.
Also, James Neal and Steve Sullivan stopped by MayorsManor earlier today to weigh in on the 'What I've learned so far...' series. You can read their comments here.
Finally, don't miss former Kings forward Tony Granato - now an assistant coach with the Penguins - who came on for an exclusive conversation earlier today (linked here).
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On the overall game - "That was a good game. The number of power plays [Pittsburgh] had in the first period; we did a great job on the penalty kill. I know we gave up one but the attitude was tremendous to get in those lanes, blocked shots, and just to really dig in. And then we carried through to the second period. The pace of the game picked up, the compete level got real heavy, our dot to the board game was as good as it’s been all year long in my opinion and I like that, it’s the way we have to play. Unfortunately, on the tying goal they got at the end, a strong play by them, over all I was really happy with our compete.”
On the Kings goals - "They’re good goals. They’re the kind of plays in a good hockey game. The puck is transitioned, there’s lots of battle, a lot of compete. Again it was a good, solid hockey game here tonight. Those are the kinds of goals that you’re looking for. The guys step up and make the plays, they score, same for [Pittsburgh]. They got a couple big plays from their top guys. But I think everybody went away pretty happy tonight."
Check out quotes from the Penguins locker room here.
Also, James Neal and Steve Sullivan stopped by MayorsManor earlier today to weigh in on the 'What I've learned so far...' series. You can read their comments here.
Finally, don't miss former Kings forward Tony Granato - now an assistant coach with the Penguins - who came on for an exclusive conversation earlier today (linked here).
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What I've learned so far... by Pittsburgh's James Neal
Like the Penguins' Steve Sullivan, who was profiled last hour, James Neal is one of the few Pittsburgh players who knows the Kings well. Having played for the Dallas Stars during his first three seasons in the NHL, he became well acquainted with Terry Murray's hockey club.
Another change for Neal since the last time he's been here is the addition of a Hulk Hogan-esque mustache. Not sure if that's a Movember thing or not. Either way though, we chatted for a while after morning skate today. Here's what he's learned so far this season...
About Evgeni Malkin - "He loves his Russian music. He gets his headphones on and he's jamming on the bus. His humor is great too. He's happy to be at the rink everyday."
About Steve Sullivan - "I learned that he's old and short. He's on his twitter all the time too, tweeting away."
About Brooks Orpik - "He stirs the pot behind the scenes. He's serious on the outside. But, he's behind a few things."
Another change for Neal since the last time he's been here is the addition of a Hulk Hogan-esque mustache. Not sure if that's a Movember thing or not. Either way though, we chatted for a while after morning skate today. Here's what he's learned so far this season...
About Evgeni Malkin - "He loves his Russian music. He gets his headphones on and he's jamming on the bus. His humor is great too. He's happy to be at the rink everyday."
About Steve Sullivan - "I learned that he's old and short. He's on his twitter all the time too, tweeting away."
About Brooks Orpik - "He stirs the pot behind the scenes. He's serious on the outside. But, he's behind a few things."
What I've learned so far... by Pittsburgh's Steve Sullivan
It's brought memorable quotes and tidbits - such as, team captain Dustin Brown is a self admitted geek (or a nerd, depending on who was being interviewed at the time), Trevor Lewis likes heated toilet seats, Brad Richardson is proud of his golf game and...well, Mike Richards is just all around good guy.
Today, we turn our attention to the visiting locker room. Up first, is Steve Sullivan - a speedy forward, perhaps best known for his six seasons in Nashville. However, last summer, he signed with the Penguins as a free agent.
After the morning skate today, I asked him what he's learned so far...
About James Neal - "He can grow some good facial hair."
About Paul Martin - "Underrated. I knew he was a good defenseman, but playing with him on a daily basis you really realize how a lot of the things he does don't show up on the score sheet on a regular basis."
About Tyler Kennedy - "He's exactly who I thought he'd be. He's from the Soo, enough said."
Penguins at LA Kings - Pregame Primer with Tony Granato
Nearly 20 years later, he's back in town for tonight's game at Staples Center. It's a building Granato played in only three times, as a member of the Sharks at the end of his career (coincidentally, a team he was signed to by then-San Jose GM Dean Lombardi). He's also coached a few games in LA, first with the Colorado Avalanche and now with Pittsburgh.
After the Penguins' morning skate today, we spent a few minutes one-on-one. Here's what Granato had to say...
On playing in LA, against his former team - "It's always nice to get back and see some friends. I have a lot of good memories from being part of this organization. When you come here and see the state of the franchise, they have some tremendous players and it looks like they're real close. So, it's exciting for me to see how well they're doing."
On Mike Richards - "He's an elite player and a great competitor. The more physical you try to be on a guy like that, the more intense and the more he gets into the game. So, I think being under control defensively against him (is important). You need to be aware of when he's on the ice because he can beat you so many different ways. He's a great asset to the organization and it was a great trade for them."
Friday, November 4, 2011
LA Kings prospects featured in three TV games tonight
Until the AHL or the Canadian junior leagues can find a way to get more air time on the NHL Network, college hockey broadcasts are your best best to regularly check out some of the Kings prospects on television. Tonight, viewers are treated to a triple header...
Joel Lowry - The Kings 2011 fourth round draft pick made his debut last weekend for Cornell University and picked up an assist. Tonight, he and his teammates will play longtime rival Yale, who went 17-1-1 at home last season and they come in tonight as the the 9th ranked team in the country. Earlier today, Lowry was interviewed for Cornell's 'Freshman Friday' series (link). That game starts at 4:30 pm PST on CBS Sports Network (DirecTV channel 613).
Derek Forbort - North Dakota's 6-foot-4 defenseman was the Kings first round selection in 2010, back when the draft was held in Los Angeles. The Fighting Sioux, Matt Greene's alma mater, are usually one of the top team's in the country. However, they're off to a rough start, including a split at home last weekend vs. St. Cloud State (and fellow Kings prospect Kevin Gravel). Tonight they're in Minnesota at 5:30pm PST to play Minnesota. The Gophers feature one of the best young American born hockey players in the game today, center Nick Bjugstad (who was drafted 19th in 2010, the slot the Kings traded out of to move up four spots and nab Forbort). Fifth-ranked Minnesota vs #15 North Dakota will be on Fox Sports North, DirecTV channel 668.
Nick Shore - LA's third round selection this past June is a freshman at the University of Denver (currently ranked 8th), who will be home tonight to host 14th ranked Minnesota-Duluth. Shore, like Forbort and Bjugstad above, is expected to be part of Team USA's World Junior Championship team later this winter. Tonight's game from Colorado can be seen on ROOT Sports, DirecTV channel 683 at 6:30 pm PST.
MayorsManor interviews with Shore and Forbort are linked below.
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RELATED ARTICLES:
Exclusive: Nick Shore talks about his experience at Team USA's summer camp
Interview with Derek Forbort
LA Kings weekly prospect report - November 2, 2011
Joel Lowry - The Kings 2011 fourth round draft pick made his debut last weekend for Cornell University and picked up an assist. Tonight, he and his teammates will play longtime rival Yale, who went 17-1-1 at home last season and they come in tonight as the the 9th ranked team in the country. Earlier today, Lowry was interviewed for Cornell's 'Freshman Friday' series (link). That game starts at 4:30 pm PST on CBS Sports Network (DirecTV channel 613).
Derek Forbort - North Dakota's 6-foot-4 defenseman was the Kings first round selection in 2010, back when the draft was held in Los Angeles. The Fighting Sioux, Matt Greene's alma mater, are usually one of the top team's in the country. However, they're off to a rough start, including a split at home last weekend vs. St. Cloud State (and fellow Kings prospect Kevin Gravel). Tonight they're in Minnesota at 5:30pm PST to play Minnesota. The Gophers feature one of the best young American born hockey players in the game today, center Nick Bjugstad (who was drafted 19th in 2010, the slot the Kings traded out of to move up four spots and nab Forbort). Fifth-ranked Minnesota vs #15 North Dakota will be on Fox Sports North, DirecTV channel 668.
Nick Shore - LA's third round selection this past June is a freshman at the University of Denver (currently ranked 8th), who will be home tonight to host 14th ranked Minnesota-Duluth. Shore, like Forbort and Bjugstad above, is expected to be part of Team USA's World Junior Championship team later this winter. Tonight's game from Colorado can be seen on ROOT Sports, DirecTV channel 683 at 6:30 pm PST.
MayorsManor interviews with Shore and Forbort are linked below.
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RELATED ARTICLES:
Exclusive: Nick Shore talks about his experience at Team USA's summer camp
Interview with Derek Forbort
LA Kings weekly prospect report - November 2, 2011
Quick wins Kings Player of the Month, Murray wanted more
When Jonathan Quick wins, he wins big.
Last year, the readers of MayorsManor voted him the Kings' Player of the Month twice. In October 2010 he captured 51% of the votes and then went back-to-back, as 52% selected him the winner in November. For the remainder of the season the voting was much closer, with the average winner capturing only 37% of the total.
He got off to another phenomenal start this year, posting a record of 6-1-2 in October, including three shutouts, a 1.52 goals-against average and .947 save percentage.
Despite Anze Kopitar's team leading 14 points (six goals, eight assists) last month, 63% of the readers - the widest margin ever - went with Quick as the October 2011 Player of the Month.
Even so, Terry Murray was hoping for more...
"He's had a great month," the LA coach said. "I feel that if we would have come out of the road trip in Phoenix and Colorado, and we would have won those games, I think he's probably the (NHL) Player of the Month. His numbers are tremendous, he's had a great start to the year and has meant a lot to us in the early going. So, too bad we couldn't have found a way to get it done for him. But, he's playing well."
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Last year, the readers of MayorsManor voted him the Kings' Player of the Month twice. In October 2010 he captured 51% of the votes and then went back-to-back, as 52% selected him the winner in November. For the remainder of the season the voting was much closer, with the average winner capturing only 37% of the total.
He got off to another phenomenal start this year, posting a record of 6-1-2 in October, including three shutouts, a 1.52 goals-against average and .947 save percentage.
Despite Anze Kopitar's team leading 14 points (six goals, eight assists) last month, 63% of the readers - the widest margin ever - went with Quick as the October 2011 Player of the Month.
Even so, Terry Murray was hoping for more...
"He's had a great month," the LA coach said. "I feel that if we would have come out of the road trip in Phoenix and Colorado, and we would have won those games, I think he's probably the (NHL) Player of the Month. His numbers are tremendous, he's had a great start to the year and has meant a lot to us in the early going. So, too bad we couldn't have found a way to get it done for him. But, he's playing well."
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What I've learned so far... by Kings goalie Jonathan Bernier
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| Goalie Jonathan Bernier (photo: C. Ikiri) |
A happy wife is a happy life - that's all I'm saying JB.
However, at the rink and around his teammates he's already picked up on a few things so far this season.
For starters, he learned that Terry Murray doesn't change his mind easily. The Kings' coach went through with his plan to play Bernier vs. New Jersey last week, even though many in the media and plenty of fans thought he was crazy for resting Jonathan Quick after he shutout three straight opponents.
Murray offered up his reasons here. Yet, that logic didn't seem to fly with most people, including former Kings coach Barry Melrose - who told NHL Live he would have never made such a move, regardless of what was told to a player ahead of time.
As for some other nuggets of info he's learned over the past month or so, here's what Bernier he had to say...
About Dustin Brown - "He's the type of guy you call a 'nerd.' He likes computers and all that electronic stuff. I always knew he was kind of like that. But, then we went to Europe, I sat with Brownie and we chatted a bit. Now I know for sure."
About Simon Gagne - "He seems quiet, but he's a pretty funny guy. It's great to have another French guy on the team too. It's nice to make jokes that somebody actually really understands!"
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Ryan Smyth - 'I had a short time here and it was alright'
On January 22, 1995, Ryan Smyth made his NHL debut - playing for the Edmonton Oilers in Los Angeles versus the Kings.
And 1,080 games later, he was back in Southern California - in a different building though - yet, back in an Oilers jersey and ready to take on the Kings once again.
Same result - Edmonton defeated LA.
He also picked up a goal this time around, his sixth goal on the season and has now scored in three straight contests.
Afterwards, he had this to say...
On the overall game - "Obviously it’s nice to get the win, that’s first and foremost. We played a great game. Habby (Khabibulin) obviously played great. We did the little things right that make the difference."
On why he left - "I had a short time here and it was alright. I just felt it was best for my family to move on and it’s always nice to win. After the first two games when we lost after having the lead, we regrouped and have played well. It built some character and we’re playing for each other as a team now."
Rookie sensation Ryan Nugent-Hopkins added the following...
And 1,080 games later, he was back in Southern California - in a different building though - yet, back in an Oilers jersey and ready to take on the Kings once again.
Same result - Edmonton defeated LA.
He also picked up a goal this time around, his sixth goal on the season and has now scored in three straight contests.
Afterwards, he had this to say...
On the overall game - "Obviously it’s nice to get the win, that’s first and foremost. We played a great game. Habby (Khabibulin) obviously played great. We did the little things right that make the difference."
On why he left - "I had a short time here and it was alright. I just felt it was best for my family to move on and it’s always nice to win. After the first two games when we lost after having the lead, we regrouped and have played well. It built some character and we’re playing for each other as a team now."
Rookie sensation Ryan Nugent-Hopkins added the following...
Kings Coach Murray chalks up 3-0 loss to 'bad bounces'
We've already heard from Kings captain Dustin Brown and defenseman Jack Johnson on the team's 3-0 loss to the Oilers.
Now, here are some thoughts from coach Terry Murray...
General comments on the game - "Just a couple of bad bounces out there. The game in Colorado we had some bad luck and some bad bounces. I look at the first goal here tonight and it was off of [Jonathan] Quick’s head. The third goal is a pass that comes from our D and hits [Anze] Kopitar in the back of the foot and they go ahead and score on it. I look at that as bad bounces that happen over the course of the year and that’s what I chalk it up to right now."
On the shot totals, which favored Edmonton 27-19 - "They blocked a lot of shots out there tonight. I thought we in the early going, especially in the first period, had a lot of opportunities to get pucks to the net. We used our defensemen very well, low to high, and a lot of pucks were directed to the net, but they did block a lot. There was no problem in the attitude. The second period is the period that obviously was a problem for us."
Up next, comments from the Oilers.
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Now, here are some thoughts from coach Terry Murray...
General comments on the game - "Just a couple of bad bounces out there. The game in Colorado we had some bad luck and some bad bounces. I look at the first goal here tonight and it was off of [Jonathan] Quick’s head. The third goal is a pass that comes from our D and hits [Anze] Kopitar in the back of the foot and they go ahead and score on it. I look at that as bad bounces that happen over the course of the year and that’s what I chalk it up to right now."
On the shot totals, which favored Edmonton 27-19 - "They blocked a lot of shots out there tonight. I thought we in the early going, especially in the first period, had a lot of opportunities to get pucks to the net. We used our defensemen very well, low to high, and a lot of pucks were directed to the net, but they did block a lot. There was no problem in the attitude. The second period is the period that obviously was a problem for us."
Up next, comments from the Oilers.
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Jack Johnson - 'This is what we do for a living'
After the Kings 3-0 loss to the Oilers tonight, captain Dustin Brown said LA needed to work harder.
Defenseman Jack Johnson shared the following thoughts...
On the team's overall play - "Everyone here wants to do well. I can’t say that anyone is not inspired. This is what we do for a living. We want to play hockey and we want to do well, but like I said - if we don’t score we aren’t going to win."
On the team's offensive struggles - "If we had the answers, we wouldn’t be in this predicament. Why? I really wish I had a good answer for you, but I really don’t. We’ve got a lot of great offensive players here, a lot of talent, but for some reason we are an offensively challenged team. One goal in three [home] games makes it pretty tough to win hockey games. We need to try and find a way to be a little more creative. We need to do something to try and create some offense and score some goals and give Quicker (Jonathan Quick) some help back there."
Updating the stat that everybody looks at it when it comes to Johnson, he was a minus-1 for the night, dropping his season total to plus-1.
Can he stay above the even-line on Saturday vs. Pittsburgh?
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Defenseman Jack Johnson shared the following thoughts...
On the team's overall play - "Everyone here wants to do well. I can’t say that anyone is not inspired. This is what we do for a living. We want to play hockey and we want to do well, but like I said - if we don’t score we aren’t going to win."
On the team's offensive struggles - "If we had the answers, we wouldn’t be in this predicament. Why? I really wish I had a good answer for you, but I really don’t. We’ve got a lot of great offensive players here, a lot of talent, but for some reason we are an offensively challenged team. One goal in three [home] games makes it pretty tough to win hockey games. We need to try and find a way to be a little more creative. We need to do something to try and create some offense and score some goals and give Quicker (Jonathan Quick) some help back there."
Updating the stat that everybody looks at it when it comes to Johnson, he was a minus-1 for the night, dropping his season total to plus-1.
Can he stay above the even-line on Saturday vs. Pittsburgh?
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Dustin Brown - 'The first thing we have to do is work'
It's been a long, slow crawl back. But, ladies and gentleman, after 12 games played this season, standing atop the NHL's Western Conference - it's the Edmonton Oilers.
For the second game in a row, the Kings were shutout 3-0 on home ice. Meanwhile, the Oilers have now won six straight.
Earlier today, we had an article on MayorsManor where Drew Doughty said - "Smytty's a good player, we all know that...Smytty is just slippery. He's obviously great, so he gets lucky a lot...He’s really good at what he does."
About the only thing he didn't say was 'Tonight, he'll bounce one off of Alex Martinez and get the Oilers first goal of the game.'
That's how it happened though.
After the game, Kings captain Dustin Brown shared a few thoughts...
On the team's effort - "I don’t know if we had any really, especially in the second period. They dominated pretty much every aspect of the game, which is not good enough. It’s something we need to correct pretty quickly. The first thing we have to do is work. It doesn’t matter what type of team you have, if you don’t have hard work you’re not going to do anything.”
On the Kings' overall performance, which included just three shots on goal in the first period - "They are pretty good at blocking shots. Regardless, we should have had a lot more. They played a good defensive game but there are two sides to that--we have to play a lot better offensively."
With just one goal scored in the the last three home games, yes - more offense is needed.
Video highlights after the jump
For the second game in a row, the Kings were shutout 3-0 on home ice. Meanwhile, the Oilers have now won six straight.
Earlier today, we had an article on MayorsManor where Drew Doughty said - "Smytty's a good player, we all know that...Smytty is just slippery. He's obviously great, so he gets lucky a lot...He’s really good at what he does."
About the only thing he didn't say was 'Tonight, he'll bounce one off of Alex Martinez and get the Oilers first goal of the game.'
That's how it happened though.
After the game, Kings captain Dustin Brown shared a few thoughts...
On the team's effort - "I don’t know if we had any really, especially in the second period. They dominated pretty much every aspect of the game, which is not good enough. It’s something we need to correct pretty quickly. The first thing we have to do is work. It doesn’t matter what type of team you have, if you don’t have hard work you’re not going to do anything.”
On the Kings' overall performance, which included just three shots on goal in the first period - "They are pretty good at blocking shots. Regardless, we should have had a lot more. They played a good defensive game but there are two sides to that--we have to play a lot better offensively."
With just one goal scored in the the last three home games, yes - more offense is needed.
Video highlights after the jump
Oilers at Kings: pregame primer - dmen ready to turn tables
You can say 'it's only been 11 games,' but I don't think you'd find many people who would have predicted the Oilers would be ahead of the Kings in the standings at any point this season.
While the Kings have often been compared to the Blackhawks of a few years ago, in terms of the young talent throughout the organization coming together and forming a nice core, the Oilers are often compared to the Avalanche of late.
"They have a team that's somewhat like Colorado," said Mike Richards. "Quick forwards, a lot of skill and 18, 19-year old kids who are playing really well right now. So, we have to know that and be aware that they're wanting to come in here and play hard and with nothing to lose. If we can just play our game though, I think we'll be just fine."
Rob Scuderi still had a few remnants of the Kings last game to get off his chest before moving on to tonight's match-up with the Oilers...
"The teams might be built in a similar fashion. But, I thought we severely outplayed Colorado for the majority of the game (on Sunday). "It's a game we should have won. It happens, but it's a game we should have won. I've only seen the Oilers once this year, in terms of watching them on TV. They have a lot of talented guys. But, we're a good defensive hockey team. If we stick to what makes us a good defensive hockey team, we're not really worried about what anyone does."
While the Kings have often been compared to the Blackhawks of a few years ago, in terms of the young talent throughout the organization coming together and forming a nice core, the Oilers are often compared to the Avalanche of late.
"They have a team that's somewhat like Colorado," said Mike Richards. "Quick forwards, a lot of skill and 18, 19-year old kids who are playing really well right now. So, we have to know that and be aware that they're wanting to come in here and play hard and with nothing to lose. If we can just play our game though, I think we'll be just fine."
Rob Scuderi still had a few remnants of the Kings last game to get off his chest before moving on to tonight's match-up with the Oilers...
"The teams might be built in a similar fashion. But, I thought we severely outplayed Colorado for the majority of the game (on Sunday). "It's a game we should have won. It happens, but it's a game we should have won. I've only seen the Oilers once this year, in terms of watching them on TV. They have a lot of talented guys. But, we're a good defensive hockey team. If we stick to what makes us a good defensive hockey team, we're not really worried about what anyone does."
Ex-Oilers, now Kings, talk about the 'slippery' Ryan Smyth
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| Jarret Stoll and Anze Kopitar rockin' mullets, in honor of Ryan Smyth (photo: LA Kings) |
For several decades now, it seems like there is always something on the line. From the Kings beating the Oilers in the Miracle on Manchester to Wayne Gretzky's milestone points vs. Edmonton. From payback for Craig Muni breaking Tomas Sandstrom's leg in the playoffs to former captain Kelly Buchberger's return to Edmonton. From Lubomir Visnovsky's return to LA to a the Dustin Penner-Colten Teubert trade last year. It's always something.
Tonight is no different. Over the summer, Ryan Smyth asked GM Dean Lombardi for a trade and basically tied his hands by requesting only a move to Edmonton.
I spoke with a few of the Kings about facing the quickly improving Oilers, and specifically, they're former teammate...
"There's a lot of history, for sure," said Jarret Stoll. "We have a lot of guys who have been on that side and vise versa. Smytty had his decisions and his reasons. It is what it is. We just move on, we play hockey and we try to win games. If he's happy there, that's great. We feel we're a good team in here and we're focusing on that."
When asked for their favorite memory of Smyth's time in LA, nearly every player said the same thing - "When we wore the mullets in warm-up. That was a fun day around here," remarked Stoll.
What I've learned so far... by LA Kings Brad Richardson
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| Brad Richardson chirping (photo: M. Zampelli) |
Recently, we've heard some interesting comments from Drew Doughty, Kevin Westgarth, Ethan Moreau and several others.
Now, it's time for the multi-purpose man, Brad Richardson, to step up and take a swing. The crafty forward is a bit of a jack-of-all-trades and coach Terry Murray has no qualms about plugging him in just about anywhere - including at least a few games on all four lines last year.
With the first month of the new season now in the books, what has Richardson learned so far...
About Dustin Brown - "He's really not as quiet as a lot of people think. I don't know if people think that because he's kind of shy. But, once you get to know him, he's pretty witty and very funny."
About Rob Scuderi - "I've learned that he's not changing his style. He's the worst dresser on the team and (that award) isn't going anywhere."
About Anze Kopitar - "His golf game has come a long way. He likes golf a lot and he's come a long way. We played the other day and it was the best round I've ever seen him play."
Murray - 'That line could be together another three games'
Sometimes, with guys like Kevin Westgarth and Matt Greene, it's hard to tell if they're being serious. The humor is always present. With other people, say - Kings coach Terry Murray - you're not always expecting a joke or even a wise crack. Like any good leader though, he'll keep you on your toes if you start to get too comfortable.
After practice yesterday, he was standing in his normal spot answering questions from the gathered media. It was noted that through all of his line shuffling during the first 11 games, one constant has been the pairing of Dustin Brown and Mike Richards on the second line.
So, has he liked the chemistry between those two?
"That's a big part of (what you're) looking for coming out of training camp," explained Murray. "You're looking for individual confidence to be high. You're looking for team confidence to be high. And, certainly, when you have new players coming on board, you want to see some chemistry starting to develop. I felt pretty good about the look that Brown and Richards were showing coming out of camp.
"In Richards, you have a guy who's a very good puck handler, he sees the ice extremely well," explained Murray, as he described their styles of play. "Brownie plays that power forward kind of role and has speed, size, strength and goes to the net. We've seen some good things happening with those two playing the game with that kind of an attitude. There's (been) some good plays to the net. Brownie gets to the top of the crease, he's in his tripod, he presents his stick and Richards being such a good passer, he just has to stay strong in that situation and usually the puck will be able to find a stick."
After practice yesterday, he was standing in his normal spot answering questions from the gathered media. It was noted that through all of his line shuffling during the first 11 games, one constant has been the pairing of Dustin Brown and Mike Richards on the second line.
So, has he liked the chemistry between those two?
"That's a big part of (what you're) looking for coming out of training camp," explained Murray. "You're looking for individual confidence to be high. You're looking for team confidence to be high. And, certainly, when you have new players coming on board, you want to see some chemistry starting to develop. I felt pretty good about the look that Brown and Richards were showing coming out of camp.
"In Richards, you have a guy who's a very good puck handler, he sees the ice extremely well," explained Murray, as he described their styles of play. "Brownie plays that power forward kind of role and has speed, size, strength and goes to the net. We've seen some good things happening with those two playing the game with that kind of an attitude. There's (been) some good plays to the net. Brownie gets to the top of the crease, he's in his tripod, he presents his stick and Richards being such a good passer, he just has to stay strong in that situation and usually the puck will be able to find a stick."
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Los Angeles Kings Prospect Report - November 2, 2011
Manchester Monarchs
Things continue to be a struggle for the guys in the American Hockey League right now. They went 1-2 in their three games last week and only scored a single goal in the two losses.
- Martin Jones was in net for both losses...Jordan Nolan continues to have a fine season thus far, picking up another goal and an assist (six points total through 11 games played...Linden Vey, who was on MayorsManor last week after scoring his first goal as a professional, netted another one in last Saturday's win...Robbie Czarnik, who's been in Manchester all season, finally made his debut on Saturday - and picked up an assist for his efforts...goalie Jeff Zatkoff also picked up an assist in that game, something Jones had done a few games prior...Brandon Kozun, who is off to a slower start than expected, picked up the lone goal (his second of the season) in Sunday's loss...Andrei Loktionov still leads the team in points (three goals, nine assists) and has a plus-5 rating.
- Starting tomorrow night, the Monarchs will play one of those Manchester specials - a three-fer - with games back-to-back-to-back, Friday through Sunday.
Movember pics of the LA Kings - featuring Doughty, Penner
According to Movember.com, Movember (the month formerly known as November) is a moustache growing charity event held during November each year that raises funds and awareness for men's health, specifically prostate cancer.
Various reports claim the phenomenon started in Australia back in 1999. Since then, there have been more than 1.1 million registered participants involved and they've raised over $176 million...so far.
Athletes, celebrities and everyday 'Mo Bros' (as they're referred to) have become involved.
Hockey player by night, twitter maniac by day, Paul Bissonnette of the Phoenix Coyotes, had the idea right earlier this week when he asked if you need to go clean-shaven to start the month.
Yes, is the answer. The idea is to shave your upper lip on Shadoween (October 31st), like George Parros did here. For the next 30 days, you start to grow dusters like these...
Various reports claim the phenomenon started in Australia back in 1999. Since then, there have been more than 1.1 million registered participants involved and they've raised over $176 million...so far.
Athletes, celebrities and everyday 'Mo Bros' (as they're referred to) have become involved.
Hockey player by night, twitter maniac by day, Paul Bissonnette of the Phoenix Coyotes, had the idea right earlier this week when he asked if you need to go clean-shaven to start the month.
Yes, is the answer. The idea is to shave your upper lip on Shadoween (October 31st), like George Parros did here. For the next 30 days, you start to grow dusters like these...
 |
| Is that Sgt Slaughter or Dustin Penner? |
Mike Richards on missed opportunities
Kings center Mike Richards has quickly picked up on the fact things are tight in the Western Conference.
Last year, the difference between home ice in the first round of the playoffs (Anaheim) and sitting at home watching (Dallas) was four points. FOUR POINTS! That's only two games.
By contrast, fourth to ninth place was a 15 point gap in the Eastern Conference.
Thus, the old adage that 'games in October count just as much as the ones in April' is even more true for teams out of the Eastern Time Zone.
As an avid fisherman, Richards knows all about the one that got away. And after practice yesterday, he was still thinking about the missed missed opportunities in Denver on Sunday - where the Kings outshot the Avalanche 32-16.
Still, LA never led in the game - but, also never trailed by more than one goal. They tied in twice, yet lost by the final score of 3-2.
"It was tough. It was one of those games I thought we played well and we dug in, " said Richards. "Obviously, we lost the game. But, at the same time we probably could have earned at least a point there, if not won that game - if we had a couple good bounces. Road trips are going to happen and at the end of them you just have to dig down and focus on doing the right things and not worry about or psyching yourself out with being tired."
Last year, the difference between home ice in the first round of the playoffs (Anaheim) and sitting at home watching (Dallas) was four points. FOUR POINTS! That's only two games.
By contrast, fourth to ninth place was a 15 point gap in the Eastern Conference.
Thus, the old adage that 'games in October count just as much as the ones in April' is even more true for teams out of the Eastern Time Zone.
As an avid fisherman, Richards knows all about the one that got away. And after practice yesterday, he was still thinking about the missed missed opportunities in Denver on Sunday - where the Kings outshot the Avalanche 32-16.
Still, LA never led in the game - but, also never trailed by more than one goal. They tied in twice, yet lost by the final score of 3-2.
"It was tough. It was one of those games I thought we played well and we dug in, " said Richards. "Obviously, we lost the game. But, at the same time we probably could have earned at least a point there, if not won that game - if we had a couple good bounces. Road trips are going to happen and at the end of them you just have to dig down and focus on doing the right things and not worry about or psyching yourself out with being tired."
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Bernier's mask rated tops in NHL, but he's changing soon?
Low and behold, coming in at number one was the Kings' Jonathan Bernier.
The mask was painted by DaveArt and there are multiple shots of the mask, similar to the one at the left, posted here.
Weekes associated the lion on top of the mask with royalty (which is true), yet Bernier also has a lion tattoo on his left arm - and it was always on his mask in Manchester as well.
Earlier today, I asked Bernier why he wears his old mask during practice and only breaks out the new black, silver and white one for games.
"I've been doing that because I wear plastic protection on my practice mask," said Bernier. "I just don't really like to wear that in games though. So, that's why I have two helmets. People notice it because (my practice mask) is purple from last year. But, instead of making another one just for practice, I figured I'd wear that one."
Scott Parse, Terry Murray and their 'issues'
Last year, Scott Parse missed nearly the entire season due to hip surgery. A December trade for Marco Sturm wasn't the answer. A February trade for Dustin Penner yielded few points. And then, Ryan Smyth asked for a trade over the summer.
It's been challenging to say the least.
Earlier today, Kings coach Terry Murray gave us the latest on Penner. Now, let's focus on Parse.
His march to the dog house during training camp was well documented here on MayorsManor. And just a week ago, Parse was on the sidelines, talking about having to wait his turn.
Then, he slipped into the line-up last Thursday. After practice today, he reflected on the joy of hearing he was going to play vs. the Stars.
"Very excited," was how Parse described the news. "No one likes sitting out. So, it was nice to get back in there."
Not only did he play, but he picked up a goal too.
"Goals are nice. I haven't scored in a year. So, that felt real nice," said Parse. "You don't really think about it at the time though. The injury's in the past. You just think about the game. I was thinking about what I had to do for the next shift. I'm just kind of in the moment out there."
From high in the sky, Murray and Penner like what they see
 |
| Left wing Dustin Penner (photo: M. Zampelli) |
Although he's yet to produce a goal - and regardless of how or why he ended up two lines lower - coach Terry Murray likes what he's been seeing.
So, when Simon Gagne returns to action on Thursday night vs. the Edmonton Oilers, he'll be playing with Anze Kopitar and Justin Williams. Penner will skate with Jarret Stoll and Brad Richardson.
After practice today, Murray explained why he wants Penner there ...
"I don't know if it was the fact that he started to play with Stoll and Richardson or exactly what it was. But, there seemed to be a little more work involved on his part of the game. I think there was more movement in the offensive zone, using his size. I like the way he got involved in the physical part of the game, in several of those looks in the offensive zone in the past couple of games. But, I still feel that he is sometimes looking for the perfect play to shoot the puck - get back to that movement, get back to cycling, get back to reading off each other with a little better spacing in the offensive zone. When you work at that part of it, I think the offensive part falls in place much easier."
LA Kings coach Murray wouldn't mind less from Doughty
When you're one of the best players on a team, the spotlight always burns a little brighter on your performance - both good and bad.
And when you sign the richest deal in team history, that only intensifies things.
For Drew Doughty, the season probably hasn't gotten off to the start he was hoping for. Sure, after missing all of training camp, he jumped right into the line-up on opening night and started playing major minutes. Then, a shoulder injury in Philadelphia forced him to miss five games.
He returned over the weekend to face Phoenix and Colorado. However, after six games played, he's yet to find the offense touch from previous years (no goals, two assists at the moment).
After practice today, coach Terry Murray spoke about Doughty...
"He has played with a great deal of 'I want to do it' and he wants to make a difference every time he's on the ice, every shift. Sometimes, you can get yourself into a jackpot when you're going out with that attitude. And I understand where he's coming from, the importance of him having the puck and trying to do a lot of good things with it. But, when you come back after being out (of the line-up) for a little while, it's better sometimes to do less - advance the puck, get it off your stick, get it up to the forwards, let them screw up instead of you. (laughter) But, he has a couple games under his belt now and they were fast paced games and they were back-to-back. At the end of the day, for me, his conditioning is really good, he feels confident battling along the boards, he has no hesitation whatsoever. I know his game is going to get to the level we've seen in the past."
More notes and quotes coming up later today.
The Mayor
www.twitter.com/MayorNHL
www.facebook.com/MayorsManor
RELATED ARTICLES:
What I've learned so far this season... by Drew Doughty
Coach Terry Murray's post-game comments from Dallas
Murray prepares for life without Doughty
NHL Premiere - caption these Drew Doughty photos
Doughty on his most annoying LA Kings teammate
And when you sign the richest deal in team history, that only intensifies things.
For Drew Doughty, the season probably hasn't gotten off to the start he was hoping for. Sure, after missing all of training camp, he jumped right into the line-up on opening night and started playing major minutes. Then, a shoulder injury in Philadelphia forced him to miss five games.
He returned over the weekend to face Phoenix and Colorado. However, after six games played, he's yet to find the offense touch from previous years (no goals, two assists at the moment).
After practice today, coach Terry Murray spoke about Doughty...
"He has played with a great deal of 'I want to do it' and he wants to make a difference every time he's on the ice, every shift. Sometimes, you can get yourself into a jackpot when you're going out with that attitude. And I understand where he's coming from, the importance of him having the puck and trying to do a lot of good things with it. But, when you come back after being out (of the line-up) for a little while, it's better sometimes to do less - advance the puck, get it off your stick, get it up to the forwards, let them screw up instead of you. (laughter) But, he has a couple games under his belt now and they were fast paced games and they were back-to-back. At the end of the day, for me, his conditioning is really good, he feels confident battling along the boards, he has no hesitation whatsoever. I know his game is going to get to the level we've seen in the past."
More notes and quotes coming up later today.
The Mayor
www.twitter.com/MayorNHL
www.facebook.com/MayorsManor
RELATED ARTICLES:
What I've learned so far this season... by Drew Doughty
Coach Terry Murray's post-game comments from Dallas
Murray prepares for life without Doughty
NHL Premiere - caption these Drew Doughty photos
Doughty on his most annoying LA Kings teammate
POLL: LA Kings Player of the Month - October 2011
Through the first month of the season, and a total of 11 games played, the Kings have compiled a 6-3-2. They sit second in the Pacific Division and fourth in the Western Conference standings. They've also allowed the second fewest goals (22), as only Edmonton is better (letting in just 18).
Taking a look at a few other stats - the rank 23rd in goals scored per game (2.36), the power play is converting 23.1% of the time (fourth best in the NHL) and the penalty kill is ranked ninth (86.1%).
Their recent numbers in the faceoff circle have helped push their season average up to 49.1% (now 18th out of of 30 teams). Last year they finished 10th best with, winning 51.1% of draws taken.
How about the individual players? Here are your nominations for Player of the Month, October 2011.
{listed in alphabetical order)
Dustin Brown - three goals, six assists, led the team with 32 shots
Jack Johnson - three goals, two assists, plus-2, Mr. Overtime
Anze Kopitar - six goals, eight assists, leads the team in points
Jonathan Quick - 1.52 goals against, .947 save percentage, three shutouts
Mike Richards - two goals, eight assists
Vote now, poll ends Thursday morning at 11am PST.
The Mayor
www.twitter.com/MayorNHL
www.facebook.com/MayorsManor
RELATED ARTICLES:
LA Kings player of the month - October 2010
What I've learned so far... by Mike Richards
What I've learned so far... by Dustin Brown
Taking a look at a few other stats - the rank 23rd in goals scored per game (2.36), the power play is converting 23.1% of the time (fourth best in the NHL) and the penalty kill is ranked ninth (86.1%).
Their recent numbers in the faceoff circle have helped push their season average up to 49.1% (now 18th out of of 30 teams). Last year they finished 10th best with, winning 51.1% of draws taken.
How about the individual players? Here are your nominations for Player of the Month, October 2011.
{listed in alphabetical order)
Dustin Brown - three goals, six assists, led the team with 32 shots
Jack Johnson - three goals, two assists, plus-2, Mr. Overtime
Anze Kopitar - six goals, eight assists, leads the team in points
Jonathan Quick - 1.52 goals against, .947 save percentage, three shutouts
Mike Richards - two goals, eight assists
Vote now, poll ends Thursday morning at 11am PST.
The Mayor
www.twitter.com/MayorNHL
www.facebook.com/MayorsManor
RELATED ARTICLES:
LA Kings player of the month - October 2010
What I've learned so far... by Mike Richards
What I've learned so far... by Dustin Brown
Monday, October 31, 2011
Halloween 2011 with the Los Angeles Kings players
Last week, Alec Martinez shared some early Halloween thoughts here on MayorsManor, revealing that teammate Justin Williams made a mean DJ Pauly D at the team's annual costume party. Apparently, Simon Gagne's clown get up was quite popular as well.
Until some of those pictures start to surface, check this video out...
Here's Jonathan Quick, Jarret Stoll, Mike Richards, Matt Greene and Kyle Clifford with their take on the classic Rick James tune Super Freak.
If you were ever thinking of inviting Stoll or Greene to one of your parties - you've now been warned, they steal the show.
On Labor Day weekend, we had Dustin Brown, Dustin Penner, Drew Doughty and Jack Johnson singing the American classic 'Take me out to the ballgame.' If you missed that video, check it out here.
Happy Halloween everybody!
The Mayor
www.twitter.com/MayorNHL
www.facebook.com/MayorsManor
RELATED ARTICLES:
MayorsManor podcast - LA Kings players talk best/worst dressed and other funny topics
What I've learned so far... by Mike Richards - includes a warning for Dustin Penner
What I've learned so far... by Alec Martinez - he calls out Trevor Lewis
What I've learned so far... by Dustin Brown - responds to Westgarth's allegations
What I've learned so far... by Matt Greene - sticking up for his teammates, as usual
Until some of those pictures start to surface, check this video out...
Here's Jonathan Quick, Jarret Stoll, Mike Richards, Matt Greene and Kyle Clifford with their take on the classic Rick James tune Super Freak.
If you were ever thinking of inviting Stoll or Greene to one of your parties - you've now been warned, they steal the show.
On Labor Day weekend, we had Dustin Brown, Dustin Penner, Drew Doughty and Jack Johnson singing the American classic 'Take me out to the ballgame.' If you missed that video, check it out here.
Happy Halloween everybody!
The Mayor
www.twitter.com/MayorNHL
www.facebook.com/MayorsManor
RELATED ARTICLES:
MayorsManor podcast - LA Kings players talk best/worst dressed and other funny topics
What I've learned so far... by Mike Richards - includes a warning for Dustin Penner
What I've learned so far... by Alec Martinez - he calls out Trevor Lewis
What I've learned so far... by Dustin Brown - responds to Westgarth's allegations
What I've learned so far... by Matt Greene - sticking up for his teammates, as usual
order here --> MayorsManor Store
View the store to see full line of shirts for men and women, dozen of styles and colors
Because you demanded it (the sequel)...
Thousands of emails have been pouring in today. People are demanding to see the Scott Parse goal from yesterday in Denver.
(not really, but it sounds good)
After all, that's two goals in three games for #21.
Over the weekend we posted video of his first goal (vs Dallas on Thursday). Here's the second one - and it required some good hand-eye coordination.
Watch and enjoy.
That's two goals for Parse now.
Meanwhile, Dustin Penner still hasn't found the back of the net - which is making my '35 goals on the season' prediction not look too good right about now.
More notes and quotes will be posted later today.
The Mayor
www.twitter.com/MayorNHL
www.facebook.com/MayorsManor
RELATED ARTICLES:
Audio: Scott Parse on when he might play again
Parse thinks the problem is between his ears, coach Murray not so sure
Western Conference predictions for the 2011-12 season - where will the Kings, Ducks, Sharks finish?
What I've learned so far this season... by Matt Greene
What I've learned so far this season... by Simon Gagne
(not really, but it sounds good)
After all, that's two goals in three games for #21.
Over the weekend we posted video of his first goal (vs Dallas on Thursday). Here's the second one - and it required some good hand-eye coordination.
Watch and enjoy.
That's two goals for Parse now.
Meanwhile, Dustin Penner still hasn't found the back of the net - which is making my '35 goals on the season' prediction not look too good right about now.
More notes and quotes will be posted later today.
The Mayor
www.twitter.com/MayorNHL
www.facebook.com/MayorsManor
RELATED ARTICLES:
Audio: Scott Parse on when he might play again
Parse thinks the problem is between his ears, coach Murray not so sure
Western Conference predictions for the 2011-12 season - where will the Kings, Ducks, Sharks finish?
What I've learned so far this season... by Matt Greene
What I've learned so far this season... by Simon Gagne
Sunday, October 30, 2011
LA Kings at Colorado Avalanche - what to watch for
On the plus side, the Kings have dominated the Avs of late - winning eight of the last nine games, including five straight and the last three in Denver.
Colorado's home record is also one of the key story lines, as their 6-4 record this season features six wins on the road (tops in the NHL) and not a single win at home in four tries.
Here are some other things to watch for...
- Left Wing Stats: Who would have ever thought that after 10 games, Scott Parse would have more goals than Dustin Penner?
- Richie, not Ricky: Brad Richardson, a former Avs draft pick (2003, fifth round), loves to play against his old team. Last season, he had a hat trick in Denver and has seven points in nine games lifetime vs. Colorado. Don't be surprised to see him spend a little time on the top line with Anze Kopitar.
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