Alec Martinez hopes to have money left over for new sticks

Martinez and Dean Lombardi (photo: C. Ikiri)

Earlier in the week, we had Kyle Clifford on to talk about his new equipment endorsement with Bauer - 'head to toe Bauer' as The Colonel said.

Meanwhile, although defenseman Alec Martinez may have signed a contract extension with the Kings this summer, he hasn't landed a stick deal yet. Nor does he even know which one prefers at this point...

"I'm still in the process of trying out a few different sticks," the 24-year old explained. "I have a couple Bauer sticks coming in the mail. I tried a couple before, but the curve was a little too big. Right now I like the Easton's, but I'm willing to give Bauer a shot. I used them in college and liked them a lot. I haven't used them in a couple of years, but I'll try 'em out."

Speaking of his college days - last month, he went back to his old stomping grounds in Miami, Ohio to help out for a few days.

"I was there skating for a week in August - they had a little pro camp for all the alum that are playing pro now. We were there working hard, but it's also nice because you get to see guys you don't get to see too regularly during the season. It's a good time, getting to (hang out) with some of your buddies and getting to know some of the newcomers in the program. Overall, it looks like their program is going in the right direction and hopefully they can have a great year."

10 Tidbits on Alec Martinez

Alec Martinez won't subtly return to the NHL tonight. He'll be joining a Kings team that's lost four of their last five games.

He'll also be facing some small little club you may have heard of, the Montreal Canadiens. Outside of Toronto, it may just be the most hockey crazed market in North America.

Fortunately for him, with just four games of NHL experience, he'll probably go under the radar for most of the local media. Besides, their big story heading into the game is named Jonathan Bernier.

Using our popular 10 Tidbits format, here is some information to help you get to know the newest addition to the Kings blueline this season...

* First off, you'll be glad to know his nickname isn't 'Ally.' According to Corey Elkins, his teammate in Manchester (AHL), they call him 'Marty.' After it was announced Martinez would join the team this week I asked Elkins about his recent play with the Monarchs and he said "Marty has been awesome on the power play for us. He takes smart shots that get through traffic and moves the puck real well. Its fun to watch." Coach Terry Murray is probably hoping he'll be fun to watch for the Kings!

* He's spent the last two years with Manchester, sans his brief time in LA last season. His rookie year in the AHL (2008-09) he posted eight goals and added 15 assists in 72 games. Then, last season, he led all defenseman with 30 points (7g, 23a...while playing in only 55 games!). Prior to his call up yesterday he was a plus-four in 20 games and his 16 points (5g, 11a) were leading ALL players on the team.