POLL: Which player should the LA Kings call up today?

Two big things happened over the weekend. First, the Kings offense woke up and scored five goals on Saturday night - the third time they've hit the nickel mark this season. Then, yesterday, left wing Dustin Penner was placed on the injured reserve list for a hand injury he suffered back in Thursday night's game vs. the Canucks.

When Scott Parse went down last week, center Colin Fraser was activated.

This time around, they don't have an extra forward here in LA waiting around. So, expect to see somebody from Manchester (AHL) headed West.

Down two left wings, who could it be?

Here are the likely candidates to select from (in alphabetical order)...

Rich Clune, LW - one of only two players on this list who has NHL experience (played 14 games for the Kings in 2009-10)...is known primarily as an agitator, he plays a high energy game and ironically, any consideration he gets will be in large part be due to two players who left the organization

Ray Kaunisto, LW - one of the rare left wings on this list and the funniest guy from Manchester on twitter...he'll call out anybody, even his own wife

Dwight King, LW - the other player on the list with NHL experience (six games last year)...he was also the guy the team tried to call up when Jarret Stoll was suspended in the playoffs, but they couldn't get it done in time...was one of the last players cut in camp this season...has six points in 17 games with Manchester this season

Rich Clune - 'Not a lot of guys here will win the scoring title'

Clune at Kings training camp (photo: CIKIRI)

Take the following players on NHL contracts: Trevor Lewis, Ethan Moreau, Scott Parse, Brad Richardson, Jarret Stoll, Kevin Westgarth...add in prospects Brandon Kozun, Andrei Loktionov and Tyler Toffoli...then top it off with Trent Hunter, who is in camp on a tryout deal...what do you have?

Ten players vying for six spots total on the Kings third and fourth lines for the upcoming season.

Now, add Rich Clune to that list.

"Sure, the odds are against me. Bring it on, I don’t care. I’m not going to quit and go to Europe. This is what you play for, right?"

It was an interesting opening comment from Clune, not only because it showed pure raw-emotion towards what he's up against, but also nearly picked up right where we left off the last time we spoke.

Back in July, Clune visited MayorsManor, during a time period when several Kings prospects were in the midst of leaving their AHL affiliate in Manchester and signing contracts over in Europe - something he had attributed to a disastrous combination of "the mighty dollar...a bit of an ego thing...and maybe a little frustration."

All valid points, but things Clune said he's willing to overlook for the time being.

When you're speaking with the 24-year old left wing, you usually have to separate the sarcasm from the truth, and this time was no different.

"I don't think I'd like the food over there anyway," he said.

Putting that aside, he's taking a different approach to the difficult road many must travel to reach the NHL.

Kings' Ray Kaunisto calls Anaheim Ducks fan 'a lost cause'

Kaunisto during Rookie Camp (photo: CIKIRI)

It's time for the return of the Yooper.

Ray Kaunisto, a 6-foot-4 left wing, played 57 games for Manchester last season, the Kings' AHL affiliate. He had 14 points (8 goals, 6 assists) and finished with a minus-6 rating. Not exactly numbers that will shoot him past Brandon Kozun or Tyler Toffoli on the depth chart.

"To be realistic, I'm not a top-two liner," Kaunisto says.

He knows his role and he's sticking to it - "I like to be a defensive forward and I think I'm getting better at that as a pro - after being good at it in college."

With four years at Northern Michigan under his belt, he signed with the Kings as a free agent in March 2010.

Even though the odds may be stacked against him flying to Europe with the Kings to start the season, he's had a straight forward approach to training camp this week.

"How I look at it is, I come to camp and I do what I can," said the 24-year old, who hails from the Upper Peninsula area of Michigan. "I'm going to go out there and play rough, I'm going to hit and try not to turn the puck over. I want to be good in my own zone. I'll try to put in a couple of goals and be there for my teammates. If it doesn't work out here - I hope to make the team here, that's what everyone hopes here - but, I know that may not be the most realistic thing right now. The step after that is, go to the AHL and be a top player there."

Right before camp opened though, he had to ship something back home - his wife. Married over the summer, the Mrs. was in town for a few days.

Who's that goalie? - new favorite game of Kings' Rich Clune

Jones and Zatkoff (photo: S. Slingsby)

Some guys like to kick the soccer ball around before a game. Others like to rock out to their ipod. Some like it loud, some like it quiet. Hockey players have are all sorts of pre-game rituals.

For Kings prospect Rich Clune, apparently checking the line-up isn't one of them.

Maybe it's not a big deal though. Like the Kings one-two punch in goal last season, with Jonathan's Quick and Bernier, Clune's Manchester Monarchs featured their own dynamic duo in Jeff Zatkoff and rookie Martin Jones.

Despite their stellar numbers between the pipes, it's not a position Clune has much interest in learning more about.

"Goalie is the toughest position in hockey to play," said Clune. "I can't even begin to walk a day in their shoes because I've never done it. It's a lot of pressure."

As for the play of one over the other, Clune started out with - "Jonesy could potentially be a starting goaltender in the NHL." He then quickly retorted with, "Zats is a little bit older and it might take him a little bit more time to develop and it's also about finding the right place and the right fit. He could also play in the NHL someday."

And then back the other way, "Jonesy is going to be a starter in the NHL one day, for sure. With goaltenders you can't really put a year on it though. Look how long it took Jon Bernier to get to where he is. And everyone knows how good he is."

Rich Clune - prospect Brandon Kozun has 'fire inside him'

Kozun at Kings Dev Camp (photo: K. Spatz)

While the hype meter on Kings prospect Brandon Kozun hasn't reached anywhere near the level of Brayden Schenn circa summer 2010, anticipation for the speedy winger's NHL debut continues to rise.

His expected battle with Tyler Toffoli looks to be one of the key stories to watch this September.

Prior to the Kings recent Development Camp in Los Angeles, Kozun proclaimed himself 'ready for the NHL' in an interview here on MayorsManor.

He also spoke about the challenges of physical play in the AHL in a follow-up piece here.

Over the weekend, Kozun's Manchester teammate, Rich Clune, had this to say about him when I asked 'How good is Brandon Kozun?'...

Clune - "He's got skills. Time will tell with him, right? I'm not as small as him. He's a small guy. So, it will be a tough battle for him to prove that he can play everyday against big guys. But, that kid has a lot of game and he's got some fire inside him. So, he's got a shot."

To see what Kings coach Terry Murray had to say about Kozun and Toffoli following Development Camp, click here.

For more with Clune, including his thoughts on Bud Holloway, Oscar Moller and Corey Elkins leaving the Monarchs to play in Europe next season, click here.

The Mayor
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Kozun on the challenges of the physical game

Dev Camp Day One:  Post-scrimmage comments from Kozun, Vey, Lowry, etc.

Pre-camp interview with Tyler Toffoli - 2011 OHL Scoring Champion

Pre-camp interview wtih Brandon Kozun - says he's ready for the NHL

Kozun aside, now it's Jake Muzzin vs. Tyler Toffoli?

Rich Clune on Bud Holloway leaving Monarchs for Eurupe

Rich Clune in camp (photo: Cikiri)

During the Kings training camp last September, high-energy forward Rich Clune was starting to turn some heads.

Many thought he might even have a chance to crack the line-up in Los Angeles rather than spend a third season in Manchester (AHL).

Originally drafted by the Dallas Stars in 2005, Clune has since spent time in the ECHL, AHL and NHL. All the while, patiently waiting for his opportunity to remain in the big show.

Clune stayed with the Kings through Frozen Fury weekend in Las Vegas. However, ultimately, he lost out on an NHL roster spot - in part, due to the emergence of Kyle Clifford.

No problem, said Clune, when we spoke Friday night on the steps of the Dodger Dugout (several players were at the stadium to throw out the first pitch).

"It was a good year for me because I was able to get a lot more ice than I probably would have in LA," was Clune's view on his 66 games in Manchester last season. "It's a long road. There's a lot of young guys and we had a really talented team. It sucks we didn't go further (in the playoffs). I think we could have easily (won) that first series with Binghamton. What - five games in overtime? But, I had a lot of fun. Wherever I am, I like to have a good time."

Things haven't been quite as fun since arriving back in Los Angeles. He's been working out with Kings strength and conditioning coach Tim Adams, left wing Dustin Penner, etc. (more info on those grueling workouts can be found here)

"I came in for some training with the guys and just did a week with (that crew). My calves are sore," he complained - before joking "that's why I'm leaning up against this railing."

Monarchs' Kaunisto talks Clune, Kozun, Kings Dev Camp

Over the past 18 months GM Dean Lombardi and the Kings have been stuffing their pipeline with left wings, American born guys and/or college hockey players.

Ray Kaunisto meets all three categories.

His name isn't mentioned much when talking about the Kings prospects though, except to maybe only the most die-hard fans. He's largely gone under the radar, having not been drafted and then signed as a free agent in March of last year.

Still, he says he doesn't feel forgotten about - knowing every team needs (what he calls) a 'certain type' of roll player.

Without knowing it, his ties to the Kings began years before he signed with the team.

Prior to college he played with former Kings prospect Teddy Purcell in the USHL.

He also grew up in Sault Ste Marie, Michigan and would cross the river to attend games of the legendary Soo Greyhounds. In fact, during his college days, when he would sneak in a game or two on visits home, the 'Hounds team he was watching featured Jordan Nolan and Jake Muzzin, two of his current teammates in Manchester.

In the conversation below the self-confessed twitter addict talks about being recruited by Los Angeles, players he draws motivation from, the toughest player in Manchester, his thoughts on the most underrated prospect and shares a prank once pulled on him...

MM: You signed with the Kings after playing college hockey at Northern Michigan. How did you end up there?

Soo Greyhounds GM says Kings getting Richard Clune II?

Michael Kantor of Soo Greyhounds

With the Los Angeles Kings annual summer Development Camp about to get underway we've been posting pre-camp comments from the players, their coaches and/or their general managers.

Among the group of 35 players who will take the ice at TSC are 14 invited guests - essentially, undrafted players, mostly from Canadian junior teams.

Two such players are coming from the Soo Greyhounds in the OHL. For those unfamiliar, it's one of the most storied franchises in all of Canada. Their alumni includes former Kings Paul Coffey, Wayne Gretzky, Charlie Simmer, Wayne Simmonds and Rick Tocchet.

Several current prospects have also spent time there - including Dwight King, Jake Muzzin and Jordan Nolan.

And now back to this year's camp...

Two players from the 'Hounds most recent roster were invited, defenseman Colin Miller and right wing Michael Kantor.

Interview with Monarchs 'Man of the Year' Bud Holloway

Earlier this week, Bud Holloway scored his team-leading 26th goal of the season for the Manchester Monarchs.

While guys like Thomas Hickey (first round NHL draft pick), Viatcheslav Voynov (just announced as AHL Second Team All-Star) and Oscar Moller (currently up with the Kings) may get more press and attention, one things is clear...

Holloway has a special relationship with the back of the net.

Already a playoff hero from last year - when he tied an AHL record with six game-winning goals during the post-season - he's continued to produce on a regular basis.

The 6'0" left wing was selected by the Kings in the third round of the 2006 NHL Draft. He went on to play two more years with the Seattle Thunderbirds of the WHL, then split time between Ontario (ECHL) and Manchester during the 2008-09 season. After leading the Reign in playoff points that year, he's been in Manchester ever since.

He added to his resume last season, leading the Monarchs in assists (28) and points (47). And he's found a way to top that this season, already posting 56 points (26g, 30a) with a handful of games remaining.

A few days ago he was voted the 2011 Monarchs 'Man of the Year' for his involvement in the community and is now one of 30 finalists for the league award.

In the interview below we talk about several other Kings prospects, life in Manchester, good pranks, call-ups, the upcoming AHL playoffs and much more...

Five Kings Players Slash-ed

Prior to the Kings taking the ice tonight against the Atlanta Thrashers, the National Anthem will be performed by legendary rock guitarist Slash.

Below we take a look at five Kings players and their corresponding Slash songs.

Watch This - a song taken from his latest release (a cd simply titled Slash), could easily be a song title for an ode to Anze Kopitar. Long time Kings fans will tell you they just knew something was going to happen each time Dionne or Gretzky took a shift.  The same can be said for Kopitar. He really came into his own last season and looks poised for another monster campaign this year. Just watch! With Slash at center on this song, his wingers were Dave Grohl and Duff McKagan. In the music world, that's a triple crown-esque line.

Doin' Fine - after Guns N' Roses toured to support their double disc Use Your Illusion, Slash put out the first of his solo records - It's Five O'Clock Somewhere.  Truth be told, he wrote this while on tour with GnR and it could have been the follow-up record to Illusion.  However, Axl Rose wanted no part of it.  So, Slash hooked up with the highly underrated Eric Dover on vocals and put it out himself.  Doin' Fine is the perfect song for Michal Handzus - also underrated and a gem of a player.

Frozen Fury 2010 - Clune post-skate comments

Earlier I posted some comments from Drew Doughty and Anze Kopitar about tonight's Frozen Fury game.

Below are some exclusive comments from Richard Clune - talking quite a bit about possible linemates this season and his relationship with Kevin Westgarth.

MM: There is a real battle going on for the final few roster spots. You'll be playing on the fourth line tonight with Lewis and Westgarth. How do you feel heading into your second Frozen Fury?

RC: I'm loose. my mind is clear. There is nothing you can do about competition, it's good. It shows the organization is probably at a place where they want to be, as far as depth. It's going to bring the best out in me. I have nothing to worry about. I did all I could do this summer. I've prepared well and I've had good practices in camp. I don't have any pressure on me. I just have to go out and play loose, be myself on the ice. Whatever happens, happens.

LA Kings HockeyFest 2009: Sunday's 3rd Best Session

Day Three. A glorious day. A sad day. Why? It's the end of Hockey Fest 2009!

Keeping with the theme started yesterday, I've ranked the three sessions today from third to first. Please note - that isn't "from worst to first", as the third place selection was still a beauty. Think of it more like 1A, 1B and 1C.

In the Jack Johnson slot (#3)...or Gary Galley position for you more "seasoned" fans - Hockey Operations with Dean, Hex and the Coach.

Some of the gems at the morning kick-off:

* Dean referring to Doughty as a "Doughboy"...quickly realizing he might have a mini-riot on his hands given the adoration most fans have for the kid, he explained that such a body type was a good thing. You see, Dean likes to draft kids who have an upside. If you draft a kid that is "buffed out" he doesn't have any upside. With Doughty being a Doughboy they knew they could teach him how to attain an athlete's body. Dean later added that Ray Bourque used to be referred to as "Fat Ray" for the same reason his first few years in the league.

* Coach Murray is very impressed with Matt Greene and Kopitar. He admits that it took Kopi time to learn the defensive system he put in place last year and thinks he should have a break out year this season on offense.

* This just in - the Coach also said that "Brownie is a pretty damn good player too." He believes "nobody in the NHL cares more about the LA Kings than Dustin Brown." Ah, should a guy playing in Tampa Bay or Atlanta care about the Kings? Relax, I knew what he meant.

* Next up was the period I usually dread most - they opened it up for questions. Don't get me wrong, Kings fans are extremely knowledgeable. And there are always really good questions - some even surprise Dean or Hex with the insight behind them. Yet, I'm always thinking "please, no more questions about parking prices or why the Kings didn't sign (insert player name) to a $300 million contract just because there is cap space available." That said, overall, if you take all the questions asked to all the various panelists this weekend, I would rate the fan questions a strong B+...maybe even A-. I don't even remember one lame question that made me sink in my seat. Maybe it was the cover charge. Kept those people at home. Back to the story... A fan asked Dean about expanding their marketing efforts out to the Inland Empire (you know, the "IE", formerly known as "the 909"). Dean looked around like he wanted to use a lifeline or phone a friend. Thus his initial answer: "Um, not my area." (Can I have your attention please...will McChris please pick up a white courtesy phone...paging McChris to a white courtesy phone).

* Somebody then asked Dean about Brian Boyle and the decision to trade him this past June. In short, he said things similar to what was shared at the last Breakfast with Ops meeting at Health South (for TSC comments, see my earlier blogs), i.e. work ethic, does he get it, does he bring his A game every night. Dean mentioned he wasn't sure that Boyle staying for his senior year at BC was the right decision. Several fans didn't like his "leave school early to turn pro" stance. Either way, Dean said they even talked to Boyle's father earlier this year to try and get some outside help. Experiment over. When he showed up to the draft and only had three teams interested he knew he had to do it now. In fact, he believes he waited too long to trade him and said he should have listened to Hex (who wanted to trade him sooner).

* Coach Murray has been impressed with former college hockey player Davis Drewiske from the day he first met him. He sees lots of upside to his game this year. Says he "might just need to drop the gloves" a few times this year to establish himself. He had 18 penalty minutes in 17 games last season with the Kings. We'll have to wait and see on that one.

* One of the true pleasures of listening to Dean speak is his constant expansion of the hockey vocabulary. You may recall from previous meetings he's taught us all the value of an "asset" (player or pick) or the fact that some guys are brought in to be a "bridge." (Fun little game to play - what's your favorite Deanism? Post a comment below) Well, we have a new one. Prospect Garrett Roe is a "dirtbag." Apparently, it's a term of affection. Which caused Daryl Evans to remark how much fun Dean must be on a date. Rowe is what Dean likes in the 7th round, "no vanilla."

* Many of us have heard Dean espouse his displeasure for slogans and the like. However, he gave us a good one today..."There's no cap on character." It's more than just the cash cost when evaluating who should be a King these days.

As things wrapped up in the morning session Dean acknowledged they may be one or two players light as camp approaches. Rather than fill that void from outside right now - and guess wrong - they'd rather wait and see how things develop during camp. Somebody may come along and surprise them, like Wayne Simmonds last year. For now he doesn't see an "impact move" on the horizon. There could be a "depth move" during or shortly after camp.

I've said it many times since Dean landed in LA. He is consistent. Today he spoke freely when asked a question, was intense about winning and tried to connect with each fan speaking to him. All consistent with past fan forums.

Later I had a chance to follow-up with Dean and Coach Murray on a number of other topics:

* I pressed Dean on the Ivanans situation and Westgarth looming in the background with his new three year contract. Ivanans is on the team "for now." Westgarth's first year of the contract is a two-way deal, so he may be in and out quite a bit. However, he likes the added "chirping" that Westgarth brings, saying that is an element that North American born players bring with them. He explained that "sometimes those one liners hurt as much a a punch."

* Dean jokingly (perhaps) suggested they should play both guys against Anaheim. He says it might be kinda fun after going in there and getting pushed around the last few years. He chuckled pretty good at himself over that one. Murray went on to talk about Richard Clune and his potential to fill a role with the team. Dean agreed, he loves that kid too.

* I mentioned to Dean that I heard they tried to bring back Lappy on a short term contract. He said "absolutely true." They were talking to his agent and Dean feels Lappy was interested. When the longer term was offered by Philly, he didn't want to try and match. No hard feelings. Lappy being interested was somewhat shocking to me. When we spoke at Luc's retirement dinner he was still very bitter with the Kings organization and the way things fell apart. Perhaps time heals all wounds. Perhaps Lappy wasn't holding Dean accountable for things that happened before he started. Either way, it all turned out fine. A great guy got a big money three year deal and the Kings wisely didn't offer him something similar. One year would have been great. Three wouldn't have been the right move for this team.

* Coach wants to see Doughty start to come out of his "cocoon" this year. #8 has leaned heavily on Odie as a mentor (good decision). Those two will be paired again during the pre-season. He also plans on keeping Frolov and Zeus together. Interesting nugget was him not being sure there was room on this year's team for both Moller and Purcell. I got the impression it was Purcell's job to lose.

Whew. All of this info and it wasn't even lunch time yet.

The Mayor
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