FULL VIDEO: LA Kings preview show on Fox Sports West

If you missed last night's LA Kings preview show on Fox Sports West, fear not - Kings Vision has you covered. The video below features Kings captain Dustin Brown speaking to fans at HockeyFest, Kings analyst Jim Fox giving some predictions for the new season, they identify the x-factors for success this year and much more.

To read more about some of the off-season topics discussed in the video, check out these links:

Welcome to the Dustin Penner comedy hour

No June Gloom for Kings LW Dustin Penner

Matt Greene pulls no punches about Penner's conditioning

Kings GM Dean Lombardi - 'Anze Kopitar may be the new Blake Griffin'

Anze Kopitar is training in one of Europe's most beautiful cities

I'll have my predictions for the 2011-12 NHL season posted later today.

The Mayor
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Kyle Clifford is not convinced he has spot on the LA Kings

If you think the Kings went though a lot of changes this summer, how about what Kyle Clifford experienced last year?

A small town kid playing junior hockey knocks the socks off the management group of his NHL team, makes the big club, moves to Los Angeles...and starts getting into scraps with men - often much bigger than him - a couple times a week. Oh, and then he starts scoring big goals in the playoffs.

No, this actually happened, we're not describing the plot of some new Disney movie.

Although he's been completely embraced by the fan base and his teammates, Clifford says he's coming into this season with a degree of caution.

"This summer my focus was that there isn't a legitimate spot that I have locked up. So, I want to continue working hard and just get ready for this season. I want to try and make an impact on this team this year."

As with most players, in addition to training, he found time for a few extracurricular activities too.

"Hanging out in small town areas, some people might not think it's exciting," Clifford began. "But, I just kind of kept it simple - bonfires with a lot of friends and family, things like that. I also made it out to a country concert. We took a little three-day camping trip to New York to see Brad Paisley, Blake Shelton, Jared Neiman. It was a lot of fun."

Emphasising the important role friends play in Clifford's world, he made time to honor one with a tattoo on the inside of his right bicep last month. It's a few simple words in script lettering that will help him remember a close friend who passed away while Kyle was off in the NHL last season.

Bringing it back to the present, yesterday at Hockey Fest, young fans were eager to know more about Clifford during the Kid's Press Conference. Given how quiet he was last year around most of the guys though, I asked if he was a little intimidated or concerned when he found out he'd be up on stage with the always colorful Matt Greene and Kevin Westgarth.

"I was actually pretty excited, that's less talking for me. I don't really like to voice my opinion too much, unless it's needed. So, I was excited that they'd be up there to take over most of the talking."

Truth be told, Clifford ended up doing plenty of talking, answering everything asked of him - including his Halloween costume, what karaoke song he likes to sing, the weirdest thing he's been asked to autograph and much more.

For those that missed the Kings Presser, it was perhaps the highlight of Hockey Fest this year. I'll be sure to post video later this week when the guys over at Kings Vision make it available.

We'll also have plenty more notes and quotes from Hockey Fest later today and throughout the week. In the meantime, be sure to check out some related articles below.

The Mayor
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www.facebook.com/MayorsManor  

RELATED ARTICLES:

LA Kings Dustin Brown at Hockey Fest - 'This year is a different feeling'

Dustin Brown on the off-ice value of Mike Richards

Kyle Clifford helps evaluate the Kings' rookies

Matt Greene tattoos his LA Kings teammates

New Year's Resolutions with Kevin Westgarth

POLL: Looking forward to what at LA Kings HockeyFest?

HockeyFest 2011 is this Sunday and it marks the official end of summer...or more importantly, the return of hockey!

Now, I didn't include 'the announcement of Drew Doughty signing' in the poll because I'll assume that would be the winner - in a landslide.

Instead, selecting from the events actually on the schedule (published earlier today here), what are you most excited about at HockeyFest this year?




SPECIAL NOTE: There's still time to enter the Drew Doughty contract contest! If you want to win a free t-shirt just by making a simple guess, click here.

The Mayor
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RELATED ARTICLES:

HockeyFest 2011 full schedule and notes on previous events

10 Tidbits on HockeyFest 2010

HockeyFest 2009 - Day Two review - Triple Crown, Grimson, Norton, Ferraro, Hrudey

HockeyFest 2009 - Bob Miller seminar review

HockeyFest 2009 - Saving the Best for Last - with Nicholls, Hardy and Robitaille

LA Kings HockeyFest 2011 - schedule and past notes

For the third straight year, HockeyFest is on the move.

And if it's anything like the prior two, this is a can't miss event for Los Angeles Kings fans.

Each year the event has been tweaked slightly, largely based on feedback by fans and players attending the event.

What started out at LA Live in 2009, then moved to the team's training facility last September, and now returns to downtown LA - this time at Staples Center.

Regardless of location though, fans have come away each year raving about the festivities - with much of the praise being directed at the players, who have been very engaging.

Key highlights of the activities scheduled for this Sunday's HockeyFest include:

10 Key Dates for LA Kings, including 2011 training camp

Soon after the Stanley Cup parade takes place in some North American city, it happens.

Millions of fans everywhere began to experience hockey withdrawals, or 'summer' as it's more commonly referred to.

Fortunately, the early part of the off-season has a hat-trick of activities that can partially keep the fire stoked via the NHL Awards, NHL Draft and start of free agency.

Then, today comes. People flip the calender to August - well, those that still literally do things like that - and realize there's not one thing scheduled even partially resembling the sport they love.

Bare with us though. You can do it. Make it another 30 days and look what's on the other side...

10 KEY DATES for the LOS ANGELES KINGS

9/10 Rookie Camp opens at TSC in El Segundo, CA (runs through 9/13)

9/11 HockeyFest 2011 at Staples Center

9/13 Kings Charity Golf Tournament - Industry Hills, CA

* 9/14 Rookie game vs. Phoenix Coyotes 6pm - at TSC in El Segundo, CA

* 9/15 Rookie game vs. Phoenix Coyotes 2pm - at TSC in El Segundo, CA

9/16 Main Training Camp opens at TSC in El Segundo, CA (off-ice)

* 9/17 On-ice workouts begin for main camp roster

9/21 Pre-season game: Phoenix Coyotes at LA Kings (Staples Center)

9/25 Pre-season game: Anaheim Ducks at LA Kings (Staples Center)

9/30 Pre-season game: LA Kings at Anaheim Ducks (Honda Center)

10/1 Frozen Fury XIV: Colorado Avalanche vs LA Kings (Las Vegas, NV)

10/7 Opening Night: NY Rangers vs LA Kings (Stockholm, Sweden)

10/8 NHL Premiere, Game Two: Buffalo Sabres vs LA Kings (Berlin, Germany)

* denotes update, as of 8/18/2011

Hockey season is almost here.

Hang in there. You can do it.

In the meantime, be sure to keep up to date this summer with all the news and inside information right here on MayorsManor. Just this weekend, we had an exclusive interview with Colin Fraser about his injuries, the Dodgers James Loney talked about his desire to play hockey at Staples Center and Rich Clune shared his thoughts on Bud Holloway leaving the Monarchs for Europe.

And there's lots more to come...

The Mayor
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10 Tidbits on HockeyFest 2010

Over the weekend, the Kings held their second annual HockeyFest. While the new end-of-summer tradition was scaled back from last year's grand event, a sold-out crowd of 2,000 fans seemed to enjoy it just as much.

Like last year, by far, the most popular activities at the event were the speaker sessions. Fans were treated to current and former players sharing stories and answering questions.

And it all kicked off early Saturday morning - too early - with Dean Lombardi, Ron Hextall and Jeff Solomon giving a State of the Franchise.

Using our popular 10 Tidbits format, here are selected highlights from the event...

1.  Goalies - The unintentional funny quote of the day came from Hextall when he said "Bernier hasn't made the team yet." Um, ok.  I guess that gives hope to three of you that previously purchased Ersberg jerseys.  To end any possible controversy heading into camp, he also said "Jonathan Quick is our #1 goalie" about 32 times.  Regarding Niemi - "We didn't even talk about it. Our goaltending is solid."

Live Updates from HockeyFest

The Mayor will have live updates throughout the day from HockeyFest. If you can't attend or want the inside scoop on what's going down at the Kings training facility, follow along at www.twitter.com/Mayor119 (note: you don't have to have a twitter account, simply read the updates on the page...it's that easy).

The basic schedule of events today will be as follows:

Details on HockeyFest 2010 from Kings VP McChris

Earlier today while at Health South...err, TSC...I had a chance to catch up with one of my favorite Kings executives, VP of Marketing Chris McGowan (who, if you read my stuff regularly, I like to call McChris).

After such a phenomenal inaugural event last summer, I wanted to know what he had planned for HockeyFest v2.  As you've probably read, it's scheduled to be a one-day event this year - held at the training facility on Saturday, September 11th.

Here are some details to hold you over until the official press release comes out in a few weeks:

* Ticket info is probably the most important thing you should pay attention to.  They're lowering the price to around $20 and there will be a limit of 2,000 tickets sold.  Last year's event sold a reported 3.500 tickets over the three days - so, if you plan on going, get your tickets when they go on sale.

LA Kings HockeyFest 2009: Saving the Best for Last

In the Rick Knickle spot (#1) - Growing Up Kings with Hardy, Nicholls & Robitaille

Come on people, if you don't know about Rick Knickle, you clearly weren't paying attention yesterday during my rant about the goaltending situation during the winter of '92-93.

Which #1 were you expecting me to reference...Mario Lessard?

Jim Fox (the host) started the session talking about how he and Harpo (Mark Hardy) had been out late the night before dancing at the Bullpen in Redondo Beach. Why we were supposed to care, I still don't know. In the 90s Harry O's in Manhattan Beach was where lots of the players used to hang out. Maybe once you retire you move over to the Bullpen. Or...given Dean's love for baseball, perhaps they thought "the Bullpen" would score some bonus points with the boss.

This session was great, although you always felt they were holding back a bit on some of the stories. One guy would be talking and then just look at another guy like "remember what else happened? (wink wink)"

Highlights included:

* Bernie Nicholls discussed his love of the fans, especially kids. One time he tossed a puck into the stands for an elderly gentleman after the pre-skate shoot around. When he came back out for the game the fan was holding a big towel on his head and was acting like he was nursing an injury. A few days later Bernie gets a letter stating he is being sued for $20k for the injury...and ANOTHER $20k because the guy could no longer perform his manly duties. Luc chimed in with the perfect solution. To save the $20k Bernie just offered to do it for him.

* Bernie and those damn pucks. Looks like another time he was fined by a minor league team for giving away all of the practice pucks after a shoot around. Can you imagine a team fining a player for interacting with the fans? I know things run on a shoe sting budget in the minors, yet this takes it to a whole new level.

* The PumperNicholl - there really isn't some great story behind the origin of this legendary move (or moves). Bernie simply says he loves scoring goals - "it's exciting" - and that Bob Miller can claim the naming rights. Apparently it didn't retire with him though. He says he still does it when he plays in charity games and such. Wonder if the opposing teams appreciate that a little less than the fans in the crowd.

* Harpo was reminded that none of his former teammates ever would have selected him as the guy "most likely to end up in coaching." To which he replied, "Why because I showed up to camp drunk one year?" Being traded to New York was a "devastating day in my life" he added, an event that started his awakening into maturity. He "learned how to win" from Mark Messier.

Quick side note - when people in the 90s would talk about the Kings being the Oilers South they were partially right. There were so many former Oilers here it was crazy - Gretzky, Huddy, McSorley, Kurri, Coffey, etc. However, the ONE guy they missed out on was Messier. Sure, the Kings had the best player in the game in #99, just think about what could have been if they had the best leader in all of pro sports!

Harpo also credited Rick Dudley (then of Phoenix, more recently the just appointed assistant GM in Atlanta) for getting him started in coaching when he made him a player/coach. He said he took to it right away.

* Following up on the Luc fighting at his 2nd training camp story I wrote about in the recap from Saturday...Luc says it was Dan Brennan he tried to scrap with. The scuffle ended when Bernie started yelling at Dan "STOP - you're going to kill him!" Yes, that was the end of Luc's fighting career, over before it ever really started.

* Apparently, Bernie liked the puck as much as Marcel. Well that and he says he always preferred the sure thing. Which is probably what led to him telling Ken Baumgartner "If I ever give you the puck, it was a mistake. Give it back!" Somebody call JR and tell him his t-shirt company needs to add that to their line.

* Memory lane - Luc says the hit Harpo laid on Mike Keane in game 3 of the '93 playoffs was the best hit he ever saw on the ice.

File under useless trivia - Mike Keane has the Stanley Cup tattooed on his leg three times...one for each cup he has won. Sorry, no link available.

They lost that game in overtime, but the hit lives on...or at least the story of the hit. Harpo says after the glass was shattered he looked in and saw Michelle Pfeiffer, so he winked at her before skating off. Click here to relive one of Harpo's finest moments via YouTube.

* Bernie sure wasn't shy with his opinions. He claims that Gretzky should have been called for a penalty in the '93 series with Toronto...better yet, he says he should have been ejected from the game! Watch the video and decide for yourself by clicking here.

* An interesting fact was brought up about tough travel schedules. Dallas plays all of their division games two time zones away.

* Bernie went on to say that teams in the West (mainly California teams) claiming "travel" is the reason they haven't won a cup are just making excuses. He then walked off the stage doing the PumperNicholl.

OK, so he didn't walk off the stage doing the PumperNicholl. Fine. He should have. How's that - better?

* All four guys on stage claimed that Patrick Roy was the toughest goalie they ever faced. A few other names were thrown around as tough too - like, Brodeur and Fuhr. However, it was Roy by overwhelming consensus.

* Back to Bernie - he says the Islanders practiced harder than the Kings played in games most nights. Luc added when he was first breaking in with the Kings (or was that Growing up a King to keep with the theme?) he was given more grief for his softball skills than his hockey skills. The Kings were the defending softball champions and they took their title serious...seriously.

* Who else, but Bernie - He is working on a 13 week hunting show for Versus. You can see it by ordering DirecTV now...oh, never mind. It's somewhat of an extension of a hunting piece he did for the NHL Network awhile back. Once a sniper, always a sniper.

* Superstitions - Luc used to use sticks with white tape on the blade in the first and third periods, alternating to black tape in the second. Harpo's only superstition was dressing his left side first. FASCINATING! Bernie takes the cake though. On game days he didn't want to be separated from his stick. So, he would take it home with him, to lunch, even to bed. I kept waiting for a series of one liners after that little tidbit, they never came.

Great way to end the day - and the weekend - with such a fun session. Overall, I would say this session tied for "best overall" with Saturday's expert panel.

Now that we know what it's like growing up a King, next year I'll be hosting "Growing Up a Kings Fan!" I'm already gathering my stories, photos and videos.

The Mayor
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LA Kings HockeyFest 2009: Sunday's Runner-Up Session

Pick your Z...

In the Alex Zhitnik or Doug Zmolek spot (#2) - Bob Miller's One Man Show

Like yesterday, the session I entered the day most looking forward to didn't end up earning my top billing when all was said and done. Great show. Great speaker (obviously). Just slightly one upped later in the day.

The voice of the Kings - our Vin Scully - brought a myriad of stories and video highlights from the team's 40+ years in LA.


* He opened things with 1967 and a video package entitled "Getting to Know You."

* Talked about driving up to Jack Kent Cooke's house in a rented Plymouth Omega (no link available). Cooke said he liked small cars too - like Maseratis.

* Bob isn't too fond of the way Cooke treated people or his (less than legendary) marketing ideas. For example, he once suggested that Bob say "...and there goes Marcel down the ice like a Datsun" as a way of plugging their automobile sponsor. Bob politely suggested they go a different direction - like mentioning the Datsun Scoreboard when referring to the score of the game.

* In the early days the Kings had several early players worthy of being in GQ magazine Bob claims. One notable exception was Butch Goring - who once spilled pasta sauce on his white turtle neck on the first night of an eight game road trip. He showed up the next day with what some players thought was a clean replacement. No - he simply turned the shirt around backwards and put a jacket on!

* For the trivia buffs...the hardest shot Bob has ever seen belonged to Dennis Hull of the Blackhawks.

* More trivia? He'll never forget the '76 playoffs. The worst call he remembers making was when Mike Corrigan tied the game against Boston in game six, after being down 3-0 that night. Relax Bob. More fans probably remember Goring scoring to win it at 18:28 of overtime - the longest game in Kings history at that point. Or what happened after - something Bob proudly proclaimed he has never seen since (or before) - a hockey player carried off the ice on the shoulders of his celebrating teammates.

* Of course, there were stories about the triple crown line, the trade of '88 that came with new team colors and more. There were also some less feel-good moments...like "I don't mind telling you I hated the Oilers (of the early 80's), their arrogance really bugged me."

* What had to be the kick to the gut moment of the whole weekend was watching Montreal celebrate winning the cup in '93. Sure, that playoff run was brought up in nearly every session throughout the weekend. Yet, this wasn't about the great Toronto series leading to the finals or even the stick incident in game two. This was a video featuring a celebration by the team that beat the Kings. The prior night Marcel refused to watch the video clip of Simmer breaking his leg. I felt the same pit in my stomach reliving that dreadful day. OUCH.

Bob's session ran 30 minutes over and easily could have gone another hour. The man is a hockey encyclopedia.

If you don't have his book, get a copy now (details and link below). It's easy reading and full of great memories.

Check out Bob Miller's book at Amazon:


The Mayor
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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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LA Kings HockeyFest 2009: Day Two - Where Art Thou?

People, people, people...

What is going on?

Kings fans are known for turning out in droves for just about any reason to get together. Minus a few thousand I've seen this weekend, most of you are missing the best event the Kings have done in the 20 years I've been following the team.

This isn't hype. Father I cannot tell a lie. I call it like I see it. I've bitched about plenty of bad decisions made by various people in the organization (both on and off the ice). This is real. Like Dustin Brown last night, I'm speaking from the heart...

HOCKEY FEST is AMAZING!

Sure there were lots of autograph opportunities with current and former players. However, let's review what has easily turned out to be the shinning stars of the weekend - the various guest speaker sessions...

The first event today was for kids. I missed it. Heard it had several funny moments. Cool enough.

My rankings for the other three sessions and some recap notes:

Number Three - The Enforcers with (the lawyer) Stu Grimson and Brad Norton

Like pluggers and grinders as players, this session was solid. This wasn't your top scoring line, yet they brought it. To be fair, this session was missing that something special or somebody special, like say Marty McSorley.

Nick Nickson did a fine job as host and navigated through the fun, yet predictable, questions of does fighting belong in the league, how has the game changed, who hit you the hardest, what was your best fight, etc. It was ok, no complaints, just clearly the third best of the day. I can only imagine that if McSorley had been there the dynamic - and the stories - would have been so different. It surely would have pressed the other two sessions harder for top ranking.

Number Two - The Triple Crown Line (no explanation needed)

This was the session I was most looking forward to. It didn't disappoint. In fact, probably the only element that kept it from earning my top billing would be time. There was just too much to cover in the time allotted. They could have easily gone another hour...and still had plenty left in the tank. Minor issue and I'm sure things like this will be evaluated and tweaked as we head into dos HF next summer.

Marcel was the star of the show...I know, big surprise...and he could have gone two hours solo. He had some great stories - like the one where he tells kids he remembers every goal he ever scored in the NHL - including the one he scored off his nose. Later he provided some insight into a not so light-hearted event that took place in Pittsburgh back in January 1979 - a phone call that shook him up after the guy threatening to shoot him dead if he scored a goal. The not so fun side of being a pro athlete or celebrity...even in 1979!

There was a funny story about Luc getting into a fight on the first day of his second training camp. Seems he didn't make the team after his first camp, as most young players don't. Management told him to toughen up that year. So, he came back in year two, got into a fight on the first day of camp. Three punches later and he was done. Didn't make the team that year either. Was told to work on his skating. Camp three was the trick. Made the team and...well, you know how that story ends. HOF here he comes!

For the pen pal inclined, Marcel encourages Kings fans to send him emails and interact with him directly at http://www.marceldionne.com/

Finally, the captain. Dave Taylor is the embodiment of a King - it's so weird to hear him say "we" when talking about the Dallas Stars now. I doubt I'll ever get used to him saying those words.

Number One with a bullet - NHL Experts Panel with Jim Fox, Ray Ferraro and Kelly Hrudey

Fox is Fox. I knew what to expect going in.

Ferraro, aka The Big Ball of Hate, is solid. Was expecting funny stories and he delivered.

The intangible for me coming in, Kelly Hrudey.

I've never been a Hrudey fan. Not a hater either. It's just about honesty. He was not an elite goalie in the league. Red Light Hrudey was just the best the Kings had seen in many years and he was surrounded by a high powered offense while in LA. The real rub for me has been how history has been rewritten - as it often is - and people give him too much credit for the Kings run in 92-93. As Hrudey admitted today, he was flat awful for about two months that season. Robb Stauber is sadly overlooked as a key contributor that season, including against Calgary in the playoffs. Want me to tell you how I really feel?

That is all water under the bridge now. I'm willing to let it go.  He was so brilliant today, words can't describe it. Former athletes - hell, current athletes - can sometimes be a bore to listen to when asked certain questions. They give canned answers, politically correct answers and the like. Granted, this usually isn't the case in hockey. So, perhaps my expectations were just low based on my rant in the previous paragraph.

For me, he was the star of the show. So honest, so articulate, so smart, genuine and spoke from the heart. He was real. And the fact that he was equally impressed with Brownie's speech the night before gave me chills all over again. He believes in Dean and he believes in the Kings. FINE - all is forgiven. We can be friends.

Ray-ray had several funnies to share, including a story about Jeff Odgers and Andrew Brunette when they all played together during Atlanta's inaugural season. Odgers ran over Brunette's car with his truck in a story that you simply have to hear from Ray. Too damn funny. He also told his version of the story Luc has mentioned several times about what Luc had to do to reacquire his #20 (now worn by Ray) when Luc came back to the Kings from the Rangers.

And in a little known fact, Ray claims to have gone 1-1-12 in his NHL fights. All 12 draws were by him holding on for dear life.

More on the '93 Finals - I guess all players in the NHL use illegal sticks, most for periods one and two. Supposedly, you can roll a tennis ball under Kovalchuk's stick. When one fan asked about Hrudey's take on stickgate '93 he shared a story I had never heard before - and here I thought that whole stick debacle had been explored from all angles. Apparently, the rumor was they were going to call Hrudey for an illegal stick. However, a scout watching the Toronto series (best series ever, see yesterday's blog) noted the curve on Marty's stick. So, late in game two, it was Marty that Montreal went after. Hrudey remembers went they went into the locker room after three periods in that game, he knew they were emotionally spent. He wasn't conceding the series, just thought they'd be going home 1-1. They did.

As for Foxy, well, looks like he is still looking to acquire a game used jersey from his days in purple in gold. Looks like he kept just one and it donated to a sports museum his friend owns in Newport Beech. Admission is free, so I guess I'm going to have to go down there and check this place out. Jim says he came across one of his jerseys for sale recently, but the seller wanted $1400, so he passed. Let me do some research. Perhaps I can start a "Get Jimmy his Jersey" donation box here on the blog.

That's day two people.

All the alumni seem so blessed and honored to be there. All the fans seem to be having a great time. Smiles all around!

The air conditioned 'autograph and interactive tent' was an added bonus. News of this fest is going to spread like wild fire throughout the season and V2 next August will probably draw a jam packed crowd. The Kings are already talking about how to make next year's event even better. Under discussion is making it a two-day event by moving the Friday night festivities to Saturday evening. Sounds good.

At the Kings Care Foundation booth...I cant believe the game used Frolov jersey went for $500. Wow. Steal of the day. For you curious types, Doughty went for $2250. These were game used and autographed.

This is the BEST event the Kings have hosted in the last 20 years. I can't give enough praise to McChris and his entire staff. Truly a crowning achievement. And we still have one more day to go.

Get off the couch and come down to LA Live on Sunday. Dean and Hex are hosting a session. There is Bob Miller's one man show - not to be missed. Plus, Growing up a King with Bernie Nicholls and Luc Robitaille.

All Kings fans need to be there in person.

Or at the very least, watch it online. Free stream here.

The Mayor
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LA Kings HockeyFest 2009: Day One - Offhanded Observations

It's late, so here are just a few notes on opening night of the fest:

* Overall, I give it an 'A'. Great job by McChris and his entire staff. Obviously, a lot of work (and thought) went into the event. Good job. Extra kudos to the video guys. Those were simply perfection.

* Dustin Brown's speech made me believe in him as a captain. I've always loved him as a player. Over the last year I've grown tired of people bitching about his questionable leadership skills. The story about the conversation he had with Greene on the plane home last year should have told you all that you need to know. His whole speech was incredible. "These 20 guys to my right are no longer 20 individuals..." WOW - I still have goose bumps. I'm pumped! Seemed to me to be very heartfelt. He looked deadly serious (sure he was nervous - yet, I believe he meant every word he said). It backed up what Dean told me earlier this month about how impressed he was to have so many players in town in July for their voluntary camp.

* It's about damn time they pulled so many of the alumni together. Quite impressive to see so many former Kings greats all in one place. I hope the organization treats each one of them with class and dignity all weekend. Then word will spread on what a great event it was and more former Kings will want to come next year. I know its hard because lots of guys are employed with other teams (see Gretzky, Rychel, Granato, Robinson, Deadmarsh, etc.). Still. The more the merrier.

* We all have our favorites. However, if I could pick two guys that clearly deserve to be there it would have to be Kurri and Sandstrom. Jari has to be one of the most underrated guys in league history. He scored over 600 goals in his career, yet NOBODY talks about him when discussing the greatest goal scores of all time. He had such a touch. And Sandstrom? Come on! This guy gets taken out by Craig Muni (of the hated Oilers) in the playoffs...then comes back the next game and scores a goal - WITH A BROKEN LEG! Legend status for me, right then, that night. BTW - neither of you were ever Ducks. I've blocked that from my brain. UGH, it still hurts.

* Russ Courtnall - thanks for the cup of coffee you had here. You seem like a cool guy. However, your brother...well, we still need to talk about those playoffs vs. the Kings in 1996.

* Steve Duchesne - I still want my money back. You fleeced the Kings when you signed that big money free agent contract to return in 1998. However, at Luc's retirement dinner in Marina del Rey you were a good sport about all the grief I gave you in the later years in Detroit (after you skipped town with all of that money). So, I'll give you a 10% discount on the money owed all Kings fans.

* Will there ever be a playoff series better than '93 vs Toronto? Doubt it. Funny side note on that series...back then Jim Rome just did a local sports talk show here in LA (long before he was such a big hit nationally). He had Wendel Clark lined up for an interview on one of the off days. I'll never forget he missed the interview, so they booked Coach Burns instead. When he asked what happened to Clark, Burns said he was taking a nap. I love naps too. And I know athletes play at night, so they need their rest. Still, I found it funny. Not as funny as the Cubs' Mark Grace explaining slump busters to Rome...but that's a different story.

* Great to see the team mend fences with guys like Dionne and Taylor. Theses guys are major parts of the Kings history and should be treated like royalty.

* Where's the beef? Noticeably absent during the player introductions was Raitis Ivanans. Although teams like Philly and Washington have been speculated, Dean isn't saying anything just yet. If it is Washington, somebody better tell Kip Brennan (yes that Kip Brennan). The former King, more recently of the AHL, was reportedly trying to hook up with the Caps after Brashear went to the big apple. He thinks he'd be a good fit there. Whatever.

* According to several sources, it does in fact look like the Kings are looking for one more key player before the season starts. Interesting. However, it's not Heatley (who appears headed to SJ after today's deal). And it might not involve Frolov. Even more interesting.

* NHL.com did a piece on the fest - click here to read

* If you aren't lucky enough to be attending this weekend in person, the Kings will be streaming the event HERE. Super cool. Some of the sessions with former players should be amazing.

Saturday includes -
* Noon – NHL Experts Panel with Jim Fox, Ray Ferraro & Kelly Hrudey
* 2pm - The Enforcers with (the lawyer) Stu Grimson & Brad Norton
* 4pm - The Triple Crown Line (no explanation needed)

More info tomorrow after what should be another fun filled day at the fest.

The PLAYOFF PUSH began tonight.

The Mayor
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Los Angeles Kings Rumors, News & Upcoming Events

OK, OK, OK - I get it. You guys want some scoops, some gossip and some rumors.

Here you go, this is the latest happenings from inside the Los Angeles Kings organization (non-player related)...

* GRAB YOUR FLIP FLOPS - The Kings are working to put a pre-season game together next year with the Ducks. Seems normal enough right? Well, now ponder the game played on the beach (yes, on ice AT the beach). They're looking at a game in Santa Monica, Manhattan or Redondo. While there is some concern that the capacity will probably be limited to the 6-10k range (ala a pro volleyball event), this is seen as something unique enough that it could generate some hockey buzz in a media market that pretty much ignores the greatest game in town. Should be interesting. Look for more information in the months to come.

* HOCKEY FEST - Looks like they've already made the decision to make this an annual event. A lot of planning has gone into the inaugural one coming up in a few weeks and they're convinced this is a great way to kick off the season going forward. Several other teams around the league do similar events - most are only one day events, nearly all with more expensive tickets. Perhaps they've done their homework and they're prepared to outdo those teams. Good! Should be a nice treat for the fans. The whole thing sounds fun (and is getting better by the day with all of the info being made public). Looking forward to it. One more thing, next year's event will probably be held in the ball rooms of the new hotel at LA LIVE. So next year's event already has one up on this year - it comes with climate control!

* CAN YOU HEAR ME NOW? - I for one love the conference calls the Kings have been doing recently with season ticket holders. Great guests, great format, easy to participate, etc. For all you bashers out there, stop ruining my hockey buzz. If you don't like the calls, if you don't like the breakfasts with Dean, just stop going. More importantly, stop bitching. OK, I'm back. Looks like the next call will be with more of the scouting staff and focused on the topic of scouting and player development. Guess I wasn't the only one who liked when Dean explained how the scouts are spread out throughout N.America and Europe on the last call. The positive feedback now has them preparing to dedicate an entire call focused on this side of the business. This is not to be confused with the recently announced "Growing Up Kings" event at Hockey Fest.

* JUNE 2010 - Were you bummed when the Kings cancelled their (what seemed like) annual draft party? Sure, the event a few years ago in Hollywood cost the team A LOT of money. However, there are ways to scale it back and still get a large group of us together to share in the experience of drafting for the future. In fact, one great suggestion floating around out there was to let the Kings Care foundation take over the event and charge a small admission fee ($5-10) to offset the cost. (note: more on Kings Care later). Well, this year it would have been tough to pull off, in part because so much time and effort was being put into Hockey Fest. So, here's the scoop for you...the Kings are actively working with the NHL to secure the bid to host the 2010 ENTRY DRAFT. If they can't pull it together in time for '10, 2011 is the fallback plan. Stay tuned.

* MAKE IT A DOUBLE - Looks like the early reports that the Royal Room would be closing along with Fox Sports Bar are wrong. In fact, according to people inside the Kings, the Royal Room is growing! Hopefully more people in there means shorter lines for me at the regular concession stands.

* ALL IN THE FAMILY - Be on the lookout for a bigger, stronger, more robust alumni presence going forward. Jim Fox and Ian "Hawk" Turnball are working on a new website and have been laying the groundwork for a stronger connection between current fans and former players. As Luc, Dean and others have often mentioned, history is very important. You'll start to see more alumni around and included in events in just a few weeks at Hockey Fest. Then, look for more involvement at Frozen Fury and other events this season. For example, want to have lunch with some former players, play some pick-up hockey or skate with the Kings alumni? It'll probably be possible in the very near future.

Finally, some trivia. Who is the only defenseman in NHL history to score 5 goals in a game? HINT: This guy also is the only Kings defenseman to score 4 goals in a game.

The Mayor
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