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Kings 5 Washington 4

2009-02-05T20:49:00.000-08:00

Player Ratings
Armstrong 6, Brown 7, Calder 7, Doughty 7, Drewiske 6, Frolov 7, Greene 7, Handzus 7, Harrold 6, Ivanans 6, Johnson 7, Kopitar 7, O'Donnell 6, O'Sullivan 7, Quick 7, Quincey 6, Richardson 6, Simmonds 6, Stoll 7

Observations
The Kings were buzzing for two periods & then J.Quick took over that Buzz & shut the door on the Caps...That was most on display in that last flurry at the end --- Quick just put the clamps on & told the Caps to get the hell out...Right when I gave up on Kopitar he played an amazing game (I expect that nearly every night next year - especially if they can find another player to carry the weight - an established scorer)...Great forechecking on that last goal for the C-B-S line (stupid name) at least the complaints about Calder have stopped...The Kings have officially salvaged this road trip & it would be a huge success if they win one of the last two.

Kings 1 Ottawa 0

2009-02-05T07:42:00.001-08:00

Player Ratings
Armstrong 5, Brown 6, Calder 6, Doughty 7, Drewiske 6, Frolov 6, Greene 6, Hanszus 7, Harrold 6, Ivanans 6, Johnson 6, Kopitar 6, O'Donnell 5, O'Sullivan 6, Quick 8, Quincey 6, Richardson 6, Simmonds 7, Stoll 6

Observations
Huge win...Richardson's best game of the year....it is now semi-official - this is not Kopitar's year---supreme skills --- too much pressure with no contract---look out next year...When's Moller getting back??? Washington tonight----

Montreal 4 Kings 3

2009-01-31T15:46:00.000-08:00

Player Ratings
Armstrong 6, Brown 6, Calder 7, Doughty 7, Frolov 7, Gauthier 5, Greene 6, Handzus 7, Harrold 6, Ivanans 6, Johnson 6, Kopitar 6, O'Donnell 6, O'Sullivan 6, Quick 6, Quincey 6, Richardson 6, Simmonds 6, Stoll 7

Observations
Obviously a real tough loss....the Kings played so well for 58 minutes & then fell apart at the end...they missed some opportunities at the end to put it away (Frolov played a great game but you knew he wouldn't score on the breakaway) ---now that tying goal was either a holding penalty on Higgins or a real tired Doughty getting tossed around - road games are a bitch ---makes it hard for the ref to blow the whistle on a play like that...Quick made some extraordinary saves today & deserved better....Great PK for the Kings today & bottom line they should have won this one...let's see how they bounce back --- If they can get 2 wins out of the next four then they will have saved the first of many road trips>>>>>More...what a horribly refereed game...missed calls early on ---quick whistles on Quick when he clearly hadn't covered the puck & then on the winning goal the ref swallows his whistle...If this game wasn't in Montreal Higgins gets the call for holding...just frustrating. The Kings have no luck in Canada....I've got a feeling Gauthier will be suspended for 5-10 games--- good riddance...Let's Harrold settle in on defense, especially with Preissing deeeeep in Murray's dog house (supposed lack of effort) makes sense, Ron Wilson never hid his dislike for Preissing back in San Jose --- I say play him - whenever he does play they throw him straight on the power play so he has some evident value...Looks like the Kings finally have two solid lines - the Stoll- Calder-Brown line is playing lights out - winning every loose puck & crashing the net, gotta love it....psssstt...Patty O' - Keep the puck down & it might go in!

Kings 6 Colorado 5

2009-01-22T07:37:00.001-08:00

Player Ratings
Armstrong 6, Brown 7, Calder 7, Doughty 6, Frolov 7, Gauthier 6, Greene 7, Handzus 6, Ivanans 6, Johnson 7, Kopitar 6, O'Donnell 6, O'Sullivan 6, Quick 7, Quincey 6, Simmonds 6, Stoll 7, Westgarth 6, Zeiler 6

Observations
What a game! It's always tough to watch your team on the other end of a crazy comeback & I had little faith that it would end up with a Kings win...I wonder if Murray has tweeked his system a little bit --- alot more shots are being given up & at the same time the Kings are scoring more...I must say even though he gave up FIVE goals it was actually a good game for Quick ---36 saves is a sign of a good game & he made a bunch of spectacular saves....Unfortunately, he is the second coming of Roman Cechmanek with his puck handling skills --- & I've been thinking that for a while---even before that atrocious giveaway during the third period...Just saw this on ESPN for their mid-season report - Los Angeles Kings: D-plus
The Kings hung around for a while, but that's the problem when you don't have a real No. 1 goaltender and a lot of kids. Maybe next season.------I've got a feeling whoever wrote this watched a small handful of games----I doubt anyone expected the Kings to be 6 points out of 8th place at this point & even though the playoffs are an extreme longshot they are playing so much better then anyone expected with the majority of gamesbeing very close & chances are if Senior LaBarbara was in Vancouver from day one the Kings would have at least 4 more points (& that's a conservative estimate)...if I had to grade the team it would be a C+. more to come

Kings 5 Minnesota 2

2009-01-21T07:38:00.000-08:00

Player Ratings
Armstrong 6, Brown 7, Calder 7, Doughty 7, Frolov 6, Greene 7, Handzus 6, Harrold 6, Ivanans 6, Johnson 7, Kopitar 7, O'Donnell 6, O'Sullivan 7, Quick 6, Quincey 6, Simmonds 6, Stoll 7, Westgarth 6, Zeiler 7

Observations
Good solid win, now the key is to win again tonight...Best game of the season for two players who aren't that popular with many Kings fans > Zeiler & Calder...I don't remember Jack Johnson being such a bad ass...I liked Jim Fox's rationale for criticizing refs----if he notices a bad call in live play he'll call out the ref - but won't nit-pick replays----should send that memo to the Sharks broadcasters who spend half their time crying about bad calls & non-calls...Let's hope tonight that the Kings remember what worked well tonight------DRIVING THE NET!

Dallas 3 Kings 2 (1-0 SO)

2009-01-17T19:19:00.000-08:00

Player Ratings
Brown 6, Calder 6, Doughty 6, Ersberg 7, Frolov 6, Gauthier 6, Greene 7, Handzus 7, Harrold 6, Ivanans 5, Johnson 7, Kopitar 5, O'Donnell 6, O'Sullivan 5, Purcell 6, Quincey 6, Simmonds 6, Stoll 6, Zeiler 5

Observations
Two ways to look at this one - a. another disappointing loss or b. a nice comeback that has the Kings steal a road point...this team needs a win & needs to break out & score 3+ goals...imagine how good the Kings could be if they could only put away three goals a night - with a defense that will eventually be among the league's best & young solid goaltending...that's where players like Kopitar & O'Sullivan need to get there games going - Kopitar was non-existent until that last goal...these next two road games are HUGE...this team needs to stay in the playoff hunt ---these young players need to play meaningful games ----think about all of the pointless games players like Frolov & Brown have played over the years...Jack Johnson looked great tonight & had a little more "mean" in his game then I remember...ironically it was Gauthier's best game in a while too----but top 6 D-Men should be Johnson & Doughty, Greene & Quincey, & O'Donnell & Harrold....lastly why is John Zeiler in the NHL??

Detroit 4 Kings 0

2009-01-16T07:41:00.001-08:00

Player Ratings
Armstrong 5, Boyle 5, Brown 5, Calder 5, Frolov 6, Gauthier 5, Greene 6, Handzus 6, Harrold 6, Kopitar 4, O'Donnell 6, O'Sullivan 5, Preissing 6, Purcell 5, Quick 6, Quincey 5, Simmonds 6, Stoll 5, Zeiler 5

Observations
No comment

Tampa Bay 3 Kings 1

2009-01-13T07:36:00.001-08:00

Player Ratings
Armstrong 6, Boyle 6, Brown 6, Calder 6, Doughty 6, Ersberg 5, Frolov 5, Gauthier 6, Greene 6, Handzus 6, Harrold 7, Ivanans 6, Kopitar 5, O'Donnell 6, O'Sullivan 5, Purcell 5, Quick 6, Quincey 6, Simmonds 6, Stoll 6

Observations
Last night the Kings were a team who started sluggish & ended looking like one of the weakest teams in the NHL...It's been evident for a while (years actually) that this team misses the edge that steals games in playoffs & puts other teams off their game ---Doughty getting taken out, Kopitar getting hit shift after shift, & Brown getting slammed to the ground in a scrum in front of the net---with no real retribution...The Kings need a Tony Granato type that wouldn't stand for his teammates being targeted----even if it's a good ole' facewash---anything would have been better then last night...even Terry Murray mentioned it in the post game quotes---maybe the team takes after ther coach - stoic & calm....Ivanans is the fighter but doesn't really have that mean streak - Greene & O'Donnell will throw down - Simmonds seems too young to fill the role - where's the forward who plays with a hard edge who will help protect the stars on the team...Imagine if this team had to play the Flames in a 7 game series --- that would be disturbing...anyways other observations > Ersberg appeared slightly crazy after being pulled - a good sign in any goalie...Harrold was the best player on the ice for the Kings & honestly should be used as trade bait to get a forward who can score -esecially with Johnson coming back soon...Gauthier needs some time on the bench - bring back Preissing...13 home games for the rest of the season - what the hell is that - Grammy's or no Grammy's that's not a equal playing field for a professional team.

Columbus 2 Kings 0

2008-12-29T22:30:00.000-08:00

Player Ratings
Brown 7, Calder 6, Doughty 7, Frolov 5, Gauthier 6, Greene 7, Handzus 6, Harrold 6, Ivanans 7, Kopitar 7, Lewis 6, O'Donnell 6, O'Sullivan 6, Purcell 6, Quick 6, Quincey 6, Simmonds 6, Stoll 6, Zeiler 6

Observations
The Kings looked in the mirror & blinked -- strong forechecking & stingy neutral zone defense is how the Kings usually play but tonight they met their clone & the other side one...one of those losses you hate to see with the Kings in the half-way point playoff hunt...It's frustrating to know that Lombardi is scripting excuses for keeping LaCloutier up over Quick ---every Kings fan knows what's best (something I brought up a month ago) the best goalie situation for now would be Ersberg as #1 & Quick as the understudy & LaBarbara being let go or traded ---this would give Bernier a monopoly on the time in Manchester...I was a little surprised & disappointed to see Murray fall back on the Kopitar-Brown-O'Sullivan reallignement so early---the Kings become a one line team when that happens & tonight it wasn't clicking...Also, with Jack Johnson a month away the Kings should remember that they have Tom Preissing on the team---the top 4 defensemen are set - Doughty, Quincey, Greene & Johnson---O'Donnell is 5 but who is #6 - Harrold, Gauthier...why not Preissing----I'd rather have Preissing on the power play then Harrold & his minutes would be limited enough to (hopefully) limit his defensive short comings...Watching Ivanans catch his breath on the bench made me envision his role in Transylvania 6-5000 but I digress---tonight was a vision of what Raitis should be---a heavy hitter whenever he touches the ice....Happy New Year & let's hope the Kings raise the cup in the '09.

Detroit 6 Kings 4

2008-12-20T19:15:00.001-08:00

Player Ratings
Brown 7, Calder 7, Doughty 6, Frolov 7, Gauthier 6, Greene 6, Handzus 6, Harrold 6, Ivanans 6, Kopitar 6, Lewis 6, O'Donnell 6, O'Sullivan 7, Purcell 6, Quick 6, Quincey 6, Simmonds 7, Stoll 7, Zeiler 6

Observations
I guess this is what happens when you play the Red Wings...no matter how good you play, everyine in the building knows they can pull it out...the Kings were playing some amazing neutral zone defense for most of the third period-but just ran out of steam at the end...I think Quick played well enough to earn another start --- basically the less we see of LaCloutier the better...You'll know when the Kings will have turned the corner when they start winning these kinds of games. Good showing - tough loss - leaves you thinking this team will hopefully hover around .500 all season long. & oh yeah - Nik Lidstrom is the perfect hockey player - the most solid defenseman ever.

New York 3 Kings 2 (OT)

2008-12-18T07:42:00.001-08:00

Player Ratings
Brown 8, Calder 6, Doughty 7, Frolov 6, Gauthier 6, Greene 7, Handzus 6, Harrold 6, Ivanans 6, Kopitar 7, LaBarbara 5, Moller 6, O'Donnell 6, O'Sullivan 7, Purcell 5, Quincey 7, Simmonds 6, Stoll 7, Zeiler 5

Observations
Dear Erik: Sorry to hear about your groin....things won't be the same without you. Get well soon! ...I hate to join the masses & pick on LaCloutier - but c'mon!!!!! The first goal was such a let down---the Kings played an awesome period, competely dominated, but that tricky THIRD shot by the Rangers was enought to tie it up ---& please tell me you didn't see that move coming on the shootout ---he must have though Pavel Bure was charging ahead of him instead of a defenseman whose shootout move was the dictionary definiti0n of NHL shootout moves ---everybody in the building already knew LaCloutier wouldn't make that save....I want to look back & calculate how many points he has cost the Kings this year with his lack of ability to make a BIG, KEY SAVE....I almost threw my Jack & water at the TV after that penalty shot---it was so depressingly predictable...Dustin Brown's best game of the year (no hat trick but he was hitting everything that moved)...the Brown - Staal hits were fun to watch as they went back & forth...watched the Rangers broadcast for the first two periods & they love everything about the Kings - it was fun to listen to & gave me some warm fuzzies in my soul...Where's Purcell??---guess Murray wanted to squeeze as much out of Moller as possible before he takes off.

San Jose 3 Kings 2 (Shootout 2-1)

2008-12-16T07:42:00.000-08:00

Player Ratings
Brown 6, Calder 6, Doughty 7, Ersberg 6, Frolov 5, Gauthier 6, Greene 6, Handzus 7, Harrold 6, Ivanans 6, Kopitar 6, LaBarbara 7, Moller 5, O'Donnell 6, O'Sullivan 6, Purcell 6, Quincey 6, Simmonds 6, Stoll 7, Zeiler 5

Observations
Morale victory obviously----going toe-to-toe with the best team in hockey was impressive...what a start to the game - you could tell the Sharks were a little surprised by how good the Kings played...but then the Sharks took over - played their game & tied it up & dominated a large part of the game... it was nice to see the Kings regain control & truly outplay San Jose for large parts of the 3rd....Murray's system keeps LA in most games no matter who they're playing --- the Sharks were held to 25 shots & would go long stretches without a shot...Gotta hope Ersberg isn't too seriously hurt ---LaBarbara tends to play well as a substitute but too often turns into Spazboy when it's his job...One last thing - why Simmonds & Purcell for the shootout - one rookie I undrstand but two out of three---c'mon - this would have been a HUGE win & you throw two rookies into the shootout....oh well.

Kings 3 Minnesota 1

2008-12-13T19:16:00.000-08:00

Player Ratings
Brown 6, Calder 6, Doughty 6, Ersberg 7, Frolov 6, Gauthier 6, Greene 6, Handzus 7, Harrold 7, Ivanans 5, Kopitar 7, Moller 6, O'Donnell 6, O'Sullivan 7, Purcell 6, Quincey 6, Simmonds 6, Stoll 6, Zeiler 5

Observations
Well played, disciplined outing versus a struggling Minnesota team...it's good to see that the Kings can take advantage of such a situation...Let's hope Kopitar &O'Sullivan keep playing like this with the Sharks & Rangers coming in...Yes, Ersberg is the #1 goalie & he should continue to be the #1 & he better be in net on Monday....I can't wait for the Sharks game - can't expect a win against the league's best but wouldn't it be sweet.......let's loosen up a little ----deep breathe - ahhhhh ----BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!! - let's hope Rob "Mr. Selfish" Blake hears it like he's never heard it before & I can already hear the Sharks' broadcast team - "I just don't understand why they boo Blake so much..."

Kings 6 St. Louis 2

2008-12-11T22:10:00.000-08:00

Player Ratings
Brown 7, Calder 5, Doughty 7, Ersberg 6, Frolov 6, Gauthier 6, Greene 6, Handzus 6, Harrold 6, Ivanans 6, Kopitar 7, Moller 6, O'Donnell 6, O'Sullivan 7, Purcell 6, Quincey 7, Simmonds 6, Stoll 7, Zeiler 6

Observations
The Kings need to get their asses kicked more often? Once again they follow up a overwhelming loss with a titilizing victory...Liked most of the line changes...however Murray can't let Moller waste away on the 4th line - put Simmonds in that spot with Armstrong centering & Zeiler in Manchester...HAT TRICK!...The future is now - Quincey & Doughty add so much offensively & are stellar defensively...Frolov keeps scoring & Kopitar looked like Kopitar.....and oh yeah Quincey for the All Star Game!

Colorado 6 Kings 1

2008-12-10T07:43:00.000-08:00

Observations
Only had the chance to watch the 1st half of this "game" so no player ratings-----obviously an ugly showing for the Kings....this is actually how I envisioned most of the season going - so in that sense it's been a good season...some things don't change though - the Kings can't score & have mediocre goaltending---now I know most of those goals weren't LaBabs fault but make A BIG SAVE once & a while---also that first goal was typical spastic LaBarbara...At least Zeiler earned some respect by stepping up to Laperierre - I was pleasantly surprised by how he held his own - still don't think he's much of a player though...hopefully this isn't a precursor of things to come with all those road games at the end of the year

Edmonton 5 Kings 4 (2-1 SO)

2008-12-05T22:45:00.001-08:00

Player Rankings
Armstrong 6, Brown 7, Calder 7, Doughty 6, Ersberg 4, Frolov 7, Gauthier 6, Greene 7, Handzus 7, Harrold 6, Ivanans 6, Kopitar 7, LaBarbara 7, Moller 6, O'Donnell 6, O'Sullivan 6, Quincey 7, Simmonds 6, Stoll 7, Zeiler 6

Observations
Ahhhhhhhhh! If the Kings are seriously thinking about sneaking into the playoffs this (shootout) loss will be haunting...Weird 1st period---actually outplayed the Oilers but they snuck in those two goals & then Ersberg gave them a third - thought it was going to be one of those games......then 4 goals in 8 minutes!!! I felt like a goddamn expert because in the last game I said that the Kings were due to put Los Cincos on the scoreboard - but then the goals stopped coming......those Oilers got some sick shootout moves - really bringing that Fox-Mo into play...Hmmm - another lousy game for Ersberg - the Kings goalie debacle continues for another year --watching those old school games on the NHL network really becomes a reminder of how good Kelly Hrudey was -- there was never any question about who should be in goal in the mid '90s...how about that mid-shift line of Kopitar, O'Sullivan, & Frolov ---I think every King fan was drooling for around 30 seconds there...One last thought-----it's time to start the push for Kyle Quincey for the All-Star game!!

Phoenix 4 Kings 2

2008-12-03T07:44:00.001-08:00

Player Ratings
Armstrong 6, Brown 6, Calder 6, Doughty 6, Ersberg 5, Frolov 7, Greene 7, Handzus 6, Harrold 6, Ivanans 6, Kopitar 6, Moller 6, O'Donnell 6, O'Sullivan 6, Preissing 6, Quincey 6, Richardson 6, Simmonds 6, Stoll 6

Observations
Another disappointing loss for a team truly struggling to score goals...Thirty-four shots = 2 goals --this team is due to put up a five spot on a team...those shots don't include all those times we missed the net as well (think Kopitar & Brown)...It is time for the big guns - Brown, Kopitar, O'Sullivan & even Handzus to start contributing some goals or this team is going to sink real fast...Frolov has been the lone offensive star for a couple of weeks now...The sad thing is that this result was not a surprise --- going into the third you could see this cominig & you knew that the Kings wouldn't score a tying goal down the stretch...They are officially in a funk

Toronto 3 Kings 1

2008-12-01T22:12:00.000-08:00

Player Ratings
Armstrong 6, Brown 7, Calder 6, Doughty 7, Frolov 6, Greene 7, Handzus 6, Harrold 6, Ivanans 6, Kopitar 7, LaBarbara 6, Moller 6, O'Donnell 5, O'Sullivan 6, Preissing 6, Quincey 6, Richardson 5, Simmonds 6, Stoll 6

Observations
Unlucky...noone to really blame it this loss (even though O'Donnell's uncharactically bad play in the 3rd didn't help)...The Kings just seemed to miss the net on every key opportunity...Brown was BUZZING! hitting everything & anyone who moved - fun to watch....Moller seems to have hit a little bit of a wall...Tonight's game in the 3rd period should have been the time to put Kopitar-Brown-O'Sullivan together---when you need a goal put those three together...I like Terry Murray but why is Richardson out there with 3 minutes to go down by a goal?? - LaBarbara looked good tonight---first time I've said that all year...if Stajan ever becomes available he'd be a great player for the Kings to pick up---seems to score the timely goals (something the Kings could use right now)

Kings 5 Chicago 2

2008-11-29T18:36:00.000-08:00

Player Ratings
Armstrong 6, Brown 7, Calder 6, Doughty 6, Ersberg 6, Frolov 7, Gauthier 6, Greene 7, Handzus 7, Ivanans 5, Kopitar 6, Moller 7, O'Donnell 7, O'Sullivan 7, Preissing 7, Quincey 7, Richardson 5, Simmonds 6, Stoll 6

Observations
Two fights in the first period...hmm - seems like these teams know they may have a future rivalry in the coming years come playoff time....Nice to see that Calder finally put one in the net - he's missed point blank shot after point blank shot...he may actually go on a scoring run after slamming home one tonight...Liked how Murray shuffled up the lines today - it actually seems like they have three lines with offensive potential with the checking line doing what it needs to do...Sick as a dog right now...so that's it. Good win keeps Kings in the playoff picture in December---let's hope they keep improving.

Kings 2 Edmonton 1

2008-11-26T22:35:00.001-08:00

Player Ratings
Armstrong 5, Brown 7, Calder 6, Doughty 6, Frolov 7, Greene 6, Handzus 7, Harrold 6, Ivanans 5, Kopitar 7, LaBarbara 5, Moller 6, O'Donnell 6, O'Sullivan 7, Preissing 6, Quincey 7, Richardson 5, Simmonds 6, Stoll 6

Observations
Now that's a strong bounceback after a horrible night of hockey...The Kings played their strong defensive game, kept the crowd out of the game, & did what they needed to do to win...Penalty kill was fantastic & it was rare that the Oilers actually got a shot off during their power plays...I know it was mid-shift but I liked the idea of Moller-Kopitar-& O'Sullivan being on the ice together...Easily Kopitar's best game of the year ---seems to have realized that he needs to attack the net & station himself in the crease to create chances...LaBarabra was a disaster waiting to happen --- he's out of position , too aggressive in the crease (see first goal), & doesn't control his rebounds - I say it's time to cut him loose & bring up Jonathan Quick to back-up Ersberg & to get some real NHL experience---that would also free up Bernier to play everyday at Manchester...Holy Al MacInnis flashback---how could anyone want to block Sheldon Souray's shot...It may be time to bench Ivanans - let's see if Simmonds can do the same thing without gathering pointless penalty minutes...Good to see Charlie Huddy on the Edmonton bench --- the Kings have such a connection to Edmonton, it's cool to see that continue...shit it was even cool to see Lubomir playing well for the Oilers. Anyways...good win - says alot about Terry Murray & the job he has done with this team.

Calgary 6 Kings 2

2008-11-26T07:34:00.000-08:00

Player Ratings
Armstrong 5, Boyle 5, Brown 6, Calder 5, Doughty 6, Ersberg 6, Frolov 6, Gauthier 5, Greene 7, Handzus 5, Harrold 5, Ivanans 5, Kopitar 5, LaBarbara 6, Moller 6, O'Donnell 5, O'Sullivan 5, Quincey 5, Simmonds 6, Stoll 6

Observations
Probably the worst game played by the Kings all year as they were thoroughly dominated by the Flames...Calgary was coming off a tough loss vs. the Red Wings so they were obviously focused on spanking the Kings as hard as they could...No need to overreact on this pitiful performance -- tonight's game vs. Edmonton should be very revealing - how does LA bounce back after this embarrassment?...Let's hope Ersberg is back in goal - this was his first game where he gave up more then 3 goals so hopefully Murray let's him regain his footing tonight...Two straight meaningless goals for Kopitar---ironically he scored last night by planting himself in front of the net --- felt like the first time all year he wasn't hugging the periphary acting as an assist man & having little impact on the game...Murray benched the wrong defenseman -- should have played Preissing over Gauthier who continues have his hard hitting outshined by his untimely giveaways...Disturbing note - the Kings play 17 of their final 23 games of the season on the road - it will be damn near impossible to sneak into the playoffs that way

Colorado 4 Kings 3 (SO 2-0)

2008-11-22T22:38:00.000-08:00

Observations
Well, there are none...living in the Bay Area means I pay good money during bad times for the NHL Center Ice package (which on paper is an amazing idea---every game, every night) however every once & a while there just isn't enough empty channels to squeeze in every game so....

I read Too Fat To Fish by Arthur Lange, drank some Sierra's, listened to some Spoon & Neil Young & the Walkmen & monitered the action online. Looked like a classic game........online.

Just saw the highlights --- the 3rd uniforms almost looked like pajamas....oh well. The next game is supposed to be on TV....& by the way the stuff about Artie's dad is very, very sad.

Kings 5 Washington 2

2008-11-21T07:39:00.000-08:00

Player Ratings
Boyle 6, Brown 6, Calder 5, Doughty 7, Ersberg 6, Frolov 6, Gauthier 6, Greene 6, Handzus 6, Ivanans 6, Kopitar 6, Moller 7, O'Donnell 6, O'Sullivan 7, Preissing 6, Quincey 7, Simmonds 6, Stoll 6, Zeiler 6

Observations
This win symbolizes the difference between Murray's Kings & the Kings teams of recent memories...I know the Caps had injuries but even if Semin was playing I think the score would have been the same...the way the Kings play team defense now really can frustrate the opponants...Think about it - after two periods the Capitals had something like 4 non-power play shots!! Defensive teams may not be pretty to watch but they tend to win (think Minnesota)...I used to be against having Brown-Kopitar-O'Sullivan on the same line (felt the other lines would be too weak) but I am a believer again --- the Kings need a line that can create a consistent offensive threat - a line that can chip in a goal or two every game--the way this team plays defense that may be all you need...it is now safe to say that the Kings should have 2-3 extra wins from earlier this season if Ersberg was playing ---you can almost bank on him only giving up two goals a game...combined with the low shot count & Ersberg solid (& non spastic play - think LaBarabra) let's hope the Kings can sneak into the playoff picture

Anaheim 2 Kings 0

2008-11-16T20:32:00.000-08:00

Player Ratings
Boyle 6, Brown 6, Calder 5, Doughty 6, Ersberg 7, Frolov 6, Gauthier 6, Greene 6, Handzus 5, Harrold 6, Ivanans 5, Kopitar 5, Moller 6, O'Donnell 5, O'Sullivan 5, Preissing 6, Quincey 6, Simmonds 6, Stoll 6

Obseravations
Not the most exciting game....the Ducks seemed bigger, stronger, & fresher. I think it's time to shake up the top lines - split up Brown & Kopitar - the defense is still pretty solid, goaltending much better, offense - sputtering.

Nashville 3 Kings 1

2008-11-15T22:45:00.000-08:00

Player Ratings
Boyle 6, Brown 6, Calder 6, Doughty 7, Ersberg 7, Frolov 6, Gauthier 6, Greene 7, Handzus 7, Harrold 6, Ivanans 6, Kopitar 6, Moller 7, O'Donnell 6, O'Sullivan 6, Preissing 6, Quincey 6, Simmonds 5, Stoll 6

Observations
Tough loss obviously --- the Kings were buzzing for 2/3 of the game only to be kept out by a hot goalie & then fizzled toward the end - looking like the team playing on back to back nights...The positives - Ersberg. Moller continues to create chances, how fun is Drew Doughty to watch--I keep telling my wife "He's only 18!"..Boyle looked good for the first time all year....The negatives - how frustrating is it to continue to watch Kopitar & O'Sullivan struggle to score...especially Kopitar - I guess this will be a test to see what kind of player he will be --- re: O'Sullivan - why was Calder in his spot on the power play with Kopitar & Brown??? I get balancing out the lines but P.O.S. has always gotten power play time but in the third it was Calder?? On a lighter note - SUPER DOUCHE ALERT - who's the dude in the 3rd row with the NEON GREEN ---sweatshirt???...damn he's distracting.

Kings 3 Dallas 2

2008-11-14T07:46:00.000-08:00

Player Ratings
Boyle 6, Brown 6, Calder 6, Doughty 7, Ersberg 6, Frolov 7, Gauthier 6, Greene 7, Handzus 7, Harrold 6, Ivanans 6, Kopitar 6, Moller 7, O'Donnell 6, O'Sullivan 7, Preissing 6, Quincey 7, Simmonds 6, Stoll 7

Observations
The Kings are officially on a roll - it's been a real long time since they've been playing this well ---I'd say a couple of years since I actually expect good things from this team...give Murray a lot of credit for that timeout in the third ---the Kings were flat after missing out on those power plays & they were playing on their heels (reminisent of the Red Wings game) where it was a matter of time before the Stars scored ---but after that timeout the Kings got that jump back in their step & began to bring it once again...O'Sullivan's best game in a while - the same with Handzus & Frolov.

Kings 3 Dallas 2 (Shootout 2-1)

2008-11-11T22:25:00.000-08:00

Player Ratings
Armstrong 6, Boyle 6, Brown 7, Calder 7, Doughty 7, Ersberg 6, Frolov 6, Gauthier 6, Greene 6, Handzus 5, Harrold 5, Ivanans 5, Kopitar 7, O'Donnell 6, O'Sullivan 6, Preissing 6, Quincey 7, Simmonds 6, Stoll 7

Observations
Classic, hard-hitting matchup with a real nice ending for the Kings...Loved Turco's response after Simmonds shootout goal...Avery was surprisingly 'quiet' (at least in his play)...Ersberg certainly seems to add a sense of calmness to the team, the defense is still playing real well (along with the forechecking)which is keeping the shot count down but maybe it's positioning --who knows - but Ersberg just seems solid back there...Kerry Fraser doesn't look right with a helmet---I began to recall the good ole days at the GW Forum when fans would chant "Fraaaaaaser" throughout any game he reffed (along with plenty of hairspray references)...finally Handzus & O'Sullivan seem to be wasting away on the checking lines - good victory...wlll be interesting to see the next game vs. the Stars ---I'm sure it will get chippy, especially after those hits Brownie threw tonight.

Deja vu??

2008-11-11T09:45:00.001-08:00

Kings 5 St. Louis 3

2008-11-09T07:53:00.001-08:00

Observations
The NHL Center Ice package is beginning to piss me off. For the 2nd straight game (both wins) Center Ice has not shown the Kings game. Bull shit! Let's hope Center Ice gets their act together or things may get ugly. Good to see (err...read) that Kopitar scored ---let's hop it's the first of many.

Anaheim 1 Kings O (OT)

2008-11-05T07:46:00.001-08:00

Player Ratings
Boyle 6, Brown 6, Calder 6, Doughty 6, Ersberg 7, Frolov 6, Gauthier 6, Greene 6, Handzus 6, Harrold 6, Ivanans 6, Kopitar 6, Moller 6, O'Donnell 7, O'Sullivan 6, Preissing 6, Quincey 6, Simmonds 5, Stoll 6

Observations
Another frustrating loss - Ersberg was very solid & made a few big saves to keep the Kings in the game...he should be back in the net until he proves shouldn't be...The Kings top scorers (Kopitar, Brown, O'Sullivan, & Frolov) have done next to nothing this season -- they need a pure goal scorer on the team so these players can flourish without feeling the need to carry the team...look at the Sharks - Lombardi set them up for success but it wasn't until Doug Wilson traded some talent for Joe Thornton that they got THIS good---it's time for DL to do the same ---there's tons of talent most NHL teams would want on their team ----get proactive & get a sniper --- a goal scorer --- or a a playmaker (a'la Thornton)---

Calgary 3 Kings 2

2008-11-02T08:27:00.000-08:00

Player Ratings
Had guests over---so no ratings for this one.

Observations
It has been said before & unfortunately it will be said again ---LaBarbara does not make the saves that win a game for you...he makes the basic saves (most of the time) but does not pull off that great save that can steal a game....Murray might lose the locker room real quick if he doesn't give Ersberg a chance---see quote from Dustin Brown "You got one funny goal for them, one power-play goal - and then we miss one check and it's three goals on less than 20 shots. But at the same time, LaBarbera played pretty good." --- reading between the lines...the Kings have been frustrated by great goaltending (Luongo & Kippursoff) & frustrated by average goaltending (LaBarbara)...Kopitar is officially in a slump & there doesn't seem to be an end in sight to it...This seven game homestand has turned into a nightmare for the Kings - thought they could make a stab at setting the tone for a winning season with wins at home instead it's the same old Kings....

Vancouver 4 Kings 0

2008-10-31T07:44:00.000-07:00

Player Ratings
Armstrong 6, Brown 6, Calder 5, Doughty 7, Frolov 5, Gauthier 6, Greene 6, Handzus 6, Harrold 6, Ivanans 6, Kopitar 5, LaBarbara 5, Moller 6, Moulson 6, O'Donnell 6, O'Sullivan 5, Quincey 6, Simmonds 5, Stoll 6

Observations
Not a pleasant game to watch...starting the game in the penalty box put the Kings in a hole & then the Canucks just put the defensive clamp on & let Luongo set up a huge wall in front of the net...the big switch of O'Sullivan to the #1 line again while a good idea on paper really exposes how thin the Kings are on offensive talent...we didn't win much last year with this combo --a team like the Kings need more balance on their lines or they will continue to lose...this huge homestand which was supposed to be a test to see how good the Kings are is off to a sour start...Ersberg needs to be given a chance to start - 18 shot & four goals does not give me much confidence in LaBarbara...let's hope they turn it around on Saturday....I did like how Murray totally shook up the lines in the 3rd...it didn't produce any results but it made for some interesting combos

Detroit 4 Kings 3 (Shootout 2-0)

2008-10-27T22:25:00.000-07:00

Player Rankings
Armstrong 6, Brown 6, Calder 6, Doughty 6, Frolov 6, Gauthier 6, Greene 6, Handzus 7, Harrold 7, Ivanans 6, Kopitar 6, LaBarbara 7, Moller 7, O'Donnell 6, O'Sullivan 5, Quincey 7, Richardson 6, Simmonds 6, Stoll 6

Observations
On the bright side - the Kings didn't have to play a perfect game to compete with the Champs - the defense was solid (for the most part) but the power play really struggled to have the necessary killer instinct - also this was LaBarbara's best game (give Murray credit for sticking with him)---on the other side of things - Gauthier's giveaway really was a disheartening let down - what a huge win this would have been, it's time for Simmonds to get more minutes & also O'Sullivan disappeared in this game---he likely needs more time up there with Brown & the struggling Kopitar --- also the young Kings got too passive & hopeful as they hoped to keep the best team in hockey down instead of attacking & forechecking to keep the lead...Gauthier gets the negative attention but it was a pensive approach throughout the period that lost the game

Also - it's always interesting to watch the other team's broadcast of a Kings game(The local Rinkside View broadcast is beyond annoying & frustrating to watch)- the few I've watched this year have been highly complimentary of the team & the pick ups that they made (well except for the San Jose broadcasts which is way too Sharks-centric)...the broadcasters for the Red Wings brought up an excellent point - this is a critical part of the season for the Kings---a 7 game homestand equals a chance to solidify playoff chances...

Hope this swings Missouri in Obama's direction

2008-10-24T21:58:00.001-07:00

She can't do anything right!! Wonder if this will cost McCain Missouri - a key swing state, right?!

http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/news?slug=ap-blues-legacehurt&prov=ap&type=lgns

Kings 4 St. Louis 0

2008-10-24T21:21:00.000-07:00

Player Rankings
Armstrong 6, Brown 7, Calder 6, Doughty 6, Frolov 7, Gauthier 7, Greene 6, Handzus 6, Harrold 6, Ivanans 6, Kopitar 7, LaBarbara 6, Moller 6, O'Donnell 6, O'Sullivan 7, Quincey 7, Richardson 6, Simmonds 7, Stoll 7

Observations
Now that's forechecking! This team is reminding me of the days under Andy Murray where the team was infamous for being that team NOBODY wanted to play. The Blues looked frustrated all night long...how 'bout Brownie picking Tkachuk's pocket to set up Stoll's goal --sure made up for that big hit Tkachuk put on him...love how a variety of players are getting involved with the fights - Simmonds, O'Donnell (that turned the game around), Greene, Gauthier & of course Ivanans --to me it's a sign that this is the toughest Kings team in years. I hope I'm not jinxing anything but-----how about that penalty kill...still perfect...at times it looked like the Kings had the man advantage --- also thought Quincey had a great game on the kill. Tons of credit to Mark Hardy & Terry Murray....this is a fun team to watch! Hope it lasts.

Colorado 4 Kings 3

2008-10-20T22:34:00.000-07:00

Player Ratings
Armstrong 6, Brown 6, Doughty 7, Ersberg inc., Frolov 7, Gauthier 6, Greene 6, Handzus 6, Ivanans 6, Kopitar 6, LaBarbara 5, Moller 7, Moulson 6, O'Donnell 6, O'Sullivan 7, Preissing 5, Quincey 6, Richardson 5, Simmonds 6, Stoll 7

Observations
If there is a good sign in a loss is that the Kings totally outplayed the Aves...& deserved better...a couple of give-aways coupled with a great goal by Smyth were the only reasons Colorado won. I was surpised Murray pulled LaBarbara - not that I disagreed--I have NO confidence in LaBabarba as a #1 goalie...I'd rather see them ride Ersberg as far as he can go...he has shown way less downsides then LaBarbara. O'Sullivan is becoming a star who may quietly overtake Kopitar as the Kings best & most reliable player. Kopitar was very active in the 3rd period but did very little leading up to that...it's time to move Moulson to a checking line & mix up the lines a little bit. Doughty continues to impress - totally owned by Smythe, but replies with his first goal (beginning to remind me of Paul Coffey).

Whatever happened to?

2008-10-17T23:12:00.001-07:00

Jason Allison

Jason Allison was the centerpiece of the last Kings team that had genuine hope of being a Stanley Cup competitor. Also, Allison was part of the last truly BIG trade in recent Kings history (Glen Murray, Jozef Stumpl for Jason Allsion). Allison turned the Kings power play into the league's best & had an epic future for the club. But then the injuries took over....what could have been? After a successful playoff run in 2001, Allison missed the next season with a concussion. After the strike (lockout)...Allison reemerged with Toronto & then missed most of the season with a hand injury....don't get Andy Murray started about Jason Allison & injuries...

Where is he now----well Jason Allison is opereating a horse farm north of Toronto.
What could have been?

Kings 4 Canes 3 OT

2008-10-17T22:16:00.000-07:00

Player Ratings
Armstrong 5, Boyle 5, Brown 7, Doughty 7, Frolov 6, Gauthier 7, Greene 6, Handzus 8, Ivanins 6, Kopitar 7, LaBarbara 7, Moller 6, Moulson 6, O'Donnell 7, O'Sullivan 7, Priessing 6, Quincey 6, Simmonds 7, Stoll 6

Observations
Handzus is Jari Kurri - no, not the Oilers' Kurri but the Kings' Kurri - remember Kurri was not the same goalscorer with the Kings but was incredible on defense (especially penalty kills) & scored the timely goals----enter Michal Handzus...I've thought this for a while but it was tonight that cinched the deal....LaBarbara's best game----so much because of the defense-he only had to make 1 or two difficult saves all night. Koptar's best game too...Quincey looked solid....Dean Lombardi will be sleeping well tonight

Kings 6 Ducks 3

2008-10-14T22:32:00.000-07:00

Player Ratings
Armstrong 6, Boyle 5, Brown 7, Doughty 7, Frolov 6, Gauthier 6, Greene 6, Handzus 7, Harrold 6, Ivanans 6, Kopitar 6, LaBarbra 6, Moller 6, Moulson 6, O'Donnell 7, O'Sullivan 7, Preissing 6, Simmonds 7, Stoll 7

Observations
What happened to Doughty? Flu-like symptoms...what the hell does that mean---the Rinkside view made me dizzy ----Brown is a much better captain then Mr. Selfish Rob Blake---good to see Sean O'Donnell back with the Kings....always hated how they let young defensemen like him & Zhitnik & Sydor go....he's been solid since day one. Bottom line - I didn't see this one coming...gives you a sense of optimism to see a young team play such good defense. Plus, if Doughty is healthy he will have a noticable impact on the power play.

Go Kings Go!! Ducks suck!

Whatever happend to?

2008-10-13T12:54:00.001-07:00

Warren Rychel
A critical part of the great Stanley Cup run of 1993. His physical presence would always get the Great Western Forum crowd riled up.

Rychel is currently the GM & part-owner (with Bob Boughner) of the Windsor Spitfires in the Ontario Hockey League.

Here's one of Rychel's fights from 1992...I've got a feeling I was there for this one.

San Jose 1, Kings 0

2008-10-12T20:58:00.000-07:00

Player Ratings
Armstrong 6, Boyle 6, Brown 6, Doughty 7, Frolov 6, Gauthier 6, Greene 6, Handzus 6, Ivanans inc., Johnson 5, Kopitar 6, LaBarbera 6, Moller 5, Moulson 5, O'Donnell 6, O'Sullivan 5, Preissing 6, Simmonds 6, Stoll 6

Observations
Defense is much better than expected.
Newcomers (Greene, Doughty, Simmonds, Stoll) all added a sense of solid play to the team. Now we need the studs to step up....some very questionable calls (no goal, 10 min. penalty to Kopitar) really took away from a solid effort vs. the highly touted Sharkies. Let's hope Johnson's injury isn't too serious.....not what he (or team) would need so early in the season

Home Opener tonight!

2008-10-12T09:32:00.000-07:00

I wonder if this will last but I'm going to try tonight. I'm hoping to create player ratings (similar to ones used in British soccer) for most of the games that I watch...

After last night's showing this may be a long, depressing process but

Go Kings Go