KOTP Ep. 190 - Fork in the Game 5 Road

LAK goalie prospect  Hampton "Hammer" Slukynsky makes his KOTP debut. This episode covers various topics including personal anecdotes, music, and the LA Kings' upcoming free agency decisions. The Mayor and DB discuss the possibility of the Kings signing Jake Guentzel and the challenges they would face in terms of salary cap and roster management. They also touch on the team's need for defensive help and the importance of balancing the roster with young players. Episode 195 concludes with a mention of upcoming episodes featuring draft guru Mark Seidel and discussions on the draft and free agency.KOTP bullet points:The LA Kings are set to debut their new jerseys, generating excitement among fans.The team is entering a busy offseason, with the NHL draft and development camp on the horizon.The thrilling Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final showcased the excitement and drama of hockey.Jeremy Roenick deserves to be in the Hall of Fame based on his career accomplishments and impact on the game.The development camp offers an opportunity to see the Kings' top prospects in action and get a glimpse of the team's future.LAK home opener for the 2024-'25 season is tentatively scheduled for October 24, 2024 You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod

In the first period of Episode 194, John and Dennis discuss the LA Kings' new jerseys and branding, as well as upcoming prospects and contracts. They also express their opinions on other teams' jersey designs.  The discussion then ranges from  the final games at the Forum to Alex Turcotte's contract, and Jordan Spence's potential contract. They also touch on the expectations for the upcoming season and the opportunities for young players to make an impact. The second period features a 1-on-1 with the Mayor and LAK prospect Kenny Connors. The final period features an analysis of the performance of the Edmonton Oilers and the Florida Panthers in the Stanley Cup Final, highlighting the importance of strong starts and physical play. The conversation concludes with predictions for the Stanley Cup champion and a preview of upcoming podcasts.You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod

The Mayor and DB discuss the trade no one saw coming -- PL Dubois for Darcy Kuemper and the ramifications from the shocking deal. LAK prospect Andre Lee returns for another appearance. KOTP Bullet Points: The trade between the LA Kings and the Washington Capitals involving Pierre-Luc Dubois and Darcy Kuemper has significant implications for the Kings' roster.Quinton Byfield is expected to move back to center, which will likely impact Anze Kopitar's role as the team's top center.The Kings may need to make additional moves to address their defense, including potentially acquiring Jakob Chychrun.Managing risk is an important factor in player acquisitions, and the Kings need to make significant changes to improve their roster.An upcoming announcement will reveal a new look for the LA Kings.The guys have different opinions on who will win the Stanley Cup final.They discuss the play of certain players, particularly Connor McDavid, and the possibility of him winning the Conn Smythe Trophy.Upcoming episodes will feature guests discussing topics such as the NHL draft and the Kings' prospects.You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod

The #1 KOTP guest -- LAK Director of Amateur Scouting Mark Yannetti makes his return. In this episode, John and DB discuss various topics including their experiences attending sporting events, the upcoming NHL draft, recent additions to the LA Kings coaching staff, contract updates for players, and the excitement surrounding prospect Andre Lee. They also touch on the upcoming Stanley Cup Final and their travel plans. Mark Yannetti joins them in the second period to discuss the NHL draft and Kings prospects.TakeawaysThe NHL draft is an exciting event that showcases the future of the league, but it's not as impactful for fans as the NFL draft due to the longer development timeline for hockey prospects.The LA Kings have added Newell Brown to their coaching staff, bringing experience and attention to detail.Contract negotiations are ongoing for players like Quinton Byfield and Alex Turcotte.Prospect Andre Lee has impressed with his size and physicality, making a strong case for a spot on the Kings' opening night roster.The upcoming Stanley Cup Final will be an exciting series, and DB will be covering the games for SiriusXM.Travel plans for media and teams can be challenging, especially with potential weather delays and long flights.Yannetti provides insights into the NHL draft and the Kings' prospects.Sound Bites"The NHL draft, while it's a big deal to someone like me, it's not a big deal to the average hockey fan.""Andre Lee had a fantastic year in Ontario, despite missing time due to injury.""Akil Thomas is going to make the roster opening night without question."You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod

The guys discuss potential LAK changes after another first round elimination at the hands of the Edmonton Oilers. Show notes:The Kings' offseason plans, including potential trades and signings, will become clearer in the coming months.The goaltending situation for the LA Kings is evaluated.Possible roster changes for the Kings are speculated upon.The performance of the Ontario Reign in the AHL playoffs is analyzedThe possibility of Marco Sturm joining the Kings coaching staff is considered.The LA Kings have had multiple coaching changes in recent years, with different coaches being hired for different purposes.Matt Roy and Viktor Arvidsson's contract situations are uncertain, and it is unlikely that both players will return to the Kings due to salary cap constraints.The World Championships and the Memorial Cup are ongoing, providing an opportunity for Kings players and prospects to showcase their skills.You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod

With the LA Kings on the brink of elimination, the guys discuss short and long term implications facing the organization and look ahead to Game 5 Kings-Oilers.  Also in the conversation:Kyle Clifford handshake line incident.A spin around the other Stanley Cup Playoffs including the Leafs drama and Jets quick elimination. Ontario Reign update You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod

DB in Edmonton, The Mayor home in LA....They discuss the LA Kings' performance in game one of the playoffs against the Edmonton Oilers. They analyze the Kings' defensive struggles, lack of physicality, and the need for a change in the goaltending. They also touch on the upcoming AHL Calder Cup playoffs and the Ontario Reign's chances. The conversation includes a discussion on the Kings' overage amount for next year and the bonuses earned by Quinton Byfield. Also covered are various topics related to the Stanley Cup playoffs, including the performance, the surprises in the playoffs, and the potential return of Todd McClellan as the head coach of the San Jose Sharks. Sound bites:"Was the game closer than it may have appeared?""If they killed off the penalty and got a goal, make it 4-3 in the third, they would have had a shot.""I would put Riddick in the net for game two.""Dubois has to more than show up. He's got to be an impact player."You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod

The last regular season game brings the last regular season episode of KOTP! The guys discuss:Eastern Conference SC Playoffs matchupsThe usage of Carl Grundstrom. Akil Thomas and Alex Turcotte for the post-seasonThe annual LAK media awards A farewell to Jeff Carter You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod

As the final four games of the LAK regular season approaches, prospect Ryan Conmy joins the Mayor for a 1-on-1.Some nights they're Kings, others Kongs. DB and The Mayor discuss LAK's inconsistent play down the stretch. Also:Speculation about the Arizona Coyotes potentially relocating to Utah, but the situation is still uncertain.Talk of a second NHL team in Toronto, but the details are unclear.Importance for the Kings to win games and build momentum heading into the playoffs.Concerns about the team's chemistry and the need for certain players to step up.The Royal Army, a group of dedicated Kings fans, is recognized for their support.You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod

Bullet points for Episode 186:The LA Kings have been inconsistent in their recent games, showing both strong performances and disappointing losses.The team has struggled to hold leads, which has cost them valuable points in close games.Improvement in five-on-five play is crucial for the team's success, as they cannot solely rely on their power play.Lineup changes may be necessary to address issues and improve performance.Updates on injured players, including Phil Danault, suggesting a potential return to the lineup.The team's playoff chances depend on finishing strong in the remaining games and taking advantage of their favorable schedule. Building momentum is crucial for the LA Kings as they approach the playoffs.The 1-3-1 has been a topic of debate, but it is not the sole determinant of a team's success.Martin Chromiak is still developing and it is uncertain if he will become an NHL player for the Kings.Leadership can come from various positions on the team, not just the goaltender.The next core group of players for the Kings will be unique and different from the previous core four.Sound bites:"They saved their worst performance of the year for game 73.""Need more of a shooting mindset than just  from Viktor Arvidsson.""Gonna go five and three and they're just gonna make the playoffs by a couple of points.""You can't just win it on paper. It's there for the taking.""Stop scoreboard watching. Stop worrying about everybody else.""You want a more rested goaltender for the playoffs."You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod