KOTP Ep. 257 - Gimme a Break

Send a textWith one day remaining before the NHL Trade Deadline, John and Dennis return to chat about: The firing of Jim Hiller and interim coaching decisions involving DJ SmithThe potential impact of trades, including Kopitar (not really), Perry, and prospects like Jared WrightThe team’s playoff pursuit: standings, remaining schedule, and what it means to "start winning"Prospect updates: Ryan Conmy, Kenny Connors, Henry Brzustewicz and othersRoster and contract outlook: Cody Ceci, Joel Edmondson, and buyout strategiesCollege hockey prospects in the NCAA tournament and their relation to NHL futuresThe significance of upcoming games versus divisional rivals toward playoff chances  You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod

Send a textThe LA Kings enter the Olympic break on the outside looking in for the Stanley Cup Playoffs but will return with a major weapon not seen in Los Angeles for a very long time.Ep. 257 main focus is on the Artemi Panarin trade but the conversation expands to:Ontario Rain and Player DevelopmentKings' Roster Dynamics and Future MovesDefensive Strategies and Player RolesGoaltending Insights and Future ConsiderationsGoaltending Dynamics: Kuemper vs. ForsbergDB reimaging the LAK top six forward group with bold movesTrade Deadline strategies International Hockey: The Olympic OutlookYou can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod

Send a textIt's not a Do or Die six game road trip but it sure is a DO trip....they DO need to win games.In this episode...The Mayor and DB discuss: Roster health updatesJonathan Quick's legacyThe LAK Mount RushmoreAddressing the center position depth chartDB on self-reflection, accountability and he reads a Mean Tweet! You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod

Send a textBuckle up for this one KOTP fans! In this episode, the guys discuss the LA Kings' current season, including a midseason review, player evaluations, and insights from the World Juniors Tournament. They address injury updates, coaching critiques, and trade speculations while also touching on potential jersey changes and team branding. Talking points include: A largely disappointing season first half for the LA Kings.Despite struggles, the Kings are still in playoff contention.The World Juniors Tournament showcased the Kings' strong prospect pool.Coaching decisions are under scrutiny as the team struggles to close out games.Trade rumors are heating up, particularly around Quinton Byfield.The Kings are considering jersey changes to incorporate a purple crown design.The team needs to improve its offensive output moving forward.The upcoming games are critical for the Kings' playoff hopesYou can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod

Send a textIn this episode of the Kings of the Podcast, hosts John and Dennis discuss the latest developments surrounding the LA Kings, including the absence of Anze Kopitar from practice, Phil Danault's trade to Montreal, and the implications of Marc Bergevin's exit from the organization. They delve into the upcoming trade deadline, the coaching status of Jim Hiller, and the excitement surrounding the World Junior Tournament featuring Kings prospects. The conversation also touches on the team's performance, upcoming games, and the financial troubles of FanDuel Sports Network, which could impact the Kings' broadcasts. Overall, the episode provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of the Kings and what fans can expect moving forward.You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod

Send a textAnother LAK prospect, winger Jared Wright makes his KOTP debut!Also:A power play game winning goal at home? It's true and DB doesn't think the LAK PP is THAT bad. Fans should expect low-scoring games as part of the team's DNA.Kings are in the thick of the Pacific Division race.Lineup changes are crucial for optimizing player performance.Defensive pairings are flexible and may change based on game situations.Jacob Moverare is an unsung hero for the Kings' defense.You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod

Send a textIn this conversation, the guys discuss the events and expectations surrounding the Adrian Kempe contract extension and the implications for the team's center position. They emphasize the need for the team to find a suitable second center, highlighting the challenges and considerations involved in player roles and team strategy.The Drew Doughty injury is discussed and the impact across the LAK blueline,The opportunity the schedule after the completion of the sixth and final game of the road provides to solidify the team's standing in both the Pacific Division and Western Conference. You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod

Send a textIt's early but not too early to evaluate the first month of LAK's season.Among the things DB and The Mayor discuss:A final look at the World SeriesHiller has a strong admiration for Joel Armia.Corey Perry's role in the LA Kings was unexpected.Brandt Clarke time-on-ice, a recurring themeThe (goal scoring) hole in the middleThe reuniting of Brian Dumoulin and Cody CeciYou can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod

Send a textThe semiquincentennial episode opens with MLB talk! (of course)And then...LAK performance through 10 gamesGoaltending and defensive strategiesPenalty killing and faceoffsInjury updates and team depthPotential call-ups and roster adjustmentsOntario Reign updateUpcoming matchups and trap game concerns You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod

Send a textWith DB somewhere in the Welsh countryside, The Mayor sits down with new LAK play-by-play announcer, John Kelly. You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod