More like a star is affirmed, but that's not as catchy. Adrian Kempe led the Kings' suddenly surging offense in a second straight six-goal spree--and a second straight playoff win over Edmonton.
It’s so great to have you writing about the Kings especially at playoff time Helene. Last night was the best 60 minutes I’ve seen the Kings play in a long time. They kept their composure in the third period and the Oilers never were able to mount any pressure like they did in game one. If we can take the same approach to Edmonton we will keep their crowd out of the game and frustrate them into making mistakes.
agree that this was the best sustained effort in a very long time. I expect the Oilers to be pumped up for Game 3, and the Kings will have to weather that storm and remain disciplined.
Honestly, I've always learned so much about the game and about the Kings from your writing. I wish that other sports writers would provide the level of analysis you provide. I miss you from the LA Times but am glad you continue to write on this venue. Thank you!
It's also great to see Clarke and Byfield stepping up. Quinton has been showing a lot of poise and burying chances that would have gone wide in series past.
An omitted thought from my 1st post. Thanks for bringing Kings news to those of us who no longer get any Kings news. I'm here in DFW and the Stars barely get attention here. So this is a blessing.
It just makes you think what heights Kempe might have reached playing with a dynamic center like McDavid, Crosby etc.
Don't get me wrong, playing with Kopitar has made him a 200 foot player. Kopitar has always been miscast as our number one Center. He is just too responsible playing defensive hockey. Kopitars current Comp would be Evgeny Malkin, not quite the goal score, a much better playmaker, and much better defensively.
I'm thinking of Bernie Nicholls. He was a Center, but when Gretzky arrived he played Wing and then hadlast 70G 80A year. Then got moved to the Rags after another strong start 47GP 27G and 48A, the following season. That was Gretzky's last crazy stat year and Nicholls never scored 100 points again, the year after he was traded. I don't remembered if he was moved off 99s line or not. I still will never understand that trade.
I don't think Kopitar was miscast as a No. 1 center. I think his skills made him ideal for the defense-generates-offense style that they've played for so long now. I've always thought he could score 100 points in a season if he were set free from defensive responsibilities.
As usual, great observations Helene.
The Kings played 3 periods last night unlike Monday where they played not to lose in the 3rd period … and almost did.
Nice to go to Edmonton up 2-0
Fingers crossed that we pull it out.
It’s so great to have you writing about the Kings especially at playoff time Helene. Last night was the best 60 minutes I’ve seen the Kings play in a long time. They kept their composure in the third period and the Oilers never were able to mount any pressure like they did in game one. If we can take the same approach to Edmonton we will keep their crowd out of the game and frustrate them into making mistakes.
agree that this was the best sustained effort in a very long time. I expect the Oilers to be pumped up for Game 3, and the Kings will have to weather that storm and remain disciplined.
Thanks for your continued great writing about NHL Hockey in general and the LA Kings in particular. Just like old times!!!
Not quite…but thanks!!
Honestly, I've always learned so much about the game and about the Kings from your writing. I wish that other sports writers would provide the level of analysis you provide. I miss you from the LA Times but am glad you continue to write on this venue. Thank you!
You are very kind. Thanks so much!
It's also great to see Clarke and Byfield stepping up. Quinton has been showing a lot of poise and burying chances that would have gone wide in series past.
Agree. He's more confident and assertive.
Great reporting Helene. Looking forward to reading more coverage as the Kings play in Edmonton!
An omitted thought from my 1st post. Thanks for bringing Kings news to those of us who no longer get any Kings news. I'm here in DFW and the Stars barely get attention here. So this is a blessing.
It just makes you think what heights Kempe might have reached playing with a dynamic center like McDavid, Crosby etc.
Don't get me wrong, playing with Kopitar has made him a 200 foot player. Kopitar has always been miscast as our number one Center. He is just too responsible playing defensive hockey. Kopitars current Comp would be Evgeny Malkin, not quite the goal score, a much better playmaker, and much better defensively.
I'm thinking of Bernie Nicholls. He was a Center, but when Gretzky arrived he played Wing and then hadlast 70G 80A year. Then got moved to the Rags after another strong start 47GP 27G and 48A, the following season. That was Gretzky's last crazy stat year and Nicholls never scored 100 points again, the year after he was traded. I don't remembered if he was moved off 99s line or not. I still will never understand that trade.
I don't think Kopitar was miscast as a No. 1 center. I think his skills made him ideal for the defense-generates-offense style that they've played for so long now. I've always thought he could score 100 points in a season if he were set free from defensive responsibilities.
Love it. So fun watching the game last night. Thank you, Helene. GO KINGS GO!!
Adrian Kempe är bäst!!