Matt Murray has been a Kings fan since the late '80s, when Wayne Gretzky grabbed headlines by defecting to the West Coast. Since then, he has been a card-carrying bandwagon member as the club soared in popularity with their sole Stanley Cup appearance to their position near the bottom of the Pacific. But things are looking brighter, as he is anxious to witness the rise of the new Kings.
One down, one to go
The Kings locked up defenseman Lubomir Visnovsky for the long-term, inking a five-year contract.
This is a very prudent move by Dean Lombardi and the Kings, securing that Visnovsky remains a King for the foreseeable future. Visnovsky has been rock-solid for the Kings in his first six seasons. What he lacks in size, he more than makes up for in speed and offensive touch. He is the prototypical defenseman for the "new NHL."
The signing has left fans with a sense of urgency for Dino and the Kings to sign Michael Cammalleri for the long-term. Even though Cammalleri has filed for arbitration, it seems that both sides are willing to talk. However, there are other suitors who might be willing to inquire for his services, such as Edmonton or Buffalo. According to TSN, Edmonton G.M. Lowe might consider going after Cammalleri, now that his bid for Buffalo's Thomas Vanek fell through.
July 20th will be the first day of arbitration, if we make it that far. Some teams are starting to panic, not being prepared to deal with the mass exodus of players, such as the Sabres. I wouldn't be surprised to see Cammy given some attention from these clubs as time goes on. One thing in the Kings' favor is the old-school thinking that Cammalleri is undersized. But it's that exact reason that helps him succeed. If Lubo is the prototypical D-Man In the "new NHL," then Cammalleri could be the next gen of forwards.
In related news, the Kings' schedule for next season has been released. Teams from the Eastern Conference, such as the Senators, Canadiens and the Sabres will be coming into Staples Center. So, if Buffalo does pry Cammalleri from the Kings, at least we'll be able to see him this season.
Comments
So glad to get Lubi back. It was nice to get confirmation that DL was serious in wanting to sign Lubi to an extension.
Oh, and one last thing: Fausto, F off!
Posted by: kms2 | July 16, 2007 10:15 PM
Great signing. Lubo more than deserved the long contract he got. The Kings have a bright future and Lubomir Visnovsky is a big part of that.
Posted by: Mitch | July 16, 2007 8:35 AM
Dude did you see The Cup at Disneyland! Ducks rule
Posted by: Fausto | July 12, 2007 9:09 PM
Well done!
Posted by: Good2BKings | July 12, 2007 6:02 PM
First of all, Cammy can no longer be signed to an offer sheet because he decided to go to arbitration. The Kings are the only team that can sign him before his arbitration hearing. Secondly, Kevin Lowe is the GM of the Oilers not the Sabres. If you would like any more details regarding Restricted Free Agency, please ask.
Posted by: Good2BKings | July 11, 2007 8:37 PM