Thought I would pop in for a moment and put in my two cents worth. I’ve been staying off this site, but I’ve not missed a single game (DVR them all). I’m really excited by the Kings turn around this year and the moves they have made at the deadline are icing on the cake. I believe they have really set themselves up for a playoff run without sacrificing any of their real core or anything of their long-term goals. In fact, the moves they made fit in well for the future beyond this season.
I think even the most embittered and soured Kings fan has to give props to Vlade for the job he has done as well as to coach Joerger. Despite all the criticism, toxic negativity, and lack of patience by some, Vlade and Joeger had a plan and have stuck with it and now we are beginning to see the results of that plan. I was cautiously optimistic at the end of last season and believed they were starting to put together a nice young core and hoped we would begin to see some of the fruits of the plan this season. However, they have way exceeded even my optimistic hopes.
I believe Vlade made a statement after the Cousins trade to the effect:
“I believe we are going to be in a better position in two years. I want to hear again from these same people in two years. If I’m right, great. If I’m wrong, I’ll step down. But if I go down, I’m going down my way”.
It’s two years later and I don’t see how anyone can say the Kings are not significantly improved. They have a very promising young core, Vlade surrounded them with additional veteran rotational players (Shump, Bjelica, and Yogi) and the team responded. They are in the playoff contention in February for the first time in who knows how long.
Now, Vlade has made the moves (Barnes and Burks) that improve their playoff chances in the near term and possibly/hopefully improve the team in the long term without losing any of the young core. I think once Barnes and Burks acclimate themselves to Joerger’s system they will add a lot to the team.
The loss of Shump’s leadership may have a short-term negative impact, but it’s time for one of the young core to step up and assume the reins of leadership, my vote is for Fox.
I’m really happy for Skal, hopefully a change in scenery will breathe new life into his career.