It’s that frustratingly quiet stretch of the summer when the free-agent frenzy has long since settled, and we’re still weeks away from the start of training camp. Most hockey fans are simply waiting in anticipation for the first puck drop of the season. However, for Los Angeles Kings fans, there’s little room to enjoy the calm because a significant matter remains unresolved—Drew Doughty has yet to sign a contract extension. The speculation is endless. Is Doughty upset with Dean Lombardi? Is Lombardi frustrated with Doughty? Or is the real issue between Lombardi and Doughty’s agent, Don Meehan? At this point, it’s anyone’s guess, but what we do know is that the delay is keeping fans on edge.
A Game of Patience
First and foremost, it’s important to recognize that this is simply how contract negotiations go. No one is likely holding a personal grudge here. Both parties understand the business side of hockey, and everyone involved wants the best possible outcome.
Lombardi is known for being meticulous when it comes to building the Kings’ roster. While it’s unlikely that he’s attempting to lowball Doughty, it’s just as probable that Meehan is trying to squeeze every possible dollar out of the deal. After all, that’s his job—he represents Doughty’s interests and is expected to negotiate the best possible contract for his client. If Doughty didn’t trust Meehan, he wouldn’t have him as his agent.
The Big Picture
Understandably, Kings fans are eager to see this deal finalized as soon as possible. However, from Lombardi’s perspective, there’s no reason to rush. Even if negotiations drag into the regular season, it’s not a catastrophic issue in the grand scheme of things. What’s more important is securing a deal that makes sense for both the player and the organization.
Let’s put it this way: Would you rather have Doughty sign immediately and be locked into a five-year contract, or wait a little longer and get him signed to a reasonable nine-year deal? Most fans would undoubtedly prefer the latter. So, as you frantically refresh the Kings’ website for updates, try to keep the long-term picture in mind.
Contingency Plans
Of course, if the Kings enter the season without Doughty in the lineup, there will be a noticeable hole on the blue line. However, the team does have some depth on defense, which could help cushion the blow in the short term. Several players could step up in his absence, including Alec Martinez, who has the inside track on increased minutes, and Jake Muzzin, who showed promise last season. Slava Voynov is another name to watch, as many believe he is NHL-ready. Additional options include Nicolas Deslauriers, who had an impressive season in the QMJHL, and Thomas Hickey, who has been rounding out his game over the past year.
A possible defensive lineup without Doughty could look something like this:
- Jack Johnson – Rob Scuderi
- Willie Mitchell – Alec Martinez
- Matt Greene – Slava Voynov
While this is not an ideal scenario, the Kings’ defense would still be competitive. The key concern would be whether they could maintain their performance over an extended period without their top defenseman.
A New Look for the Kings
In other news, the Kings have officially announced a change in their color scheme, dropping purple as one of their primary colors. Moving forward, the team will be represented by black, white, and silver. This shift aligns with their past aesthetics, reminiscent of the Gretzky-era Kings. As a result, fans can expect a heavier dose of AC/DC blaring through Staples Center this season.
The team’s former primary jersey will now serve as their third jersey. Additionally, the Kings have introduced a new away jersey, which is essentially a white version of their current home jersey featuring the “LA” banner logo.
For fans of the team’s vintage look, there’s still some good news. The classic purple and gold jerseys will make occasional appearances during “Legends Night” games. While this blogger would personally prefer a full-time return to the purple and gold era, it appears the Kings’ front office had other ideas.
The Lombardi-Tambellini Saga
Another subplot from the offseason is the lingering dispute between Lombardi and Edmonton Oilers GM Steve Tambellini. Their feud stems from the Oilers’ signing of restricted free agent Colin Fraser. The Kings filed a grievance with the NHL, which will ultimately determine whether any action needs to be taken.
Realistically, this situation is unlikely to have any major consequences. If any penalty is issued, it will likely be a minor fine for the Oilers or the forfeiture of a low-value draft pick. However, the most probable outcome is that the league resolves the matter quietly behind closed doors, and it fades from public discussion.
Kings Hockey Fest 2011
On a more sentimental note, Kings Hockey Fest will be held on Sunday, September 11th, 2011, at Staples Center. The event will start at 9:00 AM and is expected to feature a tribute to Garnet “Ace” Bailey and Mark Bavis, two former Kings scouts who tragically lost their lives in the 9/11 attacks. This will be a meaningful moment for the organization and its fans as they honor two individuals who played a crucial role in the team’s scouting efforts.
Looking Ahead
As training camp approaches, there are still a few key questions left to be answered. How long will the Doughty contract standoff last? Will the Kings’ defensive depth be enough to handle his absence if negotiations drag on? And will the Kings’ new look resonate with the fan base?
No matter what happens, one thing is certain—Kings fans are in for an exciting season. Whether Doughty’s signature comes tomorrow or a few weeks from now, he remains a cornerstone of the franchise. In the meantime, let’s hope the negotiations reach a satisfying conclusion sooner rather than later.
As always, Go Kings!