Dempsey
Mark it zero
After years of being a top regular season team with little to no playoff success to show for it, the LA Kings entered somewhat of a rebuilding phase last season. Dealt were high-priced players nearing UFA status, including Todd Bertuzzi, Glen Murray and Olli Jokinen. Brought in were prospects and less expensive players including Gilbert Brule, Ryan Whitney and Marek Zagrapan. The team found itself lacking, amongst other things, depth at all forward positions. This issue was largely addressed this offseason through trades and free agency.
Via free agency the Kings added forwards Wes Walz, Randy Robitaille, Erik Rasmussen and Jason Jaspers. The team is also in the running for defenseman Jim Fahey, prospect Marty Sertich, and signed UFA prospect defenseman Peter Harrold. Added via trade was Curtis Brown, acquired for a mid-round pick on draft day.
"We feel we've added several key pieces as we look to compete in the very tough Western Coference" offered long-time GM Mike McEwan. "With the players added today and the improved play of some of our youngsters, we're very excited about the upcoming HFNHL season."
In related news, McEwan matched contract offers made to defenseman Christian Backman and goaltender Curtis Sanford, both restricted free agents. The offer to Backman came from the rival Avalanche, who once made an offer to LA RFA Pavel Rosa. The Kings took Colorado's 2nd round compensation and used it to select defenseman Matt Greene.
Dick Frickenheiser
LA Times
Via free agency the Kings added forwards Wes Walz, Randy Robitaille, Erik Rasmussen and Jason Jaspers. The team is also in the running for defenseman Jim Fahey, prospect Marty Sertich, and signed UFA prospect defenseman Peter Harrold. Added via trade was Curtis Brown, acquired for a mid-round pick on draft day.
"We feel we've added several key pieces as we look to compete in the very tough Western Coference" offered long-time GM Mike McEwan. "With the players added today and the improved play of some of our youngsters, we're very excited about the upcoming HFNHL season."
In related news, McEwan matched contract offers made to defenseman Christian Backman and goaltender Curtis Sanford, both restricted free agents. The offer to Backman came from the rival Avalanche, who once made an offer to LA RFA Pavel Rosa. The Kings took Colorado's 2nd round compensation and used it to select defenseman Matt Greene.
Dick Frickenheiser
LA Times
