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bigfan3
Lurker
Totally agree that we need to get him on the 1st PP next season. When I think about how he projects going forward, I see him a bit like a Ryan Smyth (in terms of PP specialist/effectiveness but not necessarily style). I remember Smyth often being underrated and getting knocked for such a high percentage of his goals/points coming on the PP, but having that type of player on the Kings today would really be a blessing.
This feels spot on to me. Out of all of our forward prospects it's impressive how quickly Kaliyev has grown, addressed and overcome his perceived deficiencies, and has been willing to muck it up on the 4th line to add value to the team. I can envision him becoming a 40 goal scorer at some point in the future, though, as you said, it will depend on the right linemates. Either way, though, I agree and expect him to take a big jump forward next season purely based on how quickly he has grown and adapted this season, and the skillset he possesses.
Why do you guys keep thinking, saying or even considering Kopitar as a 1st line center. Haven't you guys noticed. Kopitar should be at best our number 2 center and maybe our number 3 center. The reality is he looks slow and tired. He was never that fast to begin with but now his big advantage, his size, it's almost non existent. Everybody is big in the NHL...almost. I love Kopi, great captain, Stanley Cup winner, Award winner Center, future HOF player etc but let's all be honest, put him to fill a role, shot down centerman with some ofense and manage your expectations.
Onto Byfield, guys he is only 19. Also manage your expectations. Do you guys remember a teenager name Draisaitl? Do you remember what happened to him his first season? Exactly, he was sent down, couldn't do it up in the NHL.
Vilardi. A whole different story. I think what drives coaches and GM crazy is his lack of passion and tenacity when he plays. He always plays "looking" uninterested and we all love players that play with passion, that leave everything on the ice. He is soooo talented, he has been unlucky with his health but I feel he plays feeling sorry for himself. I really hope he takes control of his career and decides to be the player we all see he can be.
I wish them all luck and success.