Will he stay or will he go now? (Flickr/Bridget Samuels)

The Los Angeles Kings organization made it painfully clear to Jonathan Bernier that his future with the organization, was not really much of a future at all. Since the signing of All-Star goaltender Jonathan Quick, to a 10 Year $58 Million Contract, Bernier has made it clear he wants to be traded. I think we all know it is highly unlikely, that Quick will royally suck like Roberto Luongo and let his backup take control. Sorry to break it to you JB you are not the next Cory Schneider!

With training camp starting in a little over a month’s time, it is imperative that the Kings trade Bernier. There is nothing more awkward than showing up to training camp with a team you publicly admitted wanting a trade from. Maybe he could get a few tips from Rick Nash?

Regardless here is the Bernier breakdown: In 47 games he has a record of 20-17-5, with a .910 save percentage and 2.50 goals against average. He is clearly inexperienced and lacking a few of the qualities a starting goaltender in the NHL must possess. What I am trying to politely say is that he’s a risk. Unfortunately for Bernier, if and when he is traded, he will most likely still be a backup.

So what do the Kings do with Bernier? Right now I think they hold on to him. The Kings organization has a track record of taking care of their players. Not only do they want to make a good deal for the organization, but for Bernier as well.

BUT don’t be shocked if the Toronto Maple Leafs made a play for Bernier, since Mr. Choke Luongo has passed, they are still looking to make a move. A lot can and will happen, obviously not during August, because as we all know August is hockey’s boring month. Don’t worry the time will fly by and there will be drama left and right!! 

Keeping the team together! (Flickr/Bridget Samuels)

All it takes is a couple of great seasons and a shiny silver cup to make a deal of a lifetime! Jonathan Quick will be the first King (yes not even Wayne signed for 10 years) to be signed to a 10 year $58 Million deal. The new deal will kick in after next season, which they get him for a $1.7 Million bargain! This deal ties Quick to the Kings through the 2022-23 season.

Quick, is only the 3rd American born player to win the Conn Smythe Trophy, and at the age of 26 he lead the Kings to their first Stanley Cup in 45 years, not to mention represented them in the All-Star game and was the Vezina Trophy runner-up. How’s your burger Jonathan Quick?

July 1 is the first day contracts can be signed under terms of the collective bargaining agreement.

Here is what Quick had to say in the LA Times:

“It’s a younger group,” he said. “You want to keep everyone here, keep as much of this team intact as you can. Obviously, we know it’s part of the game where some guys get moved and it’s unfortunate. But we want to keep as much of the team intact.

“We really love the group. The chemistry we have in the room is awesome.”

For a complete list of Jonathan Quicks accomplishments check out this article on NHL.com

In other Kings News:

Good Luck JB! (Flickr/ Dinur Blum)

Kings back-up goaltender Jonathan Bernier has asked to be traded. Speaking as a goaltender myself I know what it is like to be stuck behind someone that is an unbelievable goalie, but you yourself are also very talented. Now that Quick is going to be signed for 10 years it would be smart for Bernier to move on now. He is a very capable tender that can and most likely will be the starter somewhere soon!

Also the Stanley Cup Game 6 puck has been found and is making it’s return to LA! Way to go Patrik Elias!

Reunited and it feels so good! (Photo: neat1325/Flickr)

The month of February has not been kind to the Los Angeles Kings thus far, in their 11 games played this month they are 3-6-2 and have been shutout 3 times. They are now finding themselves in a dog fight for 8th place in the Western Conference. With the Kings off until Saturday things could get quite interesting. Currently they are  2 points ahead of the Colorado Avalanche…BUT have fallen into 10th place behind the Dallas Stars and Calgary Flames (All tied at the 66 point marker).

20/20 hind site the previous 5 games would have been a great point to go on a win streak not a losing one boys! But that point is moot so moving on…

The reason I say things will be getting interesting is because while the Kings get their act together the Stars beat the Chicago Blackhawks 3-1 and the Flames and Phoenix Coyotes went to battle on Thursday night, leaving the Coyotes victorious in a shoot out. Moral of the story is the Kings now see themselves sitting in 10th place.

Keeping things extra interesting through the weekend, there is also the looming trade deadline on Monday, February 27th. It is not a secret in the National Hockey League that the Kings are in need of a serious offensive boost, or they just might find themselves on the wrong side of the Playoff line. Which would make me and all of the rest of the Kings fans very unhappy campers!!

Last night fans got some good news as the Kings acquired Jeff Carter from the Columbus Blue Jackets, reuniting him with former Philadelphia Flyer teammate Mike Richards. Although Carter has had some set backs with injuries this season he should add a boost of offense the Kings need to pull themselves out of this slump. The Kings traded defensemen Jack Johnson and a conditional first round pick to the Blue Jackets. Carter has the potential to add speed and has proven goal-scoring abilities, but will also bring great leadership and playoff experience to this young Kings roster.

I am thinking it might be a long shot, to get big shot Rick Nash also from the Blue Jackets (for goaltender Jonathan Bernier). BUT stranger things have happened!!! So here is to hoping if not for Nash, please, please, please someone put the biscuit in the basket Carter!