Kempe Lives

 


I know the Kings are going to loose some more games, probably lots more.  However, I love watching players grow and develop.  Something positive  is happening inside this organization to foster this. 

For years Kings fans have been a bit frustrated by Adrian Kempe.  He never quite seemed to live up to the potential that he seemed to have. Part of the problem was that we wanted him to be something that he wasn’t. That, and he had some growing to do, i.e. getting away from bad habits learned in euro hockey that don’t translate well to the NHL.  

He’s grown.  The Kings organization has helped bring him along and he is learning some discipline.  It helps that, finally realizing he isn’t the quarterback type, the team moved him from center to wing. The results have quite positive. 

Kempe isn’t a true sniper, but he can skate and finish when given the opportunity.  On the wing, he has been freed up to stop overthinking the game and just play. The result is a second line that has enough speed and play making to give other teams fits. 

Both he and Carter are playing much better this year  with 4 goals and five assists, he’s proving to be a valuable threat.  With lighter mental responsibility on the wing as well as some growth, Kempe is no longer frustrating fans and coaches alike.  He’s playing the role he was always meant to play.   


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