KINGS OF THE PODCAST
John Hoven of Mayor's Manor (http://www.mayorsmanor.com) and Dennis Bernstein of The Fourth Period (http://www.thefourthperiod.com) cover the NHL from their home base in Los Angeles. Known as both influencers and insiders, the duo are weekly staples on satellite and terrestrial radio. Dennis is the Los Angeles Chapter Chair of the Professional Hockey Writers Association and John's Mayor Manor is a go-to source for LA hockey news and views for over a decade. Not affiliated with the Los Angeles Kings, Sacramento Kings or Kings of Leon.
KOTP Ep. 264 - LAK Summer Preview
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With DB back home after his Stanley Cup Final duties for Sirius XM NHL Network, the guys take their first deep dive into the LAK off season. Among the topics they tackle:
- Canes Capture Cup
- Laviolette
- Assistant coaches
- Depth chart holes/questions
- Doughty extension
- You want rumors, we got rumors -- Larkin, Trocheck, Elias Pettersson, Gavrikov and Nurse
- Ontario Reign organizational update
You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod
KOTP Ep. 263 - LAK Ending, Ontario Starting with guest Andrew Lord
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A full 60 from The Mayor and DB!
The guys reflect on the career of Anze KopitarOntario Reign coach Andrew Lord returnsA discussion regarding the future of interim coach DJ SmithTrade speculation from The MayorParade suggestion from DBYou can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod
KOTP Ep. 262 with guest Henry Brzustewicz
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LAK defense prospect Henry Brzustewicz makes his KOTP debut.
The guys discuss all the first round Stanley Cup Playoffs matchup in the first period and focus on LAK/COL in the third period.
You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod
KOTP Ep. 261 - LAK End of Season Awards and Playoff Talk
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Expect the unexpected in this LAK season. From left for dead with 7 games left in the season to clinching a fifth consecutive playoff berth with 2 games remaining. The guys reflect on how and why it happened. John and Dennis discuss their ballots for the season ending awards. The Mayor gives customary Ontario Reign recap.You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod
KOTP Ep. 260 with guest Jason Allison
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A blast from the past.
A rare interview with former LAK pivot Jason Allison is featured.
In the world of hockey, some players leave a lasting impression despite their brief careers. One such player is Jason Allison, whose time with the LA Kings, although limited to just 99 regular-season games, was marked by significant contributions and memorable moments.
Jason joined the Mayor for an insightful 1-on-1.
You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod
KOTP Ep. 259 - The Final 15
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The LA Kings are still in the chase for the Stanley Cup Playoffs with 15 game remaining in the NHL regular season.
The guys discuss:
- The Roller Coaster Season
- The World Cup of Hockey
- Jack Hughes' Golden Goal Puck
- Ontario Reign update
- The stretch drive schedule
- DB's Fantasy Trade
You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod
KOTP Ep. 258 - NHL Trade Deadline Eve
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With one day remaining before the NHL Trade Deadline, John and Dennis return to chat about:
The firing of Jim Hiller and interim coaching decisions involving DJ SmithThe potential impact of trades, including Kopitar (not really), Perry, and prospects like Jared WrightThe team’s playoff pursuit: standings, remaining schedule, and what it means to "start winning"Prospect updates: Ryan Conmy, Kenny Connors, Henry Brzustewicz and othersRoster and contract outlook: Cody Ceci, Joel Edmondson, and buyout strategiesCollege hockey prospects in the NCAA tournament and their relation to NHL futuresThe significance of upc...
KOTP Ep. 257 - Gimme a Break
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The LA Kings enter the Olympic break on the outside looking in for the Stanley Cup Playoffs but will return with a major weapon not seen in Los Angeles for a very long time.
Ep. 257 main focus is on the Artemi Panarin trade but the conversation expands to:
Ontario Rain and Player DevelopmentKings' Roster Dynamics and Future MovesDefensive Strategies and Player RolesGoaltending Insights and Future ConsiderationsGoaltending Dynamics: Kuemper vs. ForsbergDB reimaging the LAK top six forward group with bold movesTrade Deadline strategies International Hockey: The Olympic OutlookYou can f...
KOTP Ep. 256 - Previewing the DO Roadtrip
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It's not a Do or Die six game road trip but it sure is a DO trip....they DO need to win games.
In this episode...
The Mayor and DB discuss:
Roster health updatesJonathan Quick's legacyThe LAK Mount RushmoreAddressing the center position depth chartDB on self-reflection, accountability and he reads a Mean Tweet!You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod
KOTP Ep. 255 - Midseason Review
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Buckle up for this one KOTP fans!
In this episode, the guys discuss the LA Kings' current season, including a midseason review, player evaluations, and insights from the World Juniors Tournament. They address injury updates, coaching critiques, and trade speculations while also touching on potential jersey changes and team branding.
Talking points include:
A largely disappointing season first half for the LA Kings.Despite struggles, the Kings are still in playoff contention.The World Juniors Tournament showcased the Kings' strong prospect pool.Coaching decisions are under scrutiny as the...KOTP Ep. 254 - We're back .....but Danault and Bergevin are gone.
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In this episode of the Kings of the Podcast, hosts John and Dennis discuss the latest developments surrounding the LA Kings, including the absence of Anze Kopitar from practice, Phil Danault's trade to Montreal, and the implications of Marc Bergevin's exit from the organization. They delve into the upcoming trade deadline, the coaching status of Jim Hiller, and the excitement surrounding the World Junior Tournament featuring Kings prospects.
The conversation also touches on the team's performance, upcoming games, and the financial troubles of FanDuel Sports Network, which could impact the Kings' b...
KOTP Ep.253 with guest Jared Wright
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Another LAK prospect, winger Jared Wright makes his KOTP debut!
Also:
A power play game winning goal at home? It's true and DB doesn't think the LAK PP is THAT bad. Fans should expect low-scoring games as part of the team's DNA.Kings are in the thick of the Pacific Division race.Lineup changes are crucial for optimizing player performance.Defensive pairings are flexible and may change based on game situations.Jacob Moverare is an unsung hero for the Kings' defense.You can find us on X...
KOTP Ep. 252 - Doughty, Kempe and LA Trends
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In this conversation, the guys discuss the events and expectations surrounding the Adrian Kempe contract extension and the implications for the team's center position.
They emphasize the need for the team to find a suitable second center, highlighting the challenges and considerations involved in player roles and team strategy.
The Drew Doughty injury is discussed and the impact across the LAK blueline,
The opportunity the schedule after the completion of the sixth and final game of the road provides to solidify the team's standing in both the P...
KOTP Ep. 251 - Early Roster Evaluations
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It's early but not too early to evaluate the first month of LAK's season.
Among the things DB and The Mayor discuss:
A final look at the World SeriesHiller has a strong admiration for Joel Armia.Corey Perry's role in the LA Kings was unexpected.Brandt Clarke time-on-ice, a recurring themeThe (goal scoring) hole in the middleThe reuniting of Brian Dumoulin and Cody CeciYou can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod
KOTP Ep. 250 - Milestones and Moments
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The semiquincentennial episode opens with MLB talk! (of course)
And then...
LAK performance through 10 gamesGoaltending and defensive strategiesPenalty killing and faceoffsInjury updates and team depthPotential call-ups and roster adjustmentsOntario Reign updateUpcoming matchups and trap game concernsYou can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod
KOTP Ep. 249 with guest @jkellyhockey
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With DB somewhere in the Welsh countryside, The Mayor sits down with new LAK play-by-play announcer, John Kelly.
You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod
KOTP Ep. 248 with guest Rob Blake
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Former LAK General Manager Rob Blake returns to KOTP for a 1-on-1 with The Mayor.
You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod
KOTP Ep. 247 - Injury Bug Takes Hold
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Summary
In this episode, John and Dennis discuss Dennis's upcoming trip to Europe. They delve into the latest injury updates for the Kings, particularly focusing on Corey Perry and Darcy Kuemper's situations. The conversation shifts to the goaltending dynamics and roster decisions as the team navigates early season challenges. They analyze the Kings' performance, discuss Anze Kopitar's status, and reflect on the sentimental aspects of facing Sidney Crosby. The episode concludes with discussions on the Kings' prospects and the challenges of their upcoming road trip, alongside a debate on Hall of...
KOTP Ep. 246 - The Dos Reactions
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Summary
In this episode of Kings of the Podcast, John and Dennis dive into the early stages of the 2025-26 NHL season, analyzing the LA Kings' performance in their first two games, discussing the impact of recent executive changes, and highlighting the prospects in the AHL. They provide insights into the team's defensive strategies, player performances, and upcoming challenges against the Winnipeg Jets and Minnesota Wild.
Pod Highlights:
The Kings started the season with mixed results in their first two games.Marco Sturm's success with the B...KOTP Ep. 245 - Over/Under True/False
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With the season on the horizon, the guys discuss the final LAK roster spot up for grabs and take a swing at seasonal over/under total and league-wide true and false questions.
You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod
KOTP Ep. 244 - Kopitar Announces Retirement. Kempe/Doughty/Robitaille comments
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It's Season Six (!) for Kings Of The Podcast and DB and The Mayor return with a full episode as LAK Training Camp opens.
In this episode of Kings of the Podcast, John and Dennis discuss the exciting kickoff of the NHL season, focusing on the retirement announcement of Anze Kopitar, reflections on his legacy, and the implications for the LA Kings. They delve into the potential candidates for the next captain, Adrian Kempe's contract situation, and Drew Doughty's expectations for the upcoming season. The conversation also touches on team dynamics, playoff...
KOTP Ep. 243 - Question Time with Mark Yannetti
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In a fitting conclusion to our Summer Series the number one KOTP guest, LAK Director of Amateur Scouting Mark Yannetti returns to answer listener questions.
You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod
KOTP Ep. 242 with guest @BrianSlagel
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One of KOTP's favorites, Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel returns!
Also,
8 2/3DB on the road again!Liam Greentree updateYou can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod
KOTP Ep. 241 with guests @greghetson and @earlskakel
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This episode welcomes back two KOTP favorites, punk rocker Greg Hetson and the one and only, comedian Earl Skakel.
You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod
KOTP Ep. 240 with guest Jordan Spence
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In the newest episode of the KOTP Summer Series, former LAK defenseman Jordan Spence joins to discuss his time in Los Angeles and what lies ahead in Ottawa
You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod
KOTP Ep. 239 with guest Grant Sluknynsky
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The Summer Series continues with an interview with Grant Sluknysky, brother of LAK goaltending prospect Hampton.
Also,
DB chats about the NHL/NHLPA European Player Media Tour in MilanThe continuing Connor McDavid chatter coming out of Edmonton Kempe still not signedYou can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod
KOTP Ep. 238 with guests @isaiahmustafa and @DieterRuehle
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The Summer Series continues with two KOTP favorites!
You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod
KOTP Ep. 237 with guest John Bush
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In the second edition of KOTP's Summer Series John Bush, lead signer for Armored Saint and Anthrax stops in.
You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod
KOTP Ep. 236 with guest @ShaneMalloy
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Shane Malloy of Hockey Prospects Radio returns to discuss the 2025 LAK Draft in the initial installment of the KOTP Summer Series!
You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod
KOTP Ep. 235 with guest Andrew Lord
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The new coach of the Ontario Reign, Andrew Lord makes his KOTP debut.
Also:
- DB back on the grid
- What is UNO?
- Ozzy/Oasis
- CBA talk
- @CapWages Trade Builder
You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod
KOTP Ep. 234 with guest Mark Yannetti and Free Agency Frenzy recap
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It's over two hours of everything you'd want in an LAK podcast.
- The top rated KOTP guest, LAK Director of Amateur Scouting Mark Yannetti returns for his look at the 2025 Draft.
- The guys go chapter and verse on Ken Holland's July 1 Opus
You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod
KOTP Ep. 233 with very special guest @ILoveLAWeLoveIt
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The viral sensation from the final pick of the 2025 NHL Draft, Jeremy makes his KOTP debut.
Oh yeah, the guys discuss the Jordan Spence trade, too.
You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod
KOTP Ep. 232 - Pre NHL Draft and Free Agent Frenzy Episode
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It's been a minute since the guys last episode...it's because they've been world travelers!
After a preamble about their sojourns, DB and The Mayor talk Cup Final, Draft and Free Agency.
You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod
KOTP Ep. 231 with guest @ShaneMalloy
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It's been a minute so the boys are bringing you TWO HOURS of content!
DB at the Stanley Cup FinalWhat Marco Sturm's departure means to LAKFree agency and trade outlookShane Malloy of Hockey Prospects Radio on Sirius XM NHL Network Radio joins the Mayor to talk all things NHL Draft and more!
You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod
KOTP Ep. 230 with guest Marco Sturm
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One of the hot candidates for open NHL coaching jobs, Ontario Reign Coach Marco Sturm returns to KOTP to chat with The Mayor about the prospects in the LAK pipeline. The guys discuss the second and third round of the Stanley Cup playoffs as well.
You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod
KOTP Ep. 229 - Emergency Pod with guest Ken Holland
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The LA Kings new Vice President and General Manager makes his debut and the guys talk about the ramifications of the hire of the 10th GM in franchise history.
You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod
KOTP Ep. 228 - Get Crackin', Luc
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In the aftermath of another Los Angeles Kings bitter playoff loss to the Edmonton Oilers, the guys discuss the departure of General Manager Rob Blake and the work ahead for the team President Luc Robitaille.
Major topics:
Dean Lombardi's tenure vs. Blake length of tenureThe prospective timeline of Blake's departureThe status of Coach Jim HillerThe pool of potential candidatesYou can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod
KOTP Ep. 227 - LAK/EDM G1 and 2 recap and G3 preview.
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The LA Kings roll into Edmonton with a two games to none series lead on the Oilers and the guys recap the wins in Los Angeles and the challenges of Game 3.
You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod
KOTP Ep. 226 with very special guest Nick Nickson
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As the days wind down on his 44-year, Hall of Fame career and with his final call of Stanley Cup playoffs games just ahead, LAK broadcasting icon Nick Nickson joins KOTP.
Also:
A Mayor review of Coachella and AC/DC at the Rose BowlDiscussion of LAK team awards Predictions for all eight opening round Stanley Cup Playoffs seriesYou can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod
KOTP Ep. 225 -- First, Second or Third
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With the Los Angeles Kings clinching a playoff spot for the fourth consecutive season, what is still to be determined is who they will face in the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
DB and The Mayor discuss the team's strong close to the regular season in addition to:
Ovi 895.A prospects update by The Mayor.Drew Doughty's injury management for the team's playoff success.Andrei Kuzmenko's impact on the Kings has been significant and positive.Contract extensions.The offside review rule remains a contentious topic among fans.And we...