With Matt Greene sidelined for close to half the season after shoulder surgery, venerable two-time King Sean O'Donnell signing elsewhere, and hit-or-miss waiver acquisition Randy Jones sent walking, there was a fair sized gap to fill on D...Enter big Willie Mitchell.
The 6'3" , 210 pounder is a 10 year vet, most recently sporting Vancouver colors, but coming off a concussion shortened season. Vancouver's additions of Keith Ballard and Dan Hamhuis (and their cost) weakened his chances of returning, and the Kings were reportedly the only team to offer him more than a one-year deal. The move is risky - especially at $3.5 million a season for two years, but if he's healthy would prove an excellent addition. Other than Vancouver, the San Jose Sharks and Washington Capitals were also rumored to be in the mix for Mitchell.
The 33-year old Mitchell serve as mentor for Drew Doughty and Jack Johnson, and overwhelmingly considered an upgrade over O'Donnell by the hockey media. Mitchell has been a plus player for seven straight seasons and has logged 20 minute on-ice averages over that time, and could be paired with either of those young bucks or create a powerful experienced blueline with Rob Scuderi. Having begun skating a month earlier than usual, Mitchell said earlier this week that he feels fine and has cleared numerous hurdles to prove his health, but like Jason Allison and Adam Deadmarsh, concussions are a spirited enemy to Kings players.
The Kings visit the Canucks on Saturday, October 9th, Vancouver's home opener, so Mitchell won't have too much time to be homesick.
*from the same named tune by Goblin Cock
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