Training camp continues for the LA Kings and with it comes getting to know some of the newer faces, such as defenseman Alex Edler.
While much has been said about Phillip Danault and Viktor Arvidsson, the other offseason signing for the LA Kings flew more under the radar, so to speak. Nevertheless, Alex Edler is just as key as the former two.
As their defensive corps becomes more seasoned, the LA Kings added a veteran blueliner to the fold this past summer to help guide the club’s less-experienced defensemen. So, at 35 with 15 NHL seasons under his belt, Alex Edler was a fine choice to fit that bill.
On Friday, the newest King spoke to the media about a few topics, including how he feels about being at training camp with his new team.
“Good, good. It’s nice to get started,” Edler said. “Started skating with all the guys. It’s been two, three good days, so, so far, so good.”
As for getting adjusted to his new surroundings, it’s been a steady progression.
“More and more every day,” Edler added of his increased comfort level with the Kings. “I’ve been here for two weeks now, so getting to know everyone more and more every day.”
For a player who shows such loyalty to one team that he’s with them for 15 years, it’s difficult to picture that player donning a different uniform. Yet, Edler did just that, beginning life with just his second team in what is now the tail-end of his career. However, some in Edler’s situation tend to join a championship contender, especially when they, like the veteran, have yet to win a Stanley Cup. So, since the Kings aren’t quite contenders yet, it is interesting to understand why the Ostersund, Sweden, native choose the City of Angels as his next destination.
“One thing was just how they showed interest in me,” Edler emphasized. “I believe that I was a good fit here and that was kind of the main thing. I think it’s an interesting team here: a lot of young talent, a lot of potential and they added a few pieces over the summer. So, I think it’s looking good and I think we can surprise a lot of teams this year.
“[My family and I are] still getting kind of settled in with finding a place to live and school and all that but slowly, we’re getting settled in. The whole family was excited to come down here and everyone’s doing well so far.”
Of course, one of the bigger challenges of joining a new team is learning a new system. Fortunately, Edler hasn’t had any issues in that department thus far.
“It’s been good so far,” said the blueliner. “A lot of teams in this league are playing very similar. But, there’s little things like getting to know the guys and kind of how they’re moving on the ice. So, I’m still learning that part and it’s going to be getting better and better every day.”
As for action on the ice, Edler has been paired with Sean Walker. This may change as training camp continues but for now, the 35-year-old is enjoying the chemistry he has with Walker.
“It’s felt good so far,” Edler noted. “It’s Day 2 of camp, so I don’t know if it’s going to stay, the two of us, but yeah, he’s a great defenseman — very solid and steady — so, it’s been easy to play him so far.”
We are still in the early stages of training camp in Los Angeles but overall, things are looking promising. Alex Edler is no exception to this.
With 99 goals in 925 career games, Edler won’t be expected to light the lamp much, if at all. He does, however, boast a heavy point shot, which will give his teammates in front of him a good opportunity to score themselves, including on the power play. Additionally, the blueliner uses his 6’3″, 212-pound frame to his advantage by bringing a significant physical edge to his game as well as poise and composure.
As the old adage goes: defense wins championships. The LA Kings proved this twice already and are determined to prove it again. Of course, while those championship aspirations may not be met next spring, the Kings can at least take some solace — heck, a lot of solace — knowing that they have a new veteran presence to help guide their young defensive corps to the next level.
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