Once considered untouchable, recent comments by Dean Lombardi could lead to speculation that with a 6.8 cap hit and a more than likely cap decrease, could lead to the playmaker to be part of a blockbuster.

"He needs to come in camp in shape" Lombardi said at the Season Ticket Holders meeting Friday. Lombardi did mention that he will be coming to L.A. to train with "11 or 13" others, and he is, and has been, part of the "core" Lombardi has been talking about since his arrival.

Admittedly, Lombardi has stated that Kopitar is NOT a #1 center... yet. He HOPES he could be, and with time, he SHOULD, but in two seasons he hasn't been committed to being in shape and proving to himself and his mates that he's willing to whatever it takes to stop this franchise from its losing ways.

"He needs to be better" Lombardi stated.

It's one thing to be talented, its another to be talented AND doing what it takes to take your team to the next level (see: Malkin, Datsyuk, etc).

Flame away at the thought of dealing your untouchable, but none of you thought Lubo or O'Sullivan would be dealt either.

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