Jonathan Quick moved to tears in return to LA, but after the game he completely changes

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Liam McCormick
January 21, 2024 (7:29)

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Jonathan Quick made his official return to Los Angeles last night, now with the New York Rangers after playing 15 season with the Kings. As one of the best goalie in Kings franchise history and a two-time cup champ with the team, the team gave him a fitting video tribute before the game. Quick seemed to appreciate the moment, and was seen clearly tearing up on the ice as he saluted the crowd.

It seemed to be a fantastic moment for Jonathan Quick and Kings fans to have the reunion, but after the game, Quick changed his demeanour. When asked about any emotions involved with his return, his thoughts on the video tribute, or returning to the arena as a visitor, Quick only gave short and detached replies - clearly trying to show he's entirely moved on from the Kings.

When asked about his emotions and his thoughts on the video tribute, Quick said this:

It's a hockey game. Road game. Try to get two points, came a little short. They play videos all the time, it's just a video.

It was an odd change from the emotion he showed on the ice to the short and detached answers he gave to the media, but things may be personal between Quick and the Kings. Last season, he was traded to the Columbus Blue Jackets for the Kings to rent Joonas Korpisalo. It was believed Quick never wanted to leave LA, and the organization trading him anyway seriously soured him on the team.

At the time, it seemed to be the right move for the Kings to move on from Quick. In his age 37 season, he had a brutal record of 11-13-4 with a well below average save percentage of .876%. The Kings needed to make an upgrade as they were looking promising heading into the playoffs. However, seeing his only team decide to move him seems to have sparked Quick to make one last hurrah in his career, as he's now proven to be one of the best backup goalies in the league with the Rangers. In 16 games this year, Quick has a 9-4-2 record, with a 2.46 GAA and .913 save percentage.

It seemed like last night, Quick was able to appreciate the fans and support from LA, and reflect upon his success and time there, but has moved on and may be sour on the organization.