Source: Los Angeles Times

The Zach Parise derby may have turned into a two-day decathlon, but the Kings were realistic about their chances with the New Jersey Devils free-agent star forward, calling the odds of signing him "way too long."

An official with knowledge of the situation but not authorized to comment said Sunday that the team had learned from the pursuit of Brad Richards last summer — he landed with the New York Rangers — and was focusing elsewhere. That focus could end up on Phoenix Coyotes captain Shane Doan, who has two big fans in Kings Coach Darryl Sutter and Kings President and General Manager Dean Lombardi.

Doan, however, is holding off on his plans until July 9, hoping to get some clarity on the Coyotes' muddled ownership situation. By then, the two marquee free agents, Parise and Nashville Predators defenseman Ryan Suter, will have made their decisions, and perhaps the Columbus Blue Jackets will have traded Rick Nash.

Parise and Suter could decide on Monday, the second day of NHL free agency. The Kings were of the understanding they were still in on Parise, as of Sunday night, but were not optimistic.

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