Work Text:
Kent: Hey Tater keep an eye on Zimms out there for me.
Tater: Haha Parsnip, I see pictures, he much bigger than you and hockey player, why you so worried )))))
Kent: It’s his rookie year. You remember what that was like.
Tater: Okay, yes, I will do.
Kent: And have his back on the ice, okay?
Tater: Is teammate, will always do.
Tater: You think guys come for him?
Kent: I dunno. He wasn’t very popular in the hockey world after the draft.
Kent: And his dad’s famous so some guys resent that
Tater: This not boy who made you sad rookie year?
Tater: Maybe I make him sad then?
Kent: Yeah, he was, but don’t do that
Kent: He’s a good dude, Tater, that stuff was my fault
Tater: Okay Parsnip, if you want, I can do
Kent: I’m still coming for you on the ice though
Tater: Haha I not worry so much about you )))))))))))))))))
Tater: When you lose you can buy dinner
Kent: Did you mean when you lose?
Tater: ((((((((((((
Kent: Okay, loser buys. Deal
Kent: Thanks
...
Bitty: So I told Jack that we’ve been talking
Kent: Shit
Bitty: I don’t want to lie anymore
Bitty: You’re going to see him now that he’s in the NHL
Kent: No, I know
Kent: Is he mad?
Bitty: I don’t know
Bitty: Surprised, maybe
Bitty: I know it’s a sensitive subject for him and I don’t want to push him but I don’t think I did anything wrong
Kent: I didn’t think he was going to be mad at YOU, Bits
Kent: Remember he said stay away from his team
Bitty: I called you first
Bitty: Which I told him
Bitty: I gotta go, I’ll keep you updated though
…
Jack: Bitty says you guys have been talking
Kent: Yeah
Jack: He says he called you first
Kent: Yeah
Jack: Are you going to say anything else?
Kent: What do you want me to say? I’m allowed to have friends, Zimms
Jack: Yeah, but couldn’t you get your own?
...
Jack: What did you tell him about us?
Kent: Nothing, Jesus, Jack
Jack: Nothing about the draft?
Kent: If he knows anything it’s because he figured it out himself. Which you might have to face at some point, because he’s a smart dude with access to the internet
Kent: So here’s a bright idea, why don’t you ask Bitty about what he knows, huh?
…
Kent: Jack’s gonna ask you what I told you about the Q and everything
Bitty: You didn’t tell me anything
Kent: I told you enough
Kent: This was a bad idea, Bits, maybe we should just lay off for a while
…
Bitty: Jack can’t tell me who to talk to
Bitty: Kent?
…
Bitty: He’s not mad, Kent
…
Jack: Look, I don’t really get why he would be talking to you
Kent: Wow
Jack: I didn’t mean it like that
Jack: I just didn’t know you even knew each other
Jack: But I’m okay with it
Kent: Gee, that’s very generous of you
Jack: Well, he said you’re not texting him back, so I thought you might want to know
Jack: He’s not happy about it
Jack: So if you’re really his friend, fine, but act like it
Kent: What, you mean COMMUNICATE WITH HIM??
Kent: That’s pretty FUCKING RICH Zimms
…
Kent: I got the all clear from Jack
Kent: *eyeroll*
Kent: I just didn’t want to make things weird between you guys
Kent: Sorry, Bits
Kent: Bits?
Kent: Very mature
Bitty: I’m sorry, who is this?
Kent: haha
Bitty: Just so you know you’re on pie probation
Kent: : (
Kent: Okay I guess that’s fair
…
Las Vegas Aces @NHLaces
@therealkvp is happy to be back on home ice!!!
[pic: Kent Parson leaning on his stick, center ice]
Kent Parson @therealkvp
Damn right I am! RT: @NHLaces @therealkvp is happy to be back on home ice!!!
…
Providence Falconers @providencefalcs
Gearing up for the preseason with some old and new faces!
[pic: Jack Zimmermann and Alexei Mashkov smile in the locker room]
Eric Bittle @omgcheckplease
RT: @providencefalcs Gearing up for the preseason with some old and new faces
…
Bitty: Just got back to school
Bitty: How’s training?
Kent: Eh
Kent: You always think you’re ready until it’s actually happening, I think I might die
Kent: But it’s good to be back with the team
Bitty: Jack said the same thing haha
Bitty: He also said that this guy Tater is kind of looking after him
Kent: Yeah, Tater’s a good guy
Bitty: Yeah, and your old teammate…
Kent: Yeah?
Bitty: KENT
Kent: Okay, I didn’t want to make Zimms mad or think I didn’t think he could do it but I thought maybe he could use someone on his side
Kent: The NHL is like total culture shock
Kent: I thought it would be nice
Bitty: It was : )
…
Tater: I was not supposed to tell Zimmboni you said be his friend?
Kent: Oh Jesus
Kent: I didn’t say BE HIS FRIEND
Kent: I said to look after him as a rookie
Kent: So I’m guessing that means you did tell him that?
Tater: Sorry, did not know was secret
Tater: Why he so mad though?
Kent: It’s complicated
Kent: It’s not your fault, Tater, thanks anyway
Kent: Also ZIMMBONI?
Tater: ))))))))))))
…
Jack: I don’t need a babysitter
Kent: Yeah, I know
Kent: Every rookie has guys on the team looking after him
Kent: I had a shitty rookie year, and Tater was like one of the only good parts of it
Kent: I thought maybe he could help you too
Kent: I didn’t mean to offend you
Jack: You won a cup your first year, Kent
Kent: I meant my LIFE was shitty, not my hockey
Kent: Despite what you think, there is a difference
Kent: Don’t take this out on Tater, okay?
Kent: He really does like you
…
Jack: Tater just asked about my girlfriend
Kent: Yikes
Kent: What did you say?
Jack: I didn’t say anything.
Jack: I don’t know what to tell Bitty about it.
Jack: I mean he knows I don’t want to come out right now and he’s okay with that but this is harder than I thought
Kent: Are you just texting me because I’m the only gay dude you know in the NHL
Kent: Cause no names but I know like ten others
Jack: I’m not gay
Kent: WELL YOUR BOYFRIEND IS
Kent: It sucks, dude
Kent: You can talk to me about it though
Kent: I mean, I know what you’re going through and stuff
Jack: Maybe
Jack: Thanks
…
Las Vegas Aces @NHLaces
HOCKEY’S BACK!!! First preseason game TONIGHT @SanJoseSharks
…
Bitty: Chowder is like crying of excitement for the game tonight
Bitty: I’m definitely the only one in the Haus rooting for the Aces haha
Bitty: That came out wrong
Bitty: It probably doesn’t matter because you won’t get this until after the game anyway
Bitty: Good luck out there : )
…
Jack: Good game
Kent: Thanks, man
Kent: You ready for tomorrow night?
Jack: Yeah
Jack: You should work on your faceoffs
Kent: *eyeroll*
Kent: Because I know you mean well, thanks
Kent: But also fuck off
…
Kent: BITTY CHECKED A DUDE
Kent: I just had to pinch myself to make sure I’m not dreaming
Bitty: haha
Bitty: Jack’s here this weekend…
Kent: Sure, got it. Text me later.
...
Las Vegas Aces @NHLaces
RT: @NHL Aces Ready for Another Winning Season
[article:
NHL.com, September 2015
ACES READY FOR ANOTHER WINNING SEASON
This week in “Teams to Watch”
The Aces’ handy win over the Kings on Tuesday night—the last in a series of preseason victories—merely confirmed what many in the hockey world have been saying since the draft: the Aces are once again the team to beat this season.
Valuable acquisitions made at the end of the last season and on July 1—including a new backup goaltender—have helped the Aces preserve their traditional offensive power while adding crucial pieces to the blue line. Captain Kent Parson, the franchise’s undisputed superstar, had a three point game himself Tuesday night, and with his proven scoring and leadership skills heading this team up and a strong core behind him, domination of the Pacific Division—if not the entire league—seems likely. Of course, it’s only the preseason, but Las Vegas scores the top slot in our “Teams to Watch” list.
The Aces also have been applauded for their shrewd trading and drafting over the past five years, and this June was no exception. They have a talented pool of prospects to draw from and we expect to see some big roster changes before the first regular season game.
Our Recommendations: Add depth to the third and fourth line. The Aces are known for their speedy first line, centered by Parson, and their powerful second, centered by Jeff Schwindeman. Adding offensive depth to the third and fourth lines—perhaps by calling up talented AHL players or one of their 2015 draft picks—is never a bad idea. The blue line is already looking better than last year, but coaches should not hesitate to try different defense pairings to give their top four a break from high ice time, especially early in the season.
Next week: The Providence Falconers look towards a bright future with newly acquired center Jack Zimmermann.]
…
Tater: I think you right about guys and Zimms (((((((((
Tater: Did you see game?
Kent: Yeah, man that was brutal
Kent: Is he okay?
Tater: Only few stitches
Tater: Still has all teeth!!
Kent: The Flyers were always dirty bastards out there
Tater: (((((((((
…
Kent: Sorry about that puck, man, what a fucking shitty way to start the season
Kent: Sick moves out there, though : )
Jack: Thanks
Jack: Still wish I could have gone back in the game after though
Kent: Oh my god you were bleeding from the face
Jack: It was worse than it looked
Jack: Face wounds bleed a lot
Kent: Dude you got 75 more games to go
Kent: Pace yourself
Jack: 74
Kent: OH MY GOD
…
Las Vegas Aces @NHLaces
It’s spooky how @therealkvp can find the back of the net! Hat Trick for Halloween!
…
Kent: Hey, I saw your dad was at the game last night
Jack: It wasn’t the first one he’s been to, they just played it up because we were in Pittsburgh
Kent: How’s that going? I mean… the dad stuff
Jack: It’s okay. A little weird still but he’s proud of me and follows the Falconers and stuff.
Kent: He was always going to be proud of you, Zimms
Kent: And… sorry that I made you feel otherwise
Jack: You already said that
Kent: Yeah, but you never said anything back the first time
Jack: Well, I forgive you
Jack: And sorry for some of the other stuff I’ve said
Jack: Like about Bitty
Kent: It’s all cool, man
Jack: He took me and Sid out for dinner after
Jack: I mean my dad
Kent: Oh no
Jack: It was okay. Sid’s a nice guy
Kent: Yeah, I know, but he’s always been tight with your dad
Jack: It went pretty well. I’m better about sharing my dad than I used to be
Jack: Speaking of which, he said he hasn’t spoken to you in a while
Jack: I thought you guys were close
Kent: We used to be kind of I guess
Jack: What happened?
Kent: Honestly?
Kent: We both knew how much you hated it
Kent: I think he only came to my first cup day because he was worried if he didn’t I would go looking for him and see you
Kent: I never meant to intrude, I just never had a dad and he seemed like a pretty cool one
Jack: He is
Jack: And he went to your cup day because he was proud of you
Jack: We both were
Jack: *Are
…
Bob: Alicia and I are coming to LV soon for a charity function and we’d love to take you to dinner
Kent: That would be great!
Bob: Hell of a season you’re having, kiddo
Kent: Thanks, Bob
Kent: I can’t wait to see you both
Bob: Us too. Tell your mom and Jess hi for us.
Kent: Will do
…
Las Vegas Aces @NHLaces
Tonight makes a 20 game point streak for @therealkvp #ohcaptainourcaptain
…
Las Vegas Aces @NHLaces
Estimate is 4 weeks for Kent Parson, lower body injury
Eric Bittle @omgcheckplease
: ( RT: Estimate is 4 weeks for Kent Parson, lower body injury
…
Tater: (((((((((((((((
Tater: The TV is saying four weeks ((((((
Kent: Yeah it fucking sucks
Kent: I mean I know injuries are part of the game but still
Tater: We play Tampa next week, nobody finds the body ))))))))
Kent: Use your scary Russian hockey instead of your scary Russian mob connections, okay?
Tater: Am not mob
Tater: Okay but if you change mind I can get him
Tater: Clean hit like they said yours was )))))
Tater: Will you be back for game with us???
Kent: I fucking hope so
…
Bitty: Your pie is already in the mail!!!
Bitty: You doing okay?
Kent: I mean considering
Kent: Sorry, I’m a grumpy patient
Bitty: Rest up and get somebody to come take care of you!
Bitty: Hopefully I can still see you in Providence : )
Kent: I’m supposed to get dinner with Tater after the game but we’ll make something work
Kent: If I even make it out there
Bitty: Positive thoughts! You will!! Just listen to your doctors : )
…
Jack: You were probably watching anyway but Tater just wrecked this dude on the Lightning
Jack: He kind of looks like the guy who took you out last week
Jack: Wears the same number too
Kent: Very funny
Kent: I told him he shouldn’t
Jack: Why? It was a clean hit, Tater didn’t even get a penalty
Jack: Fucker deserved it anyway
Jack: And he looked pretty pale after, I’m pretty sure Tater said something nasty in Russian
Kent: JACK
Kent: WHERE IS YOUR SPORTSMANSHIP
Kent: Thanks : )
Kent: Does it make me a bad person that I feel better?
Jack: No
Jack: Just a hockey player
…
Las Vegas Aces @NHLaces
IT’S HAPPENING!!!! @therealkvp is back on the ice wearing a no contact jersey!
…
Kent: Looks like I’ll make it to Providence next week, Zimms
Jack: Better bring your A game with you
Kent: Always do, baby
…
Tater: I will be ordering most expensive dinner when you pay ))))))
Kent: I personally am planning on ordering a very rare bottle of wine when you pick up the check
Tater: Happy you feeling better, Parsnip
Kent: : )
…
Las Vegas Aces @NHLaces
Definitely a game to watch! RT: @YahooSportsNHL Parson and Zimmermann Take Ice Together for First Time Since 2009
[article:
Puck Daddy, December 2015
PARSON AND ZIMMERMANN TAKE ICE TOGETHER FOR FIRST TIME SINCE 2009
The twist? This time, they’re on opposing teams.
Junior hockey fans—and pretty much everybody else in the hockey world—will no doubt remember the magic that Kent Parson and Jack Zimmermann wove together in their sophomore year in the QMJHL as they anchored the Rimouski Oceanic’s top forward line. Together, they broke records and hearts, and brought home the Memorial Cup to boot.
Although doubts still remain as to what exactly went on in the weeks and days preceding the 2009 NHL entry draft, fans and media alike were stunned as Zimmermann dropped out of the draft and Parson took his projected number one spot. But now, nearly seven years later, following two Stanley Cups and an Olympic silver and gold for Parson and four years of NCAA hockey for Zimmermann, the two will meet where they always belonged: on NHL ice.
Neither team wished to comment on the upcoming game, but barring a Stanley Cup Final matchup, this is only one of two times the teams will meet this season, making this otherwise average Wednesday Night game a definite must see.
Complicating the matter? This is only Parson’s second game back since a month on IR, following a lower body injury in a game against Tampa Bay back in November. Although he played well against Ottawa on Monday, he put up only one point and some fans worry that Parson is not yet back at fighting strength.
Other matchups tonight include Chicago @ Dallas and Edmonton @ Nashville, but our pick for tonight is the highly anticipated Las Vegas @ Providence game.]
…
Las Vegas Aces @NHLaces
A three point game from @therealkvp and a third period goal from @swoops47 means a 4-3 victory for your Aces!
…
Kent Parson @therealkvp
Where are you gonna take me for dinner @amashkov7 ?
Alexei Mashkov @amashkov7
Maybe McDonalds RT: Where are you gonna take me for dinner @amashkov7 ?
…
Kent: Am I allowed to text Jack?
Kent: I don’t want to make things weird
Bitty: I think he’s okay
Kent: He had a fucking two point game, he better be
Bitty: Yeah, but you know how he is, this is Jack “Be Better” Zimmermann we’re talking about
Bitty: Maybe we can do dessert or something since Tater got first dibs : )
Kent: Sorry Bits, I’ve known him about five years longer
Kent: That would be good
Kent: Maybe you should ask Jack though haha in case he doesn’t want to talk to me right now
…
Jack: We’ll pick you up in five?
Jack: Bitty wants to try this new bakery place
Jack: Good game
Kent: You too, bro : )
…
Jack: You know I won three of our faceoffs
Kent: We only had five
Jack: Yeah but I already told you to work on that
Kent: I would be saltier if you hadn’t already bought me cake
…
Kent: So I told Tater I was gay when I was in Providence
Jack: How did it go?
Kent: He was really cool about it. I thought he probably would be, but…
Jack: Yeah
Kent: I don’t know, I thought if you wanted to tell him about Bitty you might want to know he seems chill
Jack: Thanks
…
Kent: Also I kind of have been thinking about telling other people
Kent: Idk
Jack: Like… everyone?
Kent: Do you think it’s a bad idea?
Jack: I don’t know
Jack: I mean we both know what this industry is like
Jack: So I don’t want to mislead you
Jack: I don’t think I can
Jack: But it’s okay if you want to
Kent: Gee, thanks
Jack: I just mean I realize if you come out people might say stuff about us so I’m just saying that if you were asking that in your weird non-asking way then I’m okay with it
Kent: Yeah, I guess I was
Kent: Thanks
Jack: You know that me and Bitty and my parents will be here for you
Kent: You and Bitty and Jess and I guess Tater are the only ones who know
Jack: … Pretty sure my parents know too
Jack: Sorry
Kent: I kinda figured haha
Kent: Your mom always asks if I’ve found a nice PERSON to date
Kent: Your mom is so great
Jack: Yeah
…
Kent: I might come out
Bitty: OMG
Bitty: REALLY???
Kent: Okay calm down I said MIGHT
Kent: Idk I know it’s going to be a big deal
Kent: But I’m just tired
Bitty: I know
Kent: Yeah, that’s why I’m talking to you about it haha
Bitty: I mean, I know, but also you’re more famous, so…
Kent: I guess on the one hand I’m already used to assholes on the internet
Kent: I would have to tell my mom first
Kent: Like personally
Kent: And the team because I wouldn’t want to blindside them
Kent: I also want to do it in a way that I would be taken seriously
Kent: Like I said, idk and it wouldn’t happen like tomorrow but I wanted to let you and Zimms know because I know some of the fallout might be on him and might bring more scrutiny to you guys
Bitty: You told him?
Kent: Yeah, he said he was okay with it but if you guys need to talk about it that’s cool
Bitty: We’re not going to stop you from coming out if you want Kent
Bitty: But that was very considerate of you
Kent: That’s me, mr. considerate
Bitty: Let us know what you decide
Bitty: And if you want to… be somewhere safe or anything like that, let us know
…
Kent: I know I shouldn’t text you this but I’m kind of far away and I can’t really get to Buffalo before we play the Sabres in February
Mom: ARE YOU PREGNANT?
Kent: haha
Kent: I’m gay though
Mom: I’m having lasagna for dinner
Mom: Sorry, I thought we were saying things we already knew
Kent: MOM
Kent: I WAS FREAKING OUT
Mom: Kenny, you’re my baby boy
Mom: I was never going to push you, but I’ve known for quite a while
Mom: Remember Trevor from midget hockey?
Kent: OMG you’re so embarrassing
Mom: Love you, Kenny. No matter what.
Kent: Love you too, mom.
Kent: Wanted to let you know because I might come out soon, details at 10
Mom: I’ve never been prouder of you than when you took all the negative things the media always said and turned them into your strengths
Mom: I know this won’t be different
Mom: And tell the haters to shove your two Stanley Cups up their asses
Kent: MOM
…
Kent: It’s happening. I have a press conference in two hours.
Jack: Good luck.
Jack: Let me know if I can help in any way.
Jack: Kent?
Jack: You’re a hell of a hockey player and a friend and I’m really proud to know you
Kent: Jack if you make me cry before I go on live TV I will never fucking forgive you
…
Las Vegas Aces @NHLaces
Kent Parson: “I’m gay, and I’m not ashamed of that.” #ohcaptainourcaptain #KentParson
…
Las Vegas Aces @NHLaces
It’s a good day to be an Aces Fan! RT: BuzzFeed @BuzzFeed The Best Twitter Responses to Kent Parson’s Coming Out Announcement
[article:
Buzzfeed, January 2016
THE BEST TWITTER RESPONSES TO KENT PARSON’S COMING OUT ANNOUNCEMENT
In a groundbreaking press conference Saturday afternoon, hockey superstar and captain of the Las Vegas Aces Kent Parson announced he was gay—making him the first NHL player to do so. In response, other players, hockey legends, celebrities, and fans (plus more than thirty NHL teams) have congratulated him on his bold move. Here are some of our favorites:
Bob Zimmermann @badbob
The future of hockey is looking brighter and more diverse every day! @therealkvp proud of you, kiddo!!
Alexei Mashkov @amashkov7
@therealkvp is greatest on and off ice! You do big things, love you parsnip )))))))
Jeff Schwindeman @swoops47
A courageous move and only one of the reasons that I’m proud to call @therealkvp captain, teammate, and friend
Gus Kenworthy @guskenworthy
@therealkvp ha welcome to the club bro, proud to call you a USA teammate
Mike Fitzgerald @mfitzy36
Couldn’t find a better leader or role model on or off the ice, proud to call myself an Ace today
Brian Campbell @bcampbell_51
Congratulations @therealkvp a standup player and person. Live your life honestly #youcanplay
ACES FOREVER @JosieR90
My little brother is literally jumping up and down saying “mom I can play hockey” thank you @therealkvp #representationmatters
Jack Zimmermann @jzimms1
You did something incredibly important today @therealkvp and I couldn’t be prouder to know and play with you
Britney Spears @britneyspears
Longtime fan of the Aces and even more after today! I’ll have to get @therealkvp to sign a jersey bc I just became his biggest fan
Carey Price @CP0031
Hockey needs brave men like @therealkvp to live with honesty and bravery. It’s a good day for the NHL
Kent is my hero @acesfanno1
Kent has honestly been my idol for so long and him coming out is giving me the courage to do the same @therealkvp you truly changed my life
NHL @nhl
@therealkvp makes history as the first player to come out in the NHL. Congratulations to Kent and thank you for your courage and honesty. (1/2)
This league supports you wholeheartedly and hopes to continue to foster an atmosphere of tolerance and respect for other players (2/2)
…
Kent: Did you get a twitter just to tweet me today
Jack: The PR department wanted me to anyway
Jack: But yeah, it was for you
Kent: Thanks Zimms
…
Kent Parson @therealkvp
Thank you so much for the kind words of encouragement and support today. I’m excited to start living a life of honesty and love.
Kent Parson @therealkvp
For those of you tweeting slurs and insults, I want you to know that every derogatory tweet will be matched with a (1/2)
Five dollar donation to a local LGBTQ+ center in Las Vegas courtesy of myself and the @NHLaces. Thank you in advance for your generosity. (2/2)
…
Kent: Are they going to let you back into Russia after that public show of support?
Tater: Maybe I come stay with you in Nevada instead )))))))
Kent: Thanks, Tater : )
Tater: Anything for you parsnip
…
Jeff Schwindeman @swoops47
If you’re a homophobic asshole saying shit about my captain, I’d like to cordially invite you to come meet me and the guys (1/2)
personally in the locker room so we can have a nice little chat. (2/2)
…
Swoops: in other news I’ve been reprimanded by PR for inappropriate twitter behavior
Swoops: again
Kent: Jeff
Swoops: Am I supposed to just ignore them?
Kent: YES
Swoops: Sorry cap, no can do
Kent: Okay as your captain I must side with PR and tell you to represent yourself and this noble organization in a positive light blah blah
Kent: Unofficially thanks though : )
…
Kent Parson @therealkvp
Lol they wish RT: @Deadspin Which NHL Player is Kenny P Most Likely to Seduce?
[article:
Deadspin, February 2016
WHICH NHL PLAYER IS KENNY P MOST LIKELY TO SEDUCE?
With our favorite blond bombshell’s sexuality announcement last month, we’ve been wondering about which other league-mates might be harboring a little crush on el capitan. In no particular order, here are our best guesses:
Jonathan Toews. Sparks flew during last year’s Western Conference Finals and the faceoff circle was a hotbed of passions. Did this translate off the ice, as well?
Jack Zimmermann. Anyone with access to the internet and a little healthy imagination has read—or written!—the fanfic about these two. Has young love reigned supreme?
Alexei Mashkov. Kent fondly speaks of his rookie year with his little tater tot, commenting that he was the only thing that made the long nights on the road bearable. Reads like a budding romance to us!
Sidney Crosby. The Romeo and Juliet style implications of this Captain Canada and Captain America pairing are making us swoon!
Tyler Seguin. To our knowledge, these two have only met briefly, but it only takes a moment! This wildchild pairing sounds a lot fun and a lot hot to us.
Jeff Schwindeman. He wears Kent’s A and his heart on his sleeve defending his captain on twitter. The two are rumored to be very close over in Vegas!
Francois Snowden. They don’t play for the same team (or do they??) but this goalie has spoken highly of Kent’s… ahem… scoring prowess.
Erik Johnson. Hey, we realize that hockey can be at times homoerotic and that Erik may have been caught up in a gold medal game haze, but that ass grab after the final goal looked pretty serious to us. (We don’t blame you, Erik. We’d smack that ass, too. For America.)
Beau Bennett. These two have a similar California chill vibe to them, and we’re willing to bet they’d be quite the ray of sunshine together.
Connor O’Reilly. This Tampa Bay D-man took Parson out of the game for a month this season, but we’re speculating that the anger behind that hit just may have been that of a man scorned. Lover’s quarrels can turn nasty!]
…
Tyler Seguin @tseguinoffical
No offense @therealkvp but I’m out of your league
Kent Parson @therealkvp
Full offense but I wouldn’t go for an ex-Bruin bc I have STANDARDS RT: @tseguinofficial No offense @therealkvp but I’m out of your league
Boston Bruins @NHLBruins
: ( RT: @therealkvp Full offense but I wouldn’t go for an ex-Bruin bc I have STANDARDS
…
Bitty: How’s it been over there?
Kent: Eh
Kent: Kinda sick of the media shit and just want to play hockey but I knew it would be like this so whatever
Bitty: You’re tearing it up out there : )
Kent: Oh yeah, what about you MR HAT TRICK
Bitty: :D
Bitty: I didn’t know you watched our games
Kent: Yes you did
…
Mike Fitzgerald @mfitzy36
If you’re a reporter trying to get a headline by stirring shit up about Kent, you’ve come to the wrong damn locker room (1/3)
We as a team respect him and each other and I can tell you right now you won’t get a soundbite from a single guy here (2/3)
So maybe do your job and report on actual hockey because that’s what Kent cares about and what the Aces came here to do (3/3)
…
Kent: Making Fitzy tweet for you still counts as using your powers for evil
Swoops: No comment
Swoops: There’s a waiting list of who gets to tweet the next time the media gets extra shitty so I’m not saying it’s going to happen again just saying prepare yourself is all
Kent: I hope you know that I CAN’T support this behavior and I DON’T love all you motherfuckers a lot
Swoops: feeling’s mutual, bud
…
Providence Falconers @providencefalcs
@NHLAces rematch???
Las Vegas Aces @NHLaces
You’re on RT: @providencefalcs @NHLAces rematch???
…
Kent: Looks like you guys are in the playoff hunt
Kent: Shame you have to come lose in Vegas : (
Jack: Looks like you guys are fighting for that first place slot, huh
Jack: Think we’ve got the collective power of Kings fans behind us tonight
…
Tater: You win some lose some parsnip your turn to buy dinner )))))))
Kent: Ugh
Kent: Fine but Jack wants to come
Tater: if Bitty was here would be like double date )))
Kent: TATER
Kent: OMG
…
Kent: Don’t think we aren’t revisiting that date comment soon
Tater: )))))))))
Kent: I had a nice time
Kent: It’s always good to see you, Tater
Tater: Maybe next time you call me Alyosha, okay?
Kent: I’ll have to practice, my Russian is a little rusty
Kent: : )
…
Brad Weatherly @bweatherly
fuckin knew @therealkvp’s production would fall off after he became gay, smh and in the playoff hunt too
Kent Parson @therealkvp
I was already gay when I won my first two cups *eyeroll* RT: @bweatherly fuckin knew @therealkvp’s production would fall off after he became gay, smh and in the playoff hunt too
…
Las Vegas Aces @NHLaces
We can confirm that trade rumors concerning Kent Parson are false.
Jeff Schwindeman @swoops47
Yeah because those rumors were bullshit wtf RT: @NHLaces We can confirm that trade rumors concerning Kent Parson are false.
…
Kent: JACK IF IT’S A CONCUSSION I SWEAR TO GOD
Jack: It’s not
Kent: It’s not REALLY or it’s actually not
Jack: That didn’t make any sense
Kent: Because you’re concussed
Jack: No, I’ve been cleared
Kent: If your dad wants you to talk to Sidney Crosby about concussion shit you better fucking listen
Kent: I mean always listen to Crosby as a matter of course
Kent: But especially about concussion stuff
Jack: Yeah, yeah
Jack: Thanks for the concern, Kenny
…
Kent: So when you make it to the Frozen Four final can I come?
Bitty: You still have games then, Kent
Kent: I’m a healthy scratch at the end of the season
Bitty: I don’t even know if we’re going to make it
Kent: You are
Kent: And then you can come watch when I three-peat for the Stanley Cup : )
Bitty: Lord, you’ve never had a confidence problem
Kent: Yes I have
...
Kent: See you in the playoffs, bro
Jack: Kent we’re in different conferences
Kent: See you in the Cup Finals bro : )
…
Alyosha: Will you come to cup day in Russia? )))))
Kent: Win it first bud then we’ll see
Kent: You’ll have to pry it from my cold dead hands though
Kent: How bout you come to mine instead
Kent: It can be your birthday present to me
Alyosha: Parsnip I already have present for you
Alyosha: I would just be extra )))))))
…
Kent Parson @therealkvp
Actual headline: “we thought maybe he was too gay to pull it off but now we’re not sure” #writewhatyoumean RT: @espn Parson’s Aces Clinch First Seed Slot After Midseason Doubts
…
Kent: Great game, Bits
Bitty: Yeah, we were hoping to go farther but it’s okay
Bitty: The guys are kinda bummed
Kent: NCAA Semifinals is a huge deal
Kent: I guess you’ll just have to take them all the way as captain, huh
Bitty: Ugh Jack told you
Bitty: : )
Kent: Jack’s so excited he’s probably telling strangers in the grocery store
Kent: *eyeroll*
Kent: : )
…
Jack: I’ve never seen Kesler look like that before
Jack: What did you do to him
Kent: Just swept his team idk why he’s so upset
Kent: haha
Kent: Yo do me a favor and wipe out the Caps I don’t want to see them in the final : )
Jack: Yeah I’ll do my best
…
Las Vegas Aces @NHLaces
Division Champs!! Bet St. Louis is feeling pretty BLUE to be facing us!
St Louis Blues @StLouisBlues
Beating you is going to feel pretty Ace, though RT: @NHLaces Division Champs!! Bet St. Louis is feeling pretty BLUE to be facing us!
Providence Falconers @providencefalcs
This is embarrassing RT: @StLouisBlues Beating you is going to feel pretty Ace, though
…
Kent: Should I say something
Bitty: I think maybe not
Bitty: He’s doing better than I thought but still pretty bummed
Kent: I’ve been there
Kent: Sucks
Kent: And like nothing anyone says or does can make you feel better, so don’t be too hard on yourself either Bits
Bitty: It was the Penguins too : (
Kent: I know
Kent: But shit they took it to game seven and fought hard
Kent: Let me know if I can do anything or offer advice or anything
…
Jack: So do I have to pay for tickets to the finals or do I get a kvp discount
Kent: Haha Bitty can come for free but you have to pay
Jack: I would pay very good money to see you crush the Pens right now
Jack: My dad says he’s cheering for you by the way
Kent: ME OVER SID??? THIS IS LIKE THE GREATEST DAY OF MY LIFE!
Jack: Okay calm down not to take this away from you but it’s at least half for me
Kent: As it should be
Kent: Doesn’t matter to me though either way I beat Crosby in your dad’s heart haha
…
Jack: Oh and work on your faceoffs
Kent: Jack I SWEAR TO GOD
…
Kent: Yeah I will
Kent: Fucking Crosby : (
…
Las Vegas Aces @NHLaces
Coming back to home ice tied 1-1 but we’re willing to bet Lady Luck is with us tonight!
…
Kent Parson @therealkvp
I’m blushing RT: @penguins Crosby after game 4: “Kent is hands down one of the greatest players and captains in the league and I have nothing but respect for him”
…
Jack Zimmermann @jzimms1
I’ve been a Penguins fan for a long time but I’ve got to go with my friend and old linemate Kent on this one RT: @suzieq who are you rooting for tonight?
Eric Bittle @omgcheckplease
Good pick :D RT: @jzimms1 I’ve been a Penguins fan for a long time but I’ve got to go with my friend and old linemate Kent on this one
Bob Zimmermann @badbob
Like father like son RT: @jzimms1 I’ve been a Penguins fan for a long time but I’ve got to go with my friend and old linemate Kent on this one
Las Vegas Aces @NHLaces
Sid is softly weeping in the corner :D RT: @badbob Like father like son
Pittsburgh Penguins @penguins
: ( @NHLaces
…
Las Vegas Aces @NHLaces
THREE CUPS, SEVEN YEARS!!! Sounds like our lucky numbers!!!!!!!
[pic: The Aces crowded around the Stanley Cup, fingers raised for number one]
…
Las Vegas Aces @NHLaces
RT: @SInow Aces Win Third Stanley Cup in Game Six Battle
[article:
Sports Illustrated, June 2016
ACES WIN THIRD STANLEY CUP IN GAME SIX BATTLE
Parson wins Conn Smythe, is lauded for leadership and play
In a triumphant return after being knocked out of last year’s playoffs by the Chicago Blackhawks, The Las Vegas Aces reclaimed the Stanley Cup in front of a thunderous home crowd on Thursday night. As Kent Parson skated forward to accept the Cup from commissioner Gary Bettman, all eyes were on the young dynamo, who has taken home three Cups and captained his team to two of those, all before the age of twenty-six.
Of course, Parson has been drawing attention for more than his hockey this year. In January, he held a press conference during which he announced that he is gay, making him the first player—past or present—in the NHL to do so.
Does being the first openly gay player to lift the cup matter to Parson? It does, he says, but not for the accolade. “I think it’s really important to work towards a league where athletes are defined by their skills and character and not by their sexuality, race, or anything like that. If I’m making a difference for kids playing hockey and coming up through the ranks, that’s what’s important to me. That others can feel included and accepted in the future.”
Parson, who also was awarded the Conn Smythe trophy as playoff MVP, says that he’s been supported by his teammates and the league as a whole, but that he still gets criticism from fans, media, and other groups for his bold decision. “I try not to read my media or let it bother me too much, but you definitely get some of that anyway. I think the only way to really disprove them is to just ignore that hatred, get out there, and do what I do best.”
And nobody could say that Parson didn’t do just that. Throughout the playoffs, he’s maintained almost a two point-per-game pace, including the final goal here in Las Vegas tonight. Sidney Crosby, who has captained the Penguins since 2007, was the first to reach out to Parson tonight, and pulled him aside in the handshake line for a few quiet words that Parson won’t repeat. “Really nice things, very flattering and kind,” Parson assures.
To that, Crosby himself says, “Of course the series didn’t end the way we wanted it to and we’re disappointed by that, but the Aces had a great season and they’re one of the best teams in the league right now, without a doubt. I think Parson deserves the Smythe, for sure. He had a great playoff run and was putting up huge numbers. He’s had a record season in a lot of ways and he’s one of those guys you have to respect as a player and a person. I don’t think any guy in the league would tell you any different.”
Parson handed the cup off to his Alternate Captain, friend, and staunch supporter Jeff “Swoops” Schwindeman, and was quickly joined on the ice by family and friends who Parson says have been instrumental—along with his teammates—in supporting Parson over the past few months.
Along with his mother and sister, Parson was joined, to the surprise and delight of fans, by the Zimmermann family, including former Penguins player “Bad” Bob and his son Jack, who himself made it to the Eastern Conference Finals this year with the Providence Falconers before being knocked out in game seven by the Penguins. Parson and Jack publically embraced for the first time in seven years to cheers from the adoring home crowd before the two posed with the cup—though Zimmermann, of course, refused to touch it.
Though Bob is famous for being one of Crosby’s mentors and friends, he and his son both publically admitted via twitter earlier this week that they were rooting for the Aces. “It was a tough call, for sure,” Bob says, laughing, “I think it could have gone either way, and I’ve got a lot of fondness for both of these teams, but Kent’s been like a son to me since I saw him playing in the Q and I’m always happy to see him succeed.” Whether this decision was influenced by the Penguins victory over the Falconers, both Bob and Jack refuse to say.
For now, Parson shrugs off questions about the next season, about his ongoing battle as a gay man in professional sports, and about the upcoming World Cup of Hockey.
He just wants to celebrate his landmark win.]
…
Alexei Mashkov @amashkov7
All you touch turns to Stanley Cup @therealkvp guess I will come to cup day now )))))))))
Kent Parson @therealkvp
I’m holding you to that and we can recreate this iconic moment RT: @amashkov7 All you touch turns to Stanley Cup @therealkvp guess I will come to cup day now )))))))))
[pic: Kent in 2010, sitting on Tater’s shoulders and holding the base of the Stanley Cup as Tater drinks champagne from it]
…
Bitty: Are you happy?
Kent: fukc dud I just won teh Stanley cup im fukcing so happy
Kent: I wnt to hug kit but she is runnnig awy and its so saaaaaad bitty I thnk im crying
Bitty: Drink some water : )
Bitty: Don’t think we aren’t talking Tater later on, btw
Bitty: And I better get to drink out of that cup on the Fourth of July while Jack rolls his eyes at our aggressive American-ness, you hear?
Kent: yessss bits
Kent: so mch funnnnnnnnnnnnnnn
…
Kent Parson @therealkvp
It’s been a pretty fucking great year. Thanks to those who made it that way : )
[pic: Kent wearing an American flag tank top, sunglasses, and a backwards snapback, holding the Stanley Cup in one arm and Kit in the other. He’s sitting on Tater’s shoulders. In the background, Jack is ready to catch him when he falls.]