Online Encyclopedia
Los Angeles Kings
The Los Angeles Kings are a National Hockey League team based in Los Angeles, California.
- Founded: 1967
- Formerly Known As:
- Arena: Staples Center
- Uniform colors: Purple black and silver
- Logo design: A silver crown outlined in purple
- Stanley Cups won:
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Franchise history
The Pacific Coast Hockey League had many teams in the southern California area, and minor pro hockey found success there. However, the lack of a major arena in the area was the main factor in the NHL's decision to not expand to Los Angeles. When the PCHL threatened to turn itself into a major league and compete for the Stanley Cup, the Canadian enterpreneur Jack Kent Cooke paid the NHL $2 million to form a new team in Los Angeles, as part of the Expansion six. As for the arena, Cooke stated that the new team would play in "the most beautiful arena in the world". True to his word, the first home of the Kings, the "Fabulous Forum" in Inglewood, California, opened to rave reviews.
Although the Kings were initially very successful, largely due to a very weak Western Division, the Kings would be plagued by mismanagement, finishing lower than state rivals (and perennial doormats) the California Seals in one season. Although the Kings would return to contend for a playoff spot, they still lacked a star player. Enter Marcel Dionne.
Players of Note
Current stars:
- Roman Cechmanek
- Zigmund Palffy
- Luc Robitaille
Not to be forgotten:
- Rob Blake
- Jimmy Carson
- Wayne Gretzky
- Rogie Vachon
Retired Numbers:
- 30 Rogie Vachon
- 16 Marcel Dionne
- 18 Dave Taylor
- 99 Wayne Gretzky
Team Records
Most Goals, Single Season
- Bernie Nicholls, 1988-89: 70
Most Assists, Single Season
- Wayne Gretzky, 1990-91: 122
Most Points, Single Season
- Wayne Gretzky, 1988-89: 168
Most PIM, Single Season
- Marty McSorley, 1992-93: 399*
- Dave Schulz had 405 PIM in 77-78, but split the season with the Penguins.
Los Angeles Kings official web site
