The LA Kings are famous for their passionate fanbase, Hollywood connections, and exciting Stanley Cup victories. But peel back the silver and black, and discover a trove of surprising tales that define this California hockey franchise.
15 Little Known Facts about the Los Angeles Kings
- Purple and Gold Beginnings:
- The Kings’ original colors were a regal purple and gold, a nod to their first owner, Jack Kent Cooke, who also owned the LA Lakers basketball team.
- The “Forum Blue and Gold” Era:
- The iconic Great Western Forum, known for its “Forum Blue” seats, was the Kings’ home arena for decades.
- The “Miracle on Manchester”:
- In 1982, the Kings defied expectations with a dramatic playoff comeback against the Oilers, dubbed the “Miracle on Manchester”.
- Gretzky’s Arrival:
- The trade that brought Wayne Gretzky to the Kings in 1988 transformed the franchise and hockey in California, attracting mainstream attention.
- Luc Robitaille: Lucky Luke:
- Luc Robitaille, nicknamed “Lucky Luke,” is the Kings’ all-time leading goal scorer and a beloved fan favorite for his scoring touch.
- Rogie Vachon the Legend:
- Goalie Rogie Vachon was a star for the Kings in the 1970s and became a legendary figure on and off the ice.
- The “Triple Crown” Line:
- Marcel Dionne, Charlie Simmer, and Dave Taylor formed a dominant trio in the 1970s and early 80s, known for their skill and scoring ability.
- The Curse of the Colonel:
- A playoff losing streak in the 90s led to a superstitious curse, blaming a statue of Forum founder Jack Kent Cooke. The curse was playfully “lifted” prior to their 2012 Cup win.
- The “Royal Line”:
- Anze Kopitar, Dustin Brown, and Justin Williams formed a powerful line instrumental in the Kings’ Stanley Cup wins of 2012 and 2014.
- The Staples Center Success:
- Moving to the Staples Center (now Crypto.com Arena) in 1999 ignited a new era for the Kings and a revitalization of downtown LA.
- Quick the Conn Smythe Winner:
- Jonathan Quick’s stellar goaltending carried the Kings to their first Stanley Cup victory in 2012, earning him the Conn Smythe Trophy (Playoff MVP).
- Bailey the Mascot:
- Bailey, the lion mascot, adds a touch of fun to the LA Kings game-day experience.
- Rivals Across the State:
- The Kings share a bitter rivalry with their fellow California teams, the Anaheim Ducks and the San Jose Sharks.
- Hollywood Celebrities:
- The Kings enjoy celebrity support, often attracting star-studded crowds to their games.
- Growing the Game in SoCal:
- The Kings actively support youth hockey development and outreach programs throughout Southern California.
