15 Little Known Facts about the Los Angeles Kings

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

1. 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.
2. The “Forum Blue and Gold” Era:

• The iconic Great Western Forum, known for its “Forum Blue” seats, was the Kings’ home arena for decades.

3. The “Miracle on Manchester”:
   • In 1982, the Kings defied expectations with a dramatic playoff comeback against the Oilers, dubbed the “Miracle on Manchester”.
4. Gretzky’s Arrival:
   • The trade that brought Wayne Gretzky to the Kings in 1988 transformed the franchise and hockey in California, attracting mainstream attention.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. 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.
8. 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.
9. 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.
10. 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.
11. 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).
12. Bailey the Mascot:
    • Bailey, the lion mascot, adds a touch of fun to the LA Kings game-day experience.
13. Rivals Across the State:
    • The Kings share a bitter rivalry with their fellow California teams, the Anaheim Ducks and the San Jose Sharks.
14. Hollywood Celebrities:
    • The Kings enjoy celebrity support, often attracting star-studded crowds to their games.
15. Growing the Game in SoCal:
    • The Kings actively support youth hockey development and outreach programs throughout Southern California.