NHL Four-cast: Los Angeles Kings

1 - Why is this team worth watching? Dustin Brown is six feet tall, two hundred pounds and hits like a Mac Truck, Patrick O'Sullivan has some serious skills and Anze Kopitar is growing into the roll of a NHL superstar. Oh yeah, and they have the next generation's Scott Stevens in Jack Johnson.

2 - Are they better or worse than last year? You know, I think they got better. Sure they shed proven scorers Mike Cammalleri and Lubomir Visnovsky but they brought in decent young talents Matt Greene and Jarret Stoll as well as solid defenseman Denis Gauthier. They also sucked bad enough to get Drew Doughty in the draft, who scouts have raved about and expect to contribute immediately alongside '07 pick Thomas Hickey.

3 - Who should YOU draft in fantasy? If you play in a league that has plus/minus, you might want to look elsewhere - even though Kopitar put up 77 points, he was -15. You can expect him to top 80 this year while Brown and O'Sullivan will come in around 70. Alexander Frolov was shockingly +1 while putting up 67 points in 71 games so he is the closest thing to a safe bet on this squad. While it would seem like common sense to avoid their goaltenders at all costs, Swedish netminder Erik Ersberg showed up late last season and played in 14 games. I watched several of them and can say that he played even better than his impressive numbers showed - two shutouts, a 2.48 g.a.a. and a .927 save percentage. If he can bring back the same poise and maintain it over 45 or 50 games, than the Kings won't suck as bad as everyone is saying they will.

4 - How can the Kings become relevant again? Let's face it, falling short to the Habs in '93 signaled the downfall of this franchise. John LeClair's overtime heroics helped get the ball rolling that ended up in Wayne Gretzky and Barry Melrose leaving a few years later. Once Luc Robitaille retired, this team hit rock bottom. Having a terrible team in a major market like LA hurts the NHL as a whole so what can be done? They are on a good track with solid young talent coming through the system but that doesn't mean fans will come. So how to make them relevant? Play 10, 20 regular season games in Las Vegas. They have played preseason games at the MGM Grand for years, so it isn't like they are unfamiliar with the town. Less games in L.A. should result in higher demand for the ones still there and the team expands their fanbase to another big city. Offer free bus service to Vegas for season ticket holders or just cut those games off of their packages. The NHL has flirted with the idea of a Vegas franchise for years, so why not?

 "NHL Four-Cast: Los Angeles Kings - A Legacy of Royalty and Resilience"

In the heart of sunny Southern California, where palm trees sway and the entertainment industry thrives, the Los Angeles Kings have carved their own royal niche. Beyond the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, the Kings have established a legacy of hockey excellence and resilience. In this article, we'll explore the storied history, iconic moments, challenges, and the bright future of the Los Angeles Kings.

Part 1: The Kings Ascend to Royalty

1. The Birth of the Kings

Delve into the origins of the Los Angeles Kings, founded in 1967 as part of the NHL's first expansion wave, and their early years in the league.

2. The Gretzky Era

Revisit the groundbreaking moment in 1988 when Wayne Gretzky, "The Great One," was traded to the Kings, elevating the franchise to new heights.

Part 2: Iconic Moments and Championships

3. The Miracle on Manchester

Relive the historic comeback in the 1982 playoffs, known as the "Miracle on Manchester," when the Kings overcame a 5-0 deficit to win in overtime.

4. Stanley Cup Triumphs

Celebrate the Kings' two Stanley Cup championships in 2012 and 2014, led by stars like Jonathan Quick, Drew Doughty, and Anze Kopitar.

Part 3: Challenges and Rebuilding

5. Playoff Droughts and Rebuilding

Discuss the periods of playoff droughts and the team's efforts to rebuild with a focus on developing young talent.

6. The Emergence of a New Generation

Highlight the rise of young stars like Gabriel Vilardi and Quinton Byfield, offering hope for a brighter future.

Part 4: The Staples Center Experience

7. A Home Fit for Kings

Explore the iconic Staples Center, the Kings' home arena, known for its electric atmosphere during games and its role as an entertainment hub.

8. Community Impact

Delve into the Kings' community involvement, including initiatives to grow the sport of hockey in Southern California.

Part 5: FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. How many Stanley Cups have the Kings won?

The Los Angeles Kings have won the Stanley Cup twice, in 2012 and 2014.

2. What is the significance of Wayne Gretzky's trade to the Kings?

Wayne Gretzky's trade to the Kings was a pivotal moment in franchise history, elevating the team's profile and helping to popularize hockey in non-traditional markets.

3. Who are some other notable Kings players in history?

Notable Kings players include Marcel Dionne, Luc Robitaille, and Rob Blake, among others.

The Los Angeles Kings are more than just a hockey team in Tinseltown; they are a symbol of perseverance, resilience, and the growth of hockey in non-traditional markets. From the Gretzky era to their recent championships and the emergence of a new generation of talent, the Kings' journey is a testament to their enduring spirit.

As the Kings look toward the future, there's a sense of optimism and renewed energy. With a loyal fanbase, a rich history, and a commitment to community engagement, the Los Angeles Kings are poised to continue their reign as a prominent and respected franchise in the NHL, proudly representing the City of Angels on the ice.