Where They Are: They are hot, having won four in a row - vs. San Jose, Minnesota, St. Louis and the Islanders. This will be game three of a six game road trip - not late enough for them to be tired. Perhaps having a night on the town between their win over the Isles and the Ranger game will knock them off their games. The allure of New York and all its vices ...
Who To Watch For: Ryan Smyth, Anze Kopitar and Justin Williams are every bit as good as Prospal/Dubi/Gabby. Shocking, right? You could say that Drew Doughty is avoiding a sophomore slump. You could also say that he is turning into a bonafide star. He certainly deserved the Calder last year but 20-plus minutes of solid play as a rookie isn't as sexy as a few shutouts for a good defensive team with a great coach. Oh yeah, and there is Alexander Frolov in a contract year, hit-factory Dustin Brown and goaltender Jon Quick. Quick turned some heads last season and has been stellar so far. Edit: but thankfully, we won't have to face him. The guys at HFBoards saw that LA is planning on starting young Swede Erik Ersberg. Ersberg made some hugely great saves at times last season but gave up plenty of softies behind a weak D. It will be interesting to see how he fares in his season debut. What To Watch For: The Kings won't come out flat. The Kings won't be tired. The Kings won't be intimidated. They are young and motivated and exciting. It could be one helluva track meet. Then again, the Rangers showed they could play slow-it-down, grind it out hockey against the Caps so perhaps they will be able to/be willing to do it here.
What We'll (Hopefully) See: Someone to knock Ryan Smyth on his rear end when he sets up camp in the slot. The Ranger horses to outrace the Kings kids. Chris Higgins to finally score. Donald Brashear to do something productive.
Also Check Out: The Battle of California, Life in Hockeywood, A Queen Among Kings, Purple Crushed Velvet and Rich Hammond moved over to Kings Insider.
Peepin' Foes: Los Angeles Kings - Kings of the Ice
In the sun-soaked city of Los Angeles, the Los Angeles Kings stand as a beacon of excellence in the world of professional ice hockey. With a storied history, iconic players, and a passionate fan base, the Kings have carved out a special place in the National Hockey League (NHL). In this article, we will explore the captivating story of the Los Angeles Kings, their rise to prominence, notable moments in their history, and address frequently asked questions (FAQs) that provide insights into this dynamic team.
The Los Angeles Kings: A Brief History
Founding and Early Years
The Los Angeles Kings were founded in 1967 as part of the NHL's "Second Six" expansion. They became the first NHL team in California, paving the way for the growth of hockey in the western United States.
Championship Glory
The Kings' journey to championship glory culminated in their first Stanley Cup victory in 2012. They followed up with another championship win in 2014. These victories were historic, as they marked the first two championships in the franchise's history.
Notable Players and Moments
The Great One Arrives
One of the most significant moments in Kings history was the arrival of Wayne Gretzky in 1988. Gretzky, often referred to as "The Great One," was a hockey legend and his presence in Los Angeles transformed the franchise.
The Miracle on Manchester
In 1982, the Kings staged one of the most remarkable comebacks in NHL history in a playoff game against the Edmonton Oilers, known as the "Miracle on Manchester." Trailing 5-0, the Kings rallied to win 6-5 in overtime, stunning the hockey world.
The Kings' Playing Style
Physical and Defensive
The Kings are known for their physical style of play and strong defensive game. They prioritize solid goaltending, robust defensive play, and a tenacious forecheck.
Recent Performances and Challenges
In recent years, the Kings have faced challenges and transitions as they work to rebuild and develop young talent. They aim to return to championship contention in the near future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
As the Los Angeles Kings continue their journey in the NHL, questions about the team's history, aspirations, and dynamics often arise. Here are some FAQs about the Los Angeles Kings:
1. What is the significance of the Kings' team colors and logo?
The Kings' team colors of black, silver, and white represent the franchise's regal name. The team's logo features a distinctive crown, further emphasizing the royal theme.
2. How have the Kings contributed to the growth of hockey in California?
The Kings played a pivotal role in popularizing hockey in California, inspiring a new generation of players and fans in the western United States.
3. What is the Kings' outlook for future championship success?
The Kings are in a rebuilding phase, focusing on developing young talent and building for the future. The team's prospects depend on the growth of their emerging stars.
4. How do Kings fans contribute to the team's identity?
Kings fans, often referred to as the "Kings Court," bring energy and passion to the Staples Center during games. Their unwavering support is a source of motivation for the team.
5. What charitable initiatives are associated with the Kings?
The Kings are involved in various community service programs and charitable initiatives, including supporting youth hockey and educational programs in Los Angeles.
The Los Angeles Kings, with their storied history, iconic players, and passionate fan base, continue to make their mark on the NHL. While they may not always grab the headlines, their two Stanley Cup championships serve as a testament to their dedication to excellence.
In the heart of Los Angeles, the Kings' quest for championship glory continues, fueled by the resilience and spirit of a franchise that has left an indelible mark on the world of professional ice hockey. The Kings remind us that success in sports is often a result of determination, teamwork, and a commitment to the pursuit of greatness.
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