Two equally talented teams will be sizzling up the Pacific Division, as the Los Angeles Kings take on the Edmonton Oilers at the latter’s home arena, Rexall Place. The Kings will be looking for a replay of the 2012 playoffs in which they gave the Oilers quite a tough time. With an experienced and improved lineup, Los Angeles Kings are expected to keep themselves in contention this season as well. Fans are hoping for more powerhouse performances by the team and eagerly anticipating their upcoming matches.
Formation and Early Years
Since their formation in 1967, Los Angeles Kings have been a part of the Pacific Division, representing the Western Conference. Following the National Hockey League’s expansion, the Kings became the sixth team to be a part of the change. The Kings started their premier NHL season from the home arena, The Forum and continued playing there for almost 32 years. In the initial years, Los Angeles Kings struggled a bit and weren’t able to transform their match wins into championship titles. However, from the very beginning the team was able to give its opponents a tough time.
Wayne Gretzky – the Game Changer
Hailed as the greatest hockey player ever, with a NHL record of being the highest point scorer, Wayne Gretzky is credited for placing the Kings on the hockey map. Following what can perhaps be called one of the most controversial trades in NHL, Gretzky joined Los Angeles Kings in 1988. He immediately propelled the team to newer heights, all the while increasing the popularity of ice hockey in the country. Not only did the legend change the face of the sport, but after his inception in the team, Kings witnessed several sold out matches as Los Angeles Kings tickets sale created records. Under Wayne Gretzky’s leadership, Los Angeles Kings made it to several playoffs and eventually their first Stanley Cup final. Although they didn’t win the title but Gretzky appeared as one of the leading scorers. In 1999, he was inducted in the team’s Hall of Fame and the Kings also retired number 99 in his honor.
Stanley Cup Victory
Los Angeles Kings ended their long Stanley Cup final drought in 2012. They met New Jersey Devils in the final, who were coming from an Eastern Conference playoff win. With the final score 4-2, the Kings defeated Jersey Devils quite convincingly and the goaltender, Jonathan Quick was named the MVP. It also made the Kings the only eighth seeded team to win the Stanley Cup.
Los Angeles Kings Today
Having some of the most talented players in its roster, Los Angeles Kings is ready for the challenges this year. The team will have to take it up a notch, especially after the addition of Vancouver and Edmonton teams in their division. Jonathan Quick still in the side and one of the best goaltenders in the league, can take the team out of the toughest of situations. In the recent training sessions a lot of attention has been given to defense as well, so positive changes will be seen there as well. Kings are ready for a great 2013-2014 season and anticipating huge attendance at their home and away games.