The NHL‘s greatest hit the half-century mark today. Happy Birthday, Wayne. No player has had a greater impact on the game than Wayne Gretzky, no one. When you’re talking Gretzky’s legacy, it’s easy to look at the numbers and championships. But, what attains the most to his imprint on the game? August 9th, 1988; The trade that changed the NHL in extreme fashion. The shocking move from the Edmonton Oilers to the Los Angeles Kings immediately had Southern California embracing the Kings. Gretzky left a dynasty built with four Stanley Cup championships, proven surroundings, and a booming hockey market in Edmonton. Although his tenure in Los Angeles never resulted in the success he had with the Oilers, the NHL embraced his presence to seed massive growth for the league. The controversial trade in the summer of 1988 is widely said to be the breaking point for hockey blossoming into all of North America. Since the historical transaction, California has added two clubs in the San Jose Sharks and Anaheim Ducks. Doors continued to open, attracting heavy expansion into tropical climates such as Tampa Bay, Florida, Atlanta, and Phoenix. His legacy shouldn’t be hanging in the rafters, it shouldn’t be in the form of a statue, it should be back in the league. New positions are being implemented among numerous front offices, the Kings’ need to make an effort to fit Gretzky into their operations.

Not only is Gretzky’s absence from the league disturbing, but the manner in which it happened lingers with a sour aftertaste. His dispute with the NHL eventually forced him to resign as head coach of the Phoenix Coyotes, with internal issues left unresolved. Gretzky doesn’t need to make amends with the league, he probably shouldn’t even have to. The Kings’ should be talking to the displaced historical figure, offering a front office position. His unprecedented skill aside, Gretzky’s knowledge of the game was a major factor in his dominant 22 year career. His intelligence would be a vital asset to this prospect-heavy organization, Dean Lombardi could use the help. If you’re looking to add an advisor, I’m not sure there’s a better candidate. Efforts should be made to welcome hockey’s most historical figure back to this organization. He’d have full respect throughout the organization, a chance to work with former teammate Luc Robitaille, and return to Los Angeles; the city, the team, and the fans that embraced the most monumental figure to ever grace the game. Get the fishing rod out, Dean. Reel him in.

At first, it almost looks like “The King” is bursting out of Staples Center‘s orange castle. Before I dive into this horrific, unnecessary addition to the NHL All-Star Game, I’d like to apologize for a couple of things. First, to myself, for dedicating time and thought on this subject. Second, to you, who is either becoming aware of the Guardian Project for the first time, or have just been ruthlessly blind-sided to come across it again. The NHL All-Star Game is dying right before our eyes; and this pathetic, and somewhat embarrassing new feature is a sure sign of it’s demise. Each team in the league is going to have it’s own “Guardian”. I’m not sure why, I’m not sure what for, and I’m sure it’s going to be awful.

From LAKings.com: The King is not afraid to go into battle. In fact,he wants to be the one to lead the Guardians into battle. A thespian at heart, The King lives in the city that loves its celebrities. Yet when he walks amongst them, he is the biggest star in the room. He’s comfortable on the red carpet but far more likely to be found at a director’s house discussing his latest film. He counts many of the town’s celebs as close friends but super stardom isn’t his priority. Instead, the King focuses on much grander pursuits and would rather be known for his skill and humanitarianism than for the superhuman feats he performs.

Holy shi* that was terrible, did you read that? And poor Luc Robitaille was put in what I’m sure was an uncomfortable position to mouth an empty, half-hearted response: “The NHL continues to strive to expand its audience and the association with a cultural icon like Stan Lee is a great example,” said Kings President, Business Operations, Luc Robitaille. “We really like what Stan has created for the Kings and we think this will be something our fans will be excited about as well.”

I discovered this over the weekend, but last night’s ceremonial puck-drop at Staples Center put me over the edge. Nothing against Stan Lee, I’m sure he’s a wonderful guy. He’s obviously pretty damn successful, the guy knows what he’s doing. My problems have nothing to do with him, but the heavy marketing campaign the NHL is using to push this ludicrous idea. Oh, and I don’t know about you, but I’m not sure how comfortable I am with this guy packing a sword that causes earthquakes. Could you ask for a scarier threat, especially in this city? Look at that careless grip. Don’t run with scissors, don’t run with earthquake-inducing swords. Simple safety clause, that’s all. Stupid.

Apparently a couple of Kings fans had access to Luc Robitaille‘s office quite recently and spotted something odd. “Holy shi*! White alternates!” Did prototypes of redesigned Kings uniforms just get leaked? What does this mean? Now, some have mentioned that it may be an option for our new alternate. There is growth in lobbying for the NHL to go back to whites at home. Thus, the Kings would need a white alternate. There has been no indication from the NHL that this is going to happen anytime soon. Throw that option out the window.

There’s also talk about local teams using the design shown. This is very possible, I don’t refute that. However, there are two designs shown. Notice, one jersey has Silver-Black-Silver elbow striping while one has Black-Silver-Black elbow striping. What is the greater possibility here? Two styles of a jersey used in local amateur leagues, or two prototypes for a future Kings uniform? Since the differences in the two uniforms are so very subtle, I’m calling Kings. They don’t just slap a couple of stripes on these things and throw them in the lockers. Those are in Luc Robitaille‘s office to be evaluated, and possibly even voted on. I’m calling legitimate, and I’ve seen it coming since 2009.

The introduction of the current Alternate was just as much of a test-market strategy as it was to simply provide the Kings with a new look. Sure, management knew what they were doing when introducing a trendy design with classic roots. How could they go wrong with a fresh look in the silver and black from the Gretzky era? And to have to eliminate only one color made it an even easier option, no need for a complete overhaul. For the most part, fans have loved it. The Alternate has taken a solid chunk out of the classic home and roads being worn by fans. The playoffs were targeted to market the new look, using “Back in Black” as the slogan to promote. The new look has been accepted by fans, and management knows it. The writing is on the wall for a uniform revamp, and it’s not in purple.

A blast from the KingsCast past. In this previously released episode (#8), Keith and Chris visit Kings and Hockey superfan Joe “the Collector’s” pad and check out his extensive and somewhat insane memorabilia collection. To be featured on your own episode of “Fanz” please send pics and a brief description of your collection and we’ll try and get you on-air.

Per LAKings.com

LOS ANGELES – The Los Angeles Kings will host the 2010 NHL Entry Draft at STAPLES Center, the National Hockey League and the Kings announced Friday. The annual Draft — which will take place June 25-26, 2010 — will be in Los Angeles for the first time ever.

“The Los Angeles Kings organization would like to thank NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman, and Bill Daly, John Collins, Don Renzulli and the entire National Hockey League for awarding the Kings, STAPLES Center and the city of Los Angeles this prestigious event,” said Kings Governor Timothy J. Leiweke. “The fact that the Draft will be at STAPLES Center and at L.A. LIVE next June is very special to us as our team has been built largely through the Draft and our patience is being rewarded right now. L.A. LIVE is the event capital of the world and we are excited that the NHL Draft is the first of many League Drafts that L.A. expects to host in the future.”

“It has been terrific to watch the continuing evolution of the Los Angeles Kings, as well as the growth of hockey in the state of California,” said National Hockey League Commissioner Gary Bettman. “With local youth programs producing an increasing number of elite players, we are extremely pleased to bring this showcase event to California for the first time.”

“This is a very exciting and this is a very special announcement,” said Kings President of Business Operations, Luc Robitaille, who was originally selected by the Kings in the ninth-round (171st overall) of the 1984 NHL Entry Draft. “The Draft is the place so many young players in our sport begin their professional careers and next summer the future of the NHL will be on display in Los Angeles. With the success of L.A. LIVE and our new incredible hotel opening in February, it is the ideal setting for yet another major sports and entertainment event to come to downtown Los Angeles. It is also another example that Los Angeles is a thriving hockey market with knowledgeable fans.”

“With the draft being here in L.A. next summer, maybe we can find another Luc Robitaille,” said Kings President/General Manager Dean Lombardi.

First priority for all Draft ticketing at STAPLES Center for June 25 and 26 will be given to Kings full season ticket members and STAPLES Center premier seat and suite holders. For official Draft ticket information, call 1-888-KINGS-LA or register for official Draft ticket information by clicking here.

The Kings’ current roster features eight players selected by the club in the annual NHL Draft including seven total players who were selected in the first-round (by the Kings or another NHL club). This list features Dustin Brown (13th overall in 2003), Drew Doughty (2nd overall in 2008), Alexander Frolov (20th overall in 2000), Anze Kopitar (11th overall in 2005), Jack Johnson (3rd overall by Carolina in 2005), Ryan Smyth (6th overall by Edmonton in 1994) and Justin Williams (28th overall by Philadelphia in 2000).

Since Lombardi assumed President/General Manager duties with the Kings, he has used the draft unlike any General Manager in team history to help implement his vision as he continues to build the Kings. Since 2006, Lombardi and the Kings have used 38 overall selections including six in the first round, five in second round and seven in the third round. The Kings have chosen at least one player in each of these rounds the last four years, and going forward the Kings have 10 selections in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft, including six in the first three rounds.

At the annual NHL Entry Draft, which began in 1969, the Kings have selected 385 total players including 32 in the first round, 40 in the second round and 38 in the third round. (The Kings had two selections in the NHL Amateur Draft – 1967 and 1968 – when there was only one round and different draft rules applied).

The highest draft selections the Kings have had in their history were the second overall selections (three times: Doughty, Jimmy Carson in 1986 and Doug Smith in 1981). The Kings have held a draft choice in the top five overall selections six other times (third overall: Aki Berg in 1995, Olli Jokinen in 1997; fourth overall: Larry Murphy in 1980, Wayne McBean in 1987, Thomas Hickey in 2007; fifth overall: Brayden Schenn in 2009).

Some other notable Kings draft picks over the years include the following: Butch Goring – Fifth-round (51st overall) in 1969; Billy Smith – Fifth-round (59th overall) in 1970; Dave Taylor – 15th-round (210th overall) in 1975; Jay Wells – First-round (16th overall) in 1979; Mark Hardy – Second-round (30th overall) in 1979 Jim Fox – First-round (10th overall) in 1980; Bernie Nicholls – Fourth-round (73rd overall) in 1980; Kevin Stevens – Sixth-round (108th overall) in 1983; Rob Blake – Fourth-round (70th overall) in 1988; Alexei Zhitnik – Fourth-round (81st overall) in 1991; Lubomir Visnovsky – Fourth-round (118th overall) in 2000; and Michael Cammalleri – Second-round (49th overall) in 2001.

Three players selected by the Kings are currently in the Hockey Hall of Fame – Robitaille, Murphy and Billy Smith.

The Kings began play in the National Hockey League in 1967 and the club has never hosted the NHL Entry Draft. In fact, for the first time in its 46-year history, the NHL Entry Draft will be held in the State of California. The 2009 Draft was held in Montreal as part of that organization’s Centennial celebration.

Defenseman Jonathon Blum, a native of Long Beach, California, and member of the 2007 Memorial Cup-champion Vancouver Giants of the Western Hockey League, became the first California-born and trained player to ever be selected in the first round (2007). Blum, claimed by the Nashville Predators with the 23rd overall pick, played his youth hockey with the California Wave before moving to the WHL.

Since 2001, 23 players have been drafted from the state of California, including nine in the last three draft years. Only five states in the U.S. have had more – Minnesota, Massachusetts, New York, Michigan and Illinois.

Long Beach, California native Emerson Etem is ranked fourth by NHL Central Scouting on its “Top 25 Western Hockey League Players to Watch” list for the 2010 Draft. Etem, a speedy center with great puckhandling skills, is second on his team — Medicine Hat Tigers — in goal scoring with 20.

The first round of the 2010 NHL Entry Draft will take place on Friday, June 25, beginning at 4 p.m. (PT). On Saturday, the draft concludes with rounds two-seven.

KingsCast Take: This is going to be a huge event for Los Angeles Kings fans. The Canadian media will descend upon Los Angeles for two days of hockey. I know we’re going, are you?

Luc Robitaille was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame this week. If you’re looking for a true Los Angeles Kings, Luc Robitaille is it. Enjoy his speech!

Check out the KingsCast Tribute to Luc Robitaille

Knocking off the defending Stanley Cup champions is such a good feeling! Losing to the lowly Nashville Predators is not. We take you through these games, interview PsychoHockeyLady and anoint one rabid ‘Fan of the Game.’ If you’re Coach Murray, what do you do what that 4th line?

Gann Matsuda of Frozen Royalty continues his tribute to Luc Robitaille on the eve of Luc’s Hall of Fame induction. Give it a read!

Robitaille The Leader

I’ve always admired people who were gifted with the quality of leadership, and when leadership and raw athletic ability are found together in one person, it’s a rare combination to be sure. I think that one of the things that I appreciate most about Luc is that not only does he possess this combination, but that it is manifested in him in a unique way. Luc brings a contagious passion to the rink every day and to everything he does. I found that being around that kind of passion and desire made the game even more enjoyable for me and challenged me to give to my full capacity.
— Former Kings tough guy Stu Grimson

Some of the “tenets of leadership” are:

* Every person has leadership potential
* Leadership development is an ongoing process to maximize individual potential
* With leadership training comes the responsibility for action
* Leaders have a responsibility to nurture emerging leaders

Moreover, strong leaders exhibit such characteristics as:

* Dispensing hope
* Foresightedness
* Integrity of character
* Sharing of oneself

(Source: J.W. Fanning Institute for Leadership)

Hockey fans often judge the leadership skills of a player on what they see and hear, which is not unexpected because they must rely on the media for their information about the teams and players. However, even though there is so much more information available today because of the Internet, fans still have very limited information about the intangible aspects of the game, and that includes the leadership qualities of a specific player.

To be sure, very, very few fans would consider Robitaille to be one of the Kings’ great leaders. Instead, they would likely point to Wayne Gretzky, Dave Taylor, Marcel Dionne, Bernie Nicholls and Mattias Norstrom.

Read the article on Frozen Royalty

On the eve of Luc Robitaille’s induction to the Hockey Hall of Fame, we release this episode about the face of the Los Angeles Kings. Here we discuss what Luc has meant to the hearts of the fans of the LA Kings and pay our special tribute. What are your favorite memories of Luc?

Part one of Gann Matsuda’s tribute to Luc Robitalle. This will be an exciting series.

EL SEGUNDO, CA — Back on April 3, 1995, the night that all-time Los Angeles Kings great Dave Taylor had his jersey number 18 retired by the club, this reporter wrote that he was the King of Kings, earning that right above other all-time Kings’ greats such as Marcel Dionne, Rogie Vachon and Wayne Gretzky.

“No Kings’ player had ever measured up to Taylor when it came to heart, the desire to excel and win and the ability and willingness to go into the corners and sacrifice his body for his team,” I wrote. “No other Kings’ player has ever come close to Taylor as far as leadership—on the ice and off—is concerned, [and] no Kings’ player has ever matched his relentless work ethic, his dedication to his team, the game of hockey and his community.”

To be sure, Taylor had earned the right to wear the crown as the King of Kings, and was a great standard bearer for the organization, both on and off the ice. But on Tuesday, April 11, 2006, the day that Kings all-time great left wing Luc Robitaille announced at a press conference that he would retire at the conclusion of the 2005-06 season, Taylor immediately abdicated the crown because his reign is over. Robitaille now wears the crown as new Kings of Kings.

Read the rest at Gann Matsuda’s Frozen Royalty