Los Angeles Kings: A Brief Biography
The 1992 finalists of the Stanley Cup, The Kings have had their base in Los Angeles for the last thirty two years. Formed by Jack Kent Cooke, LA Kings won their very first match against Philadelphia Flyers 4-2 in October 1967. LA Kings finished second in their very first National Hockey League season, and fourth in the second season. Their performance was affected in the subsequent seasons due to attendance problems and inefficient management.
Bob Pulford became LA Kings' coach in 1972 for want of better performances. He proved his worth in merely two seasons, leading The Kings to a franchise record of making 105 points in the 1974-75 season. Their new center star Marcel Dionne, goalkeeper Rogie Vachon and forward Butch Goring further enhanced their performance in the 1995-96 season, leading The Kings to 38 wins and 9 draws and a Norris Division second position finish. The Kings' new owner, Bruce McNall turned its fortunes overnight when he acquired Wayne Gretzky, NHL's best contemporary player in 1988. Gretzky was awarded the Hart Memorial Trophy for the ninth time in his first season with LA Kings, when he, along with left winger Luc Robitaille lead them to fourth place NHL finish with a stunning 42 wins, 7 draws and 31 losses.
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