The Los Angeles Kings Retire The Number Of Hall Of Fame Defenseman Rob Blake

In a fantastic ceremony before the start of the game between the The Los Angeles Kings and The Anaheim Ducks, Hall of Fame defenseman Rob Blake had his number retired and lifted into the rafters of Staples Center. Blake is the sixth Kings player to have his number retired by the organization joining Rogie Vachon, Marcel Dionne, Dave Taylor, Wayne Gretzky and Luc Robitaille as one of the greatest in team history. Blake had played 14 of his 21 years in the NHL with the Kings.

Los Angeles Kings

The ceremony, which started an hour before the drop of the puck, took place on center ice on a stage that had “Blake” and “4” in bold print. The voice of the Kings, Bob Miller, lead the ceremony.

Along with a video presentation of some of Blake’s greatest hits, several former Kings greats and teammates of Blake joined him on stage for the honor. Some of those included Mattias Norstrom, Kelly Hrudey, Jim Fox and Daryl Evans.

Blake had even dropped the ceremonial puck between the Kings and the Ducks before the game. Why not? A man that is now cemented in Los Angeles Kings history should be able to do whatever he wants on his night.

As for the team, L.A. had worn patches on their jerseys with “Blake 4” (a similar design to the banner that will hang in the rafters) honoring the long time King. In addition, the number “4” had been painted on the ice in back of both goals.

Congratulations, Mr. Blake!