Dave Taylor's journey in professional hockey began when he was drafted by the Los Angeles Kings in the 1975 NHL Amateur Draft. Selected in the 15th round as the 210th overall pick, Taylor defied expectations and went on to have a remarkable career with the Kings. Before joining the NHL, he honed his skills at Clarkson University, where he played college hockey and developed into a formidable right winger.

Taylor made his NHL debut with the Kings in the 1977-78 season. Over the years, he became an integral part of the team's offensive lineup. Known for his scoring ability and playmaking skills, Taylor quickly established himself as a reliable forward. His chemistry with teammates Marcel Dionne and Charlie Simmer formed the famous "Triple Crown Line," one of the most productive lines in NHL history. During the 1980-81 season, Taylor achieved a personal milestone by scoring 112 points, including 47 goals and 65 assists, which placed him among the league's top scorers.

Throughout his playing career, Taylor was recognized for his consistency and leadership on the ice. He served as the Kings' captain from 1985 to 1989, guiding the team through various challenges and successes. Taylor's dedication to the sport and his team was evident in his performance, as he consistently ranked among the team's top scorers and played a crucial role in their playoff appearances.

In 1994, after 17 seasons with the Kings, Taylor retired as a player. His legacy with the team was cemented by his impressive statistics, including 431 goals and 638 assists for a total of 1,069 points in 1,111 games. Taylor's contributions to the Kings were honored when his number 18 jersey was retired by the team, a testament to his enduring influence and achievements.

Following his retirement from playing, Taylor transitioned to a management role within the Kings organization. He served as the team's General Manager from 1997 to 2006. During his tenure, Taylor was responsible for overseeing player acquisitions, trades, and team development. His efforts helped shape the team's roster and contributed to their competitive performance in the league.

Taylor's career in hockey extended beyond his time with the Kings. He also held various roles with other NHL teams, including the Dallas Stars and the St. Louis Blues, where he continued to contribute his expertise and knowledge of the game. His extensive experience in both playing and management roles made him a respected figure in the hockey community.

In summary, Dave Taylor's career in hockey spanned nearly three decades, during which he excelled as both a player and a manager.

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