Kris King, a Canadian professional ice hockey player, spent his career primarily in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a left winger. Born on February 18, 1966, in Bracebridge, Ontario, King was known for his role as an enforcer on the ice, a position that required physicality and a willingness to protect teammates. His journey in professional hockey began when he was drafted 80th overall by the Washington Capitals in the 1984 NHL Entry Draft. However, he never played for the Capitals, as his rights were traded to the Detroit Red Wings.
King made his NHL debut with the Detroit Red Wings during the 1987-1988 season. After a brief stint with the Red Wings, he was traded to the New York Rangers in 1989. It was with the Rangers that King began to establish himself as a reliable enforcer, playing a gritty style of hockey that endeared him to fans and teammates alike. His time with the Rangers lasted until 1991, when he was traded to the Winnipeg Jets.
The Winnipeg Jets provided King with a stable environment where he could further develop his role on the team. Over the course of five seasons with the Jets, King became a fan favorite for his toughness and willingness to stand up for his teammates. His leadership qualities were recognized, and he served as an alternate captain for the team. During his tenure with the Jets, King played in 365 games, scoring 36 goals and adding 45 assists.
In 1996, King was part of a trade that sent him to the Phoenix Coyotes, a franchise that had relocated from Winnipeg. His time with the Coyotes was marked by his continued role as a team leader and enforcer. King played two seasons in Phoenix, contributing both on and off the ice with his experience and tenacity.
King's career continued with the Toronto Maple Leafs, where he signed as a free agent in 1997. Playing for the Maple Leafs was a homecoming of sorts, as King returned to his home province of Ontario. During his time with the Maple Leafs, he played in 161 games, tallying 10 goals and 18 assists. His presence in the locker room and on the ice was valued by the team, and he continued to serve as a mentor to younger players.
In the latter stages of his career, King joined the Chicago Blackhawks for the 1999-2000 season. Although his time with the Blackhawks was brief, he continued to fulfill his role as an enforcer and veteran presence. King retired from professional hockey following the 2000-2001 season, concluding a career that spanned over a decade in the NHL.
Throughout his career, Kris King was known for his toughness, leadership, and dedication to his teammates. He played in a total of 849 NHL games, scoring 66 goals and 85 assists, while amassing 2,030 penalty minutes. After retiring as a player, King remained involved in hockey, taking on roles within the NHL's front office, where he worked on player safety and disciplinary matters.
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