Rob Blake and the Los Angeles Kings: End of an Era
Rob Blake has been a pivotal figure for the Los Angeles Kings, shaping the franchise both on and off the ice. His recent departure as general manager concludes a significant chapter in Kings and NHL history. This article delves into Blake’s contributions, key decisions, and the impact of his lasting legacy with the Kings.
Rob Blake’s Tenure as General Manager
Rob Blake was appointed as the Los Angeles Kings' vice president and general manager in April 2017, following his stint as assistant GM starting in 2013-14. Over eight seasons, Blake led the team in a bid to bridge past Stanley Cup glory with a new era of talent. The Kings, under his guidance, secured playoff berths five times. However, they struggled to advance, facing four consecutive first-round eliminations by the Edmonton Oilers.
Blake's management style was bold and proactive. He executed major trades, including acquiring Kevin Fiala and making the high-profile move for Pierre-Luc Dubois. Although some decisions, like the Dubois trade, didn’t work as planned, Blake also managed successful recoveries, such as flipping Dubois for Vezina Trophy finalist goaltender Darcy Kuemper. For more insight on these key moves, read ESPN’s coverage of Rob Blake’s tenure.
Decisive Moments and Franchise Impact
Blake’s leadership saw the Kings stay competitive with a .557 points percentage over his term. He developed promising young players like Quinton Byfield while balancing the roster with seasoned veterans. But postseason success remained elusive. The frustration peaked after another first-round exit in 2025, leading to a "mutual agreement" for Blake to part ways with the franchise.
Team president Luc Robitaille stated, “Rob deserves a great deal of credit and respect for elevating us to where we are today. He has been an important part of the Kings and will always be appreciated for what he has meant to this franchise.” The respect and appreciation for Blake’s dedication are echoed across the organization. For the official statement and more details, visit NHL.com’s announcement.
The Aftermath and What’s Next for the Kings
With Blake’s departure, the Kings now search for a new general manager while also facing questions about coach Jim Hiller’s future. The last four years saw the Kings repeatedly knocked out by the Oilers, despite improvements in regular season performance. In 2025, the team tied franchise records for wins and points, but once again fell short in the playoffs.
Blake’s Hall of Fame legacy goes beyond management. He played 14 seasons as a defenseman for the Kings, holding franchise records for goals by a defenseman. His No. 4 jersey hangs in the rafters, a testament to his enduring influence. Read more about the recent playoff heartbreak and coaching uncertainties in USA Today’s analysis.
Rob Blake’s Enduring Legacy in Los Angeles
Rob Blake’s journey with the Kings reflects perseverance, ambition, and an unwavering commitment to the franchise. While his tenure as GM concluded without playoff series wins, his efforts to steer the organization through transitions and his bold roster decisions are significant chapters in LA hockey history. Blake remains a respected member of the Kings family, remembered both for his leadership in the front office and his remarkable career on the ice.
The Kings now look forward, seeking a leader capable of building on Blake’s foundation. Fans and analysts alike will watch how the franchise evolves post-Blake, hoping for deeper playoff runs and eventual Stanley Cup contention.