The writing has been on the wall for the Los Angeles Kings for a few years now. They haven’t done much in the postseason since the 2nd Stanley Cup in 2014. Heck they aren’t even making the postseason most years. And I’m on record as being annoyed that they perpetually pan to the 2 Stanley Cup banners during the National Anthem. I know 2014 was an eternity ago, especially when it comes to SPORTS.

And still, with the 3 transactions in the last 3 weeks…with the departures of Clifford, Toffoli, and Martinez via trades…it now really feels like that winning era is well and truly over. I’m used to the Kings not being good. I’m used to them trading for players that used to be good in a futile attempt to get 7% better (or bring in Friends of Gretzky). I’m used to them losing players to free agency…or not getting them via free agency to begin with. But watching fan-favorite players go in trades for futures...players who were instrumental in those magical Cup runs…that’s…new. Different. Sad. Final.

So I wish nothing but success to Kyle Clifford, Tyler Toffoli, and Alec Martinez. Enjoy playing in meaningful games in April. And none of you will have to buy a beer in Los Angeles ever again.