LA Kings players predominantly reside in the South Bay beach communities of Los Angeles. This concentration in the South Bay largely began around the year 2000, coinciding with a significant change in the team's operational logistics and the financial landscape of the NHL.
The Allure of the South Bay
The move of LA Kings players to the South Bay beach cities was a strategic and practical decision. This area offers a desirable lifestyle with its coastal environment while also providing key conveniences for professional athletes.
Key Factors Influencing Their Residence
Several factors contributed to the collective shift of LA Kings players to the South Bay, making it their preferred residential area:
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Proximity to Practice Facility | The opening of the Toyota Sports Center in 2000, the team's state-of-the-art practice facility located in El Segundo, was a primary catalyst. Living in nearby South Bay communities significantly reduces commute times, offering convenient access for daily training, team meetings, and conditioning sessions. |
| Increased Player Salaries | Over the years, the substantial increase in National Hockey League (NHL) player salaries has made it much more financially feasible for athletes to afford and enjoy the lifestyle offered by these affluent beach communities. This economic factor complements the convenience of location, making the South Bay an attractive and accessible choice. |
This combination of convenient access to their primary training facility and the financial capacity to reside in a desirable, amenity-rich area has solidified the South Bay as the unofficial home base for many LA Kings players.
