The Triple Crown Line of the LA Kings

The Triple Crown Line of the LA Kings, consisting of Marcel Dionne, Charlie Simmer, and Dave Taylor, was a force to be reckoned with during the late 1970s and early 1980s. This iconic line came together in the 1978-79 season when head coach Bob Berry decided to pair up these talented players. Dionne, a gifted center known for his playmaking abilities, complemented Simmer’s power-forward style on the left wing. Taylor completed the line as a right winger renowned for his scoring prowess. Their chemistry was evident from the start as they dominated opposing defenses and provided an electrifying presence on the ice.

The Triple Crown Line played an instrumental role in leading the Kings to their first-ever division title in the 1979-80 season, amassing an impressive combined total of 285 points. They continued to wreak havoc throughout their tenure together, leaving a lasting legacy as one of the most potent offensive lines in NHL history.

The Triple Crown Line of the LA Kings

Marcel Dionne:

  • A Hall of Famer and one of the greatest players in NHL history.
  • Played for the Kings from 1975 to 1987.
  • His best years were with the Triple Crown Line.
  • Recorded several 50-goal seasons and was known for his incredible playmaking abilities.
  • Finished his NHL career with over 1,700 points.

Dave Taylor:

  • Spent his entire 17-year NHL career with the Kings, from 1977 to 1994.
  • A versatile forward known for his scoring ability and physical play.
  • Part of the Triple Crown Line’s success was attributed to Taylor’s two-way skills.
  • Taylor served as the Kings’ captain for several years.

Charlie Simmer:

  • Joined the Kings in the late 1970s and became a key member of the Triple Crown Line.
  • Known for his scoring touch and net-front presence.
  • Injuries hampered his career, but he still had several remarkable seasons with the Kings.

Statistical Tidbits and Achievements:

  • The Triple Crown Line combined for an astonishing 328 points during the 1980-81 season. Each linemate had over 100 points for the first time in NHL history.
  • Marcel Dionne recorded five 50-goal seasons during his time with the Triple Crown Line.
  • Dave Taylor consistently scored around 30 goals per season and was known for his physicality.
  • Charlie Simmer had a remarkable 56-goal season in 1980-81.
  • The line often accounted for a significant portion of the Kings’ total goals during their peak years.

Impact and Legacy:

  • The Triple Crown Line was instrumental in elevating the Kings’ status in the NHL during the 1980s.
  • Their offensive prowess and chemistry made them one of the most feared lines in the league.
  • Despite their individual success, the line couldn’t lead the Kings to a Stanley Cup victory.
  • The legacy of the Triple Crown Line remains strong, and its members are fondly remembered by Kings fans.

Trivia and Tidbits:

  • The name “Triple Crown Line” refers to the line’s three players, each of whom wore a crown on their jerseys.
  • The Triple Crown Line played a significant role in popularizing hockey in Southern California and increasing the sport’s visibility in the region.
  • Injuries to Charlie Simmer and Marcel Dionne at various points limited the line’s full potential, but they still managed to put up remarkable numbers.

In conclusion, the Triple Crown Line of the LA Kings was undoubtedly one of the most dominant and dynamic lines in NHL history. This trio exemplified skill, finesse, and sheer scoring ability throughout their tenure together in the late 1970s to early 1980s. 

Their exceptional chemistry on the ice was evident in their relentless offensive onslaughts that left opponents gasping for air. With Dionne as the center orchestrating plays, Taylor being a versatile winger with impeccable defensive skills, and Simmer wreaking havoc around the net with his size and hands, they were virtually unstoppable. Even though they fell short of winning a Stanley Cup title during their time together, their legacy lives on as one of hockey’s greatest lines ever assembled.

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