Later tonight the ECHL's Ontario Reign - proud affiliate of the Los Angeles Kings - will host the Stockton Thunder in the home opener of their 2010-11 season. The arena will probably be packed, just as it has been since they played their first game there two seasons ago.
They were second in league attendance during their inaugural campaign and topped that by leading the entire 19-team league last season.
Several players on the current roster of the Kings top minor league franchise, the Manchester Monarchs of the AHL, have previously played for the Reign - including goaltender Jeff Zatkoff, defenseman Colten Teubert and forward Bud Holloway.
The synergies between the Kings and their affiliates aren't just on the ice. The team continues to strengthen their hockey presence and brand awareness by building a strong relationship with the Reign.
What better way to get things started tonight than to hear from the man in charge of the whole operation, Team President, Justin Kemp...
MM: Given the past attempts to bring this level of hockey to Southern California - not to mention there are two NHL teams here now - are you surprised by the success you guys have had in Ontario?
