The National Hockey League has plenty to celebrate next season. Not only is it the 100th anniversary of the league and the Toronto Maple Leafs, but it’s also the 50th anniversary of the six-team expansion of 1967 that transformed the league from a regional fancy into a national sporting presence. Plans for next season are already being leaked.
The Pittsburgh Penguins will hold a fan fest on Aug. 27 and 28. The Los Angeles Kings are planning a 35-foot monument for the Staples Center plaza, along with a special 50th anniversary jersey. The club also will wear past Kings jerseys during warm-ups at select games to benefit the Kings Care Foundation (they have plenty of options on the table, but our fingers are crossed for the infamous Burger King design).