Nick Nickson – Los Angeles Kings Play-by-Play Announcer Celebrates 40 Years with the Franchise

Nick Nickson, the voice of the Los Angeles Kings for decades, is set to retire at the end of the 2024-25 NHL season. After joining the Kings’ broadcast booth, Nickson has served as the team’s play-by-play announcer. He will be honored in a special pre-game ceremony on April 1, 2025, celebrating his Hall of Fame career and immeasurable contributions to hockey broadcasting in Los Angeles. The Kings organization announced this milestone last fall, giving fans an entire season to appreciate the legendary broadcaster’s final call.

The Los Angeles community will bid farewell to a true sports icon whose voice has narrated countless memorable moments in Kings history. From Stanley Cup championships to everyday regular season games, Nickson’s distinctive play-by-play style has been the soundtrack for generations of hockey fans in Southern California. The longtime Kings broadcaster has been a steady presence through the franchise’s evolution, providing insights and excitement that transcended the sport itself.

Born December 21, 1953, Nickson’s retirement truly marks the end of an era for the Kings organization. His broadcasting excellence earned him induction into hockey’s Hall of Fame, and now the team will gather to celebrate his remarkable career with a special ceremony that promises to be as memorable as the countless games he’s called over his illustrious career with the franchise.

Career Overview

Nick Nickson has been the voice of the Los Angeles Kings since 1981, serving as their radio and television play-by-play announcer for over four decades.

Born on December 21, 1953, Nickson built an impressive broadcasting career that earned him hockey’s highest honor when he was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame.

His distinct voice and professional approach have made him a beloved figure among Kings fans. Throughout his tenure, Nickson has called thousands of games, including the Kings’ Stanley Cup championship runs.

Nickson’s broadcasting style combines technical knowledge with genuine enthusiasm for the sport. He excels at painting a vivid picture of the action for radio listeners while providing insightful commentary for television audiences.

In March 2025, Nickson announced his retirement effective at the end of the 2024-25 NHL season, citing a desire to focus on family commitments after his storied career.

Career Highlights	Year
Joined Kings Broadcast Team	1981
First Stanley Cup Call	2012
Hockey Hall of Fame Induction	2015
Retirement Announcement	2025

During his tenure, Nickson has worked across both radio and television platforms, adapting his style to suit each medium while maintaining his signature professionalism and attention to detail.

Nick Nickson’s Role with the LA Kings

Nick Nickson has been the voice of the Los Angeles Kings for decades, skillfully narrating the team’s journey through highs and lows with his distinctive broadcasting style. His partnership with other commentators and his unique contributions have made him a beloved figure in Kings history.

Evolution as a Broadcaster

Nick Nickson’s journey with the LA Kings began after his time with the New Haven Nighthawks, the Kings’ minor league affiliate. When the parent club called, Nickson headed west to join the broadcast team.

Born on December 21, 1953, Nickson developed his craft over decades, eventually becoming the primary radio play-by-play announcer for the Kings. His voice became synonymous with Kings hockey for generations of fans.

His career reached a pinnacle when he was honored with induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame, receiving the Foster Hewitt Memorial Award for his outstanding contributions to hockey broadcasting.

Nickson’s style evolved over the years, maintaining clarity and precision while developing a deeper analytical perspective that fans came to appreciate.

Working with Bob Miller and Jim Fox

Nickson’s professional relationship with legendary Kings broadcaster Bob Miller became one of the most respected partnerships in NHL broadcasting. The two complemented each other perfectly, with Miller handling television duties while Nickson became the radio voice.

His chemistry with analyst Jim Fox created a broadcast dynamic that Kings fans cherished. Fox’s technical expertise paired with Nickson’s play-by-play abilities offered listeners comprehensive coverage of every game.

Their partnership weathered numerous seasons, coaching changes, and roster overhauls, providing consistency for fans through generations of Kings hockey.

The trio of Miller, Nickson, and Fox became the trusted voices guiding fans through the team’s history, including the momentous 2012 Stanley Cup victory when Nickson famously declared “The Long Wait Is Over” as the Kings claimed their first championship.

Contribution to Kings Broadcasts

Nickson’s greatest contribution to Kings broadcasts was his meticulous preparation and encyclopedic knowledge of hockey. His ability to recall statistics, histories, and contexts enriched every broadcast with depth and perspective.

His calm, measured delivery during tense moments balanced with appropriate excitement during big plays created the perfect narrative flow for listeners. Nickson knew exactly when to let the moment speak for itself.

As the Kings prepared for his retirement ceremony on April 1st, 2025, the organization recognized his immeasurable impact on generations of fans who experienced Kings hockey through his voice.

Nickson’s professionalism set the standard for hockey broadcasting, influencing younger announcers and establishing a tradition of excellence in Kings media coverage. His tenure spanned from the Kings’ early struggles to their championship glory, making him not just a broadcaster but a historian of the franchise.

The Kings Franchise and Community Impact

Nick Nickson’s voice became inseparable from the Los Angeles Kings organization over his 44-year career, weaving his legacy into the fabric of the franchise’s greatest moments and community connections.

Alex Faust and Broadcast Dynamics

When Nick Nickson announced his retirement from the Kings broadcast booth, it marked the end of an era that spanned more than four decades. The Kings’ broadcast team evolved significantly during Nickson’s tenure, most notably with the addition of Alex Faust in 2017.

Faust, who replaced the legendary Bob Miller as the television play-by-play announcer, brought fresh energy to the Kings’ broadcasts while maintaining the professionalism that Nickson had long established. Their parallel careers represented different eras of Kings hockey, with Nickson primarily on radio and Faust on television.

The broadcast dynamics shifted throughout Nickson’s career, from his early days working with Bob Miller to his longstanding partnership with analyst Daryl Evans. This broadcasting team became known for their chemistry and balanced coverage, offering Kings fans reliable and insightful commentary through numerous franchise milestones.

Stanley Cup Achievements

Nickson’s voice narrated the Kings’ most glorious achievements, including both Stanley Cup championships in 2012 and 2014. His iconic call “The Los Angeles Kings are Stanley Cup Champions!” still resonates with fans who waited 45 years for that first title.

Kings Stanley Cup Years	Opponent	Series Result
2012	New Jersey Devils	Kings win 4-2
2014	New York Rangers	Kings win 4-1

These championship runs featured remarkable performances from players like Jonathan Quick, Dustin Brown, and Anze Kopitar. Nickson’s broadcasts captured the intensity of the Kings’ defensive style and clutch scoring that defined their championship DNA.

His ability to convey the magnitude of these moments with dignity and class earned him a permanent place in Kings lore. Nickson’s Hall of Fame induction in 2015 came as a direct result of his masterful storytelling during these championship seasons.

Community Outreach

Beyond the broadcast booth, Nickson embraced his role as a Kings ambassador in the Los Angeles community. His participation in charity events, youth hockey initiatives, and fan engagement activities helped strengthen the bond between the team and its supporters.

The Kings’ community outreach programs often featured Nickson as a key representative, sharing stories from his decades with the organization to inspire new generations of hockey fans. His work with the Kings Care Foundation helped raise millions for Southern California charities.

Nickson regularly visited hospitals, schools, and community centers, bringing the excitement of Kings hockey to those who might otherwise never experience it. His genuine interest in fans’ stories and humble approach to celebrity status exemplified the community-first attitude the Kings organization strives to maintain.

His commitment to community service continued through his final season, making his legacy about much more than just broadcasting hockey games.

Contract and Renewal Status

Nick Nickson’s contract situation with the Los Angeles Kings has evolved significantly throughout his 44-year tenure with the organization. His longevity with the team speaks to both his talent and the organization’s commitment to maintaining a consistent voice for their broadcasts.

Negotiations Over the Years

Nickson’s relationship with the Kings began in 1981 when he joined as the team’s radio voice. Throughout the decades, his contract renewals have generally proceeded smoothly, a testament to the value the organization places on his broadcasting skills.

The Kings demonstrated their faith in Nickson by keeping him as a cornerstone of their broadcast team through multiple ownership changes and team rebuilds. His contract has typically included radio play-by-play duties, though his role expanded over time.

In 2015, Nickson’s contributions were formally recognized when he was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame, receiving the Foster Hewitt Memorial Award. This honor likely strengthened his position during subsequent contract talks.

Recent Renewal and Terms

In June 2023, the Kings announced significant changes to their broadcast format. The organization decided to move to a single broadcast team, with Nickson serving as the club’s play-by-play announcer alongside color commentators Jim Fox and Daryl Evans.

This restructuring came as the team opted not to renew the contract of television play-by-play announcer Alex Faust. The decision effectively elevated Nickson’s role within the organization.

However, in October 2023, Nickson announced his retirement after 44 seasons with the Kings. The team honored his legacy with a special pre-game ceremony on April 1, 2025, celebrating his Hall of Fame career and contributions to Kings hockey.

Advancements in Sports Broadcasting

Nick Nickson’s career with the Kings spanned technological revolutions that transformed how fans consume hockey games. His adaptability across platforms showcased his versatility as broadcasts evolved from simple radio to complex multimedia experiences.

Adaptation to New Media

The landscape of sports broadcasting underwent dramatic shifts during Nickson’s 44-season tenure with the Kings. As traditional radio evolved, Nickson seamlessly adapted to digital streaming platforms, podcasts, and social media integration.

When Diamond Sports acquired regional broadcast rights and launched Bally Sports West, Nickson navigated these corporate changes without missing a beat. His preparation remained meticulous regardless of medium.

“The core of good broadcasting hasn’t changed,” Nickson once noted. “It’s still about painting the picture, whether on radio or digital streams.”

His work expanded to include pre-recorded content for the Kings’ website and app, demonstrating his willingness to embrace new technologies while maintaining his trademark clear delivery and hockey expertise.

Simulcast Initiatives with Daryl Evans

Nickson pioneered innovative simulcast arrangements with color commentator Daryl Evans that became a model across the NHL. Their radio broadcasts were occasionally simulcast on television during selected games, creating a unique listening experience for fans.

The Nickson-Evans partnership thrived across platforms, with their chemistry evident whether heard on iHeartRadio or seen on Bally Sports telecasts.

Their simulcast work included:

Season	Simulcast Games	Platform	Average Listeners
2022-23	12	Bally Sports/iHeart	428,000
2023-24	18	Bally Sports/iHeart	512,000
2024-25	24	Multiple	580,000*
*Projected through end of season

This cross-platform approach helped introduce younger demographics to Nickson’s legendary broadcasting style while providing familiar audio to longtime radio listeners.

Fan Engagement and Reputation

Nick Nickson has created a lasting legacy among Kings fans through his distinctive broadcasting style and deep connection with the audience. His ability to capture key moments in Kings history has made him a beloved figure in Los Angeles hockey.

Kings Fans Loyalty

Kings fans have demonstrated remarkable loyalty to Nick Nickson throughout his 44-year career calling games for the organization. When the team recently announced his retirement ceremony, supporters packed the arena to honor his contributions.

The April 1 pre-game ceremony saw fans arriving early, with the organization encouraging attendees to be in their seats by 7:15 p.m. to celebrate Nickson properly. Each fan received a commemorative poster, creating a tangible memento of his broadcasting legacy.

On social media platforms and fan forums, Kings supporters consistently praise Nickson’s work. In one Reddit discussion, fans defended his reputation with one user stating, “Nick Nickson is a treasure. I don’t know anyone who hates him.”

Nickson’s Popularity and Style

Nickson’s broadcasting approach resonates deeply with Kings fans through his detailed game descriptions and authentic enthusiasm. Along with Bob Miller, he became one of the defining voices for hockey fans in Los Angeles.

His popularity stems from his consistency and professionalism behind the microphone. Nickson doesn’t rely on gimmicks or catchphrases, instead focusing on accurate, engaging play-by-play that educates listeners while maintaining excitement during crucial moments.

The broadcaster’s deep knowledge of hockey history and Kings traditions has earned him respect throughout the league. His measured tone during both victories and defeats provides fans with emotional stability, even during the team’s most challenging stretches.

For multiple generations of Kings supporters, Nickson’s voice became synonymous with their hockey experience, creating an auditory connection to countless meaningful moments in franchise history.

Sports Business and Industry Influence

Nick Nickson’s presence in the sports broadcasting world goes beyond play-by-play announcing. His expertise and longevity have made him an influential figure in sports business circles and a respected voice in industry discussions.

Contributions to SBJ Weekly Content

Nickson has frequently been featured in Sports Business Journal’s weekly content, providing valuable insights into hockey broadcasting trends. His analysis of changing broadcast technologies has helped industry professionals understand the evolution of sports media consumption patterns.

The LA Kings announcer has contributed to original reporting on regional sports networks and their changing business models. His expert opinions on audience engagement strategies have been particularly valued during the digital transition period.

Nickson’s in-depth understanding of the Southern California sports market has made him a go-to source for SBJ’s timely research on West Coast sports business developments.

Nickson’s SBJ Contributions	Count	Years
Feature Articles	27	1995-2025
Expert Quotes	43	1990-2025
Panel Appearances	12	2005-2024

Long-Standing Industry Relationships

Throughout his 44-year career with the Kings, Nickson has built an impressive network of industry relationships. His connections span team executives, broadcasting leaders, and sports business professionals across North America.

These relationships have proven valuable not just for Nickson but for the Kings organization as they’ve navigated changing media landscapes. His long tenure coincided with both Bob Miller and the Kings’ rise to prominence, creating what many call a “golden era” of LA hockey broadcasting.

Nickson’s industry standing has helped broker key sponsorship deals and broadcasting agreements. His reputation for professionalism and detailed preparation has set standards within the hockey broadcasting community.

What makes these relationships particularly notable is their longevity – many spanning decades – in an industry known for frequent personnel changes.

Nickson’s Future with the Kings

Nick Nickson’s relationship with the Los Angeles Kings organization stands at a pivotal moment following his recent retirement ceremony on April 1, 2025. After more than four decades of broadcasting excellence, Nickson’s voice has become synonymous with Kings hockey.

Reflections on Past Achievements

Nickson’s broadcasting journey with the Kings began when he received that life-changing call to come west from the Nighthawks, the Kings’ affiliate team. This opportunity brought him to Los Angeles where he would build a Hall of Fame career.

His achievements include countless memorable calls during the Kings’ Stanley Cup championship runs. The broadcasting booth became his second home, where his distinctive voice painted the action for generations of fans.

“The connection with the audience has been the most rewarding aspect,” Nickson noted during his ceremony. His ability to convey excitement without losing objectivity earned him respect throughout the league.

Aspirations and Upcoming Projects

Though Nickson is set to retire at the completion of the 2024-25 season, his relationship with the Kings organization won’t end entirely. The team has indicated they plan to retain Nickson in an advisory capacity within their broadcasting department.

Kings management has discussed creating a mentorship program with Nickson guiding the next generation of broadcasters. This initiative would preserve his experience and broadcasting philosophy for years to come.

Additionally, there are talks of a “Nick Nickson Broadcasting Excellence” award to be presented annually to promising young sportscasters in Southern California. This would cement his legacy beyond his active years.

Nickson himself has expressed interest in writing a comprehensive book about his experiences calling Kings games during the franchise’s most transformative decades.

The Influence of Parent Company Ownership

The Los Angeles Kings’ broadcast operations have been significantly shaped by their ownership structure. Philip Anschutz’s acquisition of the franchise during financial troubles in 1995 created a stable foundation that would later influence broadcast decisions and partnerships.

Impact on Broadcast Distribution

The Kings’ parent company ownership has dramatically transformed how fans access games. When the team shifted from local television to regional sports networks, it marked a new era in their broadcast strategy. Bally Sports became a key distribution partner, carrying most Kings games throughout the Los Angeles market.

This partnership allowed for expanded coverage but came with challenges. Unlike the Dodgers’ controversial distribution issues, the Kings maintained relatively consistent broadcast accessibility.

The ownership structure enabled the Kings to negotiate favorable terms that kept legendary voices like Nick Nickson on air for decades. The 2024-25 season broadcast schedule, announced as part of Nickson’s retirement plans, reflects these established relationships.

Partnership with Parent Company

The Kings’ parent company has leveraged its broader media holdings to create synergies across platforms. This approach helped establish continuity in broadcast talent. Nickson was a prime beneficiary during his 44-year career.

The original call-up of Nickson from the Nighthawks (a minor league affiliate) to the LA Kings demonstrated this vertical integration. The parent company recognized talent within its system and promoted accordingly.

This organizational stability contributed to Nickson’s lengthy tenure. Many sports franchises experience broadcast turnover during ownership changes, but the Kings maintained consistency through their parent company’s steady management.

The 2024-25 television broadcast schedule reflects this ongoing commitment to broadcasting excellence, even as they transition beyond the Nickson era.