LA Kings Fan Experience at Crypto.com Arena – Hockey Writers – Los Angeles Kings

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Since its opening on October 17, 1999, formerly known as the Staples Center, the Crypto.com Arena has hosted many sports teams and live entertainment events. Teams range from the NHL’s Los Angeles Kings to the Lakers (National Basketball Association), the Sparks (Women’s National Basketball Association), and previously, the Clippers (NBA). One of the most successful and busiest arenas in the world, Crypto.com Arena has brought countless unforgettable moments to the sports and entertainment industry. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this stadium so special to thousands of fans in the Los Angeles area.

Fan Experience

Attending a Kings home game is one of the most enjoyable ways to spend time with friends, family, or colleagues. Located on the busy streets of Downtown Los Angeles, I’ve had a lot of fun grabbing a quick drink or bite to eat before a hot date. The cool breeze as I walk and the crowd diverting as I enter the stadium is full of excitement and roaring spirit. Many line up 20 minutes before game time in hopes of catching a lucky puck from their favorite player or a quick photo opportunity during warmups.

Related: Anze Kopitar’s best moments as LA king

Crypto.com Arena has seen two Stanley Cup championships in the building and has been the setting for several historic moments, from seven NBA Finals to the unveiling of a statue commemorating the late Kobe Bryant. It has become an entertainment hub for sports and music fans alike and has also served as the home of the famous Grammy Awards for over 25 years.

History

Opened in October, 1999 as the Staples Center, the area is considered part of LA Live, a bustling entertainment district that includes low- and high-end restaurants, hotels, the Convention Center, and the Peacock Theater. Developed and managed by Anschutz Entertainment Group (AEG Worldwide), the arena quickly became a hot spot for young entrepreneurs, artists and athletes, contributing to the city’s unique and diverse culture.

Los Angeles Kings left wing Andrei Kuzmenko, left wing Kevin Fiala, center Anze Kopitar, right wing Adrian Kempe, and defenseman Drew Doughty celebrate after scoring a goal against the Chicago Blackhawks (Photos by Jonathan Hui-Imagn)

If you were to ask my opinion, the arena is still considered the “Staples Center” for many long-time (and if I may add, diehard) fans. The switch from Staples to Crypto.com on Nov. 2021 was not taken lightly, as many took to social media and made online requests to change the name back to the original fans are familiar with. The Staples Center had a familiar sign that was synonymous with LA culture. Due to the long history and shadow times we see in the building, fans still use the old name out of habit and nostalgia. It reflects the lasting legacy of the stadium and the memories it has created over the years.

So What’s Next for Arena?

Although the Crypto.com Arena has undergone several renovations in recent years, including a ‘facelift’ of the Kings’ locker room in October 2025, the building continues to serve as a landmark in Los Angeles. In the summer of 2028, the venue is scheduled to host several Summer Olympic and Paralympic events, including boxing, wheelchair basketball, artistic gymnastics, and trampoline gymnastics. The selection of the stadium as an Olympic venue highlights its ability to host international games at the world’s highest level.

Although the Crypto.com Arena is a familiar destination for many Angelenos, it continues to welcome millions of visitors from around the world, reflecting the dynamic culture of Los Angeles.