The Los Angeles Kings, founded on June 5, 1967, are a professional ice hockey team in the NHL. Originally playing at the Forum, they moved to Crypto.com Arena in 1999. In the 1970s and 1980s, the Kings faced playoff challenges despite regular-season success.
The acquisition of Wayne Gretzky in 1988 sparked a successful era, leading to their first Stanley Cup Finals in 1993. Financial troubles followed, culminating in a 1995 bankruptcy. Under new ownership, the Kings resurged in 2009–10, and with coach Darryl Sutter, they won two Stanley Cups in 2012 and 2014.
Los Angeles Kings Mascot Bailey
Bailey, the Los Angeles Kings' mascot, is a 6-foot lion (reaching 6 feet 4 inches with his mane included) donning the No. 72 jersey, a playful reference to the average temperature in Los Angeles. His debut occurred in the 2007-2008 season, and he was named in tribute to Garnet Bailey, the Kings' Director of Pro Scouting from 1994 until his tragic passing in the September 11 attacks.
Sporting the patch worn by the Kings in the season following the attacks, Bailey honors both Ace and Mark Bavis. He is the Kings' second mascot, succeeding the retired snow leopard Kingston, who debuted in 1990. Kingston has been the mascot for the Kings' AHL affiliate, the Ontario Reign, since 2015.
Los Angeles Kings Mascot History
Bailey, the 6-foot lion mascot, made his debut during the 2007-2008 NHL season. His introduction marked a new era in the Kings' mascot legacy, bringing energy and excitement to games. Named in honor of Garnet Bailey, the Kings' Director of Pro Scouting, Bailey's moniker serves as a tribute to a respected figure in the organization. Garnet Bailey's legacy and contributions to the Kings are remembered through the mascot.
Before Bailey, the Kings had another mascot named Kingston, a snow leopard who debuted in 1990. Kingston, however, was retired in the same year. In 2015, Kingston found a new role as the mascot for the Kings' AHL affiliate, the Ontario Reign.
Los Angeles Kings Mascot Bailey Salary
The specific salary details for Bailey, the mascot of the Los Angeles Kings, are not publicly disclosed. Mascot salaries, in general, are often kept confidential. Mascots play a crucial role in entertaining fans and contributing to the overall fan experience during games and events.
While the exact figure for Bailey's salary is not available, salaries for professional sports mascots can vary, with many earning in the range of $40,000 to $70,000 annually. The actual compensation for mascots depends on various factors, including the team's budget, the mascot's experience, and the responsibilities associated with the role.
Bailey Funny Incidents
Known for engaging in playful stunts, Bailey participated in videos with Carl's Jr. during the 2009-10 season, featuring humorous competitions between Kings organization members and Carl's Jr. personnel. Bailey appeared in the first installment, playfully spoofing Carl’s Jr. 's commercials by replacing scantily clad actresses.
Since 2013, Bailey has engaged in a playful Twitter feud with the current WWE superstar CM Punk, a devoted Chicago Blackhawks fan. Their banter reached a pinnacle during the 2014 playoffs when the Kings faced the Blackhawks in the Western Conference Finals.
They made a bet, and when the Kings emerged victorious in seven games, Punk honored the wager by posting a picture of himself in a Kings jersey in front of the United Center in Chicago. Bailey added a comedic touch to their ongoing feud during a fall 2014 game between the Blackhawks and Kings at Staples Center. He jumped off his ATV, delivering an elbow drop to Punk in the backstage area, creating a memorable moment for fans.
FAQs
Bailey is 6 feet tall, but his mane adds an extra 4 inches to his height, contributing to his charismatic presence.
Bailey pays tribute to Garnet Bailey, the Kings' Director of Pro Scouting, honoring his contributions and creating a meaningful link to the team's history.
Kingston, a snow leopard, was the Kings' first mascot, debuting in 1990. Retired in the same year, Kingston now serves as the mascot for the Ontario Reign.
Bailey's salary details are confidential, but professional sports mascots typically earn between $40,000 to $70,000 annually.
A: Bailey's playful Twitter feud with CM Punk during the 2014 playoffs led to a bet and a humorous elbow drop moment in a fall 2014 game, creating an entertaining memory for fans.
