John Kelly Named Lead Play-By-Play Broadcaster for Los Angeles Kings

John Kelly, the longtime play-by-play announcer for the St. Louis Blues, has been named the lead broadcaster for the Los Angeles Kings on FanDuel Sports Network, succeeding Hall of Famer Nick Nickson who retired after 44 years. Kelly brings over three decades of NHL broadcasting experience, including stints with the Tampa Bay Lightning and Colorado Avalanche, and follows a family legacy in hockey commentary through his late father, Dan Kelly. The Kings have assembled a diverse and experienced broadcast team, featuring lead analyst Jim Fox, who will reduce his schedule, alongside former Kings players Ray Ferraro, Tony Granato, and Jarret Stoll, as well as radio voice Josh Schaefer and other analysts including Blake Bolden and data analyst Mike Kelly. The team emphasized their commitment to delivering high-quality broadcasts to their fans, with President Luc Robitaille expressing enthusiasm about the new lineup. Kelly expressed excitement about joining the Kings, acknowledging the high standards set by his predecessors and looking forward to working in Southern California. His departure from the Blues came amid budget cuts and a shift to simulcasting broadcasts, with the Blues planning to honor Kelly's legacy during the upcoming season.