Bernie Nicholls, a name synonymous with offensive prowess and a touch of flamboyance, etched his name into Los Angeles Kings' lore during the 1988-89 NHL season. While the Kings have boasted legendary goal-scorers like Luc Robitaille, Marcel Dionne, and Wayne Gretzky, it was Nicholls who set the single-season franchise record with an astounding 70 goals. This remarkable feat, coupled with 80 assists, resulted in a 150-point season, placing him in an elite group of NHL players.
Nicholls' journey to this historic season began after being drafted by the Kings in the fourth round of the 1980 NHL Entry Draft. Following a successful junior career, he made a strong impression in his professional debut with the New Haven Nighthawks of the AHL, scoring 41 goals in 55 games. He was quickly called up to the Kings, where he contributed significantly, including scoring hat tricks in three straight home games in his rookie season and helping the team upset the Edmonton Oilers in the playoffs.
In his early years with the Kings, Nicholls showcased his offensive capabilities, playing behind Hall of Famer Marcel Dionne and consistently increasing his point totals. He eventually took over first-line center duties, demonstrating his growing importance to the team. However, it was the arrival of Wayne Gretzky in a blockbuster trade in August 1988 that truly unlocked Nicholls' potential.
Lining up as the second-line center behind Gretzky, Nicholls found himself in an ideal situation to excel. He capitalized on the opportunity, embarking on a season for the ages. His 70 goals not only set a Kings' franchise record but also placed him among a select few players in NHL history to reach that milestone. Adding 80 assists to his tally, Nicholls' 150 points put him in an even more exclusive club of players who have achieved that level of scoring. In 79 games, Nicholls displayed remarkable consistency, rarely going without a point. He didn't score more than three goals in a game during the season, but he had four games where he scored three, and 19 games with at least two goals.
Interestingly, despite his incredible offensive output, Nicholls did not receive any votes for the Hart Memorial Trophy that season. He finished second in goals, fifth in assists, and fourth in points, highlighting the depth of talent in the league at the time. He was selected to play in the All-Star Game along with this teammates Wayne Gretzky, Luc Robitaille, and Steve Duchesne.
Unfortunately for Kings fans, Nicholls' time in Los Angeles ended shortly after his record-breaking season. Despite a strong start the following year, he was traded to the New York Rangers. While he continued to play in the NHL for several more seasons, he never replicated the same level of offensive dominance he achieved in 1988-89.
Nicholls' legacy extends beyond his on-ice achievements. Known for his humor and colorful personality, he was a popular figure among teammates and fans alike. After retiring from playing, he returned to the Kings as a coaching consultant and won his first Stanley Cup ring in June 2012.
Bernie Nicholls' 1988-89 season remains a shining example of individual brilliance within the context of a team sport. His 70-goal, 150-point performance stands as a testament to his skill, determination, and the favorable circumstances that allowed him to reach his full potential. While his time with the Kings was relatively short, his name will forever be etched in the franchise's history books, and he remains a beloved figure among Los Angeles hockey fans.
