Longtime defensemen Rob Blake knew the game well and studied the opposition like no one else.
He had a vision to see how things would play out. That vision may have created a new path for Blake, one with a tie and control of a hockey team.
Blake was named Los Angeles Kings Vice President of Hockey Operations in 2013.
Just 4 years short years later, in 2017, he would be named general manager and had full control.
He took some time to evaluate things and eventually started making moves. Some of those trades included getting Sean Durzi, Carl Grundstrom, Tobias Bjornfot from the Toronto Maple Leafs. He also acquired a draft pick, who turned out to be Samuel Fagemo, from the Montreal Canadians in exchange for a 2019 2nd round pick. He has also, unfortunately, traded away Darcy Kuemper (to Arizona) and Dominik Kubalik (to Chicago).
Blake has made some big signings as well to make sure the team stays competitive and ready for a Stanley Cup run. Those signings include Drew Doughty, Sean Walker, Alex Iafallo, Adrian Kempe, Alex Turcotte, Arthur Kaliyev, Gabe Vilardi, Kurtis MacDermid, Cal Petersen, Samuel Fagemo. All of these players have played or will play, a huge role in the success of the team moving forward.
The team is still a year or two from making a serious Stanley Cup run. However, with Blake in charge, they are in good hands. The trades and signings are one thing but the right moves can reveal a good general manager.
Rob Blake has his work cut out for him and so far has risen to the challenge.
Free agency is right around the corner and Rob Blake will be busy and front and center again.
Featured Image: Zach Leach/YardBarker
