Kings fire Robinson

Kings roster

"This was a necessary move," general manager Dave Taylor said. "To look at our team this year, we lacked consistency, lacked work ethic. That's unacceptable."

Robinson was was in the final year of a four-year contract. Ironically the Kings offered Robinson an extension in September that he declined citing the team's struggles on the ice.

Robinson, who won six Stanley Cups during a Hall of Fame playing career with the Montreal Canadiens, had a 122-161-45 record in four seasons. However, the Kings only made one playoff appearance ending in a first-round sweep by St. Louis last season.

"Given the circumstances, I think we did a great job," Robinson said. "I feel that we've started something good here. This organization is heading in the right direction."

The Kings finished the season with a 32-45-5 record, losing 25 one-goal games. Their power play was among the worst in the league and they lost more than 335 man-games to injuries or illness.

"I don't have any doubt about Larry's coaching ability," left wing Luc Robitaille said. "You can have the best system in the league, but if you're not giving 100 percent, you're not going to win. That's what happened this year."