"Almost a King: How a Fateful Trade Shaped Phil Housley's NHL Legacy" In a fascinating twist of fate, Hall of Fame defenseman Phil Housley nearly donned the iconic purple and gold of the Los Angeles Kings. Instead, a trade that sent a first-round pick to the Buffalo Sabres changed the course of Housley's illustrious career. The story of how he went from being a potential King to a stalwart Sabre is a testament to the unpredictable nature of the NHL draft. As Housley's remarkable journey unfolds, fans will be reminded of the what-ifs that can shape the lives of hockey's greatest players.

Phil Housley nearly became an LA King as a player. The pick that Buffalo used to take the future Hall of Fame defenseman was once Los Angeles’ first-round selection, though it was traded to the Sabres ...