McNall, Vachon Get Their Nicholls’ Worth of Advice From Fans

Bruce McNall has repeatedly told L.A. how he grew up here being a hockey fan and a King fan. I myself have applauded many of his moves, not the least of all acquiring Wayne Gretzky. But it has been over two years since McNall gained control of the team, and most King fans still can’t park in the Forum proper, still have to suffer with disgraceful radio coverage and now have to face being priced out of seeing games live. And McNall is even likening himself to someone such as George Steinbrenner.

Being like Steinbrenner, who strip-mined Yankee tradition for two championships some 13 years ago, may be fine for nouveau hockey connoisseurs who would be history without a quick Stanley Cup (and certainly after Gretzky retires). But as for myself, I fear it. I think this Nicholls trade just about evens McNall up with Steinbrenner’s recent signing of Pascual Perez.

ALLAN GROSSMAN, Los Angeles