Park Realizes Goal of Playing in the Forum

Center Richard Park, who was born in South Korea and grew up in Rancho Palos Verdes, once dreamed of playing for the Kings at the Forum. He wasn’t drafted by them, but at least part of his dream will be realized tonight. Park, 18, is in Pittsburgh’s lineup for an exhibition game at the Forum.

The Penguins selected him in the second round of the NHL’s entry draft in June, and Park has surprised many observers by remaining with the team. He had 76 points in 59 games last season with his junior team, the Belleville Bulls of the Ontario Hockey League.

“I’m definitely excited,” Park said on Thursday from Vancouver, where the Penguins played the Canucks. “Five years ago I probably wouldn’t have believed it.”

He has one assist in two exhibition games--against the Detroit Red Wings and New York Rangers.

“I’ve been playing with Larry DePalma, but at times I’ve been out there with people like Tomas Sandstrom and Kevin Stevens,” Park said. “When you’re out there with them, your game picks up a notch. You’ve got to make sure you don’t stop and watch.”