Kings, Disgruntled Fan Settle Dispute Over Season Tickets

The Kings reached a tentative settlement Tuesday with a season-ticket holder who was taking them to small claims court in Inglewood this week, trying to get his $3,160 refunded.

Craig Matthews of Torrance had filed suit long before the lockout was ended, once it became clear the reconfigured schedule meant the Kings would play only Western Conference teams.

There will be no Forum visits by the Stanley Cup champion New York Rangers, the Montreal Canadiens or former King Luc Robitaille and the Pittsburgh Penguins.

“I was promised the Rolling Stones and Elton John, and instead I’m getting the Knack and Cheap Trick,” Matthews said in November when he filed the suit.

Tuesday, Matthews said it was never an issue of animosity against the Kings, saying, “We have come to an agreement with the Kings that is mutually acceptable. I’m happy to say that.”

The Kings maintain only a “handful” of their approximately 11,000 season-ticket holders have requested refunds but have pledged to accommodate those who do.

“In cases like Mr. Matthews, the Kings and those individuals are discussing their individual situations,” said Rick Minch, director of media relations.

Brian Bregman of Van Nuys was upset that season-ticket holders were not given the option of a full refund without losing their seat locations in the future.

“I don’t feel they had any contact with the fans,” he said.

Bregman said his situation was taken care of quickly on Tuesday.

“I wanted them to give the option (of a refund),” he said. “Who knows? We just might take the 48-game season.”