The Ontario Reign announced today that the team will face off against Eisbären Berlin of the Deutsche Eishockey Liga in an exhibition on February 13.
The two AEG Sports franchises will meet in the International Frozen Friendly at Citizens Business Bank Arena in Ontario, Calif.
“This is indeed a historical event that we are very proud to help host,” said Los Angeles Kings president Luc Robitaille. “It will be a great experience for our fans here in Southern California to be a part of something so unique. We look forward to welcoming the players and staff of our Berlin club here to Southern California while presenting a quality, competitive game for everyone involved.”
The contest marks the first exhibition between an AHL club and a European team since the Toronto Marlies hosted Färjestad BK of the Swedish Hockey League in 2014.
“We are continually looking for ways in which our three hockey clubs can work together and this is a great example of that synergy,” said Kings chief operating officer Kelly Cheeseman. “Eisbären Berlin are the flagship in German club hockey and with the Kings and Reign we are continuously working on improving and growing that brand.”
Established in 1954, Eisbären Berlin is the premier club in the Deutsche Eishockey Liga, winning a league-record seven titles including a stretch of five championships over six seasons (2007-2013). Currently led by Stanley Cup champion and Calder Cup champion Uwe Krupp behind the bench, the Eisbären have reached the postseason in each of the last 16 seasons.
“We’re very excited about the invitation from the Ontario Reign and the L.A. Kings organization,” said Eisbären managing director Peter John Lee. “The Eisbären have always tried to play top European teams outside of our normal league schedule in order to challenge ourselves to be the best in Europe. Playing a top team from the AHL takes this challenge to another level.”
