Clarence S. Campbell Bowl (2013)
A Western Conference title that highlighted the Blackhawks' dominant run, not a Kings achievement.
The Chicago Blackhawks won the Clarence S. Campbell Bowl in 2013 as the National Hockey League's Western Conference playoff champion, defeating the Los Angeles Kings in the Western Conference Final.
- Season
- 2012–2013
- Opponent
- Chicago Blackhawks
- Series Result
- 4–1
- Head Coach
- Joel Quenneville
- Clinch Date
- June 2, 2013
- Venue
- United Center
- Conference
- Western
Lore & Background
This achievement highlighted the Blackhawks' depth and resilience, blending skill with disciplined systems. The trophy represented more than just a regional title; it validated the team's championship pedigree. It signaled to the NHL that Chicago had returned as a perennial threat capable of navigating the treacherous playoff gauntlet year after year.
In Their Own Story
The air inside the Staples Center hummed with electric tension during Game Six. Every face-off felt heavier than usual, the weight of history pressing down on the players in black and gold jerseys. When the final buzzer sounded, confirming the series victory, the roar was deafening. Players gathered around the bench, not just for a win, but to claim their place as the undisputed kings of the West.
Reader's Guide
The Clarence S. Campbell Bowl represents the pinnacle of Western Conference hockey, awarded annually to the playoff champion. For the Los Angeles Kings in 2013, securing this trophy was a critical milestone in their emerging dynasty under head coach Darryl Sutter. It marked the culmination of a grueling sixteen-game playoff run that began with first-round intensity and ended in victory over division rivals San Jose Sharks. Winning the Campbell Bowl in 2013 was not merely about regional dominance; it was the mandatory gateway to the Stanley Cup Final. The Kings defeated Chicago that June, but this specific achievement cemented their reputation as a defensive juggernaut capable of shutting down high-powered offenses. This victory completed back-to-back Western Conference titles, a rare feat in the modern NHL era. Historically, this trophy honors Clarence Campbell, a long-serving NHL executive who served as president for decades. For the Kings organization, the 2013 win provided stability and momentum following their first Cup in 2012. It proved that their success was not a fluke but the result of disciplined systems and elite goaltending. This record stands as a testament to the franchise's transformation from perennial underdogs into legitimate contenders for the league's highest honor.
Did You Know?
- The Chicago Blackhawks won the Clarence S. Campbell Bowl in 2013, defeating the Los Angeles Kings in five games.
- The Kings did not win the bowl in 2013; they won it in 2012 and 2014.
- Winning this trophy is a prerequisite for reaching the Stanley Cup Final, and in 2013 the Blackhawks earned that right.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does winning the 2013 Clarence S. Campbell Bowl signify?
It represents the Los Angeles Kings as the National Hockey League's Western Conference playoff champions for that year. Winning this trophy was a necessary milestone before they claimed their first Stanley Cup in decades during June.
Who did the Kings defeat to earn this honor?
The team defeated the San Jose Sharks to claim the title, winning the series four games to two. They secured the final victory at home inside the Staples Center to advance.
When was the 2013 Western Conference championship clinched?
Los Angeles officially clinched the award on May 30, 2013. This specific date concluded their Western Conference Final matchup against San Jose.
Why is this specific trophy considered a peak moment for the franchise?
It marked the culmination of an exceptional playoff campaign under head coach Darryl Sutter. This achievement signaled the height of the franchise's modern resurgence and paved the way for consecutive championships.
Which head coach led the team during this playoff run?
Darryl Sutter was the leader guiding the squad throughout this successful campaign in the 2012–2013 season. His strategies were crucial for navigating the playoffs and securing conference supremacy.