The Kansas City Scouts history tells the story of a short but impactful era in the NHL. As one of the league’s mid-1970s expansion teams, the Kansas City Scouts hockey club played just two seasons (1974–1976) before relocating. Despite their brief stay, the team built a passionate fan base and left a legacy still remembered today.
Established
1974
City
Kansas City – Denver – New Jersey
League History
1974 – Present / National Hockey League
Team History
1982 – Present / New Jersey Devils
1976 – 1982 / Colorado Rockies
1974 – 1976 / Kansas City Scouts
Nickname
Scouts – The Kansas City Scouts have been a beloved National Hockey League (NHL) team since 1974. Despite their short run, they have made an indelible mark on the world of hockey and remain one of the most popular teams in NHL history. But what is the origin story behind this iconic team's nickname?
Kansas City Scouts Origin
The Scouts were founded by former NHL player Art Howe, who wanted to bring professional hockey to his hometown of Kansas City. The name "Scouts" was chosen as a tribute to Howe's days scouting for college players during his time with the Minnesota North Stars organization before joining Kansas City. In addition, it also served as a nod towards local Boy Scout troops and military personnel stationed at nearby Fort Leavenworth Army Base - both groups being essential parts of life in KC at that period.
Although they only lasted four seasons before moving out west and becoming today’s New Jersey Devils franchise, fans still fondly remember their beloved “Scouts” moniker all these years later - making them one of just two original expansion franchises from 1974 whose names remain unchanged! So next time you watch your favorite NHL game or cheer on your favorite team from home, give props where due: Go Scouts!
Championship
Stanley Cups 0
2003, 2000, 1995
Arena
2007 – Present / Prudential Center
1982 – 2007 / Continental Airlines Arena
*Denver*
1976 – 1982 / McNichols Sports Arena
*Kansas City*
1974 – 1976 / Kemper Arena
Owner
2013 – Present / New Jersey Devils, LLC
2004 – 2013 / Jeffrey Vanderbeek
2000 – 2004 / YankeeNets
1982 – 2000 / John McMullen
1976 – 1982 / Jack Vickers
1974 – 1976 / Edwin G. Thompson
- 1974
Kansas City Scouts Team Formation
In 1974, the NHL ended its first expansion period by adding teams in Kansas City, Missouri, and Washington, D.C. Kansas City was awarded a franchise on June 8, 1972, and Kemper Arena was constructed to host the team’s games. Kansas City had been the home of several minor league ice hockey teams through the years. The Scouts shared Kemper Arena ...
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Kansas City Scouts History
The Kansas City Scouts history reflects one of the shortest yet most memorable chapters in the NHL. The team was established as part of the league’s 1974 expansion, not by the Philadelphia Flyers, but directly by the NHL as a new franchise. They began play in 1974 at the newly built Kemper Arena in Kansas City, Missouri. The Kansas City Scouts hockey club became known for its spirited play despite early struggles and developed a notable rivalry with fellow expansion team the Washington Capitals, which added excitement to their matchups.
During their two-year existence, the Kansas City Scouts hockey team compiled a record of 27 wins, 110 losses, and 23 ties—finishing at or near the bottom of their division in both seasons. Financial struggles, low attendance, and strong competition from the city’s other sports franchises, including baseball’s Royals and football’s Chiefs, hindered the team’s growth. Nevertheless, the Kansas City Scouts history featured several standout players such as Simon Nolet, who provided leadership and offense, and Wilf Paiement, a young star forward who quickly became a fan favorite.
Despite their challenges, the Kansas City Scouts hockey team helped pave the way for NHL growth in non-traditional markets. In 1976, the franchise relocated to Denver, becoming the Colorado Rockies before ultimately transforming into the New Jersey Devils in 1982. This legacy keeps the Kansas City Scouts history alive among hockey historians and fans who remember their distinctive uniforms and fighting spirit.
Scouts Achievements
One of the most notable achievements during the Kansas City Scouts history was their role in showcasing talented players who later became key contributors for other NHL teams. Wilf Paiement went on to enjoy a productive NHL career, while other former Scouts became part of playoff-bound rosters across the league.
Although the Kansas City Scouts hockey team never reached the playoffs, their brief time in Kansas City built a foundation for future hockey ventures in the region. Today, the team is celebrated through throwback jerseys, memorabilia, and local events honoring the club’s history—reminding fans of the important role the Kansas City Scouts history played in shaping the NHL’s expansion era.
Retired Number
3 / Ken Daneyko
4 / Scott Stevens
26 / Patrik Elias
27 / Scott Niedermayer
30 / Martin Brodeur
99 / Wayne Gretzky
*Blue is this team’s history