D.J. King Bio
Dwayne King Jr. is a Canadian former professional ice hockey left winger who played in the National Hockey League (NHL) with the St. Louis Blues and the Washington Capitals. Known for his role as an enforcer, King began his professional career in 2004, and was drafted in the 6th round of the 2002 NHL Entry Draft by the St. Louis Blues. Throughout his career, he was recognized for his fighting abilities and faced several notable opponents. King retired from professional hockey in 2013 and has since engaged in various endeavors including ownership of a resort and participation in chuckwagon racing.
Early Life and Background
Dwayne King Jr. was born on June 27, 1984, in Meadow Lake, Saskatchewan, Canada. He is of Métis heritage, which reflects the diverse cultural background of many Canadian athletes. Growing up in a region known for its rich hockey tradition, King was exposed to the sport at an early age, which would shape his future career.
Path to Hockey
King began his junior hockey career in the Western Hockey League (WHL) with the Lethbridge Hurricanes and later the Kelowna Rockets. His physical style of play and fighting abilities quickly earned him a reputation as an enforcer. After being drafted by the St. Louis Blues in 2002, he spent his initial professional seasons with the Blues’ affiliates in the American Hockey League (AHL) and the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL), honing his skills and preparing for the NHL.
D.J. King Career
Early Career (2004–2006)
D.J. King’s professional career began in 2004, and he made his NHL debut during the 2006–07 season on October 5, 2006, against the San Jose Sharks. Initially, he was reassigned to the AHL affiliate, the Peoria Rivermen, where he continued to develop his game. King scored his first NHL goal against Curtis Joseph of the Phoenix Coyotes on April 4, 2007, marking a significant milestone in his early career.
Breakthrough (2007–2010)
King’s breakthrough season came in 2007 when he played 27 games for the St. Louis Blues, recording two points and accumulating 52 penalty minutes. However, his 2008–09 season was marred by a shoulder injury that limited him to just one game. He returned for the 2009–10 season, where he showcased his fighting skills, defeating Krys Barch in his first game back. Unfortunately, he suffered a finger injury during the fight, which sidelined him for several months.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout his career, D.J. King was known for his fighting prowess, facing off against notable opponents such as Dion Phaneuf, Colton Orr, and Derek Boogaard. His ability to engage in physical play made him a valuable asset to his teams, contributing to the tough, competitive nature of the NHL.
D.J. King Award Nominations
D.J. King did not receive any significant award nominations during his career, as his role primarily focused on physical play rather than traditional scoring metrics.
D.J. King Awards Won
D.J. King did not win any major awards during his professional hockey career. His contributions were more recognized through his fighting and enforcer role rather than through accolades.
D.J. King Family
D.J. King is married to Chantal Babin, and together they have two sons. His family life has remained relatively private, but he has expressed pride in his heritage and the values instilled in him from a young age.
Personal Life
In addition to his hockey career, D.J. King has ventured into business, becoming one of the owners of Tawaw Cabins, a resort located in Waterhen Lake, Saskatchewan. He has also participated in chuckwagon racing, making his debut at the Rangeland Derby during the Calgary Stampede in 2025. King’s diverse interests reflect his passion for both sports and entrepreneurship.
