RAPID FIRE

WITH KINGS CENTER ADRIAN KEMPE

Who was your mentor growing up?

My dad (Mikael). He was my coach, and he helped me a lot on the way and has been a big part of my career.

Best piece of advice you received as a young player?

Never give up even if you don’t make a specific team or something like that. Keep playing, keep working hard, and you’re probably going to achieve your goals.

Who did you model your game after?

My brother (Arizona’s Mario Kempe). He was a little older than me, so he was one of the guys I looked up to the most when I was a kid.

Why do you wear No. 9?

My favorite soccer player, Fernando Torres, wears No. 9. I used to wear No. 9 in soccer, so that was the number I wanted to go with.

Any big purchases after signing your first NHL deal?

I haven’t really bought anything major since I signed, maybe a watch or something like that.

What was your ‘welcome to the NHL’ moment?

Nothing specific. Obviously my first goal was a big moment. There wasn’t a significant moment when I was shocked to be in the NHL or anything like that.

What’s the best thing about being in the NHL?

It’s a thing you’ve been dreaming about as a kid, living this life and having this job.

What’s the worst thing about being in the NHL?

Nothing.

What advice would you give to your 13-year-old self?

Never give up, keep playing, have fun, work hard and work hard for your team’s goals.