Luc knows the score

Luc Robitaille knows a thing or two about beating long odds.

As he patiently autographed a stack of photos for a horde of young Chinese players at Wukesong Arena on Thursday morning, the highest scoring left winger in the history of professional hockey reflected on his long, unlikely journey after being selected by the Los Angeles Kings in the ninth round – 171st overall – of the 1984 NHL draft.

The “experts” said he’d never make it, but Robitaille made them eat their words. Over a 20-year career that ended in 2006, he notched 668 goals and 1,394 points in 1,431 games. In 2009, he was elected to the Hockey Hall of Fame. Two months ago, as part of the NHL’s centennial celebration, he was named one of the 100 greatest players in league history.

“China can beat the odds,” said the personable 51-year-old, who’s now president of business operations for the Kings. “When people ask me if China has a chance to become a hockey power, I say ‘Why not?’ But it will take time and effort.

“It’s great how the government is supporting and encouraging the development of winter sports, so it only makes sense that Chinese hockey will continue to grow. The NHL coming here gives it a huge boost to build on.

“The key is getting the kids excited … and giving them the resources to build success. Good coaches, good facilities. But it has to be fun, too. I see the way these kids are excited about learning the game, but they’re also having a lot of fun.”