I normally drive to Kings games, but a couple friends and I thought it would be cool to take the train to LA to see a game one of these days. I know how to get to Union station via train from where I live, but my question is how the hell do you use the trains within the city to get close to Staples Center? I tried looking at the LA Metro maps but it's kinda confusing. Is there a train that will leave Union Station that drops off near Staples Center or would I be better off taking a cab from Union Station?
You can take the Blue Line if you like for one stop, OR you can walk 10 minutes south down Figueroa after getting off at Metro/7th on the Red Line (where you would normally connect with the Blue Line).
This gives you a chance to stop off somewhere outside of the stadium for beer and food as there are many places on the walk down. Not to mention enjoy a little walk before sitting for several hours.
Once at Union take the Red Line to the Blue Line and exit Pico. Drops you off right by Staples. Lots of people do it on game day so you can just follow the jerseys. I do it coming from Anaheim all the time.