The Kings had seven off-days before the start of the Stanley Cup Finals, but tonight’s game will be their fourth game in the last eight days. At this point, any travel/rest advantage that either team might have has been mitigated. Both the Kings and the New Jersey Devils have faced long, all-night flights at some point, and it’s fair to assume that most every player is dealing with some type of bump or bruise, if not something more serious. Nobody is going to be 100 percent, in terms of health and energy, but the team that can push through that better will have an edge going forward. Dustin Brown and Darryl Sutter talked about the playoffs, which have been going on for almost two months, and the way to try to remain as energized as possible…
BROWN: “I think it’s been a long, long playoffs obviously. Emotionally and physically, you’re going to be tired. It’s a matter of finding the next gear. I think it’s pretty much an even playing ground when you consider fatigue, because each team has gone through three series and are battling as hard as they can. It’s really about just finding the next gear. The team that does normally wins.’’
SUTTER: “I think the nutrition and the hydration and those things are really important to the players. I think their routine of that is just as important as the time change. What you have on the plane, everybody travels so nice now, it’s pretty good. You’re checking on the pilots most of the time to see how fast they’re going.’’
Today is the day the youngsters and even Gagne to put their all!!
They’ve got to remember the importance of “gap control” and to forecheck in the neutral zone so that the devils don’t pick up too much speed entering the dZone, also makes it easier for the dMen to neutralize and “reset” in the dZone.
[Reply]
Howard Berger Reply:
June 9th, 2012 at 12:40 pm
@rogiesbackup, Another photo-blog, Kingers… this time the scene around Prudential Center during morning skates today. Enjoy… http://www.bergerbytes.ca/2012/06/stanley-cup-game-5-prelude/
[Reply]
steveo Reply:
June 9th, 2012 at 1:18 pm
@Howard Berger, Those are some RAD pics Berger, thanks for taking us fans there.
GKGGOKINGSGOGKG
[Reply]
Quick should expect to get bumped and NOT let it get to him tonight. Think the Kings also need that heavy net presence as well.
[Reply]
Kings might win the cup tonight, and I’m going to miss it due first day at work!
[Reply]
kostamojen Reply:
June 9th, 2012 at 12:11 pm
@rogiesbackup, same boat. I’m going to miss it due to my grandparents 60th wedding anniversary party. Stupid family…
[Reply]
rogiesbackup Reply:
June 9th, 2012 at 12:13 pm
@kostamojen, That’s a better reason then mine! LOL
[Reply]
Cruiznblue Reply:
June 9th, 2012 at 12:15 pm
@kostamojen,
lol I missed game 1 of the finals cuz my grandparents 60th wedding anniversary. Got to love them old folks though…
GKG!
[Reply]
HockeyNerd Reply:
June 9th, 2012 at 12:55 pm
@kostamojen, My Mom and brother went to a wedding last Saturday. I kept texting my brother with updates and my Mom kept asking him what was happening. He was getting annoyed, lol.
[Reply]
Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com) Reply:
June 9th, 2012 at 12:13 pm
@rogiesbackup, That sucks big time. Where are your priorities man?! Seriously though, you have them in order. Congrats on the J.O.B.!
[Reply]
rogiesbackup Reply:
June 9th, 2012 at 12:19 pm
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com), Thanks Paul!! I don’t think I can survive another Kings game!!! LOL…..First the Kings then after that….Pacqioua fight!!!
I’ll be there is “spirit.”
[Reply]
Kingsfanone Reply:
June 9th, 2012 at 12:25 pm
@rogiesbackup,
It’s great you have your priorities in order! Hope you can concentrate on it!!
Ivan Reply:
June 9th, 2012 at 2:34 pm
@rogiesbackup, Gentlemen, I have a solution!
This isn’t some ad, Rich. Okay, so I will have to miss the 2nd and 3rd periods, so what I’m doing is listening to the game on my phone. If you download the iheartradio app and tuning in to KTLK to listen to the game!
[Reply]
JeremyGee Reply:
June 9th, 2012 at 2:48 pm
@Ivan, also TuneIN Radio app has worked for me all season… sometimes u have to get the broadcast from out of state… sure better than missing the game tho…
[Reply]
Pregame video: Rich, Daryl AND Darryl, plus Brown, Kopitar, Mitchell, Scuderi, Gagne…
http://kingsnewsdaily.com/pre-game-videos/
More to come too…
[Reply]
rumpa#19 Reply:
June 9th, 2012 at 12:24 pm
@Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com), Thanks again Paul, I owe you a couple beers .
[Reply]
Off topic…
Has anyone been to LA Live for the watch parties? Me and my fiance were thinking of heading down there…but not sure how early to get there and and which place to hit up!
[Reply]
Kingsfanone Reply:
June 9th, 2012 at 12:26 pm
@Cruiznblue,
Heard it was literally a zoo! Go early, if you go!
[Reply]
Shuchuk Reply:
June 9th, 2012 at 12:30 pm
@Kingsfanone, don’t drive. take the metro. park (somewhere) and ride. you’re welcome!
[Reply]
Kingsfanone Reply:
June 9th, 2012 at 12:35 pm
@Shuchuk,
Thanks! I’m not going downtown. I thought TSC is a better choice logistically for me. So I’ll head there & hang with waves!
Jeff_R Reply:
June 9th, 2012 at 12:40 pm
@Cruiznblue, They interviewd workers at the Yard House and they were getting extra security and said that people were getting there as early as 11am. Better go now.
[Reply]
Gagne needs more ice time and maybe put-in the PP. He’s been real close getting a goal.
[Reply]
Cruiznblue Reply:
June 9th, 2012 at 12:16 pm
@rogiesbackup,
Yeah I think he could be the X factor tonight…you know he’s not going to miss many of those grade A opportunities.
[Reply]
rogiesbackup Reply:
June 9th, 2012 at 12:21 pm
@Cruiznblue, Actually, before I playoffs started I picked stoll and Nolan to be X factor. Now Gagne in….well I hope you’re right!!
[Reply]
I hope the ice is better than the last two games in Joisey.It seems the female with the big tata’s was an adult film star and she was trying too be a distraction,the good thing is she knew at least 3 players names on the Kings.I’m hoping for a win tonight because I really want to shave off this white hair on my face it’s making me look old.
[Reply]
rumpa#19 Reply:
June 9th, 2012 at 12:54 pm
@LVKINGS88, Ice should be much better , its cooler & drier too.
[Reply]
Go Kings Go!
[Reply]
Devils have played 22 games in the playoffs, the Kings 18. Lets hope we have the fresher legs tonight!
Go Kings! Bring that shiny cup to LA!
[Reply]
rogiesbackup Reply:
June 9th, 2012 at 12:21 pm
@Cup B4 I Die, That’s why the youngsters need to bring their A PLUS game including Gagne!!!
[Reply]
Mars Reply:
June 9th, 2012 at 1:08 pm
@Cup B4 I Die, That is what I am hoping for too
[Reply]
Me thinks Kings need to rattle Adam Henrique off his game.
[Reply]
rumpa#19 Reply:
June 9th, 2012 at 12:29 pm
@rogiesbackup, Im sure they will try, but easier said than done. That kid has been solid all year.
[Reply]
Shuchuk Reply:
June 9th, 2012 at 12:33 pm
@rumpa#19, that kid looks like he has a LOT of chris drury in him. I have no problem respecting the opposition, in fact, it makes victory sweeter.
[Reply]
On my way to see my beloved Kings win the Stanley Cup tonight!! Let’s Go Kings!!!
[Reply]
Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com) Reply:
June 9th, 2012 at 12:53 pm
@Cesar A,
All Hail King Cesar!
[Reply]
I’m at work supposedly making up the time I missed Monday and Wednesday. As if I can concentrate any better now….
[Reply]
Go Kings!!!!!
[Reply]
Once again I caution the Kings being lulled into a sleepy game. They need high energy and physical game all night long.
Now lets put this thing away as if we need a game 6 those playing will see big changes. Just have to and get it changed up.
[Reply]
They don’t have to do anything special. Just play Kings’ hockey then there’s no way they lose 4 in a row.
[Reply]
A big shiny piece of hardware to bring back would be the ultimate souvenir for us Kings fans!
[Reply]
I really hit the hockey fan wall after game 4. Didn’t look or read anything up until late yesterday. Now waiting to see if I get flexed off of work so I can watch tonights game at home. Seems like the team is refocused for tonight’s game. I like our chances. I got a feeling tonight will be Gagne’s turn to shine or perhaps the re-awaking of Brown.
[Reply]
Mars Reply:
June 9th, 2012 at 1:31 pm
@KC23, My time here and reading hockey news has been due to work. I am catching up while cleaning up for the viewing party. Its been a weird week of news.
I am hoping Brown shines tonight.
[Reply]
Heading out the door to the Rock in about 5 minutes!
Looking forward to meeting LA_1968 and his family at Brick City.
I will be in the black hoodie with the modern style Crown logo and a Conference Champs locker room cap.
GKG!!!!
[Reply]
Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com) Reply:
June 9th, 2012 at 12:58 pm
@Munchrat,
Rock on at the Rock Munchrat!
[Reply]
rogiesbackup Reply:
June 9th, 2012 at 1:04 pm
@Munchrat, Devils caught between a “rock and a hard place(Kings)!”
[Reply]
Forum Gold Reply:
June 9th, 2012 at 1:16 pm
@Munchrat, Will be looking for you guys in the crowd when the Cup is paraded around the rink by our boys. Have a great time. GO KINGS GO!!!
[Reply]
The Kings have played in Game 5′s against Vancouver and Phoenix, where the “experts” thought the Kings would struggle and collapse. They’ve been in hostile evironments before so there isn’t any reason to believe they won’t play well. I think they’re re-charged and hungry to beat the Devils and bring the Cup to LA!
[Reply]
rogiesbackup Reply:
June 9th, 2012 at 1:05 pm
@KingsFan72, Easier to focus on the road.
[Reply]
Hey guys, sorry but off topic :-/
Left a similar post on Jewels From The Crown:
I’m from the Irvine area and I usually watch the games with my girlfriend at home.
I thought it might be nice to find an OC watch party; any ideas? I thought about LA Live/Staples but I decided against going out there for something a tad bit tamer somewhere down here in Orange County.
Any ideas would be greatly appreciated….
Let’s get it done tonight; would love a game winner by Penns or Gags…
GKG
[Reply]
Therese Reply:
June 9th, 2012 at 2:04 pm
@Kiosku2, I know there are people heading to Buffalo Wild Wings off of Culver in Irvine to watch the game.
[Reply]
T-minus Bobby Orr ten minutes ago. Almost time to go into pregame routine. Kisku2: Penner or Gags would be great. Richards, Kopi or Doughty would be awesome too. Anybody!
[Reply]
Robert R Reply:
June 9th, 2012 at 1:35 pm
@Pili, I want Penner to keep his feet moving, first and foremost
[Reply]
steveo Reply:
June 9th, 2012 at 1:50 pm
@Pili, Brownie,big hits tonight and finding the back of the net. Gags with some fancy stick work and a goal, Kopi skilling his way to find the back of the net. Penns or Kinger just barreling their way in with the puck to the back of the net, Richards top shelf, Williams following up with the puck to dump it in for another goal, Stolli slap shot stick side, Carter knocking the junk in, Nols with a wrister from the slot, Lewi surprises with the wraparound and Fraz with a slapper farside. DD blasting through the back of the net with a one timer, Mitchie and Voy from the point, Green drilling through taffic in the high slot, Martinez with another pokie on the front door, and Scuds with an unexpected two goal game, jumping on an open shot from the point and just a wild blast crossing the blue.
Any of these, mix and match for your preference. One thing for sure that won’t change, Brownie will be knocking some guys on their arce big time. He’s feeling it tonight.
GOKINGSGOGKGGOKINGSGOGKGGOKINGSGO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
[Reply]
hey guys a joisey guy here. congrats on a great series so far your defense is great and of course quick speaks for himself. big game tonight devs have been pretty resilliant with there backs against the wall and the kings have been great in game fives so it should be intresting. if u guys win tonight well deserved and enjoy i still remember the devs sweeping detroit it was soooooo sweet for there first cup its something u never forget if your a diehard !!!!! but if u lose its on like donkey kong ! good luck tonight ! ive been impressed with your team
[Reply]
bbb7 Reply:
June 9th, 2012 at 2:02 pm
@scott-stevens-is-god, Greetings to NJ. This game should be interesting; am expecting a very tight game with great goaltending..I just hope it’s not decided by a fluke goal. The Devils have been the best squad the Kings have played so far and we’re fortunate to be up 3-1; that said, I’m hoping your fans get to see the Cup tonight.
[Reply]
Kman Reply:
June 9th, 2012 at 3:09 pm
@scott-stevens-is-god,
Nice post SSiG. All Class.
Kinda like the NJ organization. Not many of them. (Det., Co.)
Been a huge Brodeur fan since the mid-90s. More class.
Kinda sucks we gotta take this from ya, but it’s our time.
Stay classy Jersey.
[Reply]
If we’re using car analogies, I hope that tonight, the wheels come off the axles for New Jersey
[Reply]
3-1 KINGS QUICK with the empty netter!!! GKG!!! WHOOOOO HOOOOOO!!!!!
[Reply]
DesertKing Reply:
June 9th, 2012 at 1:31 pm
@c4sraser,
That would be outstanding!
[Reply]
CL Reply:
June 9th, 2012 at 1:42 pm
@c4sraser, Right after Rob Scuderi scores the Cup-winner…
[Reply]
CL Reply:
June 9th, 2012 at 1:43 pm
@CL, Or, even better, Bernier flings it in with a Ryane Clowe-esque move.
[Reply]
Kman Reply:
June 9th, 2012 at 3:12 pm
@c4sraser,
Penns has been teaching him the “art” of the bank shot.
(@CL) LMAO
[Reply]
Will anyone know what time and where the Kings come into LAX? If they get the Cup, my son and I are planning to make the 2 hour drive to meet them at the airport.
[Reply]
There is evil in the air as we aproach the devils lair,
The foe is trying hard to stay alive;
They sense the mighty Kings and the power that they bring,
And wonder if it’s possible to survive,
Silently they peer trying not to show the fear,
That is swelling up deep within their minds;
Knowing that the Kings with no mercy will they bring,
Defeat is sending shivers up their spines.
It’s hard to face a King that wants the victor’s ring,
trying hard not bowing to their throne;
The disappointed fans with burried face in hands,
Leave devils in the lair all alone.
[Reply]
rumpa#19 Reply:
June 9th, 2012 at 3:10 pm
@vegasking, OUTSTANDING!!!1
[Reply]
Kman Reply:
June 9th, 2012 at 3:15 pm
@vegasking,
+1. How you can concentrate on such poetic prose at a time like this, though ?
[Reply]
We just have to end this already!
Lost to much weight and the heart is weakening..
Still can’t believe [in some ways] that were at the Finals…
Boy!…it’s easier to root for a team you’re not invested to emoitionaly.
Please end this tonight….For my own selfish reasons..
[Reply]
vegasking Reply:
June 9th, 2012 at 1:52 pm
@SLIM, Ditto my friend
[Reply]
TiredOfIt Reply:
June 9th, 2012 at 2:19 pm
@vegasking, Double ditto
[Reply]
Been waiting since the Kings started in Cali…many seasons of futility rooting for my team, unusually on some horrible radio channel I could barely hear. Remember several times tuning in for a game, only to have it preempted by a stupid volleyball game or such. We have come a long way from those days…can hardly wait to see them lift the trophy! Lets do it boys!
[Reply]