On the team’s strong start:
Yep, I think we were trying to focus on trying to just having a good start, everybody’s first shift, and obviously scoring the first goal has been an advantage in this series.
On whether he ever looked ahead during the regular season to how difficult it would be to get past San Jose and Anaheim in the playoffs:
Every time you play them.
On having limited Devante Smith-Pelly over the final two games of the series:
I think he plays with two great players, and he had a hell of a series, also. Our goal is to have a good start, our goal is to stay out of the penalty box, our goal is to try and not get scored on in the penalty kill. In the last two games, obviously you get the best goalie in the league on our side, and you want him in a Game 7.
On how the players prepared for the game, given their start:
Well, we came out last night and got ready today. Couldn’t skate, six o’clock game. Had a little zip around this morning and got ready. It’s just a game, It’s not life or death. It’s just a game.
On Teemu Selanne’s final game:
I coached Teemu and I know him. He’s a special player and a special person. I’m glad that he got to win a championship. I’m sure as disappointing as it is for him to lose the series, he got to play it here, and he got recognized by the crowd at the end. That’s awesome. I think both teams – not just his own team – but I know the respect our players have for him, too, so it was really nice to see that.
On how satisfying it is to reach the Western Conference Final three years in a row:
I think with the new alignment this year and the new format, the toughest part is adjusting to how you can win in your division. Obviously the Conference Final is now you have to get through your division. We had a really good regular season. We talked about 100 points and not having to play Chicago in the first round and getting out of our division – all those things. So we just find a way. Is it gratifying? Of course it is. It’s what you play for.
On the quick turnaround before Game 1:
It is difficult, that’s for sure, but you know what? We’ll skate in the morning, we’ll fly and get in there for dinner tomorrow night and try and set our clocks on go.
On Kyle Clifford’s performances after sitting out a game:
Lots of guys sat out, Jon. It’s what you need in playoffs. You don’t deal on guys sitting out. You deal on how they play. Lots of guys sit out. I think we practiced with five lines and nine defensemen.
On Justin Williams’ performance in Game 7s:
Those guys lead the charge. There’s no question those players like that that have played in a lot of Game 7s or made the difference in deciding games. They lead the charge. They set the tone. Willie’s a perfect example.
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