October 7 postgame quotes: John Stevens

On the power play and offensive rhythm:
…(joined in progress)… The power play, quite honestly, could’ve been rewarded more. They created some really good looks and the puck movement was really good. I thought maybe a little bit sloppy in the third period there, but there were times in the game it was really encouraging.

On having a strong first period:
Well, it was important to get off to a good start in this building. You get behind in this building, it’s an uphill battle. San Jose, we knew they’d be ready because they lost the first game at home and had a couple days to prepare, so I was really pleased with the effort of guys coming in and making sure we were ready to go. I thought we created a lot and didn’t give up much, and that was a scenario for a good start.

On adjustments the team made between the first two games of the season:
I just think we took a step. I thought the Kopitar line and Kopi himself was a dominant player tonight. I think our back end continues to be solid for us. Just thought we played faster with the puck, and I thought we did a good job of really playing fast without the puck. We got on top of the rush, we didn’t allow numbers coming at us. That was the big thing – we really limited their ability to make you chase them from behind, and it led to a lot of opportunity going the other way.

On Quick only being beaten once, on a deflection:
Well, that’s vintage San Jose, right? Get the puck turned over on a forecheck, low to high, get people to the net and get sticks on pucks. They’re a dangerous team, but obviously nothing you can do there. I thought Jonny, again, his leadership was solid tonight. He’s not only a good goalie, but he got out and handled a lot of pucks. He steered pucks away, got whistled, and just was a calming force back there whenever they did get some momentum, so it was good to see.

-Lead photo via Don Smith/NHLI