Since the Los Angeles Kings cliched their coveted playoff berth the other day, I kind of figured they’d come out slacking a bit against the Anaheim Ducks. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not a bad fan, I’m just being a realist. And I definitely wasn’t wrong as the first period rolled along. The Ducks were all over the Kings, and Jonathan Quick was pulled after Bobby Ryan pulled a fast one on the Kings defense, which was insanely annoying. Cue Erik Ersberg and my elevated heart beat for the rest of the game. There wasn’t too much air in the sails for the Kings until Alexander Frolov scored in the second with a goal very similar to Dustin Brown‘s earlier. Also, Brian Hayward; I cannot tell you enough how much I absolutely hate you.
It was interesting how the Kings were not in control for much of the first half of the game, yet they had more shots on by a mile. Country mile? Can I say that? I grew up in the suburbs. Anyway, with the game chugging along the first glimmer of hope came when Justin Williams wheeled the puck around Curtis McElhinney to get the Kings within one, but the goal to tie by Michal Handzus was better. I would like to virtually high five Handzus for his effort in that play. It couldn’t have been better. Both he and Williams killed it coming across the line and ending it with the cleanest pass. Sick.
The game only got better as the overtime frame was more exciting than I was expecting; nine total shots with both goaltenders keeping their teams in it by controlling the crazy passes and clean breaks. Anze Kopitar finished off the shootout with the most beautiful goal to end the game. Every time he’s attempted this move and made it, my jaw has dropped to the floor. His attempt was no different as he completely faked out McElhinney and I jumped out of my seat screaming into a throw pillow. Freaking great second half of the game. First half? Well, when you have one team just making the playoffs and the other fighting for their post-season lives, it’s understandable. Inexcusable? No. Understandable? Yes.
The best part about this win is knowing the Ducks are now eliminated from the playoffs. 100% out of the post season. A.K.A. music to my ears.
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Question: what is going on here?
Wayne Simmonds TOI: 11:11
Raitis Ivanans TOI: 9:20