I really had a feeling that the Kings were going to take over this game to start the second period. They had just killed off some really important Devils power-play opportunities and New Jersey seemed a bit frustrated--at least to this observer--at their inability to put a puck past Jonathan Quick.
Kings Get 4 Whacks At Puck In Crease, Take 1-0 Lead
But early in the second period, that wasn’t the case. Los Angeles found themselves pinned back in their own zone yet again. Quick was the only reason the Devils didn’t take a 1-0 lead, really.
And that’s how a great goaltender wins you hockey games. You’re getting outplayed, you’re getting outworked and your goaltender makes a series of big saves to keep the opposition off the board. Then, you go down the other end and get four whacks at a puck in the crease to take the lead.
Undeserved goal? Maybe. Martin Brodeur and the Devils were not happy with the goal, but the officials reviewed it briefly and the call on the ice stood. 1-0 Los Angeles. Alec Martinez's first career playoff goal.
Stick with SB Nation’s dedicated NHL hub for full Stanley Cup finals coverage. For more on the New Jersey Devils, check out Devils blog In Lou We Trust. For more on the Los Angeles Kings, check out Jewels From The Crown and SB Nation Los Angeles .
See More:
