The Los Angeles Kings, regardless of what happens over the next two to five games, have officially written their names in the record books. With their 2-1 overtime win against the New Jersey Devils on Saturday night in Game 2 of the 2012 Stanley Cup Final, the Kings have now won 10 road games in the 2012 playoffs. This ties the all-time NHL record for most road wins in a single postseason. Co-holders of this record include ... the New Jersey Devils.
The Kings continue to be unbeatable on the road, as they have not lost a postseason game away from the Staples Center dating back to last year. With their second overtime win in as many games, the Kings hold a commanding 2-0 lead in the series and are just two wins from securing the first Stanley Cup in franchise history.
Drew Doughty had put the Kings on the board in the first period. They carried that 1-0 lead into the third period, but Ryan Carter tied things up in the final regulation period and the game headed into overtime.
In overtime, the Devils attacked the Kings net ferociously for several minutes, but Jonathan Quick refused to yield. Momentum swung back the other way and the Kings now attacked, getting several terrific looks but unable to find the net. Finally, a deflected shot wound up in back of the net and Jeff Carter came up with it. He skated around traffic and let fly with a backhanded low line drive that sailed right past Martin Brodeur and right into the net for the winning goal.
While the Kings have a big lead and now return home to the Staples Center, this series is far from a foregone conclusion. The team will need to stay alert and on their guard if they hope to reach the promised land of their first-ever championship.
For more news and notes on the Kings or the NHL Stanley Cup Final, be sure to check out Jewels From The Crown.
