Avs loses to Kings

 

Stephine Chavez (HV)

 

The Colorado Avalanche (7-5-2) took on the La Kings (4-9-3) at Denver tonight. Both teams started the game well covering their nets and getting some shots in. But ultimately, the Kings stepped it up and provided an array of goals to beat the Avs 5-3 in the end. Sean Avery (Canadian) #19, LA Kings,says "we're doing it as a team- trying to get goals. We're going home with two points and we're happy. It's a big game for us." On whether the second period of this particular game is the best period the Kings have played all season, Avery states, "I think we've played a lot of good periods this year. I don't think our record is indication of it. I think we played extremely well at times. We had a good second period and we're happy we beat a good team tonight." Raitis Ivanans (Latvian) #41, LA Kings, was happy with the way the team played tonight. "We scored lots of goals and played good as a team," says Raitis. He goes on to say that the Avalanche always come out strong with a lot of guys driving the net so they (Kings) knew they had to be ready at their net. When asked his opinion of fellow Latvian and Colorado Avalanche Ironman # 3, Karlis Skrastins, Raitis had this to say: "He is a good stay home defenseman. He plays good solid defence." I think that sums up Karlis as well. I would add that he is often underrated and not given a lot of credit for the job he does for the Avs. He is averaging 21-22 minutes per game; second highest ATOI for his team and he still maintains a solid game. With former teammate and top defenseman Rob Blake now playing for the Kings, Karlis has really shown leadership and continues to impress with his defensive skills. Rob Blake (Canadian) #4 LA Kings, was in better spirits this time in the Kings locker room. Rob was drafted by the Kings in 1988 and played with them until 2000/2001 season when he joined the Colorado Avalanche. He stayed with Colorado for five seasons before deciding to return back to LA. Rob was a key player when the Avs won The Stanley Cup in 2001. Rob had played against his former team (Avs) once in regular season. The Avs beat the Kings 6-1 so needless to say Rob was not in a talkative mood that night. But tonight is different, the Kings took charge and scored some solid goals while protecting their net. "They have a very talented offensive team. Their leader Joe Sakic took charge again. In the third we were up but knew we had to play solid. We were fortunate with a good bounce in the power play late to seal it up," stated Rob. When Rob was asked if this game was easier to play than his first game back at the Pepsi Center he said, "The first one's a tough one. There's a lot of great memories. It was a great spot to play and learn. There a good group of guys over there." The Kings won the challenge 5-4.

 

Photo: Raitis Ivanans (LA Kings) © Stephine Chavez (HV)