Patrick Kane Leads Blackhawks to Cup Finals
09 Jun, 2013
Patrick Kane scored his third goal of the game 11:40 into the second overtime period and the Blackhawks beat the defending champion Kings 4-3 on Saturday to advance to the finals.
“Right now I think it’s almost like I’m in a different zone, like in the Twilight Zone or something,” Kane said, calling it the best game of his career. “I’m kind of out of it. It’s definitely a good feeling, though.”
Corey Crawford made 33 saves, and Duncan Keith scored in his return from a one-game suspension as the top-seeded Blackhawks eliminated the Kings in five games in the Western Conference finals.
Chicago will host the Eastern champion Boston Bruins in Game 1 of the best-of-seven championship series on Wednesday night. Boston completed a sweep of the Pittsburgh Penguins on Friday night.
“It’s a special couple places. The tradition of the Bruins and the Hawks is special,” Chicago coach Joel Quenneville said. “I’m sure, you know, the rivalry could return instantly come Game 1. I think it’s good for the league. It’s good for hockey. Two great hockey markets. We’re very excited to be a part of it.”
This is the first finals matchup of NHL Original Six franchises since 1979, and it will pit two of the last three champions against each other.
Chicago won the Cup in 2010, ending a 49-year drought. Boston captured the title the following year.
Los Angeles managed to recover after trailing 2-0 in the first period and 3-2 late in regulation in the longest game in franchise history. Mike Richards and Anze Kopitar both had a goal and an assist, and Jonathan Quick finished with 31 saves.
AP
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