The CBGB line addressing media at the Stanley Cup Final Media Day. (via @DevilsGenerals/Twitter)
The Stanley Cup Final Media Day saw the members of the Devils talking to media and occasionally getting attacked by microphones. Today was truly the calm before the storm. On Wednesday a best-of-seven series beginning between the New Jersey Devils and the Los Angeles Kings will probably culminate, over time, in a few fights and doubtlessly some hostility.
For today, at least, the Devils were full of smiles.
GM Lou Lamoriello expressed satisfaction with this year’s roster. “Probably one of the best teams we’ve had, in terms of chemistry.” He added, “To me, that’s key.”
Lamoriello also spoke about the Devils’ style of play. With a loaded roster of forwards Zach Parise, Travis Zajac, Ilya Kovalchuk and David Clarkson, among others, the Devils’ play is more offensive than the defensive trap of former head coach Jacques Lemaire.
“It was time to loosen up a little (with the forwards), but not at the expense of defense. DeBoer was committed to that,” Lamoriello commented, when asked about the coaching switch that’s brought success to the Devils. He added that the goal was winning, and that going the more offensive route had nothing to do with shedding the controversial history of the trap.
Zajac, only recently returned to the lineup, joked that the game looks a lot easier from up in the press box. The forward was on injured reserve for months with an Achilles injury. “Just watching the team, watching the guys, I knew we had a special group this year. … It’s a dream come true. When you’re growing up, you want to play in the Stanley Cup Final. You’ve got to pinch yourself.”
Elias, returning to the Stanley Cup Final, agreed. “It’s a great experience for me to be back after nine years. You forget how great it feels to play (in the Final).”
“We’ve got a lot of work to do. We know how great a team LA is,” captain Zach Parise said. “Everyone understands what we are and what we have to do.”
He had to fend off encroaching clipboards and microphones when two reporters got tangled up next to him.
Parise smiled when asked about his future following this season. “You guys respected my wishes to stop asking me about it, and everything’s been fine after that.” In answer to a final query, he responded, “I’m not answering any questions about free agency.”
No matter how this series ends for the Devils, Parise’s future will remain a hot topic for the media.
During the team’s two final practices, focus was on the faltering power play. Special teams will be a necessary component towards scoring against Kings’ goalie Jonathan Quick.
Historically, the Devils have a 15-9 record in the Stanley Cup Final. This will be the first Stanley Cup Final meeting between the 6th and 8th seeds. Whether the 6th or the 8th, this season’s Stanley Cup champion will be the lowest seed to win the Cup in NHL history.
