Under the lights of Dodger Stadium, the Anaheim Ducks and L.A. Kings staged hockey’s largest spectacle in Southern California.
The Ducks defeated the Kings 3-0, and maintained their hold on the Pacific Division by nine points over the San Jose Sharks, who managed to keep pace with an overtime win over the Minnesota Wild. But what transpired between the Ducks and Kings was more than just another game.
“Yeah, it was a really special experience. I think I had more time to enjoy it last night. Once you’re in the game, you’re more focused on the game,” said Ducks’ goalie Jonas Hiller afterward.
“But, yeah, sure, after intermissions and key breaks, you are able to get the whole picture, and it was pretty unbelievable. It was just, for sure an unbelievable experience.”
Added Ducks’ head coach Bruce Boudreau: “I mean, I’ll remember the atmosphere, you know, 54,000 people, and where we were ... and when people say Californians are laid back, I thought they were pretty into it tonight.”