Kings Take Stanley Cup Opener Behind Anze Kopitar OT Tally
2012 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs

Newark, NJ

Anze Kopitar netted the game-winning goal eight minutes into the overtime period as the Los Angeles Kings eked out a 2-1 victory over the New Jersey Devils in Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Finals at Prudential Center.

The Kings added another milestone to their improbable playoff run by winning a fourth consecutive series opener on the road at the expense of the reigning Eastern Conference champion.

Kopitar, who contributed seven goals and nine assists throughout their postseason campaign, delivered another bigtime play for the Kings after slotting in the game-winner off a nice play from Justin Williams and Drew Doughty at the 8:13 mark of the overtime period.

Jonathan Quick had another outstanding night between the pipes, stopping 17 shots to improve his postseason record to 13-2.

Kings center Colin Fraser scored the first goal of the 2012 Stanley Cup off a pass from Jordan Nolan at the 9:56 minute of the first period.

After missing on several scoring opportunities, the Devils finally tied the score at 1-1 with a goal from Anton Volchenkov at 18:48 mark of the second period.

Scoring even became tougher in the third period as both teams tightened up their defense. Although the game was physical as expected, no penalties were assessed in the third period.

The Kings fired 25 shots and won 31 of the 56 faceoff duels. The Devils recorded 44 hits and 8 takeaways but the Kings' defensive tactics really prevented them from executing their offense.

The Devils have another chance to win on home ice as they try to even up the series at 1-1 in Game 2 at Prudential Center.