Blake Still Sore but Might Play in Opener

Defenseman Rob Blake had some soreness in his injured right arm after practice on Thursday, and his status for tonight’s season opener will be determined after the morning skate.

“It’s not 100%, but it won’t be for a while,” Blake said. “I’m just hoping I can play through it. I tried to test it a little bit. I can basically shoot the way I want to when I want to. I’m more worried about taking another hit on it and having recurring damage. It’s a game I want to be in. I’ve missed enough as it is.”

Said Coach Larry Robinson: “He’s close. He’s got to get his mind set, that he can’t be thinking about the injury. I don’t think he’s doing himself any justice if he’s not 100% healthy. He’s been hurt long enough. It’s frustrating enough to be hurt . . . then re-aggravating it and being gone for even longer.”

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There were 1,332 tickets remaining for tonight’s opener at the Forum, as of 5 p.m. Thursday, according to a team spokesman. The last time the Kings did not sell out for their home opener was in 1989 when they drew 15,598 against Toronto.

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King players are expected to appear Saturday and Sunday at NHL Breakout ‘96, a free festival of street hockey and roller hockey tournaments at Santa Monica Beach.