Fiset Leaves Avalanche High and Dry

Goalie Stephane Fiset’s performance in the Kings’ 4-2 win over his former team, the Colorado Avalanche, Saturday was an inspiration to his teammates. Fiset, who had not won a game since Nov. 2, stopped 28 of 29 shots before leaving early in the third period because of dehydration.

“He was having trouble so bad in the second period, he couldn’t even grip his stick at times because he was cramping,” King center Ray Ferraro said. “He wanted to win against his former team really bad. “That’s why he started the third period.”

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In their victory over the Avalanche, the Kings looked nothing like the plodding team that lost to Tampa Bay last Thursday. With quick short shifts and aggressive offensive play from defensemen Sean O’Donnell and Philippe Boucher, the Kings played playoff-style hockey from the opening faceoff.

“We played at the type of pace we have to get used to,” King Coach Larry Robinson said. “It’s new to us, but I think we can do it. As a team, we play great when we don’t wait around. I think a lot has to do with us having respect with opponents like Colorado.”