One shaky game in goal, and critics were dismissing Patrick Roy as past his Stanley Cup prime. Colorado Avalanche coach Bob Hartley knew better. After allowing four goals in Colorado's series opener against the Los Angeles Kings, Roy has been stellar as the Avalanche move toward their third straight trip to the Western Conference finals. Roy, who holds the NHL records for regular-season and playoff victories, has shut out the Kings twice in three games and can close out Los Angeles in Game 5 on Friday night. He's in a zone.
Any athlete is human.
Mark McGwire doesn't always hit a home run. Roger Clemens doesn't always throw a strike. While the Avalanche are poised to make another trip to the finals, Los Angeles coach Andy Murray is clinging to the belief his team is on the brink of success, as well. The Kings won four straight against the Detroit Red Wings in the first round of the playoffs, but face a different challenge against Colorado. We're not going to give up.