NHL WESTERN CONFERENCE FINALS: AVALANCHE v RED WINGS

May 26, 2002

Bob Hartley

COACH HARTLEY: Like we said before the start of this round, it's simply unbelievable the amount of skills, the quality of the leadership on both teams. And that's why this round is even at 2-2. And that's why there is so many Hall of Famers on both sides.

COACH HARTLEY: Mike Keane is doing good. We're going to reevaluate him tomorrow, and it will probably be a game-time decision.

COACH HARTLEY: After Joe's goal early in the third period we showed lots of killer instinct out there. We were skating and pressuring the Wings. That's the entire key in order to be successful against the Wings.

COACH HARTLEY: The most important thing and the only thing that really matters at the playoffs is the score at the final buzzer. Sometimes it's not pretty, but you have to learn to survive. And talking about survival, we should maybe write a book. We find some ways, and that's a sign of good people. And again, tomorrow night it all starts in our dressing room. I know that it's an old song, but the experience, the leadership, the talent, those guys have to, one more time, face the music and get the job done. Tomorrow should be a great game.

COACH HARTLEY: Momentum has switched so many times, it's unbelievable. I really think both teams will be looking for a good start tomorrow. They'll try to get some energy in this building. We'll try to get a good start, hopefully get the first goal to develop solid momentum on our side. I really like in these rounds that the focus is on the players. Like the first question, there is so many great hockey players. That's why this round there is so much attention around it. It's imply unbelievable. Great goalie matchup, defensemen, and great forwards. Plus, you have guys that have proven that not only are they all stars in this league, but players you should sell our game around. I think you guys have done a good job with it, and the players deserve lots of credit.

COACH HARTLEY: I brought a barrel and it will sit behind the bench and I'll pull five out at a time, and we'll try to get something going.

COACH HARTLEY: Winning in the playoffs, especially in Conference is something that's been pretty tough all year long. It doesn't change in the playoffs. I love the focus we're showing. I love our discipline. As we know, tomorrow night is a big game for both teams. Both teams will be ready to play. We should see a great hockey team.