Roy Blanks Wings

Detroit
Red Wings

"I know I had to come out and make saves right off the bat," Roy said. "We played really great in the second and third. It's early and it's so far to go. They have to win at least one here. Everyone was sharp tonight, we were so strong defensively. I was able to see my shots."

"The bigger the game, the bigger he is," Ray Bourque said. "He made some unbelievable saves in the first half of the first period when we didn't come out as sharp as we'd like. He was on top of his game right off the bat. That really lifts the team."

Peter Forsberg and Sandis Ozolinsh scored for the Avalanche, which looked strong and focused after a six-day rest since finishing Phoenix in five games in the first round.

Detroit had some chances early, but later in the game couldn't muster any serious offense.

"Their defense didn't give us many chances," Red Wings coach Scotty Bowman said. "I don't think we had more than seven with a few minutes to go. We had three chances in the first period, and not many after that."

"They are a smart team and move the puck well," Detroit winger Darren McCarty said. "We have to be patient and pick our spots. Both teams are creative. Their transition game is one of the best in the league. Osgood was strong, we have got to give him more support."