Laine to up game for playoffs

[Laine 1,361]

HELSINKI, FINLAND - While the Stars and Phantoms advanced to the Conference Semi-finals, Patrik Laine and the Helsinki Titans only have one thing on their minds. The Continental Cup. The holy grail of VHL hockey. And after 2 Cup Finals appearances and 2 early exits, Laine says enough is enough.

 

"You know, certainly disappointed to lose in the first round two years in a row, but time to put that behind us. We have a great core with Thightrap, Vaakainainen, Vikingstad and Rune behind us, as well as Driver in net. Now is our chance to make a run and I think we can do it."

 

Laine, who started the season with 15 goals in 12 games, had just 17 in his last 60 games. However, this isn't bothering the young Finn.

 

"Yeah, definitely was a terrible end to the season for me, not scoring and being a - almost every game, but playoff hockey is a different animal. All these teams that stomped us in the regular season haven't seen the last of me. I'm going to play fast and physical. You're going to see a pissed off Patrik Laine out there tomorrow night."

 

Helsinki opens the playoffs against the London United on Wednesday Night.

 

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