Johnny's of Redlands Erupts: Kings Win in OT, Take 1-0 Stanley Cup Series Lead

Patrons at Johnny's Sports Bar in Redlands erupted Wednesday night as the Los Angeles Kings beat the host New Jersey Devils 2-1 in overtime to take a 1-0 Stanley Cup Final series lead.

Anze Kopitar netted the sudden death winner in New Jersey to bring several people to their feet inside the East Lugonia Avenue business.

Johnny's owner Marco Lazzarini predicted a Kings win when it was tied 1-1 late in regulation.

"They're playing in New Jersey but I think the Kings are playing the best hockey right now, so I expect them to win," Lazzarini said.

Business was bustling in the establishment, with few seats available, due in part to pockets of Kings fans as well as others who paid no attention to the drama.

"It just kind of depends if the kids are playing baseball in the area, or soccer, they come in after their games or practice," Lazzarini said.

Wednesday evenings can be busy even if there's not a big game on, he said.

"We have three high schools in the area, so after practices a lot of people come in," Lazzarini said.

Lazzarini urged Redlands-Mentone area Kings fans who missed Game 1 to watch the rest of the Stanley Cup Final series at Johnny's.

"Absolutely," he said. "Dust off those '93 Gretzky jerseys and get out here."