April 14, 2016
I just can’t stay away from hockey! As I mentioned in my 2015 wrap-up post, I’ve spent a lot of time at both Staples Center and Honda Center for the LA Kings and Anaheim Ducks as an on-site editor for the team photographers during games. I had always thought this job could lead to shooting, but I was never certain when or how, and I certainly didn’t think it would happen during the playoffs. I got a call early afternoon, and with one sick photographer I was in and on my way to the game with just enough time for a quick shower before leaving.
I was working for the Sharks with priority on pre-game pictures of players preparing for the playoffs. After wandering the halls for a few minutes, San Jose captain Joe Pavelski emerged from the locker room in gym shorts and a warm up hoodie grasping his stick. His gaze toward the ground, eyes focused. I followed him to the away team bench where we sat amidst a silent rink that would be bustling within the hour. After taking his photograph, he eventually got up, and as we passed each other he tapped me on the leg with his stick letting me know that it was game time. Let the 2016 Stanley Cup Playoffs begin! Los Angeles Kings vs San Jose Sharks in Round One Game One of the 2016 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Staples Center.