One of the game-within-the-game stories for tonight is Chris Neil, who will be celebrating 600 games in the National Hockey League.
Earlier today I spoke with Chris about his special achievement, tough guys in the league and preparing for the Kings...
MM: Looking back, your first NHL game was against the Toronto Maple Leafs. Any thoughts about how you're feeling today versus how you might have been feeling that afternoon?
CN: Playing my first game against Toronto - you don't even remember touching the ice, you're so wound up and excited with your adrenaline going. After the first period you sort of settle in and you get your groove. I think to be coming up on 600 games after not even really realizing you're in your first NHL game it's pretty exciting.
In an unusual twist you'll be sharing the milestone with your linemate Jarkko Ruutu (also celebrating 600 games). Have you ever heard of a situation where linemates share a milestone like this?
