Canucks topple Kings, 7-2, to take 3-2 lead in series

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Mikael Samuelsson scored twice and added an assist, and the Vancouver Canucks routed the Los Angeles Kings, 7-2, on Friday night to grab a 3-2 lead in the Western Conference first-round playoff series.

Daniel Sedin and Samuelsson scored 5 minutes apart in the second period to chase Kings goaltender Jonathan Quick. Samuelsson added his playoff-leading seventh goal on a power play in the third to send backup Erik Ersberg back to the bench.

Steve Bernier had two goals, Alexander Edler and Pavol Demitra also scored, and Roberto Luongo made 24 saves for Vancouver.

After rallying in the third period to win Game 4 in Los Angeles and avoid a 3-1 series deficit, the Canucks can advance to the second round with a road victory on Sunday.

-- Associated Press