Rookie Ryan Cruthers, who joined the club straight out of college with four games left in Utah's regular season, says, "I feel like I've been here since the start of training camp (last fall). Everyone welcomed me right away" and made him feel like he belonged. Cruthers' first game with Utah was against Las Vegas, and he had an assist in his pro debut.

He centers a Utah'"energy line" with Scott Burt and Olivier Labelle. That line came to life in scoring in the series against Victoria, and even if it doesn't score, it contributes greatly, said Christie.

"It's just a good mix of guys, older veterans and younger guys," said Cruthers, words that also come from Christie, Forbes and Dwyer. He notes that every day, large groups of players stay together to go to lunch or play golf. Because they're so close, said Cruthers, each man is more accountable to his teammates and more likely to take peer suggestions to heart.

Said Forbes, who has won two championships since turning pro in 2000, "I've never really been on a team where guys didn't get along, but this one has a little bit extra."

Both clubs have had long layoffs since they won their second-round series in five games each, partly due to a coaching convention in the Orleans. Las Vegas has been off for 10 days, Utah for eight.

Christie said that much time without playing makes it imperative for Utah to "make sure we keep it simple and bring our high-energy game."

Peter Ferraro of Las Vegas is the No. 2 scorer in the ECHL playoffs with 17 points through 10 games. Adam Cracknell of the Wrangles is tied for sixth with 14 points for 11 games, one better than Utah's Keith Johnson in 11 games. Adam Miller of Vegas and Utah defenseman James Sanford are tied with 12 points, and Sanford is the leading power-play assister in the league with seven.

As they did for other playoff series, the Grizzlies will host playoff-watch parties for fans tonight and Tuesday to listen to the live radio broadcast in the Centennial Room of the E Center. Admission is $7 with free popcorn, soft drinks for $1 and beer for $3. Tickets will be sold at the door. Call 801-988-PUCK for further information.

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ECHL National Conference Finals

Utah at Las Vegas, today, 8 p.m.

Utah at Las Vegas, Tuesday, 8 p.m.

Las Vegas at Utah, Thursday, 7 p.m.

Las Vegas at Utah, Friday, 7 p.m.

Las Vegas at Utah, Sunday, May 18, 4 p.m.*

Utah at Las Vegas, Tuesday, May 20, 8 p.m.*

Utah at Las Vegas, Wednesday, May 21, 8 p.m.*

All times Mountain

*if necessary

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E-mail: lham@desnews.com