The Ottawa Senators weren't about to be late for their first trip to the Stanley Cup final.

The Senators held a short but spirited final practice at Scotiabank Place on Saturday, then boarded a plane for Anaheim a full two days ahead of their opening game against the Ducks.

Senators linemates Dany Heatley, left, and Jason Spezza take part in Saturday's practice at Scotiabank Place.
(Patrick Doyle/Canadian Press)

Coach Bryan Murray hoped the early arrival in southern California would help his team get acclimated to the three-hour time difference and stave off the effects of jet lag.

"I think the guys will adjust fairly well," Murray said.

While Ottawa boasts a league-best 7-1 road record in the playoffs, the final marks the first time the Senators have had to venture outside the Eastern time zone.

"I think you just have to change your game day preparations a little bit," centre Mike Comrie said. "You start focusing the night before and maybe keep things a little simpler. When you're on the road it's easy to find time to rest."

By the time the puck is dropped Monday night (CBC, 8 p.m. ET), the Senators will have had eight days off  — compared with five for the Ducks — but captain Daniel Alfredsson said he doesn't expect the long layoff to hurt his team.

"It feels good to get closer. It's been a long week, but it was nice to regroup," he said. "I think the focus has been a little sharper the last few days. I think both teams will try to get off to a good start."

Ottawa centre Mike Fisher skipped Saturday's practice due to some soreness, but Murray said he would be ready to go for Monday's game.

Game 2 is in Anaheim on Wednesday, then the series heads to Ottawa for Games 3 and 4.

With files from the Canadian Press