Phoenix Coyotes Begin Hockey Grind
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by Pbcoyotes
After playing what seemed to be a NFL football type schedule, the Phoenix Coyotes now play teams on regular intervals. On Thursday night, they faced the Anaheim Ducks and pulled off a win 1-0 because of stellar goaltending, and Saturday night they host the Dallas Stars.
With the Coyotes, they had three goaltenders to work into the system. Over the off-season, they signed two former number one goalies in David Aebischer and Alex Auld to compete with current netminder Mikael Tellqvist. David Aebischer was placed on waivers and joined the Coyotes AHL affiliate San Antonio Rampage, which left Auld and Tellqvist standing.
Both Auld and Tellqvist have played well in their recent outings, especially Auld who has kept the young Coyotes team competitive. Now the Coyotes' only problem is putting the biscuit in the basket, including Shane Doan who has only mustered up four points - all assists - so far. Doan is beginning to feel the pressure and has been pressing a lot lately during games, which makes it more difficult for him to break out of his slump. Traditionally, Doan is a slow starter, so it shouldn't be long before he rises out of the funk.
The aforementioned "youth movement" has been paying off well so far. Martin Hanzal, and Peter Mueller both have goals and former AHL players Craig Weller and Daniel Winnik have been nice surprises.
When one thinks of Daniel Carcillo, they may perceive that all he does is bang people around and pester them into taking penalties a la Sean Avery. However, he has been the gem showcasing his energy and scoring ability with his two goals against the Minnesota Wild and his goal and an assist against the Edmonton Oilers.
Most teams have a strong home record and a better that .500 record on the road. Many would argue that taking care of home ice and staying consistent on the road would enable teams to earn a shot into the playoffs. Right now, the Coyotes have reversed this pattern with a 1-4 record at home and a 2-1 record on the road. Their home game against the Dallas Stars could be a good start at reversing this trend.
After facing the Stars, the Coyotes travel to St. Louis to face the Blues. The Coyotes soundly beat the Blues in their home opener, and the Blues would want nothing more than to return the favor.
