Mike Smith and Phoenix send Calgary and their fans home quiet after “Oh Canada!” Part One
By Troy Baker
The Coyotes played just another boring grind it out hockey game Monday night in front of a packed Jobing.com. In the end they scored 4 goals and congratulated Smitty for his 30 save shutout and the fans for showing their support by again raising their sticks after the 4-0 shutout victory.
Mar 1., 2012; Glendale, AZ, USA; Phoenix Coyotes goalie Mike Smith (41) stretches prior to the game against the Calgary Flames at Jobing.com Arena. Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
The much maligned Keith Yandle put back a loose puck less than a minute into the contest and the Coyotes took the lead for good as he pumped his fist in the air in celebration. Mike Smith looked comfortable and confident all night long.
It has been a roller coaster for Yandle in the early season. Some fans calling for his head while others defending him to the end. I love him because he is an American born and raised from Boston. He gives the ‘Yotes a much needed offensive spark. Like someone said “Yandle is like a gassy super model. If you can look past the occasional brain fart it’s definitely worth it.” Keith has a lot of upside. He is that enigma that many teams wish they had. Sure maybe a front line stud would be worth a trade but unless salaries matched it won’t happen. So embrace your future Captain Coyote’s fans.
Feb. 18, 2013; Glendale, AZ, USA; Phoenix Coyotes defenseman Keith Yandle (3) celebrates after scoring a goal in the first period against the Calgary Flames at Jobing.com Arena. Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
Mikkel Boedker scored even faster in the 3rd period with an odd angle shot backhanded past Taylor for a 2 – 0 lead just 30 seconds into the final stanza. The 3rd was all Coyotes after a scoreless 2nd in which Calgary could have scored several times if not for the stellar play of Smitty.