Adam’s Three Keys to the Game: Colorado Avalanche at Arizona Coyotes

The Arizona Coyotes come off a lackadaisical effort against the Anaheim Ducks on Sunday and hope to bounce back tonight against the Colorado Avalanche. The Coyotes were dormant in the first two periods Sunday but managed to give the Ducks a run for their money in the third but it was too little too late. The Colorado Avalanche travel to Gila River Arena after their come from behind win against the Carolina Hurricanes Saturday by a score of 4-3. Both teams are not where they want to be record wise in the league. The Coyotes have a 9-11-2 record at the moment with the Avalanche posting a record of 7-9-5. Your three keys to the game are below.

1) Hanzal, So Hot Right Now

That’s right, the big man is back. Martin Hanzal has not played since November 16th against the Edmonton Oilers and the Coyotes are excited to have him in the lineup against the Avs. His presence in front of the opposing goaltender is key to the Coyotes success through his screens and puck deflections. This center seems to have a habit of getting injured so hopefully he can stay healthy and help the Coyotes win some games as we push into December. His presence on the ice will be felt tonight.

2) Let’s Have a Shot Party

This shot party will be a little different than the ones at our favorite fraternity in the glory days of college. Instead of throwing them back, let’s throw them to the net. The first two periods in Anaheim were pitiful as the Coyotes managed to record only 10 shots on net. They caught up with 17 in the third to even up their total but 10 in the first two is unacceptable. Tonight, the boys need to pressure Reto Berra and capitalize on his inexperience in the league. Pucks to the net will equal goals.

3) Sharpen Those Skates Smitty

Mike Smith was incredible Sunday night as he finished the game with a .933 save percentage. His minor slip was indeed a misfortune but he needs to put that behind him. Smith gets the nod tonight against the Avalanche which may upset certain fans who have added fuel to the fire with the Smith/Dubnyk controversy. Whether you are #TeamSmith or #TeamDubnyk let’s sit back and watch Mike Smith do his thing in net. Mike is 8-1-3 with a 1.85 GAA and a .940 SV% in his career against the Avalanche. If he can ride his momentum of stellar play from Sunday into Gila River Arena tonight; the Coyotes will come out on top.