Feb. 28, 2013; Glendale, AZ, USA; Phoenix Coyotes defenseman Michael Stone (29) and Minnesota Wild left wing Mike Rupp (27) Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

The Coyotes jumped all over Minnesota early and out shot them greatly in the opening period but trailed 1 – 0 after only 1:35 into the game. Phoenix almost score 5 times in the opening period but Minnesota did score and they even  could have score more than that. We just could not bury the puck early on. Zucker put in a nice passing play and Heatley added some top cheese to end 2 – 0 after one period. Paul Biznasty got worked in his fight mid 1st taking a few shots to the grill. We couldn’t win any battle early

The 2nd period was the same as the ‘Yotes jumped early but Heatley added another to make it 3 – 0 and it looked over. Rusty Klesla gave the home team hope but it didn’t last long as as 1/3 of the period Phoenix was killing penalties which led to Spurgeon’s power play game winner. 4 – 1 after 2nd period. 6 mins to none is not a good period to be chasing the play and the score.

The 3rd period was not the jump out Phoenix hoped for or needed as both teams traded penalties and the Wild seemed like they fell like they played for the Spurs.

In the end Yandle had an unbelievable goal that bounced off the glass and through the side of Backstrom who only allowed 2 tricky slippery goals to this point. With less than a minute to go Shane Doan scored his milestone goal on a wrister in the middle of the ice to make it closer than the game really was. None the less the ‘Yotes came away with no points and slipped out of playoff contention.

Mike Smith was pulled after 2 periods and once again Jason LaBarbera allowed no goal in releif. Defense has done a lot to contribute to the goals allowed but Smitty has to be better.

Anaheim leads the Pacific division and will be here for 2 games and in Anaheim for the 3rd in a row. This is the chance for Phoenix to make up for missed opportunities. All 3 would be awesome but 2 of 3 is much needed. Worst case 3 points in 3 games seems a must. The next 3 games will let the Coyotes define them as contenders or pretenders.

After the Chicago game a lot of questions arose but today’s tilt showed these Coyotes have a resolve to rebound from adversity. The road trip will show exactly how this season will take shape. The road warriors came out with a lot more jump, a ton more discipline, and weathered every storm. When the Sharks attacked the defense stayed firm and when there was a opportunity Mike Smith stood on his head. This was that total team game we speak of from time to time. The offense provided many chances but just could not bury one.

After Phoenix jumped out early San Jose responded but neither team could score after one. Through the 2nd period both teams fought to another stalemate. Then after a few mistakes by rusty Rusty Klesa and Shane Doan, for delay of game the Penalty Kill responded well with  stone wall Smitty stopping everything sent his way. This was indeed a pitcher’s duel as Niemi also stopped everything he faced.  The game was still deadlocked at ZERO – ZERO late in the 3rd period which was offensively dominated by the Sharks thanks to the power plays.

Down the stretch they went, the Coyotes trying to hold on for the photo and the hard charging Sharks gaining with every stride and at the wire it was too close to call. Both squads awarded a point for their efforts but this will be decided by a head bob in the photo.

February 09, 2013; San Jose, CA, USA; Phoenix Coyotes goalie Mike Smith (41) blocks a shot during the second period against the San Jose Sharks at HP Pavilion. Bob Stanton-USA TODAY Sports

Cannot say enough about the effort of Mike Smith. He was glad to not face the Blackhawks who have undressed him this season for 12 goals in 2 games. Today he was Smitty and his stellar play led toa shootout win.

Let’s not forget the defense led by Michalek who blocked a whopping 8 shots and he was not alone as by hook or by crook the defense gave up their bodies. Hanzal and Ollie both limped around after blocked and Hanzal appeared to hurt his hand.

The way these goal tenders played it is a shame it had to end in a shootout but that’s exactly how it would end. Boedker and Vrbata both had sweet shootout goals to go with Smitty’s 2 saves to secure the much needed win.

In this game the Desert Dawgs got a much needed drink of water with 2 points.