For Coyotes A Happy Goalie Equals Wins

Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

Positivity, it can elude us at times. Whether we find ourselves caught within the doldrums of everyday life or whether we can’t seem to protect the net against oncoming opponents no matter how much effort we give, it’s important to remember to count our blessings. For Phoenix Coyotes Goalie Mike Smith, positivity is the key to winning.

"It’s easy to get down on yourself and get negative. Things have been building and building and finally it’s not even fun anymore. I think I brought a new mindset to the rink to enjoy the game and be more positive, and it’s definitely given me more energy and let me feel better about my game."

There have been studies that tell us positivity has a real world effect on the outcome of our endeavors. One such study was done with basketball players. Two separate groups of players were monitored. One group took as many shots at the basket as they could. The other group simply visualized taking the shot and making it every time. Then the two groups were put up against each other in a head to head shoot out. The team that simply visualized making the shot vs. actually physically taking the shots had a much higher percentage of putting it through the hoop. Now, who knows if this is true, right? I mean, for all we know the first team could have been a bunch of Schmos like you and me and Team Visualization may have been a bunch of NBA All-Stars. But for the time being let’s just allow this positivity evidence to be admissible in the court of Yotes law.

One thing we know for sure, Mike Smith is a happy guy. And the happier he is the better he plays. Not only that but Smitty has such an infectious personality that those around him can be effected as well. As witnessed during their last game, a win against the Vancouver Canucks.

"January has been a tough month so far, and it’s important in the second half to turn on the gas. We’ve been searching for one like this. It was a group effort from first line to fourth line, and all six D were engaged in the game, and it was a fun one. Guys were blocking shots and boxing guys out and letting me see a lot of shots"

One thing’s for sure, however. The New Jersey Devils are not the Canucks. And no matter how much positivity, good cheer and mellow vibes Smitty brings to the ice tonight he’s still going to have his hands full with a tough opponent. But who knows what’s possible when your Goalie can turn his frown upside down.

That’s all for now, more later on the game and Shane Doan’s persistence to win. Until then, stay ornery Arizona.