The Case For Keith Yandle
Apr. 24, 2013; Glendale, AZ, USA; Phoenix Coyotes defenseman Keith Yandle (3) looks on during the first period against the San Jose Sharks at Jobing.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
Earlier this week, an article came out on nhl.com arguing that the success of the Coyotes this season rest on Mike Smith‘s shoulders.
WRONG.
Mike Smith is a great goalie, and without a doubt the ‘Yotes need him in top form to get back into the playoffs this year. Let’s stop pretending he’s the determining factor, though. Keith Yandle is.
When Yandle is at his best, the Coyotes are at their best. On a team where scoring goals is going to be a major issue, Coach Dave Tippet needs his best player to play like his best player. I know what you’re thinking.
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“BUTTTTT he led the team in points last year! blah blah blah”.
Cool, no one cares, because he also led the team with the worst plus minus AND the second most penalty minutes. Both of those stats are far more insightful into how Yandle did more harm than good for the Coyotes last year.
Keith, if you’re reading this, it’s time to step up, my friend. We need you. How can our beloved desert dogs find success when our best player is in the box more times than Biznasty? Yes, that’s a true statement- let that sink in for a minute.
The strength of this team this year is in the defense; with talented players like Oliver Ekman-Larrson and Zbynek Michalek, there’s a lot to love on the back end. Make no mistake though, it all starts and ends with Yandle. If he can mange to shore up his defensive responsibilities-which cost him a trip to Sochi, I might add- and maintain his scoring touch, the Coyotes will be sitting pretty come playoff time next spring. Oh, and for the love of Howler; STAY OUT OF THE BOX.