Arizona Coyotes: Four Positives 20 Games In

The Arizona Coyotes have had their fair share of ups and downs this season, and while there have arguably been more downs, there is still a lot to be excited about.

A quarter of the season has already come and gone for the Arizona Coyotes.

Sitting at a record of 8-10-3, the odds of a return to the playoffs are not in the Coyotes’ favor. That is nothing short of a major disappointment for fans, especially given the level of optimism surrounding the team just two months ago.

Six rookies, year two of the Killer D’s, a big summer by new GM John Chayka, and the 20^th anniversary season have all been forgotten thanks to the team’s inconsistent play and poor team defense.

Enough of the negativity, though. The best years are yet to come, and there is a lot to look forward to. Here are four positives from the first twenty games.

Mike Smith Has Returned To Form

Remember that massive contract Mike Smith is still under until 2019? While there is no doubt he has been inconsistent and oft-injured since he signed it, he sure is earning it right now.

Since returning from an injury that caused him to miss almost a month, Smith has been almost perfect. He has posted save percentages of .917, .956, .941, .976, and .952 in that span. That is excellent. His only slip up was against Vancouver, where he allowed four goals on 17 shots and was pulled.

To be fair, however, while some might argue he cost the team a win in that game, he single-handedly won the previous game against San Jose. Just look at this shot chart.

While the playoffs are certainly a long shot, it’s nice to see Smitty playing at such a high level.

If nothing else, it bodes well for the last two years of his contract as long as the rest of the Arizona Coyotes continue to grow and elevate their play.

Anthony DeAngelo Has Been Impressive

Acquiring Anthony DeAngelo at the draft was John Chayka’s most underrated move of the summer.

Seen as expendable by Tampa Bay, due in part to concerns about his character, DeAngelo has thrived since his re-call from Tucson in early November.

Through ten games he has notched two goals and four assists, recording a point in all but four games. Initially just an injury call-up, he has carved out a roster spot for himself, forcing veteran Luke Schenn (and rookie Jakob Chychrun) to sit out a few times.

His defensive play has been suspect at times, but early returns are overall positive.

He has brought some much needed energy to the lineup and looks like he could be a part of this team’s future. A third pair spot on the right side is definitely not out of the question.

Max Domi Is The Real Deal

Through the first 21 games this season, Max Domi has 15 points (4G, 11A). That is tied for first on the team with linemate Radim Vrbata, who is having a strong year himself.

He hasn’t scored many goals, but he has still been one of the most consistent players on the team. His work ethic and energy night in and night out is something the rest of the team could learn from.

He is lagging on his previous 60-point pace, but considering the team’s offensive struggles (29^th in shots, 27^th in goals) it’s impressive.

Perhaps most impressive, he has really embraced a leadership role. To do what he does on the ice and in the community at his age is very special, and that’s why you see so many fans with his jersey.

He is a cornerstone of this franchise, a true role model, and maybe even the next Captain Coyote.