The Arizona Coyotes lost a tough battle last night against the Colorado Avalanche. Although the team lost their still was a lot of great takeaways from the game.
After giving up two quick goals in the second period the Coyotes had an uphill battle to get back into this game. They were leading consistently in shots on goal and overall chances from the game. The ‘Yotes had two big goals scored from Michael Grabner and Nick Schmaltz.
However the biggest issue for the Coyotes tonight was how many high danger chances they gave up. The team gave up 3 goals all around the slot and close to the net last night. I think that cost the team the game.
You can not give up high danger shots close to the net. I would argue that the goal in OT was on Raanta, but despite that he played a great game, making 29 saves on 32 shots.
Obviously you want to try your hardest in every game no matter what the score is. Tonight Arizona found themselves down 2-0 during the second period. They ended up battling back to force OT, here is what head coach Rick Tocchet had to say after the game.
"It was a good hockey game. Down 2-0, we come back and battle. It was good"
— Arizona Coyotes (@ArizonaCoyotes) October 13, 2019
Listen to @RealRocket22's postgame thoughts. pic.twitter.com/TUP4J5hxzt
Getting one point tonight was great, however the game did come with a cost. Niklas Hjalmarsson left with an injury and looks like he won’t be going to Winnipeg with the team according to Craig Morgan.
Nik Hjalmarsson was on crutches as he left Pepsi Center. He hopped into a private car. It’s pretty clear he is not traveling with the team to Winnipeg.
— Craig Morgan (@CraigSMorgan) October 13, 2019
You never want to see one of your players get hurt, especially a player like Niklas Hjalmarsson. Another thing to think about for the Coyotes was what needs to change moving forward.
Forcing OT is great, but you want to win games not lose and get a point. The Coyotes had 3 power play opportunities tonight, and failed to score on any of them, not that shocking there.
Phil Kessel also failed to get on the scoreboard again tonight. I really hope he does soon otherwise we might have a problem.