Phoenix should be out of their element, seeing that the arena will actually have fans in it so hopefully us fans will throw them off their game. Then again, if the Yankees are playing a Game 7 and Ranger fans decide that they have better things to do with a Monday night than watch the Gretzky-less Coyotes, then the Garden won't necessarily be as much of a benefit.
Where We Are: Falling apart. Three bad losses in a row marked by a lack of discipline, a lack of physicality and a lack of proper accountability.
Where They Are: Phoenix, 6-3-0, had a four game win streak snapped on Saturday by L.A. The Yotes beat San Jose, St. Louis, Boston and Detroit ... a tough bunch to beat.
Who To Watch For: Winnipeg Jet Shane Doan continues to shine in the desert. This guy has been the franchise for far too long and remains vastly under-appreciated. Love the heart, love the dedication, hate that he is in Phoenix. Former Flyer Scottie Upshall is a big part of the offense, as is JovoCop Ed Jovanovski and the ageless Robert Lang. Matthew Lombardi came in the Olli Jokinen deal from Calgary and is fitting in just fine with Upshall and the underachieving Peter Mueller.
What To Watch For: Brandon Dubinsky to come out flying after his benching. Taylor Pyatt taking advantage of the soft Blueshirt blueline to cause havoc around Hank. Former Isle Adrian Aucoin having all the time in the world to fire long bombs from the point during power plays. Ilya Bryzgalov to continue to be red hot and shut down opposing shooters. What We'll (Hopefully) See: Chris Higgins to come out flying after his benching. Marc Staal not allowing Taylor Pyatt to cause havoc around Hank. Former Isle Adrian Aucoin not getting the time or space to get off that shot of his, and the Rangers not to take stupid penalties. Ilya Bryzgalov to get cold and not be able to stop a beach ball.
Also Check Out: The Corner of Section 420 And Glendale, Hip Shot Blog, SBN's Five For Howling and the MSM Ice Chips from Jim Gintonio of The Arizona Republic.
Peepin' Foes: Phoenix Coyotes - Howling in the Desert
In the heart of the Arizona desert, the Phoenix Coyotes have carved out a unique identity in the world of professional ice hockey. With a history marked by challenges and triumphs, the Coyotes represent the resilience and passion of hockey fans in a non-traditional market. In this article, we will explore the captivating journey of the Phoenix Coyotes, delving into their history, notable players, memorable moments, and addressing frequently asked questions (FAQs) that shed light on the complexities and enduring spirit of this beloved NHL team.
The Phoenix Coyotes: A Desert Hockey Tale
Founding and Early Years
The Phoenix Coyotes were founded in 1972 as the Winnipeg Jets, a part of the World Hockey Association (WHA). In 1979, they became one of four WHA teams to merge with the NHL, relocating to Arizona and becoming the Phoenix Coyotes.
The Desert Connection
The Coyotes' choice of location in the Arizona desert was met with both curiosity and skepticism. However, over the years, the team has forged a deep connection with the local community, attracting fans from diverse backgrounds who have embraced the sport of ice hockey.
Key Figures in Coyotes History
Throughout their history, the Coyotes have been home to several notable players who have made significant contributions to the franchise:
Shane Doan: Shane Doan, the franchise's all-time leading scorer and captain, is a beloved figure in Coyotes history. His leadership and commitment to the team earned him the respect of fans and peers alike.
Keith Tkachuk: Keith Tkachuk was a dynamic forward known for his scoring prowess during his tenure with the Coyotes. His contributions on the ice left a lasting impact on the team.
Oliver Ekman-Larsson: A skilled defenseman, Oliver Ekman-Larsson was a cornerstone of the Coyotes' blue line for many years before his trade to the Vancouver Canucks in 2021.
Memorable Moments in Coyotes History
Despite facing various challenges, the Phoenix Coyotes have experienced moments that have etched their place in NHL history:
1996 Playoffs: The Coyotes' Cinderella run in the 1996 playoffs, which saw them reach the Western Conference Final, remains a highlight in franchise history.
Return to the Playoffs: After a prolonged playoff drought, the Coyotes made their return to the postseason in the 2010s, reinvigorating their fan base and reminding the league of their competitive spirit.
Shane Doan's Jersey Retirement: In 2019, the Coyotes retired Shane Doan's jersey number 19 in a touching ceremony, honoring his legacy and contributions to the franchise.
Peepin' Foes: The Phoenix Coyotes
Challenges and Relocation Rumors
The Phoenix Coyotes have faced numerous challenges, including ownership disputes and persistent relocation rumors. These challenges have tested the loyalty and resilience of the fan base.
Community Engagement
The Coyotes have been active in community engagement efforts, particularly in promoting youth hockey and growing the sport in the desert region. Their commitment to grassroots development has helped cultivate a new generation of hockey enthusiasts in Arizona.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
As the Phoenix Coyotes continue to navigate their unique path in the NHL, questions about the team frequently arise. Here are some FAQs about the Phoenix Coyotes:
1. How have the Coyotes managed to thrive in a non-traditional hockey market like Arizona?
The Coyotes' success in Arizona is attributed to their community engagement efforts, fan outreach, and the growing interest in youth hockey in the region. Additionally, the team's on-ice performance and competitive spirit have endeared them to fans.
2. What were the key factors in the Coyotes' return to the playoffs in the 2010s?
The Coyotes' return to the playoffs in the 2010s was driven by a combination of strong coaching, solid goaltending, and a resilient team culture. The leadership of players like Shane Doan also played a crucial role.
3. Have the Coyotes resolved their ownership issues and relocation rumors?
Ownership stability has been a recurring issue for the Coyotes, but recent developments, including a new arena deal in Tempe, indicate progress in addressing these challenges and securing the team's future in Arizona.
4. How have the Coyotes contributed to the growth of youth hockey in Arizona?
The Coyotes have invested in local youth hockey programs, established rinks and development initiatives, and actively promoted the sport in schools and communities. Their efforts have been instrumental in fostering the growth of hockey in the state.
5. What is the outlook for the Phoenix Coyotes in the near future?
The Coyotes' outlook depends on various factors, including ownership stability, the success of their development initiatives, and their performance on the ice. As they continue to build a competitive team, fans remain hopeful for the team's future success.
The Phoenix Coyotes, with their unique journey and commitment to building a hockey legacy in the Arizona desert, exemplify the enduring spirit of hockey and the power of sports to transcend geographical boundaries. While their path has been marked by challenges and uncertainties, it is also defined by the passion of their fans, the dedication of players like Shane Doan, and the hope for a brighter future.
In the desert heat of Arizona, the Coyotes continue to howl in pursuit of success, leaving an indelible mark on the NHL landscape. Their journey serves as a reminder that the love for hockey knows no bounds and that, even in the most unexpected places, a thriving hockey community can emerge, driven by a shared passion for the game.
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