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 8-10-2, 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 20th 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 games 1-20.
Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
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, and .976 in that span with an average save percentage of .932 in that time. 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.
If you were wondering how good Mike Smith was tonight…take a look at a visual of the shot chart for the Sharks compared to the Coyotes: pic.twitter.com/R6MI4rQCJA
— Howlin’ Hockey (@HowlinHockey) November 20, 2016
Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports
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 nine games he has notched two goals and four assists, recording a point in all but three games. Initially just an injury call-up, he has carved out a roster spot for himself, forcing veteran Luke Schenn 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.
Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
Max Domi Is The Real Deal
Through the first 20 games this Max Domi has 14 points (3G, 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 only on pace to score 57 points, but considering the team’s offensive struggles (29th in shots, 27th 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.
Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports
The Rookies Have Shown Promise
The Arizona Coyotes have skated six rookies this year, and while their individual impacts have varied, fans should be ecstatic about their potential. Here’s a brief reason why for each:
Anthony DeAngelo: Six points in nine games. He is a ton of fun to watch in the offensive zone.
Lawson Crouse: A strong penalty killer. Also sneaky fast for his size.
Laurent Dauphin: The Boyd Gordon of the future but WITH offensive skill.
Christian Dvorak: Very good two-way game. The offense will come once he gets more comfortable.
Jakob Chychrun: The only defenseman from his draft class left in the league. An excellent skater.
Dylan Strome: John Chayka called him the hardest working player on the team. Tippett has also said he is among the smartest and most skilled. Don’t worry, he’ll be just fine.
We have seen glimpses from every one of the rookies this year that remind us why the Arizona Coyotes’ future is so bright. They aren’t quite there yet, but the rest of the league needs to start preparing itself.
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