Columbus Blue Jackets could dent Phoenix Coyotes’ playoff hopes – NHL Preview
The Columbus Blue Jackets found their winning ways quite late in the season and victories can certainly not help them in reaching the playoffs now. However, they can certainly dent the playoff hopes of the Phoenix Coyotes, who are going to be their next
opponent.
At the moment, Coyotes are ranked at second spot in the Pacific Division, but a defeat can push them down at third or fourth spot.
Coyotes and Blue Jackets are going to face each other on Tuesday, April 03, 2012, at Jobing.com Arena, Glendale, Arizona.
Let’s take a look at both teams.
Blue Jackets
They are placed at the bottom of the Western Conference with 61 points after 79 games.
At present, they are on a three-game winning streak with the victories coming against Detroit Red Wings (4-2), Florida Panthers (4-1) and St. Louis Blues (5-2).
All the teams that Columbus defeated have either qualified for the playoffs or will do pretty soon.
In their last game, Blue Jackets were dominant right from the start as they scored twice in the first period while Blues could only get one scoring move.
In the second period, both teams scored apiece while in the third period, Blue Jackets added two goals without giving away any to win the game.
Blue Jackets’ goalie, Allen York, said after the game:
"It's huge for our confidence. We showed that we're not the team that everyone thinks we are. We're a very dangerous team."
Coyotes
They are ranked at seventh spot in the Western Conference with 91 points after 79 games.
Out of their last six games, Coyotes have won three and are currently on a two-game winning streak with the victories coming against San Jose Sharks (2-0) and Anaheim Ducks (4-0).
Against Ducks, Coyotes scored one goal in the first period and three in the second while goaltender, Mike Smith, got second shutout in a row.
Coyotes’ coach, Dave Tippett, said after the game:
"Our goaltender was excellent again and our special teams were good."
Predictions
Blue Jackets are in top form, but Coyotes still have an upper hand.
The sum of goals scored by both teams might stay under six.
If Blue Jackets win, the winning margin will be less than two goals.
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