Phoenix Coyotes face tough test against Chicago Blackhawks - NHL Playoff Preview
Phoenix Coyotes will face the Chicago Blackhawks on Thursday, April 12, 2012 at the Jobing.com Arena in game one of the seven match conference quarterfinals.
This is the first time in 33-years that the Coyotes will enter the playoffs as the Pacific division title winners and will look to use their home ice advantage to the max as they try and make a memorable playoff run.
They will first have to get past the Chicago Blackhawks.
The Coyotes ended the regular season, third in the Western Conference after just managing to secure the division title by a single point.
Phoenix’s form improved considerably over the final games of the regular season and they will be looking to continue that brilliant form in the playoffs.
Chicago on the other hand slid considerably in the middle of the season but recovered well to end up sixth in the Western Conference.
The Blackhawks face a tough opponent as the resurgent Coyotes are not to be underestimated.
Coyotes
Phoenix Coyotes brilliant form and success in the past season is mainly due to the wonderful form of goaltender Mike Smith.
Smith has had a massive season and his brilliant displays in front of goal even after facing an average of 45.33 shots per game is testament to his abilities.
The Coyotes will be banking on their inform goaltender to continue his form in the playoffs.
Captain Shane Doan is confident in the team this season and said.
"We've never won a playoff series, but we'd never won a division either. It's something you can't wait to have the opportunity to answer. We have home ice and if we can win four of the next seven games we can put that stuff to bed as well."
Blackhawks
Chicago were at one time top of the Western Conference but ended the regular season in sixth after some big losing runs.
The Blackhawks though recovered and even though have secured another playoff berth they have failed to remain consistent.
Chicago also have a poor record against the Coyotes with just a single win out of four games and their chances on Thursday, also look slim if captain Jonathan Toews who is doubtful does not recover in time.
"I'm right there," Toews said. "It's been another day where I'm getting better and better, getting back to where I want to be as far as if I'm going to play a game. We'll see how it goes tomorrow."
Hopefully he recovers in time for the game.
Predictions
Phoenix will be favourites for the win.
Sum of goals will be less than six.
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