Phoenix Coyotes hopeful of Game 4 comeback with full roster against Los Angeles Kings -NHL Update
With the 2012 National Hockey League (NHL) Stanley Cup Playoffs in full form, Phoenix Coyotes have certainly been one of the most disappointing teams that came in as favourites with great performances in the quarterfinals and semi-finals.
Coyotes have lost three straight to the extremely hot Los Angeles Kings and could be facing elimination come Game 4 at the STAPLES Center in Los Angeles, California, come Sunday, May 20, 2012.
With Martin Hanzal back on the squad for sure for Game 4 after serving a one-game suspension for his boarding hit on Los Angeles Kings’ captain, Dustin Brown, in Game 2, along with rumours of defenseman, Adrian Aucoin, returning, Coyotes are confident of a comeback.
While there have been reports of the veteran defenseman making a comeback after missing the three games against Los Angeles so far, the player could not confirm anything at the moment, but was very optimistic.
"I hope so. I mean, obviously I'm hoping to play next game," Aucoin said. "It's been real frustrating watching. It's been frustrating on many levels. I think obviously in the first couple games, we didn't play close to where we wanted to. I thought we were better last game. The way the bounces have gone, the way other things we can't control have gone, has been pretty frustrating."
Adrian Aucoin has always been a crucial player for Phoenix with his ability to kill of penalties and keep the opposition far away from the net. With Los Angeles treating Phoenix defenders like amateurs these past few days, having Aucoin back in the line-up will be a blessing in disguise for sure.
Putting in Aucoin back in the squad could mess a little with the team chemistry, which is something head coach, Dave Tippett, obviously worries about but seeing where they stand at the moment, taking risks is not something they should be a reason to be anxious.
"It's always the coach's decision, absolutely," Aucoin said. "It's always tough to keep any player out, regardless of where they're at. It comes down to whether the coach thinks you're able or not."
Phoenix Coyotes need to win and maybe, just maybe, Adrian Aucoin is what they have needed all along.
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