Pittsburgh Penguins host the regressing Phoenix Coyotes – NHL Preview
Phoenix Coyotes are yet to find their winning touch this month as they have lost both the games played in March.
After a marvellous performance last month, they reached the comfort zone in National Hockey League (NHL) Western Conference, but they have to be well aware of the fact that it is only by winning more games that they can retain their position and reach the
playoffs.
On the other hand, Pittsburgh Penguins managed to end the last month on positive note and they successfully built on the form after winning their first game of this month.
Both these teams are going to play against each other on Monday, March 5, 2012, at CONSOL Energy Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Here is a look at both the teams.
Coyotes
Coyotes won 11 out of the 12 games last month, but failed to build on the performance.
They have played two games this month and lost both. The defeats came against Calgary Flames (4-2) and Columbus Blue Jackets (5-2).
In the last game, Coyotes did not start well. Blue Jackets had scored two goals before Coyotes could find any scoring move.
Coyotes levelled in the second period, but Blue Jackets managed three goals in the final period to get the victory.
Coyotes’ right wing, Shane Doan, said after the defeat:
"We have to go back to what was making us successful the previous 11. We were on the right side of pucks, we were doing the little things, we were blocking shots, we were getting the puck out at the blue, we weren't turning it over, we were being a little
more disciplined and at the same time we were finding ways to win."
Coyotes are ranked at third spot in the Western Conference with 75 points after 65 games.
They lost the two games on their home ice and a visit to Pittsburgh might help them getting back to winning ways.
Penguins
They are ranked at fourth spot in the Eastern Conference with 81 points after 64 games and are presently on a five-game winning run.
The recent wins came against New York Rangers (2-0), Tampa Bay Lightning (8-1), Columbus Blue Jackets (4-2), Dallas Stars (4-3 after shootout) and Colorado Avalanche (5-1).
Penguins’ defenseman, Brooks Orpik, stressed on the need of winning more games and said that the momentum should be taken to the playoffs. He said:
“There are so many good teams it's tough to turn the switch on and off, especially these last 20 games as you try to build momentum into the playoffs."
Predictions
Penguins have an edge.
The sum of goals scored by both the teams might exceed six.
If Coyotes win, the winning margin will be less than two.
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