GDT: Game 62 Coyotes quest for consistency continues against Islanders

Game Preview

The Arizona Coyotes made a big splash on Saturday night when they kept goal scoring legend Alex Ovechkin pointless and beat the Washington Capitals 3-1. The much needed win helped the team stay in a wildcard playoff spot with 66 points in the standings. They are currently tied with the Calgary Flames and only five points away from first place in the division.

According to Craig Morgan of the Athletic, Head Coach Rick Tocchet gave credit to the whole team for playing a complete game with no passengers. Also netminder Antti Raanta made 36 of 37 saves earning him the team’s player of the game award, the coyote pelt hat.

Raanta wasn’t the only player to be acknowledged for his excellent performance. The fourth line, the PK, the defense and the goal scorers were also acknowledged in Tocchet’s post game comments. If the team can keep up the same level of play for today’s game a win would be expected, but consistency has been an issue all season long.

The New York Islanders made a big splash Sunday afternoon by trading David Quenneville and a second round pick for the New Jersey Devils’ captain and defender Andy Greene. Greene is expected to make his Islanders’ debut today against the Coyotes.

The added help couldn’t come at a better time for the Islanders as they have been shutout in their last two games by the Nashville Predators and the Vegas Golden Knights. The team will be eager to try and gain some points on a lengthy Western Conference road trip. Apart from this trip, the Islanders are having another stellar season under Head Coach Barry Trotz with a record of 33-18-6 for a total of 72 points.

Players to Watch

Arizona: Christian Dvorak is resolutely climbing his way to the top of both the goal-scoring and point-earning lead of the team, currently he is second in both categories.

New York: Brock Nelson is the Islanders leading goal scorer and is only second in points behind Mathew Barzal.

Injuries

Arizona: Jason Demers (oblique), Darcy Kuemper (lower body)

New York: Cal Clutterbuck (wrist) Adam Pelech (Achillies tendon) Casey Cizikas (leg laceration)

Puck Drop

Today’s game is a matinee, starting at 2:00 pm Arizona time. It will air on Fox Sports Arizona, and Fox Sports 910 AM.