Opinion
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Coyotes Set to Howl in Music City Showdown Against Predators

As the Arizona Coyotes prepare to face off against the Nashville Predators at Bridgestone Arena, fans are cautiously optimistic. The Coyotes have shown a pattern of resilience and unpredictability that could spell trouble for the Predators.


Nov 11, 2023; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Arizona Coyotes goaltender Connor Ingram (39) makes a save during the third period against the Nashville Predators at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

In their last encounter with the Colorado Avalanche on December 24, 2023, ARI's performance was less than stellar. With a shooting percentage of only four percent and a faceoff win percentage of forty-three percent, they struggled throughout the game. The final score reflected their challenges on ice: one point to Colorado's four. Their powerplay managed to convert once out of three opportunities but was clearly not enough to make an impact.


However, looking back at their game against the San Jose Sharks on December 22, 2023, tells a different story. ARI dominated with five goals and an impressive seventeen percent shooting accuracy. They also improved their faceoff win rate to fifty-one percent and capitalized on one out of three powerplays.


Nov 11, 2023; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Nashville Predators defenseman Dante Fabbro (57) is congratulated by teammates after a goal during the first period against the Arizona Coyotes at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

The most recent victory over the Ottawa Senators on December 20 showcased ARI's ability to rally from behind. After two periods without scoring, they surged in the third period with three goals leading them to a four-to-three victory. This comeback highlighted their tenacity and ability to adjust strategies mid-game effectively.


ARI's fluctuating performance suggests that while they may start slow, they possess an explosive potential as seen in recent games when it matters most - during crunch time in the third period.


Nov 11, 2023; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Nashville Predators left wing Kiefer Sherwood (44) celebrates scoring against the Arizona Coyotes during the first period at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Nelles-USA TODAY Sports

The upcoming match against NSH will be no walk in the park; Nashville is known for its strong defensive play and home-ice advantage could play into their hands. However, if ARI can leverage its powerplay opportunities as done previously and maintain pressure into late-game scenarios where they've thrived before – there’s potential for an upset.


Fans should keep an eye out for how ARI manages faceoffs this time around; winning these small battles could be key in controlling game tempo against NSH’s robust lineup.


Mark your calendars for February 11th when Arizona Coyotes take on Nashville Predators at Bridgestone Arena at 8:00 PM EST (7:00 PM local time). The game will be broadcasted nationally via ESPN+ online platform or through BSSO channel number 646-1 for home viewers and SCRIPPS network for those cheering from Arizona.

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