Opinion
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Coyotes Set to Challenge Jets at Canada Life Centre in High-Stakes Showdown

As the Arizona Coyotes prepare to face off against the Winnipeg Jets at the Canada Life Centre, fans are bracing for what promises to be a riveting encounter. The Coyotes, coming off a series of mixed results, are looking to assert their dominance on foreign ice.


Nov 18, 2023; Winnipeg, Manitoba, CAN;  Winnipeg Jets forward David Gustafsson (19) jostles for position with Arizona Coyotes forward Liam O'Brien (38) in front of Winnipeg Jets goalie Laurent Boissoit (39) during the third period at Canada Life Centre. Mandatory Credit: Terrence Lee-USA TODAY Sports

In their last outing on February 13 against the Philadelphia Flyers, ARI showed both resilience and areas for improvement. Despite scoring 3 goals and landing 23 shots on goal, they fell short with a final score of 3-5. The team's even-strength performance was commendable as all three goals came during regular play. However, their powerplay opportunities went uncapitalized; despite having four chances and maintaining an impressive faceoff win percentage of 80 percent during powerplays, they failed to convert any into goals.


The defensive aspect also raised concerns as ARI registered a minus-five plus-minus rating and conceded seven penalties amounting to 16 penalty minutes. This is an area that will need tightening up if they are to keep the Jets at bay.


Nov 18, 2023; Winnipeg, Manitoba, CAN; Winnipeg Jets forward Vladislav Namestnikov (7) is congratulated by his team mates on his goal against the Arizona Coyotes during the first period at Canada Life Centre. Mandatory Credit: Terrence Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Looking back further at their February 11 game versus the Nashville Predators provides some insight into ARI's tenacity. They managed to push the game into overtime but ultimately suffered an overtime loss with a scoreline of 4-5. Their powerplay unit showed signs of life in this match by converting two out of four opportunities—a stark contrast from their performance against Philadelphia.


However, it was not just about scoring; goaltending played a pivotal role too. With an impressive save percentage across these games, it's clear that goaltending is one of ARI's strong suits—something that could prove crucial against Winnipeg.


Nov 18, 2023; Winnipeg, Manitoba, CAN;  Arizona Coyotes forward Alexander Kerfoot (15) looks to make a pass against the Winnipeg Jets during the first period at Canada Life Centre. Mandatory Credit: Terrence Lee-USA TODAY Sports

The upcoming clash with WPG will test every facet of ARI’s gameplay—from offensive execution during powerplays to defensive solidity when down a man or under siege at even strength.


Winnipeg Jets have been formidable opponents this season and will look to capitalize on any slip-ups from ARI’s side. It is essential for Arizona Coyotes' players like Clayton Keller and Phil Kessel who have been instrumental in past games—to step up once again if they wish for victory away from home soil.


Fans eagerly anticipating this matchup should mark their calendars for February 25th when these two teams collide in Winnipeg at Canada Life Centre—the puck drops at 6:00 PM EST (4:00 PM MST). The game can be caught live on ESPN+ online or SCRIPPS TV network for those following away from home.

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