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Coyotes Nipped by Canadiens in a Clash of Claws and Sticks at Bell Centre

The Arizona Coyotes faced off against the Montreal Canadiens, with both teams eager to improve their records. The Coyotes entered the game with a 2-4 scoreline, while the Canadiens held a slightly better record at 4-3. After three periods of play, the final score read 4-2 in favor of the home team.


Feb 27, 2024; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens goalie Sam Montembeault (35) celebrates the win with defenseman David Savard (58) after the end of the game against the Arizona Coyotes at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-USA TODAY Sports

The Coyotes showed determination throughout the match but were unable to capitalize on their opportunities as effectively as their opponents. Despite firing off 38 shots towards goal, only two found the back of the net. The team's shooting accuracy was evident with a five percent shooting percentage and they managed to block an impressive number of attempts from Montreal, totaling 12 blocked shots.


Arizona's efforts were distributed across all lines, with six points scored by various players who contributed four assists alongside two goals. The faceoff circle presented challenges for Arizona; they won only 20 out of 47 faceoffs taken which translates into a forty-three percent success rate in that area.


Feb 27, 2024; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens right wing Joel Armia (40) plays the puck against Arizona Coyotes right wing Dylan Guenther (11) during the second period at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-USA TODAY Sports

On special teams, Arizona had three powerplay chances but failed to convert any into goals despite seven shots during these opportunities. Their penalty kill units did not see action due to no penalties being incurred by either side throughout this evenly matched strength contest.


Montreal's performance was highlighted by their goaltender who saved thirty-six out of thirty-eight shots on goal for an impeccable save percentage rounding up to one hundred percent. This defensive prowess was complemented by an efficient offense that capitalized on nineteen percent of their twenty-one shots.


Feb 27, 2024; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Arizona Coyotes defenseman J.J. Moser (90) defends against Montreal Canadiens right wing Cole Caufield (22) during the second period at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-USA TODAY Sports

The Canadiens' victory can be attributed partly to winning critical faceoffs (twenty-seven out of forty-seven) and maintaining puck possession which led them to score four even-strength goals against Arizona's seventeen saves from twenty total attempts at even strength.


As fans look forward, they can mark their calendars for when the Arizona Coyotes will take on Toronto Maple Leafs at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto. This upcoming game is scheduled for March 1st and will be available for viewing on ESPN+ via internet streaming or through SCRIPPS network television broadcasts.

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