Opinion
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Will the Arizona Coyotes Outmaneuver the Edmonton Oilers at Mullett Arena?

The Arizona Coyotes are gearing up for a significant challenge as they prepare to host the Edmonton Oilers at Mullett Arena. The upcoming game, slated for April 18th, is more than just another mark on the calendar; it's an opportunity for redemption and a chance to prove their mettle against formidable opposition.


Feb 19, 2024; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Arizona Coyotes center Nick Bjugstad (17) celebrates a goal against the Edmonton Oilers during the first period at Mullett Arena. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

In their last encounter with the New York Rangers on March 31st, despite a valiant effort in the second and third periods where they scored three and two goals respectively, the Coyotes fell short with a final score of 5-8. Their performance was marked by resilience; however, defensive lapses allowed eight goals against them. With a shooting percentage of 16 percent and winning just over half of their faceoffs, there's room for improvement in both offensive execution and puck possession.


Contrastingly, when facing off against Nashville Predators on March 29th, ARI demonstrated what they're capable of when firing on all cylinders. They notched an impressive eight goals from forty shots – translating to an efficient shooting percentage of 20 percent – while also showcasing defensive prowess by limiting Nashville to four goals. This victory was underpinned by strong goaltending that saw ARI's netminder save 33 out of 37 shots.


Feb 19, 2024; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Edmonton Oilers center Leon Draisaitl (29) celebrates a goal against the Arizona Coyotes during the first period at Mullett Arena. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

Against Columbus Blue Jackets on March 27th, ARI again displayed their offensive capabilities with six goals from thirty-five shots but struggled in faceoff circles with only a win rate of 35 percent. Despite this deficiency in puck control from draws, they managed to secure victory through timely scoring and solid goaltending that conceded only two goals.


As we look ahead to ARI's next game against EDM at home turf Mullett Arena – where fan support has been unwavering – there are key areas that could tip the scales in favor of ARI: maintaining high shooting efficiency as seen against Nashville Predators while tightening up defensively like they did versus Columbus Blue Jackets will be crucial.


Feb 19, 2024; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Edmonton Oilers left wing Zach Hyman (18) celebrates his goal with Edmonton Oilers center Connor McDavid (97) and Edmonton Oilers center Ryan Nugent-Hopkins (93) against the Arizona Coyotes  during the third period at Mullett Arena. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

The Oilers come into this match-up as no easy adversary; boasting high-caliber talent that can change the course of a game single-handedly. However, if recent performances are anything to go by, it would be unwise to underestimate this Arizona team who has shown flashes of brilliance capable enough to take down any opponent put before them.


Fans eagerly anticipating this clash can catch all the action live on ESPN+ online or SCRIPPS TV network come April 18th at Mullett Arena located in Tempe city within Arizona state zip code area -85281-, starting at what corresponds locally as April 17th at 7:00 PM due to time zone differences (02:00 AM UTC).

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