The Coyotes scored all three goals on the power play. Phoenix deserves credit for taking advantage of opportunities. Jobbing.com Arena was loud and obnoxious. They came out with energy and "physicality" - I swear, if I hear one more hockey commentator use this word I will lose hope in the English-speaking world. It's correct, and it works. But it sounds so awkward and pompous during a hockey game.
Anyway, it's a seven-game series. The majority of the series will be played even strength. If Phoenix wants to win said series, they will have to do more than take advantage of opportunities - they will have to create them. The penalties they drew were not necessarily earned. As the series continues, I will not be surprised when the boys in stripes pocket the whistles a bit more.
On the flip side, Detroit did not play awful hockey. The Red Wings looked solid for the majority of the even-strength play. However, it is clear they have some work to do on special teams - on both sides. By the way, the term "special teams" seems to have embedded itself in hockey commentary. I am not sure when this happened. I do not remember anyone ever using such a term around the rink. I need to start muting the TV again.
I digress.
The Wings fell victim to a team hungry for a playoff victory. Bottom line - from where I was sitting at least - this game clearly meant more to the Coyotes. They needed to give their fans (all four of them) a reason to return to Jobbing.com Arena Friday. However, they really didn't control the game, at all. If they want to win four games against Detroit, they will definitely need to take control of the flow of the game and not rely on
Alright, I am not going to worry about this. Detroit has a few areas to improve in. This loss may actually work in their favor. They can learn from the mistakes. Hopefully Phoenix doesn't realize how lucky they are to be up 1-0.
Note: Jobbing.com Arena - the true example of idiotic corporate America. Sickening name for a hockey rink. It happens.
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