Coyotes Stage Remarkable Comeback
In a thrilling display of resilience, the Arizona Coyotes rallied from a three-goal deficit to claim a 4-3 victory over the Ottawa Senators. Michael Kesselring emerged as the hero, netting the decisive goal with just 3:33 remaining on the clock.
The win marks the Coyotes' third consecutive triumph, signaling a strong momentum shift for the team. Despite the challenging start, Arizona showcased their determination and skill to overcome the early setback.
Senators' Coaching Shift
Ottawa, grappling with internal changes, saw Jacques Martin step in as interim coach. The team's recent decision to part ways with D.J. Smith last Monday left the Senators under new guidance. This coaching change coincided with NHL veteran Daniel Alfredsson's debut behind the bench as an assistant coach.
Despite the fresh coaching perspective, the Senators were unable to halt their losing streak, which has now extended to five games. Their performance was not without its highlights, however, as Angus Crookshank, Josh Norris, and Dominik Kubalik each found the back of the net for Ottawa.
Early Lead Slips Away
The Senators initially surged ahead, finishing the first period with a commanding three-goal lead. Crookshank's strike ended the Coyotes' impressive run of not conceding an even-strength goal at 139 minutes and 47 seconds. Norris capitalized quickly on a power play opportunity, scoring just eight seconds into the man advantage.
Yet, the Coyotes were undeterred. Jack McBain, J.J. Moser, and Clayton Keller played pivotal roles in the comeback, with Moser and Keller scoring within a mere 33 seconds of each other. The turning point came when Kesselring's shot fortuitously deflected off Travis Hamonic's skate and past the Senators' goaltender.
Goaltending Shift Sparks Coyotes
A strategic goaltending change by the Coyotes also proved instrumental. Connor Ingram was substituted out for Karel Vejmelka, who delivered an impeccable performance by stopping all 16 shots he faced. This defensive wall allowed the Coyotes to mount their offensive resurgence.
The Coyotes dominated the final period, outshooting the Senators 13-5, and finished the game with a 39-21 overall shot advantage. The relentless pressure eventually paid dividends, culminating in Kesselring's late-game heroics.
Noteworthy Performances and Milestones
Joonas Korpisalo, despite being on the losing end, made an impressive 34 saves for the Senators. On the milestone front, Vladimir Tarasenko reached a significant career marker by playing in his 700th game.
Meanwhile, the Senators were without Mathieu Joseph for the second game in a row due to a lower-body injury. His absence was felt as the team struggled to maintain their early lead.
Coyotes' Home Record Shines
The Coyotes' victory further improved their home record to 11-5, marking the franchise's best start at home since the 2009-10 season. This upswing in form at their own arena could serve as a foundation for the team's aspirations as they progress through the season.
The Senators, facing adversity, will need to regroup and find a way to translate their coaching changes into positive results on the ice. For the Coyotes, this game will be remembered as a testament to their tenacity and ability to turn the tide even when the odds are stacked against them.
The phrase "unlucky bounce" perhaps best encapsulates the Senators' sentiment regarding the unfortunate deflection that led to the Coyotes' winning goal. Conversely, the Coyotes "broke the ice" in more ways than one, not only surmounting the Senators' early lead but also shattering a psychological barrier that may have previously hindered their comeback capabilities.
As both teams look forward to their next matchups, the Coyotes carry forward the momentum of a remarkable turnaround, while the Senators are left to ponder the adjustments needed to reverse their fortunes.