Toronto Maple Leafs at Phoenix Coyotes
The Leafs bring their season-high four-game winning streak with them on the road this week as they start a four-game, six day Western road trip tonight in Phoenix. There have been a couple of changes as to the reasons why for Toronto’s win streak: they finally have a third line that can score (though they are without David Clarkson for at least the first two games of this trip), their power play has found a resurgence with a 5-for-16 mark in their last five games and Jonathan Bernier is making 30, 35+ saves a night.
Phoenix followed up a four-game losing streak with back to back wins and now they find themselves just four points out of a playoff spot. The Coyotes have converted for one power play goal in seven straight games and have given up only seven in return. They would do well, however, to stay out of the box against Toronto with the way their power play is clicking along: Phoenix has given up 20 power play opportunities in their last four games.
The last time these two teams met was in Toronto and resulted in a 2-1 shootout win for the Leafs. That was a game where the Leafs were grossly outplayed in the second half of the contest and had it not been for a 34-save performance from their goaltender, would have lost handily.
I expect Phoenix to take this game tonight; Toronto has one regulation win on the road since Halloween. With such a short slate of games, I may be tempted to load up on the Coyotes’ power play and particularly Oliver Ekman-Larsson, who has four points in his last five games (including two power play goals). This is probably also a good spot for goaltender Mike Smith.
|
Top RW Value |
Top LW Value |
Top C Value |
Top D Value |
Bargain Bin |
|
Shane Doan $9250 |
(PHX) |
Martin Hanzal $10,300 |
Oliver Ekman-Larsson (PHX) $9450 |
(TOR) $5000 |
