The Coyotes played with heart and passion, but it just wasn't enough as they lost 4-3 to the Avalanche.
The Arizona Coyotes did a lot of good, but just not enough as they were defeated 4-3 by the Colorado Avalanche marking their ninth consecutive loss.
This loss was not like most of their others through this difficult stretch.
Despite giving up yet another goal in the opening minutes of the game, the Coyotes responded in a huge way with Matt Dumba and Lawson Crouse tallying goals as Arizona ended the first 20 minutes with a 2-1 lead.
Throughout the remainder of the contest, Colorado really found their legs and showed why they are one of the best teams in the NHL, but the Coyotes were still able to keep up with them and the game was tied 3-3 going into the final period of play.
The Avalanche’s speed was just too much for the Coyotes to handle in the third period and Devon Toews’ goal 13:25 into the frame was ultimately the difference maker.
It was truly a crazy game filled with multiple penalties, physicality and even a couple goals that were overturned due to coaches' challenges.
Despite picking up the loss, Arizona played with heart and passion throughout the game, so they have every right to keep their heads held high.
“I'm super proud of the way the guys worked," head coach André Tourigny said. “We did a lot of good things, and could not seal the deal. We're in that kind of a slump right now where, whatever we do, there's always a bad bounce or something, but I'm extremely proud of the effort of the boys.”
The Coyotes showed glimpses of the team they have been all season long prior to this losing streak, potentially giving them some much needed momentum moving forward.
However the Coyotes are looking for moral victories and desperately want to just get back on track.
“You play in this league to win games, and win you're not winning, just everything feels bad,” Alexander Kerfoot said. “There's definitely some stuff we can build on, but at this point it's about getting results.”
The Coyotes won’t get much rest as they are set to play the Edmonton Oilers tomorrow at Mullett Arena.