Through the start of the 2023-24 season, the Arizona Coyotes have performed at a higher level than many fans may have originally anticipated as they hold the second wild card spot in the Western Conference with a 11-9-2 record. Which players have been the biggest surprises for the Coyotes over the last 22 games? CONNOR INGRAM: Image [https://thehockeynews.com/.image/c_fit,h_600,w_600/MjAyNDk2NDIyOTc5ODM4OTg4/usatsi_21975632.jpg] Prior to the start of this year, Connor Ingram only started 29 total games in the NHL but this season, he has really taken off. The 26-year-old goaltender holds a 9-3 record, 2.52 GAA and .922 save percentage. He has really been the main catalyst for the Coyotes in their most recent surge. While the Coyotes ran a rotation between Ingram and Karel Vejmelka through most of this season, Ingram has taken over the starting goaltending role for now due to his spectacular play. Ingram is just always cool, calm and collected when in the net which translates to the rest of the team. MICHAEL CARCONE: Image [https://thehockeynews.com/.image/c_fit,h_600,w_600/MjAyNTcwNjQxMDg4NDU1NzQ4/usatsi_21991932.jpg] Michael Carcone showed what he was capable of last year when he tallied 31 goals, 54 assists and 86 points with the Tucson Roadrunners. Now playing with the Coyotes full time, Carcone has taken advantage of his opportunity as he currently has 10 goals which is tied for first amongst all players on the team. Michael Carcone spoke following the Coyotes 3-1 victory over the Lightning. Carcone’s scrappy and hard-nosed style of play has really been effective for the Coyotes. He is a fearless player who is not afraid to get his hands dirty. It’s been a tough road for Carcone who has been fighting for a chance to secure a spot in the NHL and he has accomplished his goal, but is only just getting started. LAWSON CROUSE: Image [https://thehockeynews.com/.image/c_fit,h_600,w_600/MjAyMTI0NTAxODk3NDU0NjA0/usatsi_21858372.jpg] While everyone knew Lawson Crouse’s potential offensively, he seems to have improved even more. Crouse currently has 10 goals, tied with Carcone for the team’s most. The rapid pace that Crouse has been scoring at is a pleasant surprise for the Coyotes. The 26-year-old forward has an electric shot and whenever he touches the puck in the offensive zone, he is a threat to score. It almost seems the puck comes off his stick as fast as a rocket and this shot of Crouse’s has become one of the Coyotes most lethal weapons.
