Arguably the Coyotes best forward over the past few games has been Lawson Crouse. Through his first seven games, Crouse failed to score a single goal which was strange for a player that is accustomed to burying the puck in the net. However, Crouse’s fortunes would quickly change as he now has recorded five goals in the last five games. The 26-year-old is tied for the most goals amongst all Coyotes players with Clayton Keller. This sudden surge from Crouse shouldn’t be a surprise. Over the years, he has proven to really score in bunches. He also has consistently been one of the Coyotes most reliable goalscorers over the past two years tallying 20 plus goals in two straight seasons. Crouse possesses a powerful shot that he continues to use well. If his teammates are able to find Crouse in open space, it’s hard for opposing goalies to defend his shot which has proven to be one of Arizona’s most lethal offensive weapons. It’s also Crouse’s big frame that serves useful along the boards in the offensive zone as it’s difficult for defenders to steal the puck from the 6 '4'’ forward. Crouse has found a home on a line alongside Matias Maccelli and Nick Bjugstad. Maccelli is an excellent passer and playmaker who is able to feed Crouse the puck in scoring positions. André Tourigny spoke following the Coyotes 2-1 loss to the Blues. Bjugstad plays a very similar game to Crouse’s, both using their size to their advantage so they compliment each other perfectly. If the Coyotes are going to hunt for a playoff position this season, they will need Crouse to continue his hot play which he is very capable of doing.
