Phoenix Coyotes: What to Watch For Post Olympic Break

Some Mike Smith Protection, Please

Feb 8, 2014; Dallas, TX, USA; Phoenix Coyotes goalie Mike Smith (41) makes a save against a Dallas Stars shot during the third period at the American Airlines Center. The Stars defeated the Coyotes 2-1. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Goaltender Smith leads the league in games played (49), saves (1369), goals against (131) and shots against (1500). He isn’t in the top-20 in save percentage, either (.913). When you’ve got a goaltender who’s in the middle of the pack and you’re letting him get peppered with shots, bad things will happen. It’s fortunate that he’s 20-17-9 when we consider those gaudy numbers.

Backup Thomas Greiss is having a solid season at 7-4-1 with a 2.09 GAA. His save percentage is much better, at .932. While Smith is facing 30.6 shots per game, Greiss is at 25.1.  How about that kind of protection for Smith as well?