We’ve written quite a bit on Arizona’s franchise-worst start to the season, in which they’ve lost five straight games.
But according to head coach Dave Tippett, the Coyotes probably shouldn’t be mired in a winless streak.
“Louis [Domingue] is a little like our team,” Tippett said, per the Arizona Republic. “He’s had stretches where he made some good saves but at the end of the day, the two winning goals -- the Islanders and New York [Rangers] -- were both stoppable goals.”
Here’s the Isles goal Tippett was referring to, a shorthanded marker by Johnny Boychuk:
And here’s the Rangers goal, scored by Dan Girardi (FF to 1:45)
Both, you’ll notice, have some similarities -- long-range shots, third-period markers, scored by defensemen (and their first goals of the season, coincidentally).
The Domingue storyline has become a compelling one in the desert. Signed to a two-year extension this summer, the 24-year-old was expected to “take that next step” in his progression this season.
“He’s been solid,” GM John Chayka said of Domingue. “It looked like he had a good summer and came in in good shape.
“Louis’ got the talent to do it. It’s now doing it.”
The Coyotes are in Philly tonight to close out their six-game roadie, and Domingue will get the start. He’ll look to improve on his dreadful numbers -- 5.03 GAA, .851 save percentage -- and hopefully backstop his club to just its second win of the season.