Why the Coyotes Should Succeed in the Playoffs this Year

        Last night, the Phoenix Coyotes defeated the Chicago Blackhawks 4-0 in Game 6, eliminating the Blackhawks from the playoffs. Being from New Jersey, I usually don't get to watch Phoenix because their games start so late, but I was lucky enough to catch this particular game because it was in Chicago, so it started a bit earlier. The game really made me respect what Phoenix has done this season that much more. They brought in Mike Smith, a former back-up goalie, and made him their starter. I questioned this move earlier in the season, but Smith definitely proved me wrong. His career has been rejuvenated, thanks to goalie coach Sean Burke. Burke has done great things with Smith, increasing Smith's mental toughness and his overall play throughout the season and so far in the playoffs.
        Before Game 6 last night, Phoenix captain Shane Doan had an 0-8 record in the playoffs. In his 16 year career, Shane Doan had never won a playoff series. Last night was his first. Shane Doan is the only original Winnipeg Jet left in the Phoenix/Winnipeg franchise. This man has been loyal to the franchise and to his fan base for so many years, which made it an even more enjoyable game to watch. Doan is truly a class act, so it was great to finally see him advance to the second round of the playoffs. Hopefully he will have some more playoff success before the end of his fantastic career.