Mike Smith's injury should have sent the Arizona Coyotes into a tailspin. The loss of a No. 1 goalie is tough for any team, and it figured to be crippling to a club that relies so much on defense.
Louis Domingue changed Arizona's fortunes. Instead of tumbling down the standings, the Coyotes have climbed within reach of the Pacific Division lead behind their confident-beyond-his-years rookie goalie.
After getting a much-needed rest, Domingue will be back in net Monday night against the visiting Buffalo Sabres looking to help the Coyotes earn at least a point for the eighth time in nine games.