Canucks Pacific Division Rival Preview: Arizona Coyotes

Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports Arizona Coyotes center Brad Richardson (15) celebrates after scoring a goal past Vancouver Canucks goaltender Thatcher Demko (35) and defenseman Ben Hutton (27) during the first period at Gila River Arena.You know what they say, um, eighth time is the charm?

That’s what they’ll be saying in Arizona when the 2019-20 NHL season kicks-off. The Desert Dogs have now missed the playoffs for seven straight seasons, and they are no lock to make it back to the dance this year.

However, the Coyotes did make a sizable leap up the standings in 2018-19. After averaging 68.5 points per season over a four year stretch, the Coyotes ended up with 86 points last season. Colorado…