Coyotes: What 0 even-strength goals in 5 games looks like

Coyotes: What 0 even-strength goals in 5 games looks like

Five games, 260 minutes of even-strength play and 0 goals for the Arizona Coyotes. That’s right, the Coyotes don’t have an even-strength goal this season which is remarkable to think about when you actually see all the shots they’ve taken.

The Coyotes have put 152 shots on net at even-strength – none have gone in. Yes, part of the problem is that they are shooting a ton from the perimeter – the Coyotes rank last in the NHL in the percentage of their shot attempts that come from the slot (30.3 %) and rank 1st in perimeter shots per game (19.6) but zero goals…..5 games in…..150+ shots – it’s insane no matter how you slice it. 

Despite the high percentage of perimeter shots, the Coyotes have been shooting a ton and as a result, have had a good amount of chances from dangerous areas on the ice. Arizona is middle of the pack in slot shots per game (16th) and inner slot shots per game (17th). When measuring shot volume and quality, Arizona should have scored 12 goals at even-strength already based on our expected goals model. Again, they have none.

Starting a season without an even-strength goal through five games defies all logic and statistical probability. The good news for the Yotes, their next opponent gives up quality scoring chances like they’re going out of style. The Chicago Blackhawks rank last in slot shots against per game at even-strength (15.4) and the percentage of their opponents shots that come from the slot (45%). Odds are the Coyotes will get an EV goal on Thursday but, then again, odds are they should have had 12 by now!

(Photo by Norm Hall/NHLI via Getty Images)