Western Conference Final Recap

Western Final

Arizona Coyotes - 2 @ Winnipeg Jets - 1

• Arizona wins series 4-3

The Arizona Coyotes emerged the victors in their duel against the Winnipeg Jets. Their reward: a berth in the Stanley Cup Final against the New Jersey Devils.

As these things so often play out, it wasn't the players whose names we speak about on a regular basis that made the difference. It wasn't Mikko Rantanen, Johnny Gaudreau, Kyle Connor or Kevin Labanc. It was the Coyotes fourth line that provided the dramatics. 

Entering the third period down 1-0, a period that saw Arizona outshot 14-9,  the Coyotes capitalised on their opportunities when they presented themselves. Joel Kiviranta got things back to 1-1 early, scoring his 1st goal of the playoffs just over four minutes in. It looked like that score might hold up and send things to overtime. But with just under four minutes to play, Derek Grant etched his name into Coyotes lore. 

Corralling a loose puck off a blocked shot by Sam Gagner, Grant launched a rocket that got through a maze of bodies and beat Tuukka Rask that stunned a raucous home crowd. It was Grant's second game-winner of the series (Game 1) and third of the playoffs. He had the overtime winner against the Ducks in Game 6 to avoid elimination. However, this particular goal will be one that he or the Coyotes will soon forget. 

Brayden Point had the lone goal for Winnipeg. It was just his second of the postseason and first goal since Game 1 of the semifinal against the Avalanche. He finishes the playoffs 6 points (2-4-6) in 19 games. 

Perhaps the most crucial element, though, to the Coyotes series win was Connor Hellebuyck regaining the form he's shown right through the postseason. After looking mortal in three consecutive losses, and with their backs against the wall, Hellebuyck donned his cape and shutdown the Jet's offensive stars. Should the "Yotes go on to defeat the Devils, and perhaps even if not, there's a strong chance he'll hoist the Conn Smythe trophy.

THREE STARS

Derek Grant (ARI): 1 goal (GWG), 1 assist, +1, 2pim, 2 hits, 2 shots, 1 blocked shot, 11:53 TOI
Connor Hellebuyck (ARI): 35 saves, .972 SP%
Joel Kiviranta (ARI): 1 goal, 1 assist, +1, 2 hits, 3 shots, 1 giveaway, 12:05 TOI