Phil Mickelson: Lefty's Hot Play Will Continue Through Northern Trust Open

One thing that is abundantly clear is that Phil Mickelson has found some of the past magic that he's enjoyed in the Western states and found it really fast. While he won't continue that hot play into Florida and beyond, Lefty will close the deal this weekend. 

The problem with Mickelson throughout his career is not that he can't find a zone. No, when he's in a zone, fans everywhere are generally treated to some fantastic, mistake-free golf that rivals the best we have ever seen. No, Lefty's flaw is that his hot streaks leave ridiculously fast and often don't return for a long time. 

That is coming, but it will have to wait until the tour leaves California. Mickelson is in a zone right now where even his flat rounds end up strong. In the second round at Riviera, he didn't have a particularly hot day. Aside from making an eagle from the fairway on the eighth hole, it was actually quite forgettable. 

Still, Lefty managed to come in at one-under and didn't lose his lead. That is more of a sign that a golfer is in a "zone" than anything he does on a hot streak. 

Now, I don't believe 2012 will be a banner year for Mickelson, but that doesn't mean he won't win again. California and Arizona have always been safe havens for him, winning 17 of 40 career PGA Tour events in one of those two states. Specifically, he's won the Northern Trust Open twice, so we know he's comfortable there. 

This is why he'll continue through the week. Mickelson is not missing fairways like we're used to seeing, his irons are on point, the putter is solid and the short game is spectacular as always. When you throw that in with experience at the course, it's hard to see him squandering even a one-shot lead. 

This is the Mickelson we can expect to see for the next few years. He will win his tournaments, but also struggle, which we saw earlier in the season.

Still, few things in golf are as enjoyable as watching Mickelson when he's on, which is the case right now. That will lead to his second win in a row.

Follow @mdixon1985