Coyotes vs. Kings: Phoenix Must Shoot Early and Often to Win Game 5

The Phoenix Coyotes have been out shot by the Los Angeles Kings in each of their four Western Conference playoff games thus far.

If the Coyotes want to win Game 5, and extend the series, they must shoot the puck early an often.

Let's take a look at how Phoenix won Game 4 and how they can win Game 5.

Coyotes' Game 4 Victory

Phoenix won Game 4 despite getting outshot by the Kings in every period.

If the Coyotes can pick up their offensive pace in Game 5, they will continue this series. Without it, the Coyotes will need to rely on their defense and goalie Mike Smith to win the game.

I wouldn't bank on defense to beat the Kings right now. Los Angeles has won 11 of 13 playoff games thus far and has not struggled to score the puck for the most part.

The Coyotes have relied on their defense all season, but the playoffs are a different animal. Jonathan Quick has been stellar for the Kings in net throughout the playoffs, and you will only survive for so long without shooting more than a high-powered offense.

Los Angeles' ability to score, despite their offensive struggles in the regular season, has reinvigorated their Stanley Cup chances.

Phoenix must match their offense's aggressive play and force the Kings to play more in their own end.

How Can the Coyotes Win Game 5?

The Coyotes must back their defense up with aggressive offense in Game 5.

Phoenix won Game 4 despite out shot 36 to 21. Mike Smith delivered a shutout performance and their defense was staunch against the Kings' attack.

Creating more offense from the beginning will allow the Coyotes' defense to bet more comfortable. It will also take more pressure off Smith, allowing him to play his game without being under constant duress.

Putting shots on Quick is important.

The longer you allow a goalie to get comfortable in between the pipes, the more likely he is to shut you out.

Quick's rhythm must be disrupted early, and it must be disrupted often.

The Coyotes' offense will get into a rhythm, and they will have a much bigger chance of keeping this series alive.