With Martin Hanzal out of the Phoenix Coyotes lineup in Game 3 of the Western Conference final due to suspension, head coach Dave Tippett needs to make a few adjustments. According to the Los Angeles Times, Tippett will replace Hanzal in the lineup with forward Marc-Antoine Pouliot.
Coyotes Vs. Kings Lineup: Marc-Antoine Pouliot To Replace Martin Hanzal
Pouliot played three games in the Western Conference semifinals against the Nashville Predators, but has yet to step into the lineup against the Los Angeles Kings. He's a defensive-minded depth forward who can play any forward position, so he'll give Tippett a bit of versatility in trying to combat what has quickly become a potent Los Angeles offense.
That's the only change expected in the Game 3 lineup for the Coyotes, who need a big win at Staples Center on Thursday evening to keep the series against the Kings interesting. Captain Shane Doan was not suspended for his hit on Trevor Lewis in Game 2 and will be in the lineup on Thursday night.
Lewis will also be in the lineup for the Kings. He told the Times that he did not break his nose on the hit from delivered by Doan and that he was cleaned up after a few stitches. Captain Dustin Brown is also fine after the suspension-worthy hit from Hanzal.
The Kings are expected to welcome Colin Fraser back to the lineup after he sat out Game 2 due to personal reasons. He played 7:31 in Game 1.
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