Although the Arizona Coyotes play an 82 game regular season schedule like every other team in the NHL, all schedules are not necessarily equal. There are divisional factors that come into play that have a significant impact upon the success or failure of a team’s efforts to make the NHL playoffs. Regarding the Coyotes, the relative strength of the current Pacific Division is important to note.
The 8-team Pacific Division is perennially competitive. In addition to the Coyotes, it includes currently strong teams like the Edmonton Oilers, the Las Vegas Golden Knights, and the surprising Vancouver Canucks.