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Coyotes' Mike Smith sets franchise record with 58 saves in loss

Arizona Coyotes goalie Mike Smith picks up his stick after giving up the game-winning goal to Columbus Blue Jackets center Sam Gagner during the shootout of an NHL hockey game Saturday, Dec. 3, 2016, in Glendale, Ariz. The Blue Jackets defeated the Coyotes 3-2 in a shootout. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)
Arizona Coyotes goalie Mike Smith picks up his stick after giving up the game-winning goal to Columbus Blue Jackets center Sam Gagner during the shootout of an NHL hockey game Saturday, Dec. 3, 2016, in Glendale, Ariz. The Blue Jackets defeated the Coyotes 3-2 in a shootout. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

Saturday’s game against the Columbus Blue Jackets was one to remember but also one to forget for Arizona Coyotes netminder Mike Smith.

The Coyotes dropped their third straight with a 3-2 shootout loss, but Smith was outstanding as he made a franchise record 58 saves on the night, including 22 in the third period.

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Columbus scored on both of their shootout attempts while the Coyotes failed on their two chances, which led to Smith nearly sending his twig to goalie stick heaven in frustration.

Saturday’s game was the fourth time this season Smith faced at least 40 shots and the third time in his last four starts. The Coyotes allow 35.5 shots per night, most in the NHL. As you could imagine, suffering a loss after his effort didn’t sit well with the netminder.

“Frustrated would be a good word, but it’s even worse than that, I think, right now,” Smith said. “At some point you’d like to see your team move forward and take steps in the right direction to start having your chance to win hockey games. It seems like once we take one step forward we’re taking a couple back. It’s tough to play like that in this league and expect to come out and win hockey games.”

Following a day off Sunday, the Coyotes will get a chance to make it right by Smith as they head to Columbus to face the Blue Jackets again on Monday.

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Sean Leahy is the associate editor for Puck Daddy on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at puckdaddyblog@yahoo.com or follow him on Twitter!