Coyotes' Smith on early struggles: 'It's me and only me'

Arizona Coyotes goaltender Mike Smith makes no bones about the fact his play hasn't been up to par to start the season. 

He took full responsibility for his performance after allowing six goals on 36 shots to the St. Louis Blues on Saturday, even as backup Devan Dubnyk - who joked he has "a lot of experience giving up a lot of goals" - offered to address reporters in his stead.

"I've played three games, and it hasn't gone even close to the way it needs to be," Smith said, according to Craig Morgan of FOX Sports. "I understand that, but there's no time to feel sorry for yourself or get down.

"It's hard, but it's a long season, and I am continuing to remind myself of that."

In total, Smith allowed 16 goals on 90 shots through three games, good for a save percentage of .822. While the blame can't be placed solely on his shoulders, that's obviously not going to cut it for a team with any hope of pushing for a playoff spot, especially in the Western Conference.

Smith and the Coyotes will attempt to rebound Tuesday against the Nashville Predators.