GLENDALE, Ariz. -- The Phoenix Coyotes lost their leading goal-scorer, Radim Vrbata, early in the first period of Thursday's Western Conference Quarterfinal series-opener against the Chicago Blackhawks with an undisclosed injury.
Vrbata, who scored a career-high 35 goals this season, was hampered during the final month of the season by an allergic reaction to penicillin -- a problem that continues to cause severe muscle cramps throughout his body. He missed six games and parts of others dealing with the pain.
Coyotes captain Shane Doan double-shifted on right wing in his place.
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