What is the story about?
What's Happening?
The St. Louis Blues are preparing for the 2025-26 NHL season with a focus on improving their special teams performance. Last season, the Blues ranked 16th in the NHL on the power play and 28th on the penalty kill. Under the guidance of coach Montgomery, who took over mid-season last year, the team secured a playoff berth by clinching the second wild card in the West. The Blues are looking to enhance their offensive capabilities, having averaged 3.05 goals per game last season, which was 13th in the league. Key players like Robert Thomas, Pavel Buchnevich, and Dylan Holloway are expected to contribute significantly to the team's success in the highly competitive Central Division.
Why It's Important?
Improving special teams is crucial for the Blues as they compete in the Central Division, which includes high-scoring teams like the Dallas Stars and Winnipeg Jets. Enhancing their power play and penalty kill could be the difference between making the playoffs and missing out. The Blues' ability to compete against top teams in their division will be pivotal in their quest for a successful season. The addition of Pius Suter, who set career highs in goals and points last season, is expected to bolster the team's depth and production. The Blues' performance in the upcoming season will have implications for their playoff prospects and overall standing in the league.
What's Next?
The Blues will open their season at home against the Minnesota Wild on October 9. As the season progresses, the team will need to focus on maintaining consistency in their special teams and overall performance. The development of new acquisitions like Logan Mailloux on defense will be closely watched, as he could play a significant role in the team's success. The Blues will aim to climb the standings in the Central Division and secure a playoff spot.
Beyond the Headlines
The Blues' strategy to improve their special teams reflects a broader trend in the NHL where teams are increasingly focusing on specialized aspects of the game to gain a competitive edge. The emphasis on player development and strategic acquisitions highlights the importance of building a well-rounded team capable of competing at the highest level. The Blues' approach could serve as a model for other teams looking to enhance their performance in specific areas.
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