Holloway’s Stellar Performance Signals Readiness for Regular Season
ST. LOUIS – Despite the St. Louis Blues’ 5-3 loss to the Dallas Stars, Dylan Holloway’s performance stood out. Holloway scored twice, once in the first period to cut the Stars’ lead to 2-1 and again in the third period to make it a one-goal game. His attention to detail and relentless work ethic were evident, which has impressed coach Jim Montgomery. “He’s relentless on pucks, and everyone wants to play with him because they know they’re going to get offensive opportunities,” Montgomery said. Holloway’s second effort and third effort on pucks, combined with his tremendous shape, make him a standout. He’s on track to play a significant role, including penalty kill duties, and is likely ready for the season opener on October 9 against the Minnesota Wild.
Suter’s Solid Line Performance
Pius Suter made his Blues debut and looked solid playing alongside Dylan Holloway and Jordan Kyrou. The trio finished plus-1, with Suter leading in ice time (16:24), followed by Kyrou (16:07) and Holloway (15:59). Holloway led the Blues with six of their 24 shots on goal and scored two goals, including a beautiful give-and-go with Kyrou. Montgomery praised their defensive cohesion, noting they held their ground against a strong Dallas lineup. “They continued to support each other really well,” he said. This line could be a top unit for the Blues as the season approaches.
Kaskimaki’s Under-the-Radar Impressions
One of the under-the-radar forwards making a mark is 2022 third-round pick Aleksanteri Kaskimaki. He finished plus-1 in 15:04 of ice time and exhibited a strong compete level. Kaskimaki described his approach as showing his skills in the offensive zone and his 200-foot game. Montgomery noted Kaskimaki’s awareness without the puck and his defensive play, describing him as a puck hound. “He’s always on the right side, so he always seems to be in a good position to handle pucks,” Montgomery said. Kaskimaki’s performance is making a strong case for more ice time in the regular season.
Skinner’s Assertive Play
Defenseman Hunter Skinner, a fourth-round pick in 2019, is making a compelling case for a roster spot. He played 18:28 and recorded two shots on goal with four hits, despite being minus-2. Skinner’s assertiveness and physical play caught Montgomery’s attention. “I like how assertive he is,” Montgomery said. “He’s not afraid to hold onto pucks and make a play, so that confidence is nice to see in a young defenseman.” Skinner’s strong training camp and game performance have put him on the radar for a potential seventh defensive position.
Broberg’s Dominant Second Period
Philip Broberg, the top-pair defenseman playing alongside Justin Faulk, had a strong showing after an initially shaky first period. He scored a beautiful wraparound goal in the second period to tie the game 2-2. Broberg’s goal came after Dalibor Dvorsky won a face-off, and Broberg used a pump fake to freeze the Stars’ goalie. He finished plus-1 in 21:03 of ice time. Montgomery praised Broberg’s ability to respond within the game and find his rhythm. “He’s really starting to understand how gifted he is as an athletic hockey player,” Montgomery said. Broberg’s performance is a positive sign of his development into a more consistent and dominant player.
Lucic’s Gradual Progress
Milan Lucic, the 37-year-old veteran in training camp on a professional tryout, showed gradual improvement in his second preseason game. He tied for the game-high with five hits in 13:58 of ice time. Lucic felt more comfortable and confident after his first game, though he acknowledged he has more to offer. “I felt like I did some good things, especially on the forecheck. Made some better plays coming out of the D-zone, but I still feel like I’ve got another gear,” Lucic said. Montgomery noted Lucic’s better skating and disruptive play, adding that he needs to show more with the puck in the next couple of games. Lucic’s performance is keeping his options open as the Blues evaluate their roster.
