St. Louis Blues Turn the Tide with a Four-Game Winning Streak
The St. Louis Blues have been on a remarkable run, and things are starting to get serious. After a 4-1 win against the Los Angeles Kings on Saturday at Enterprise Center, the Blues (29-26-6) have nearly closed the gap to the second wild card in the Western Conference. Just a week ago, the deficit stood at eight points, but now it’s down to just one. This resurgence has not only lifted the spirits of the players but has also put the upcoming NHL Trade Deadline (March 3, 2024) in a different light for management. Forwards like Dylan Holloway, whose goal and assist extended his point streak to four games (three goals, two assists), and Pavel Buchnevich, who has an active six-game point streak (two goals, seven assists), are leading the charge. Defenseman Colton Parayko continues to impress, now at 15 goals for his career best, while Jordan Binnington solidified the win with 25 saves. Coach Jim Montgomery couldn’t be more pleased with the team’s commitment and selfless play, noting the excitement on the bench and the sacrifices made by players like Nathan Walker and Alexey Toropchenko.
Aggressive Play Continues to Pay Dividends
The Blues’ recent success can be attributed to their relentless, aggressive style of play. The forwards are diligently forechecking in the offensive zone, while the defensemen are holding the blue line and pinching with enthusiasm. The team’s skating and stick work in all zones have been instrumental in disrupting opponents’ plays. During their four-game winning streak, the Blues have outscored their opponents 19-6, a testament to their effective and aggressive approach. Parayko emphasized the difficulty this style poses for opposing teams, noting the importance of getting pucks in and maintaining pressure. This aggressive mindset not only keeps the opposition on their heels but also creates numerous scoring opportunities, making the Blues a formidable team to face.
Overcoming Early Deficits with Resilience
Even a few weeks ago, an early deficit might have been a setback for the Blues, but no longer. When Kevin Fiala scored a power-play goal for the Kings just 3:43 into the game, giving them a 1-0 lead, the Blues didn’t falter. Instead, they regrouped and quickly turned the momentum in their favor. Kyrou’s shift, which led to Parayko’s tying goal, exemplified the team’s determination. Kyrou created multiple chances, including a near miss at the right post, before winning the puck back and setting up Parayko’s successful shot from the left circle. Buchnevich followed suit with a goal at 18:07 of the first period, capitalizing on a scramble near the crease. Bolduc’s goal at 9:27 of the second period, resulting from a blocked shot by Mathieu Joseph, further extended their lead. Holloway added a third goal in the third period, ensuring a comfortable 4-1 victory. The Blues’ ability to bounce back from early deficits showcases their mental toughness and teamwork.
Kyrou’s All-Round Game Elevates the Team
Jordan Kyrou has been a revelation for the Blues, not just with his offensive prowess but also with his improved play away from the puck. The question has always been whether Kyrou could be a difference-maker in a complete 200-foot game. His performance on Saturday, particularly on Parayko’s goal, answered that question emphatically. Kyrou’s shift involved relentless puck tracking, skilled stickhandling, and selfless passing, demonstrating his growth as a player. Holloway praised Kyrou’s skating and skill, noting that he’s a "super-fun player to play with." Montgomery added that when Kyrou is tracking pucks and stripping opponents, the team benefits immensely. Kyrou’s all-around play is not only making him a more valuable asset but also elevating the performance of his teammates and the entire team.
The Importance of Team Effort
The Blues’ recent wins have been a collective effort, involving contributions from every line and defensive pair. The bench has been buzzing with positive energy, regardless of who scores. The team’s selflessness is evident in their blocked shots, unselfish line changes, and effective forechecking. Montgomery highlighted the bench’s enthusiasm and the players’ willingness to make sacrifices for the team. This unity and commitment to each other have created a dynamic and enjoyable atmosphere, both on and off the ice. The Blues are proving that when they play as a cohesive unit, they can be a tough team to beat, even against strong opponents like the Kings, Avalanche, Kraken, and Capitals.
Keeping the Momentum Alive
The Blues are confident but not complacent. They understand the importance of maintaining their current level of play and building on their momentum. Holloway acknowledged the team’s ability to play well and the need to stay focused. The upcoming games and the trade deadline will be crucial, and the Blues will need to continue their aggressive, selfless play to secure a playoff spot. With the deficit now down to one point and the team performing at its best, the Blues are in a strong position to make a deep run into the postseason. Their recent success is a clear indication that they can compete with the best teams in the league, and the players are excited to see what the future holds.
