Staying the Course: Armstrong’s Trade Deadline Strategy
As the NHL Trade Deadline buzzed with activity around the league on Friday, St. Louis Blues General Manager Doug Armstrong remained steadfast in his approach: no buying, no selling. Armstrong’s decision to stick with the current roster was a calculated one, emphasizing the importance of chemistry and continuity over short-term fixes. Despite the Blues (31-27-6) being just two points behind the Calgary Flames for the second wild card spot, Armstrong opted to let the team navigate the rest of the season with the players they have. This strategy paid off in a crucial 4-3 win over the Anaheim Ducks at Honda Center, a game that featured several tense moments but ultimately solidified the Blues’ position in the Western Conference wild card race. The team’s recent form, with a 7-1-1 record in their past nine games, suggested that they were on the right track, and Armstrong’s faith in the squad was rewarded with a hard-fought victory.
A Relentless Forecheck
The Blues’ success in Anaheim was largely due to their relentless and precise forechecking. This tactic, which has been a focus since the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament, proved instrumental in several key moments of the game. Brayden Schenn, who has been the subject of trade rumors for weeks, demonstrated the effectiveness of this approach with his second goal. Dylan Holloway’s relentless pursuit of the puck in the offensive zone forced Jackson LaCombe to hurry his pass, creating an opportunity for Jordan Kyrou to pressure and win the puck. Holloway then fed Schenn, who scored at 10:49 to give the Blues a 2-1 lead. Similarly, Zack Bolduc’s goal at 5:21 of the third period, which extended the Blues’ lead to 3-1, was a direct result of Bolduc’s pressure in the defensive zone. He won a puck battle, started a breakout, and was perfectly set up by Fowler for a breakaway score. The Blues’ ability to apply pressure and capitalize on turnovers was evident throughout the game, contributing significantly to their win.
Adjusting to Life Without Parayko
The most pressing challenge for the Blues was adjusting to life without their top defenseman, Colton Parayko, who sustained a left knee injury on Wednesday. Parayko’s absence left a significant void, especially given his average ice time of nearly 24 minutes per game. No single player could fully replace his contributions, so the team had to adopt a by-committee approach. Nick Leddy stepped up to play alongside Fowler, and the pairing seemed to mesh well. Coach Jim Montgomery had anticipated that Philip Broberg and Justin Faulk would see increased ice time, particularly in the defensive zone, and both players delivered. Faulk led the team with 23:11 of ice time, while Broberg played 22:36. Both defended effectively, and their presence helped stabilize the defense. Ryan Suter and Tyler Tucker also played crucial roles, with Suter logging 18:47 and Tucker 15:34, ensuring the Blues maintained their defensive integrity even as the Ducks pressed hard in the final moments.
Fowler’s Triumphant Return to Orange County
Cam Fowler, the Blues’ defenseman acquired from the Ducks in a trade on December 14, had a particularly emotional night. Fowler, the 12th overall pick in the 2010 NHL Draft, has spent the majority of his career with the Ducks, playing 991 of his 1,025 NHL games in Orange County. While he had already faced his former team in St. Louis, returning to the Honda Center was a different experience. Fowler handled the emotions well and delivered a strong performance, playing 21:09 and assisting on Bolduc’s goal in the third period. His precision and playmaking were on full display, particularly in the first period when he and Nick Leddy set up Alexey Toropchenko for his first goal in 50 games, a score that put the Blues ahead 1-0. Fowler’s return to Orange County was not just a personal victory but also a significant contribution to the team’s success. He now has 21 points (seven goals, 14 assists) in 34 games with the Blues, proving his worth as a valuable addition.
Toropchenko’s Breakout Performance
Alexey Toropchenko, a name that has been in the spotlight for his long scoring drought, had a standout game against the Anaheim Ducks. After 50 games without a goal, Toropchenko finally broke through, scoring at 2:37 of the first period. The goal, set up by Fowler and Leddy, not only gave the Blues an early 1-0 lead but also provided a significant morale boost to the team. Toropchenko’s return to form was a welcome development, and his two assists further highlighted his impact on the ice. His overall performance, which included a plus-2 rating, showcased his potential and his growing comfort in the Blues’ system. Toropchenko’s breakout game was a testament to the team’s ability to support and develop its players, even during challenging stretches.
Weathering the Storm: Final Moments Against the Ducks
The final moments of the game were fraught with tension as the Ducks mounted a fierce comeback. With the clock winding down, the Ducks thought they had tied the game when Mason McTavish poked the puck into a crowded crease at the final horn. However, the officials determined that the puck had crossed the line after time had expired, securing the Blues’ 4-3 win and the two crucial points. This nail-biting finish underscored the Blues’ resilience and determination. Despite the emotional and physical toll of the game, the team managed to hold on to their lead, a testament to their strong defensive play and the mental fortitude of the players. The win was a confidence booster, especially as the Blues look to maintain their position in the wild card race with a reduced defensive corps.
Post-Game Reactions from Coach and Players
Following the game, coach Jim Montgomery and the players reflected on the significant win. Montgomery emphasized the importance of sticking to their game plan and the collective effort that led to the victory. "The guys really stepped up tonight," he said. "We knew it was going to be tough without Parayko, but they filled the gaps and played smart hockey." Brayden Schenn, who scored twice and provided the game-winning empty-netter, echoed his coach’s sentiments. "It’s great to get the win, especially in such a high-stakes game," Schenn noted. "Our forecheck was excellent, and we capitalized on our opportunities." Cam Fowler, despite his emotional return to Anaheim, was proud of his contribution. "It was a special night for me, and I’m glad I could help the team," Fowler said. The Blues’ unity and focus were evident, and their ability to adapt and execute under pressure bodes well for their playoff aspirations.
