Although it’s early and perhaps premature, St. Louis Blues fans could use some encouragement for the future. The team is well-positioned to compete next year and in the years ahead.
Championship teams are forged through dedication and perseverance. The St. Louis Blues, as they stand today, possess a certain je ne sais quoi. While it may be premature to predict a championship run, there are several compelling reasons why the Blues can reclaim their playoff form and make a triumphant return to the postseason.
St. Louis Blues head coach Drew Bannister
Yes, you read that correctly. Drew Bannister has the golden opportunity to make his mark. His impressive 30-19-5 record is the first major stepping stone on what promises to be an illustrious NHL head coaching journey. Bannister can coach, and he’s got the receipts to prove it – from his standout career in the OHL and AHL to his stellar performance this season with the Blues. Let’s keep it real: most Blues fans are still getting acquainted with Bannister.
But here’s the thing – Bannister’s forte is developing young talent. So you know Robert Thomas and Jordan Kyrou are about to take their game to the next level under his tutelage. And get this – Thomas himself has already given Bannister the thumbs up, saying he deserves the head coaching gig. That kind of locker room buy-in is priceless. The bottom line is, Bannister has proven he’s a coaching force to be reckoned with. So why wouldn’t he keep the momentum going? You can bet your bottom dollar that Bannister’s coaching prowess will be on full display when the next regular season rolls around.
Goaltending
The St. Louis Blues’ goaltending stands out as the second key factor propelling them towards the playoffs next season. Jordan Binnington’s performance is nothing short of exceptional. Disregarding his impressive statistics, not just from the 2019 playoffs but also throughout the 2023-24 season, would be unjust. His save percentage speaks volumes. Binnington consistently rose to the occasion, carrying the team when it mattered most.
Let’s not overlook the rising star, Joel Hofer. His remarkable stats position him as a valuable asset, forming a goaltending duo that few teams can rival. In hockey, fans understand the pivotal role goaltending plays in determining outcomes. With Binnington’s proven track record, there’s every reason to have faith in him. And if Hofer can replicate or even surpass his achievements from this season, the competition better be prepared for what’s coming.
Robert Thomas
Robert Thomas’ impressive 86-point performance is a promising sign, and given his young age, even better statistics are anticipated in the seasons ahead. While the team cannot solely rely on Thomas, when he is surrounded by a supporting cast that rallies behind him, the result can be a squad reminiscent of the formidable Boston Bruins. Bannister’s primary focus should be on continuing to develop Thomas. He should make a concerted effort to support and connect with Thomas, enabling him to grow and emerge as a leader within the existing group.
Although it may seem premature to anoint Thomas as a star or place the burden of the team’s future playoff aspirations on his shoulders, it is not uncommon for exceptional talents to thrive under such high expectations. St. Louis Blues fans should consider Robert Thomas a rising star and expect greatness from him in the years to come.Securing a playoff berth will not be easy; it never is. However, the Blues are close to the mark and will only continue to improve, especially with Drew Bannister at the helm as the permanent head coach.St. Louis Blues fans should anticipate a return to the playoffs in the near future.
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