NHL Four-cast: St. Louis Blues

1 - Why is this team worth watching? Did you know Brad Boyes had 43 goals last year? Dude can score. Manny Legacy? Dude can stop pucks (I still don't understand why he was run out of Detroit). Barret Jackman and Jay McKee are two of the better defensive defensemen in the league. D.J. King is good at defending his teammates and Cam Janssen is insane.

2 - Are they better or worse than last year? Better. They did lose stellar penalty killers in class act Jamal Mayers and Ryan Johnson but they replaced them with younger grinders in Matt Foy and Brad Winchester. They gave the incredibly underrated Legace a safety net in Chris Mason, who flunked as a starter last year but was wonderful as a backup two years ago (some folks can't take the pressure I guess). Plus the kids they played last year have a year's experience and a new crop is already coming in - T.J. Oshie is a stud.

3 - Who should YOU draft in fantasy? Boyes is the only guarantee. Erik Johnson hasn't grown into a power play QB yet but is getting there. Andy McDonald has gotta do better, he can't be as bad as he was last year ... -17 in 49 games? Eesh, but he did have 36 points. If plus/minus doesn't scare you the the over-the-hill gang of Paul Kariya and Keith Tkachuk should be good for the 60 or so points they put up last year. David Backes is growing into a Tkachuk-esque player (some points, some PIM) and Lee Stempniak is only getting better. Keep an eye on them and while you are at it, take a peek at David Perron - he scored 27 points in 62 games and somehow put up a +16 on St. Louis. St. Louis. That's damn impressive. Legace had five shutouts and 27 wins and probably will better each number as the young Blues mature.

4 - If this on-going rebuild fails, if it doesn't result in a return to prominence (the kind that 25 straight playoff years gets you), will John Davidson have ruined his reputation in hockey? I don't think so. Davidson built a one incredible reputation around the league as an analyst after an above-average career. Many people complimented him for reaching out and taking this job, as crappy a gig as it seemed. If he fails, and I don't think he will, then those same folks will still think he is a great guy. You can't wash away 30+ years with a few bad ones in this business - Cliff Fletcher just got rehired for crissake. But if I'm right, and the team does bounce back and start making the playoffs (say, two, three years from now), then J.D. should be on the ballot for the Hall of Fame as a builder ...

 "NHL Four-cast: St. Louis Blues - A Symphony of Success and Resilience"

In the heartland of America, where the Mississippi River flows and the Gateway Arch stands tall, there exists a hockey team with a storied history and a passionate fan base—the St. Louis Blues. Since their inception in 1967, the Blues have been a symbol of resilience, perseverance, and triumph in the NHL. In this NHL Four-cast, we'll explore the rich tapestry of the St. Louis Blues, from their early years to their unforgettable Stanley Cup victory, and address some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about this iconic franchise.

Part 1: The Birth of the Blues

1. Inaugural Season and Expansion

The St. Louis Blues joined the NHL as part of the 1967 expansion. They quickly found themselves embraced by a city hungry for hockey success.

2. Early Challenges

Like many expansion teams, the Blues faced early struggles on the ice. However, their resilience and determination laid the foundation for future achievements.

Part 2: A Symphony of Success

3. Playoff Appearances

The Blues became a regular presence in the NHL playoffs, showcasing their competitiveness and skill. Their passionate fan base, known as the "Blues faithful," stood by them through every high and low.

4. Iconic Players

The franchise has been graced by legendary players like Brett Hull, Bernie Federko, and Al MacInnis, who left an indelible mark on the team's history.

Part 3: The Journey to Glory

5. 2019 Stanley Cup Victory

The pinnacle of the Blues' history came in 2019 when they clinched their first-ever Stanley Cup. Their historic journey from last place in January to champions in June captured the hearts of fans and inspired countless others.

6. The Impact of the Stanley Cup Win

The Blues' Stanley Cup victory brought joy and unity to the city of St. Louis. It was a testament to the enduring spirit of the team and its unwavering fan base.

Part 4: FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Why are they called the Blues?

The team's name is a nod to the genre of music known as the blues, which has deep roots in St. Louis. It reflects the city's rich musical heritage.

2. What is the significance of the "Gloria" anthem after their Stanley Cup win?

The song "Gloria" by Laura Branigan became the Blues' victory anthem during their Stanley Cup run. It became a symbol of their journey and the celebration that followed.

3. How has the Blues' resilience impacted their legacy?

The Blues' resilience and ability to overcome adversity have become a defining characteristic of the franchise. Their 2019 Stanley Cup win is a testament to their never-give-up attitude.

4. What is the Blues' legacy in the NHL?

The St. Louis Blues are known for their passionate fan base, resilience, and their remarkable journey from expansion team to Stanley Cup champions. They serve as an inspiration to underdogs everywhere.

The St. Louis Blues are more than just a hockey team; they are a symbol of perseverance, resilience, and triumph against the odds. From their early struggles as an expansion team to their unforgettable Stanley Cup victory in 2019, the Blues have captured the hearts of fans and earned their place in NHL history.

As they continue to skate onto the ice at the Enterprise Center, the Blues carry with them the hopes and dreams of their loyal fan base. Their journey serves as a reminder that success in sports is not just about talent and skill; it's about heart, determination, and the unwavering belief that anything is possible. In St. Louis, the Blues have not just found a home; they've found a family of supporters who will be with them through every high note and low note in the symphony of hockey.