Where They Are: They are a better team than their record shows, but not by much. Ever since Sarah Palin ruined them the way she ruined McCain's chances, they haven't been the same. Their goaltending has struggled regularly but they did get a great effort from Chris Mason the other day though with a 1-0 shutout of the Blackhawks.
Who To Watch For: The Boston Bruins have to still be mad at giving up Brad Boyes, who has turned into the Blues best scoring threat. Boyes has incredible hands and a knack for getting into good scoring positions. Andy McDonald is their best centerman since Adam Oates and they have a wealth of good young forwards learning the game, from former roller hockey prodigy TJ Oshie to future Team USA checker David Backes. Patrick Berglund is a legitimate Calder candidate but there isn't much on the blueline aside from Barret Jackman. Times have been tough for him lately as he doesn't have much help with Eric Brewer out and Jay McKee showing his age (and getting scratched). What To Watch For: This, more than any game thus far this season, is a statement game. The Ranger effort level will show if they are going to roll over and call it a year or make a real run at the playoffs.
What We'll (Hopefully) See: A Ranger team that wants to win. A Ranger team that wants to score. A Ranger team that stands up for each other. A Ranger team that is smart with and without the puck. Oh, and Cam Janssen to hopefully get his smirking face beat in. I hate that guy.
Also Check Out: Mirtle wanted the best and he got it with St. Louis Game Time - his game preview for today is great - and there is another forum site over at Let's Go Blues.
Peepin' Foes: St. Louis Blues - A Closer Look
In the world of professional ice hockey, few teams can boast the storied history and passionate fan base of the St. Louis Blues. Established in 1967 as part of the NHL's expansion, the Blues have consistently been a force to be reckoned with. In this article, we'll dive into the rich history and recent performance of the St. Louis Blues, exploring their key players, memorable moments, and addressing some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about this iconic franchise.
A Glance at History
The Blues made an immediate impact when they joined the NHL in 1967, reaching the Stanley Cup Finals in their first three seasons but failing to secure the championship. However, their history is not defined by those early near-misses. It wasn't until 2019 that the Blues captured their first Stanley Cup, cementing their place in hockey history.
Key Players in Blues History
Brett Hull: Known for his incredible scoring ability, Hull is the franchise's all-time leading goal scorer and one of the greatest snipers in NHL history.
Al MacInnis: A stalwart defenseman and Hall of Famer, MacInnis was known for his booming slap shot and defensive prowess.
Chris Pronger: Pronger's dominance on the blue line earned him multiple Norris Trophies, making him one of the most feared defensemen of his era.
Bernie Federko: Federko is the franchise's all-time leader in points and assists, and his playmaking abilities were second to none.
Recent Performance
The Blues' recent history has been marked by competitive play and, most notably, their 2019 Stanley Cup victory. Here are some highlights of their recent performance:
Stanley Cup Victory (2019): Led by coach Craig Berube and star players like Vladimir Tarasenko and Jordan Binnington, the Blues won their first-ever Stanley Cup, overcoming a challenging start to the season.
Playoff Consistency: The Blues have been a playoff fixture, often making deep runs and consistently contending for the championship.
Fan Passion: St. Louis boasts one of the most dedicated fan bases in the NHL, known for their unwavering support of the team.
FAQs About the St. Louis Blues
1. What's the significance of the "Gloria" song for Blues fans?
"Gloria" by Laura Branigan became the team's victory anthem during their 2019 Stanley Cup run, and it has since become an iconic part of Blues lore.
2. How has the team evolved since their Stanley Cup win?
The Blues have continued to be a competitive team, though they've faced challenges with injuries and roster changes. Their core remains strong.
3. Who are the current key players to watch on the Blues' roster?
Vladimir Tarasenko, Ryan O'Reilly, and Jordan Binnington are among the current stars driving the team's success.
4. What's the outlook for the Blues in the coming seasons?
With a strong core of talent and passionate fan support, the Blues are poised to remain a competitive force in the NHL.
The St. Louis Blues are not just a hockey team; they're a symbol of perseverance and passion. From their early struggles to their triumphant Stanley Cup victory in 2019, the Blues have captured the hearts of hockey fans across North America. With a rich history and a bright future ahead, the Blues continue to be a beloved franchise in the NHL, and their impact on the sport will be felt for generations to come. Whether you're a die-hard Blues fan or simply appreciate the history of the game, there's no denying the significance of this storied franchise in the world of hockey.
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