The St. Louis Blues have hit a bit of a snag in the early going of this 2026-27 season. They are 2-2-1, for five points following the monumental comeback victory over Columbus, 5-3.
When looking at what has led to this outcome, there are a couple of different factors to consider. The Blues have completely stalled on offense, and the defense has been littered with injuries to start the season. Not to mention, half of the goaltending is completely standing on its head, and the other half regrettably turned the puck over a bit too much in their only start on the young season.
Joel Hofer has been the superior goalie thus far, and it is not even close. But, with starting three of the five games, which resulted in a record of 1-1-1, you can see why he could be blamed for this slow start.
In fact, Blues' fans should rejoice about his efforts and certainly not blame him.
Hofer has been stellar
Through the opening part of this season, Hofer has been fantastic in net. His record might not reflect it, but his .930 save percentage does. Additionally, he has a shutout under his belt and a 1.68 Goals Against Average. No. 30 has stood on his head for much of his 179:06 of ice time this season, and you can tell that he has what it takes to be the starter going forward.
The Blues are in a tough spot, as their first line has only really shown up for one game of the five, which was against Columbus in the 5-3 victory. And Jordan Binnington was in the net for that one.
Hofer has allowed five goals on 71 shots faced, and his team in front of him scored eight goals on 77 shots. They are getting pressure when No. 30 is in the net, but this team should be in double-digits in goals forced across nine periods of play with him in the net.
In need of support
Hofer is in need of support in two ways. He needs his offense to step up, namely the first line after their coming-out party against Columbus. And he also needs Binnington to back him up successfully. In that game against Columbus, No. 50 was not on the ball by allowing two first-period goals to spring a leak in the ship.
Thankfully, they were able to comeback and win.
But now it is going to be a couple of games with Hofer in the net with Ottawa, Minnesota, and Nashville this week. This team needs to come alive with their new franchise goaltender in the net and give him the support he needs.
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