The St. Louis Blues got themselves back into the win column with a 2-1 victory over the Utah Hockey Club. This marks the first time that they have defeated the newest re-branded team, and it snaps a four-game losing skid.
It was a complete team effort, offensively and defensively, as well as stellar goaltending. For 60 minutes, this team looked like they actually wanted to win the game.
Let's go over one big takeaway from this one.
Just Win, Baby
This Blues team has been going through the blender over the past week and change. They were beat up on by four really good teams, and each passing loss was worse than the last. As a result, Utah jumped the Blues in points, thus having more of a chance of making the playoffs via the final wild card spot.
The Blues needed this win, badly, and they got it.
It all started with setting the tone in the first period. They didn't allow a single goal, which has been their downfall in four-game losing streak, and they outshot their opponent, 15-6. Getting that early lead helps this team, as they have proven time and time again that they are not a come-from-behind team. They need to get in front early, if not, it is a tragedy.
Speaking of not allowing goals, Jordan Binnington looked like himself again in this win. He stopped all but one of the 25 shots he faced. This was a great game from him, and definately a game to build confidence going into some tough opponents at home over the next six games. The Blues have three games at home and then the 4 Nations Face-Off on February 12, then three more when regular season action resumes on February 22.
Alexandre Texier and Jordan Kyrou were the goal scorers for the Blues. Kyrou, like much of the roster, has been lacking in production over the four-game losing streak. So, he was another one that needed to use this game as a building block.
The Blues need to take this game as a stepping stone back to the playoffs. They now have a record of 24-25-4 for 52 points, which is still just seven points away from Calgary at 59. The Blues have played 53 games this season to the Flames 52 games, so the game differential has shrunk some. But, the Blues cannot go on another losing streak, with under 30 games to go in the regular season, it is crunch time to win every possible game.
Just Win Baby!