The St. Louis Blues are coming off a solid 2-1 win against their division rivals, the Winnipeg Jets. Following the victory, Blues fans were once again vocal about their thoughts on the team’s performance. However, the reality is that more goals would’ve been nice, but this was arguably one of the Blues’ best games of the season. From the first line and what they were showing throughout the entirety of the game, to Joel Hofers elite performance, to Philip Broberg’s all-around great play.
At the start of the season, it was evident that Broberg would be one of the team’s leaders in ice time, given his contributions in all three units and all three zones on a night-to-night basis. However, following his performances against the Nashville Predators and Jets, head coach Jim Montgomery summed it up best: “I think he’s gone from neutral to overdrive to Lamorghini style here in the last two games.”
With all the discussion surrounding Broberg and what he’s shown he’s capable of when given the freedom to play his game, an argument can now be made: Is Philip Broberg the best player on the Blues?
Philip Borberg is the key
When it comes to the Blues’ current roster situation, there are a lot of constantly moving parts. To this point, they’ve called up numerous players in an attempt to find the right replacements. However, with a 4-4-1 record, it’s safe to say there are still some missing parts on this roster, including injured players who could help turn things around. But after watching the last two games, there’s one player in particular whom I believe the Blues need to put their faith in: Philip Broberg.
Over the last two games, Broberg has averaged 24:26 of ice time per night, including opportunities on the first power-play unit, which has struggled throughout the season. Not only has he been given that responsibility, but he’s also made the most of it, scoring a power-play goal that ultimately proved to be their game-winner in their 2-1 victory. Furthermore, over those two games, Broberg has really taken control of the game with his ability to move the puck and create offensive opportunities.
He’s been carrying the puck out of the defensive zone, moving through the neutral zone with speed, and controlling the pace of play with the puck on his stick. By doing so, he’s allowed the forwards to establish themselves in the offensive zone, find open passing lanes, and create better scoring chances. Additionally, with talented offensive players around him, opposing defenses are forced to make a decision: Do they pressure Broberg and risk leaving players like Mason McTavish, Jimmy Snuggerud, Jake Neighbours, or Dylan Holloway open? Or do they give Broberg the space to create opportunities for himself?
And that’s exactly what has made him so effective over the last two games. By forcing opposing defenses into those situations, Broberg has opened up numerous shooting lanes for himself, recording 10 shots on goal, two goals, and an assist during that span.
His offensive capabilities have been on full display, particularly against the Jets, but what’s been equally impressive is his ability to contribute offensively without sacrificing his defensive responsibilities. Whether it’s carrying the puck through the neutral zone, creating scoring opportunities, or stepping up defensively, Broberg has shown that he’s capable of controlling the pace of play and making an impact in all three zones.
With the Blues still searching for consistency, Broberg has become one of their most reliable players. And while there are certainly other players on this roster who deserve consideration, his performances early this season have made one thing clear: There’s a legitimate argument to be made that Broberg is the Blues' X-factor as the season continues.
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