Do the stars come out in crucial game moments? All-Star players typically play well in decisive moments, including power-plays.
In the 2023-24 season, the St. Louis Blues ranked 25th in their overall power-play statistics, underlining the need for improvement.
The Top 5 Power Play Leaders
Robert Thomas–8
Pavel Buchnevich–8
Jake Neighbours–8
Jordan Kyrou–8
Brandon Saad–5
It's worth noting that the top five leaders in power-play goals were also the top five leaders in overall goal scoring for the 2023-24 season, underscoring their significant contribution to the team's performance.
Team leader and 2024 All-Star Robert Thomas proved his worth. However, reliable scorers Buchnevich and Neighbours also showed their dangerous ability to find the net in power-play goals.
Jordan Kyrou was the team's leading scorer, tied with other leaders, with 8 power-play goals, while Brandon Saad came in fifth with 5 goals.
While GM Doug Armstrong and head coach Drew Bannister should be encouraged with the top four players recording 8 power-play goals, there's room for improvement.
St. Louis Blues: A more aggressive approach is required on power-play opportunities
With their total ranking of No. 25 and showcasing an 18% power-play percentage, this is a weakness that matters in the win and loss column and in the drive for postseason play.
Compared to some of the other teams in the league, the Tampa Bay Lightning had a 28.6% power-play percentage, compared to the Edmonton Oilers 26.3%.
The Blues have work to do here and need to learn to capitalize on power-plays.
There is no question that thriving in power-plays can add to a team's win total and confidently drive it to the postseason.
Armstrong and Bannister should be pleased with the 8 goals of the top four leaders, but as a team, the Blues must address this weakness in order to enter postseason play in the 2024-25 season.