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Something is happening in Springfield that is changing the culture of the Blues’ future 

ByJustin Bonhard|
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Dec 14, 2024; Dallas, Texas, USA; A view of the Blues logo on the jersey of St. Louis Blues goaltender Jordan Binnington (50) during the game between the Dallas Stars and the St. Louis Blues at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
Dec 14, 2024; Dallas, Texas, USA; A view of the Blues logo on the jersey of St. Louis Blues goaltender Jordan Binnington (50) during the game between the Dallas Stars and the St. Louis Blues at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images | Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

The St. Louis Blues might not be playing any more hockey, but their American Hockey League affiliate is shocking the world. After being a bottom-tier club for most of the season, the Springfield Thunderbirds snuck into the playoffs and have taken every advantage. 

With a 1-0 series win over Providence, the Boston Bruins minor league team, Springfield, is only in the Atlantic Division Finals. If this goal and celebration don’t give you chills, I’m not sure what will. 

Dillon Dube scored the game-winner, and now this improbable season continues. 

Changing the Culture

Defenseman Adam Jiricek and forward Justin Carbonneau made their Professional hockey debuts in this game, and were both as advertised. After both had fantastic seasons at the junior level, they translated that to giving Springfield a chance to win this crucial playoff game. 

The Blues are transitioning into a younger team, with a younger core. Some of those players skating with Springfield will have a chance in training camp to make the big-league club come October. 

One of the big reasons Springfield is in this position is the coaching change. Steve Ott was promoted from assistant coach with the Blues to the head coach of the Thunderbirds, and it completely changed everything. 

You can believe that this successful playoff run by Springfield is going to have a direct impact on next season’s roster. We saw a lot of call-ups this season with the Blues, and next season should be a lot more. Not to mention the influx of first-round draft picks from this upcoming draft that will have to report to Springfield. 

The next series will be against the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Penguins in the Atlantic Division finals. The winner of this series advances to the Eastern Conference Finals and, potentially, to the Calder Cup Finals. Still a long road ahead, but you cannot deny the aura of this team right now. 

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