The St. Louis Blues had a significant year in 2024-25, and there is a strong belief that the franchise is on an upward trajectory. However, there is a possibility that things could take a downturn in 2025-26, potentially sending this team back to the beginning of their ongoing "re-whatever" saga.
Have they peaked? Is this as good as it’s going to get for the Blues? Was their magical run that broke the franchise record with 12 straight wins their peak, or was it all just a fluke?
These are all valid questions, as this team remains quite raw. The talent is still developing, and the expectations are, at best, uncertain. Next season could represent another positive step forward, whether resulting in a Stanley Cup victory or a top lottery pick. Currently, there is no clear label for this Blues team.
Sophomore Slump for Montgomery
With a full offseason ahead for Head Coach Jim Montgomery, there is a consensus that this will only benefit the Blues. With a track record of winning both the Jack Adams award and the Stanley Cup, Montgomery's influence should be significant.
However, it could also be detrimental as he may start to experiment with various strategies for the upcoming season. The team lines could be shuffled during training camp and preseason, leading to a very different-looking squad compared to last year. This could prove disastrous.
Fortunately, it is unlikely that such drastic changes will occur. The chemistry the Blues developed towards the end of last season and during the playoffs was nearly perfect, and the goal will be to enhance that chemistry for the next season.
Stronger Central Division
The Central Division demonstrated its strength last season, and it will be even more challenging for the Blues to keep pace. Winnipeg is a favorite to be a Presidents’ Trophy winner again, while Colorado and Dallas are both considered powerhouses that will round out the playoff picture.
As the Blues aim for another Wildcard berth, they will have to compete against Calgary and a formidable Utah Mammoth team, which holds a top-five pick in this upcoming draft. We must also keep an eye on Vancouver, which could perform in any number of ways next season.
Even if they were able to grab some dream free agents, they might have enough starpower to keep up.
The Blues will face significant challenges in the next season, as their Central Division rivals continue to contend for the top three spots.