LATimes.com: LA Kings and defenseman Drew Doughty agree to an eight year, $56 million contract.

 
It appears Doughty and his agent Don Meehan won the showdown with General Manager Dean Lombardi. The blockbuster deal eclipses the $6.8 AAV limit Lombardi had previously refused to budge on by $200,000 per season. Is he worth it? The CEO of AEG, the Kings parent company, Tim Leiweke sure thinks so. He said Thursday, “Let’s go win some Cups.”
 
True, the last major personnel piece has added to in theory push the Kings to an elite level for the upcoming season and beyond. But many more questions remain regarding the team as a whole to fulfill the Stanley Cup finals predictions of some pundits.
 
- A significant roster shakeup and the addition of Mike Richards alters team chemistry and the locker room. How will they respond?
- For as well as Doughty plays he is still being paid largely on potential. Can he return to Norris finalist quality or will 2011-12 be as up and down as 2010-11?
- They are a virtual lock for the top eight in the West. Can they win a playoff round? They haven’t since 2001.
 
Parallels can certainly be drawn between this Kings club and the 2008-09 Chicago Blackhawks. They two were a sexy pick before the regular season began. Prove what you can do first and then the lofty prognostications are a little easier to believe.
 

Puck Daddy: Alex Radulov is none too happy in the KHL right now.

 
As Dmitry Chesnokov points out in his post, the percentage is low that the one time Nashville Predators froward returns to Smashville to finish out the final season of his ELC, but Barry Trotz could sure use him.
 
Heading in to the campaign the Preds leading scorer is lifer Martin Erat who chipped in with just 17 goals and 50 points last season. There is no knowing if Sergei Kostitsyn’s 23 goal and 50 points in 77 games played performance is for real and will carry over  or if he was a flash in the pan. Besides those two their only other “known” scoring threat is Patric Hornqvist. Who is more known for collecting garbage around the net and stirring the pot than his skill level.
 
Radulov would bring an injection of world class skill to be the creator for Erat and Hornqvist and reduce pressure on Kostitsyn. Sure, a full season of Mike Fischer and a year wiser Colin Wilson may make a big difference, but this club is expected to make the playoffs. Wishing and hoping that top six forwards can net more than 50 points is playing with standings regressive fire in the wild west.
 
 

BlueNoteZone: TJ Oshie, Patrik Berglund and Chris Stewart look the part of a top line against the Avalanche.

 
Every team needs a go to line that can jump on the ice in any situation and change the course of a game. The most famous, or infamous to some, example is the trio of Bobby Ryan, Ryan Getzlef and Corey Perry out in Anaheim. The Blues may have found their version last night.
 
While both Blues’ scoring lines were on point in their 3-1 victory over Colorado, the Berglund line was the best on the ice. Consistently dominating the play below the red line and along the boards. The proof was on the score sheet for those who couldn’t see it. They combined for two goals and an assist with seven shots on goal.
 
Berglund has been a beast in camp and the preseason looking to prove he’s worth a big time contract with the two year “prove me” deal expires. Oshie and Stewart are in contract years.
 
Size? Berglund 6’4, 218 lbs and Stewart 6’2, 228 lbs. Check.
Skill? Oshie dangles once and scores from his knees and Stewart streaks end to end and scores. Check.
Chemistry? Developing quickly.
 
The potential for a great line is there. Will the next step be taken (isn’t that always the question in St. Louis in the Checketts era)? Watch out if they do.
 

Edmonton Journal: Will the top selection in the 2011 entry draft crack the Oilers lineup?.

 
Though the article comes from the start of training camp, it poses one of the biggest questions in the Western Conference this preseason. Should Ryan Nugent-Hopkins play out the season in Edmonton?
 
Recent history favors his continued presence in the OIlers lineup. Recent highly touted top picks like teammate Taylor Hall, John Tavares, Steven Stamkos and Patrik Kane have all come in to the NHL and found measured levels of immediate success and continued improvement. Though all considered “smaller” players at the time of their arrival by today’s standards they have not struggled amongst the trees. They’ve all had adjustment periods, but have come out ahead by fighting through it directly rather than by differing to another season after going back and cake walking the juniors scene.
 
The one detraction could be the excessive amount of youth in Edmonton. But teams have learned from the Phoenix Coyotes’ mistakes of overloading a roster with youth. The summer acquisitions of Ryan Smyth and  Eric Belanger as well as (hopefully) full seasons with captain Shawn Horcoff and scoring ace Ales Hemsky healthy should alleviate that concerns.
 
RNH will find success and good advice wherever he plays, but in the NHL he will find success and mentors that are more beneficial to his career.
 

Detroit News: Red Wings owner Illitch says Bettman has promised a move to the Eastern Conference.

 
All is fair in love and war. Hockey is a bit of both so there should be no surprise that the Detroit Red Wings will be pushing every button on Gary Bettman they can find to get a cushy travel schedule. But the issue of realignment isn’t theirs alone to resolve. There are 29 other clubs who have an equal stake in the process. The league as a whole must come first.
 
Taking away the Western Conference’s biggest attraction will negatively impact the revenue of every other western team. For teams like St. Louis, Colorado, Phoenix, Dallas and Nashville , all clubs with attendance or money problems, the Wings coming to town is a sure fire sellout. That’s money they need to not profit, but just to break even.
 
An acceptable compromise would be to alter the schedule composition and reduce the number of games the Wings play in the Pacific timezone, but with a three division system that won’t be easily achieved. Don’t be surprised if the league pushes for the Sidney Crosby philosophy to be applied in realignment scenarios. What is best for the league’s top player/team/franchise is what’s best for the league overall.

By Jeff Quirin
NHL Hot Stove Associate Editor

To be a young man called to the stage in the early moments of any NHL entry draft is quite an honor. One earned by intense dedication, extensive sacrifice and a little hockey gods given talent. The accompanying title of “lottery pick” brings further sacrifice and dedication with it if the ominous”potential” label is to be removed before pundits can slap on the “bust” sticker.

*Kyle Turris

Kyle Turris, the Phoenix Coyotes top selection in 2007 (3rd overall), knows all about the dynamic. As one of the long term foundation cornerstones of a franchise deprived of financial strength, his expedited maturation is a more of a necessity than a luxury. The same story that plays out across with width and breath of the league each season since the institution of the salary cap.

Scrutiny of such processes never trails far behind.

When attempts failed to jump start the one time University of Wisconsin forward like others of his draft pedigree the validity of the decision was questioned. The appropriate response came in the form of a tour of duty in the AHL. After spending 63 games struggling through the 2008-09 NHL season, all of 2009-10 was spent down on the farm in San Antonio. After registering 23 goals and 63 points through 77 games with the Rampage his dues were paid and was deemed ready to return to the biggest show on ice.

As basically a second year pro playing for a veteran coach, with a well seasoned lineup, in a system that revolves around defensive responsibility above all, a 25 point effort in 65 games is a respectable showing. Especially given his relatively low ATOI total, 11:16.

The numbers also show how far Turris still has to grow.

The Coyotes have been statistically one of the leanest teams offensively compared to the other 29 clubs. Routinely finishing in the bottom half of league scoring since the lockout. An opportunity was there for the taking. Besides veterans like Shane Doan, Ray Whitney and breakout defenseman Keith Yandle, the lineup was generally devoid of legitimate scoring threats. Fulfillment of potential, executing on the wishes of bench boss Dave Tippett surely would have lead to more ice time. More chances to score. More chances to be an impact player.

More chances to be like others of his draft pedigree. More chances to prove he is worth a lucrative contract extension.

*Turris - Worth the cost of potential?

At the conclusion of the 2010-11 season Turris was heading towards restricted free agency. One of many high profile up and coming youngsters. Like most (if not all) of his peers, he was surely seeking a max value agreement. Rightfully so in fact. The players do have a right to earn as the market dictates.

Based on a report by ESPN’s Scott Burnside, Turris has apparently concluded that his performance to date should be roughly equal to some of his fellow draft class graduates.

Still, league sources told ESPN.com that Turris is looking for a three-year deal worth an average of slightly more than $4 million annually or a two-year deal worth slightly more than $3 million. Those numbers would put Turris in the same high-rent district as James van Riemsdyk, who recently signed a six-year extension with the Philadelphia Flyers worth an average of $4.25 million. Van Riemsdyk is another player from that talent-rich 2007 draft class; he was the second overall pick behind No. 1 selection Patrick Kane of the Chicago Blackhawks.

While the Flyers are definitely paying for potential with the van Reimsdyk contract, as the Coyotes would with Turris, Burnside also makes a critical point stressing the difference between the two contract scenarios.

While van Riemsdyk perhaps developed at a slower pace than Kane, who won rookie of the year honors and scored the Cup-clinching goal in Chicago’s 2009-10 championship run, he has shown steady signs of evolution as a top young player. Van Riemsdyk scored 21 goals last season and was the Flyers’ best forward in the playoffs (seven goals in 11 games).

Clearly the Flyers have seen enough potential realized to justify such action. JVR has 75 points in 133 NHL games where as Turris has just 46 points in two less games. Adding Turris’ AHL numbers does move the figures up to 109 points in 207 professional games. A pace roughly equal to the Flyer’s newly signed scoring winger. That said, AHL production does not equate to NHL production. Turris has not done enough in the NHL to become Phoenix’s third highest paid forward.

The difference is even more staggering when expanding the comparative population to other 2011 RFAs. Taking San Jose Sharks forward Logan Couture and St. Louis Blues forwards TJ Oshie and Patrik Berglund as examples:

- Couture scored 32 goals in 77 games and was a Calder finalist. He agreed to a two year deal worth $5.75 million.
- Oshie has registered 44 goals and 121 points in 182 games spread out over three seasons. He agreed to a one year deal valued at $2.35 million.
- Berglund has 56 goals and 125 points in 228 career games. He agreed to a two year deal worth $4.5 million.
- Turris is at 19 goals and 46 points in 121 games and is reportedly seeking a contract valued at $9 to $12 million.

No team can afford to spend two times as much as the going rate for 1/3 the product while waiting for the final 2/3 to develop.

Well, one team tried.

* Derick Brassard

In September 2009 the Columbus Blue Jackets signed Derick Brassard, the 6th overall selection in 2006, to a four year $12.8 million deal. At the time Brassard had one year remaining on his Entry Level Contract and appeared in only 48 NHL games. A number cut short by a 2008-09 season ending shoulder injury. Grant it he lead rookies in scoring prior to the injury with 10 goals and 25 points, but since when has a track record of less than 50 games guaranteed so much money? It never has.

General Manager Scott Howson was paying for potential. For the hope that Brassard would become return from injury and fulfill his destiny as Rick Nash’s center. A Columbus version of “Hull and Oates” that has not come to pass.

Brassard regressed in 2009-10. Scoring just 9 goals and 36 points in 76 games. His stats and impact on the ice did improve in 2010-11. Tallying 17 goals and 47 points in 74 appearances. But he is not Nash’s center. That job has likely been given to the recently acquired Jeff Carter. An argument can be made that Antione Vermette deserves a higher placement on the depth chart. Brassard slides further down the list as the salary escalates.

Coyotes GM Don Maloney knows that he cannot repeat the mistakes of his counterparts. Being owned by the league does have its limitations. The money simply is not there to overpay and hope the gamble pays off. Not when the roll is so blind. Turris just does not have enough of a track record of consistent production to warrant the type of pay he is reportedly seeking given the circumstances.

The best approach for both sides is the paying for results contract utilized by Blues GM Doug Armstrong the last two off seasons. Where as potential is not rewarded in terms of contractual security (like van Reimsdyk and Brassard). Potential is accounted for in the terms of a blank slate. The player takes a short term, “low value” contract heavily weighted on actual performance in order to prove themselves worthy of the coveted “big deal”. If the player capitalizes on the opportunity, their earnings potential is not limited to an outdated evaluation of their potential.

The scenario is a win-win for all. The team should add a highly motivated individual. If not, the obligation is minimized. The player is given a chance to raise value when they would otherwise be locked in to a rate.

If Turris truly believes he is a $4 million a year player, which he may be soon, he has to show Maloney and Tippett the goods on the ice before they’ll show him the money at the table. Even if Maloney and Tippet believe Turris will be a $4 million a year player, they can’t given in when the bar has been set so low. Will Turris come down to reality or will the Coyotes cave in? The outcome will be known soon enough.

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*Player pictures courtesy BridgetDS (Flickr)

I haven’t written here for a while. Actually, aside from covering constant relocation rumors over at SB Nation Atlanta, I haven’t been writing as much as I’d like to. I’ve ignored my Blues, and I’ve watched as little of the Stanley Cup Playoffs as possible. I just can’t do it. Watching hockey and respecting the NHL was made infinitely more difficult yesterday with the announcement that the Atlanta Thrashers had been bought by True North Sports and Entertainment and will probably be moving to Winnipeg.

Weeks of rumors, gloating, and no answers to the Atlanta fans from the NHL finally – mercifully – came to an end. Players are making their perfunctory “so excited to be in Winnipeg” comments while praising the fans here. The Atlanta Spirit Group are counting their money all the way to the bank, thrilled that they’re finally rid of a team they’ve been trying to dump since they bought it in 2004. Gary Bettman managed to ignore Thrashers fans by never directing a single comment at them, never setting foot in the city of Atlanta, and never delivering a promise to the fans here like he did to the fans in Phoenix:

It hurts. This team was abandoned by the ownership, left to flail about on their own. The owners only tried to improve the team when it was too late – when their own ineptitude had damaged the product significantly on the ice. The core group of fans always hoped for better – hoped for the return of the playoffs and the sold out crowds. We know that Atlanta could be a hockey town, if only it was given a chance by someone. It takes years for a market to grow. It takes owners who know what they’re doing. It takes a front office and scouting staff who can build a contender. The Thrashers were never given any of that.

Maybe with owners that care the team will thrive now. I wish them all the best of luck – but I won’t watch them. I can’t. I’ll follow the players. I’ll hope that one day Evander Kane winds up on St. Louis so I can cheer for him again. I am not one of the Thrashers fans who have sworn off hockey – sure, I’ve been going to Atlanta games since game one, but I’ve been a fan of the sport since I was a little kid. But watching it right now? Too much. The news that the Blues signed Patrik Berglund wasn’t met with my usual interest. The draft will be something I’ll turn a blind eye too. I might consider going to Raleigh to see the Canes take on the former Thrashers. It seems necessary.

Because out of all the things that the Thrashers’ fans were denied, being denied a chance to say goodbye is the worst thing of all.

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Tarasenko Chooses Sibir over St. Louis

Photo Credit: Fanny Schertzer

As reported on Tuesday May 24th, St. Louis Blues top prospect, Russian sniper Vladimir Tarasenko, has elected to complete the final year of his two year KHL contract. He will not be joining the Blues for the 2011-12 NHL season.

The news brought a initial shock to the St. Louis Blues and General Manager Doug Armstrong, but is far from cataclysmic. Certainly the Blues wanted the captain of the 2011 WJC Gold Medal winning squad on their roster for the 11-12 campaign. Not having enough NHL quality depth up front really hindered efforts at the high point of the injury epidemic this past season. Tarasenko’s skill and compete levels are NHL ready.

Tank coming over would have given the Note four highly skilled options on right wing for their top three lines. Providing tremendous depth and even some wiggle room for Armstrong to shift strength to address other weak points via trade.

That said, it’s too easy to make much to do about nothing. Armstrong will just shift focus from adding Tarasenko to finding a serviceable, veteran option to improve depth.

As far as Vova goes in the KHL, he will be fine. The kid is still a kid. At age 19 he may not be mentally ready to make the jump from the club his father coaches (Sibir)  to a city half a world away. The KHL is argueably the second best league in the world. At least on par with the AHL. Which is where Tarasenko “should be” if not in the NHL or KHL.

He will continue to develop. He will come over. Judging by the comments made by Sibir’s GM, they’re not counting on him past the end of his contract.

Schwartz Sticks With Colorado College

Photo Credit: Bhockey10

Speculation at the conclusion of the regular season pointed to Colorado College forward and the Blues top selection in the 2010 draft (14th overall), Jaden Schwartz, leaving the college ranks for the WHL. A definitive answer seems to have come Monday morning. The Colorado Springs Gazette reported that Schwartz confirmed via text to the Gazette Sunday that he will return for his sophomore year.

American College or Canadian Juniors? Doesn’t really matter. Either way Schwartz is playing high level and pushing his development forward. Having big brother Rylan around for their first full school year / hockey season without sister Mandi is probably the best thing for Jaden at this point. Jumping to the WHL may marginally improve his growth over NCAA quality competition, but remove him from his partnership with his brother.

Perron Progressing, But Not Ready Yet

St. Louis Post Dispatch Blues beat writer Jeremy Rutherford wrote Tuesday that concussed forward David Perron’s condition is improving, but he is not back to normal yet. He quoted Armstrong for an appraisal of the situation.

“We’ve talked to David, and he’s feeling better, but he’s not at the point where he’s coming back to St. Louis to take the necessary tests before he can train.”… “He’s taking small steps ahead, but not to the point where he has passed his tests to begin his summer training program.”

Photo Credit: Matthieu Masquelet

Armstrong also indicated that if Perron’s concussion symptoms continued in to July, the team would plan to start the 2011-12 season without tinted visor wearing left winger.

There isn’t much that can be said of Perron’s concussion anymore. Fans are upset that he continues to struggle to recover and Joe Thornton escaped the correct amount of retribution in the three games against the Sharks after the injury. The franchise is upset to lose one of the more marketable and lovable fan favorites. It’s a sad lose, lose situation that everyone involved is waiting for a silver lining to appear.

As Armstrong indicates, the line in the sand is quickly approaching to say when to not factor Perron in to next season’s plans. Does that mean adding a left winger who can shuffle between the 2nd, 3rd and 4th lines? The answer is likely affirmative as we come back to the depth theme. Bringing in someone like a Pascal Dupuis, Max Talbot, Ethan Moreau, Scottie Upshall or Chris Higgins provides a player who can ratchet up and down as needed and also fit in to payroll constraints. Then if Perron were to return mid season the player brought in is not totally out of place and can fulfill a different role.

Dupuis and Talbot should be targets if Ray Shero doesn’t keep them in Pittsburgh. Both have Cup winning experience and were a part of the top rated penalty kill in the NHL last season. An area the Blues must improve on. They dropped from 1st in 2009-10 to 18th in 10-11.

Contract Offerings

As Andy Strickland of TrueHockey.com reported Monday, the Blues and Swedish Center Patrik Berglund appear to be close on contract negotiations.

The Blues have made a two-year offer to forward Patrik Berglund.  The two sides have agreed on the term but have yet to settle on a number. Look for Berglund to eventually sign a two-year contract that pays him between $2.1-$2.5 million per year.

Photo Credit: Bridget Samuels / Flickr

Strickland later reported on Thursday that an announcement on a deal should be expected soon and around his previously reported $2.1 million/year for two years range.

Such a deal would be both responsible and generous. The Blues would avoid over paying based on his second half and World Championships performances and keep the hit on the payroll low enough that the front office can continue to add more pieces. The offer is well over double both is ELC salary and his Qualifying Offer.

Assuming Berglund’s late winter and spring display of dominance is the dam breaking, a powerful Swedish flood is coming to St. Louis. David Backes is more than a respectable centerman, but Berglund was drafted with the expectation and projection of becoming a number one center. No time like the present to realize some of that potential.

Off Season Plans According to National Media

Off Season prognostication and analysis is beginning for those hockey clubs no longer in the NHL playoffs. Scott Cullen of TSN and Lyle Richardson of Spector’s Hockey made mention of the Blues this week.

While Cullen provides more of an informative and accurate, high level overview of the Blues off season as a whole, Lyle goes in to a little more detail. At least in regards to a little tinfoil hat speculation. Suggesting that Armstrong will not just sit back and roll the same lineup from the March/April 2011 out 6 months later for the start of the 11-12 campaign. The move to be made? Trading away one of the Blues many RFAs along with one or more of the Blues second round draft picks for an upgrade at forward. Then pursue an experienced free agent defenseman.

A wise hockey man will always take such banter with a grain of salt. Just don’t unscrew the top of the shaker. It will certainly take “the right deal” for Armstrong to consider moving the restricted winger 29 other teams would love to have, Oshie, he will not balk at pulling the trigger. Even if it would be a fan favorite like number 74.

The Aces are Aces!

The Blues ECHL affiliate, the Alaska Aces, defeated the Kalamazoo Wings 5-2 on Saturday May 21st to win their second Kelly Cup in the last six seasons. In the 4-1 series win the Aces were lead by playoff MVP Scott Howes who registered 7 goals and 19 points in 12 games. He had been playing for months with a torn labrum in his left shoulder according to the Anchorage Daily News. Now that’s a “hockey player”. Also according to ADN, Howe is the first non goaltender to win the award since Aces winger Mike Scott won in 2006.

FYI – That 2006 squad was coached by current Blues bench boss Davis Payne.

A Quick List of Names

A question consistently coming up this spring is who will the Blues pursue in free agency. As discussed already in this blog, there are holes to fill and a few more that haven’t been discussed.

Assuming the Perron void is filled and key RFAs return (Berglund, Oshie, Matt D’Agostini, Roman Polak), the three most obvious holes are a left handed top two pairing defenseman, a 3rd/4th line center and a backup netminder.

Here is a short list of who the Blues could end up going after.

Defenseman
Andrei Markov
Christian Ehrhoff
Joni Pitkanen
Roman Hamrlik
Scott Hannan
Jan Hejda
Hall Gill
Andy Greene

Center
Marty Reasoner
Eric Belanger
Zenon Konokpa
Scott Nichol
Rob Neidermayer
Vernon Fiddler
Marcel Goc

Goalie
Johan Hedberg
Mike Smith
Josh Harding
Thomas Greiss
Brian Boucher
Pascal Leclaire

* Don’t count out Blues RFA netminder Ben Bishop as taking the backup gig.

To say that the 2010-11 NHL season didn’t go as planned for the St. Louis Blues is an understatement.

What started out as a promising campaign, a 9-1-2 record through the first 12 games, succumbed to the pressures of injuries, lack of depth and inexperience. Pacing the Note for their fifth finish outside the playoff picture in the six seasons since the lockout. Such holes proved just far too deep for comparatively shallow pockets who struggle to afford a cheap KHL step stool let alone a well built NHL ladder.

With this season fading in to obscurity, the re-building era will end with a resounding thud. All the “should bes”, “what ifs” and “best case scenarios” parlayed by ownership and the front office haven’t panned out. There is no faulting them for their words and beliefs. Given the circumstances managing owner Dave Checketts and Team President John Davidson did what they could. Working with a shoestring, cap floor scraping payroll budget they had no choice but to acquire as many future assets (and second/third tier free agents) as possible and hope they could catch lightning in a bottle.

Legitimate excuses there may be, but are no longer enough to sate the frustrations of a blue bleeding fan base waiting over 40 years for hockey’s ultimate prize to be paraded down Market Street and 5 years to just to see a glimmer of progress out of the Western Conference’s basement.

General Manager Doug Armstrong appears primed and ready to deliver. To realize the transition from re-builder to contender. His payroll purging and mad grab of draft picks leading up to the trade deadline should supply the needed buffers to allow for an active off season. Just one more variable remains to fall in to place and it is the most important.

The funding.

With the Blues ownership in a state of flux, the great seeing stone only shows cloudy images. Flashes of “what could be”. From adding pay roll and acquiring a a true top line forward and “top 4″ left handed defenseman to barely covering the contracts of key Restricted Free Agents. However, there are some scenario’s that are more likely to play out over the final stretch of games and the off season.

- The youthful, inexperienced core will continue their on the job training. Meaning the likes of TJ Oshie, Chris Stewart, Alex Pietrangelo, Kevin Shattenkirk and Patrik Berglund will continue to be placed in high pressure situations down the stretch. While the fruits of their labor are not reflected in the standings, their effort and proper handling of the situation is showing. Expect confirmation by seasons end that that they are an excellent supporting cast of and one (Stewart) may even become the front man everyone has been waiting for.

- The four to six week depth/role player auditions will carry out for the duration of the season. Who will rise to the top and earn a contract? Ryan Reaves, Chris Porter, Adam Cracknell or Cam Janssen? Who will prove they no longer need additional seasoning in Peoria? Ian Cole, Nikita Nikitin or Phil McRae? It looks like two “tweener” players in Tyson Strachan and TJ Hensick may have missed their last opportunities to get a foothold in the NHL or at least with the Blues.

- David Backes’ case to become the 22nd captain in franchise history will be made in the remaining balance of the season. Assuming Alex Steen would have remained healthy those two would have been tasked with verifying their ascension in to the veteran leadership group with Barret Jackman and Andy McDonald. A group that Armstrong will supplement.

- The search to rediscover the Halakness Monster is on. Jaroslav Halak has struggled more than succeeded in his first year as a clear number one in net. He will be given every opportunity to use the final stretch of games to get his game back to where it was in October. If that means Ty Conklin doesn’t start another game as a member of the Blues, that’s what will happen.

- Roman Polak will continue to lower his earning potential as his level of play has stagnated and even regressed in some aspects since returning from his early season wrist injury.

- There will be trades made on draft day. Whether or not the conditions in the Erik Johnson trade are met, and the Blues lose their first round pick and gain Colorado’s second round pick, or not.

- Prospect forward Vladimir Tarasenko will come over from Russia and factor in to the NHL roster plans for 2011-12.

- Prospect forward Jaden Schwart’s chances of leaving Colorado College after one season are in single digit percentage territory.

- The likelihood of Jonas Junland returning from Sweden is in single digit percentage territory.

- David Perron will continue his post concussion rehab over the summer.

- Oshie will be re-signed to a slightly longer, more lucrative deal than Perron. Think 3 years in the $8-$10 million range.

- RFAs Ben Bishop, Vladimir Sobotka and Matt D’Agostini will return with two year deals.

The future of a few notable names are too muddled with ownership instability to predict at this point. Patrik Berglund has come on strong in the second half and had a bounce back junior effort from a sophomore slump. If budget space becomes available, is he a trading chip to land a more established first line scorer or is he a value signing since he seems to be actualizing some of his potential? Do the potential “arrivals” of Nikitin and Cole make Carlo Colaiacovo and his $2.5 million salary expendable? Could Polak’s rights be moved? Further clearing out the blueline to reinvest in free agency?

All questions and prognostications aside, one thing is for sure. Armstrong is a man of action and will not sit on his hands and just let whatever will be come to pass. He will be proactive in addressing the Blues needs no matter the thickness of fog surrounding financial situation. His transaction history, From Halak to Stewart, in his short tenure at the helm in St. Louis proves that. Just how much of his master plan can be enacted will be storyline to follow.

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As always, you’re welcome to follow me on Twitter: @618_STLBlues and @BlueNoteZone.

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Looking Towards February

When last we talked the St. Louis Blues were in a free fall. Posting a 2-7-2 record with one game left in the month. The Flames held off the Note thanks to Super Mikka Kiprusoff’s stellar performance and the Blues finish a sad stretch of play 2-8-2.

February brings the bubble hunting season. Teams in the playoff picture look to squash those teetering on the outskirts. Are the Blues the prey or will the hunted become the hunter?

Entering Thursday’s action the Blues sit 13th in the Western Conference with a 22-20-7 record. Their 51 points is seven behind 8th place Chicago, nine behind 7th place Phoenix and ten behind 4th place Nashville. The first step is to leapfrog the Flames who sit in 12th place with 56 points. A tough task considering the lost opportunity in the final contest prior to the All Star Game.

Sports Clubs Stats currently has the Blues at an 11.3% chance of making the playoffs. At a similar point in 2008-09 they were given barely an 8% chance in early February. In 2009-10 they fluxed from 3% to 10%. One for two so far with earning a second season appearance with near impossible odds. The numbers don’t bode well for hockey in April.

Prey (and pray) for now. All rights to amend opinion reserved should the Blues rebound with a better than January effort.

Three Who Need To Stand Tall

If the Blues are going to beat the statistical probabilities, they need three key players to step up their play.

1. Jaroslav Halak
Jaro cannot go it alone, but he must put January behind him much like he put November behind him. Without his ability to steal games, there is little chance in the final stretch. His 3.39 GAA and .833 save percentage will not cut it.

2. Patrik Berglund
At times he’s been solid and others a flat shade of 09-10 gray. Finding some passion to make an impact, if not for the playoffs but his extension this summer, is imperative for the lanky Swed. An additional offensive punch is needed behind David Backes’ line. Time is now for Bergie to prove he can be that second wave of attack.

3. Erik Johnson
No longer a kid so it’s time to man up (like all of the “kids”). His efforts over the course of the campaign has drawn mixed reviews. At times solid, but never far away from mental mistakes. Simplifying his game will open the door. Can he find his key to open it?

Postponed

Thanks to some crazy mid-western winter weather, the Blues game on Tuesday, February 1st against the Colorado Avalanche was postponed. The makeup will be played on February 22nd. Giving the Blues a stretch of four games in five days between the 18th and 22nd. It also creates a fourth back to back set of games in February.

The annual Casino Night was also postponed this week. It was set for Wednesday, February 2nd. The event has not been rescheduled yet. The limited space fundraiser has quickly become a key charitable event for the organization.

Ownership Update

Another of the loose deadlines set by Managing Owner Dave Checketts has effectively passed. He was not present at the Board of Governors meetings to present his new ownership melting pot to the league.

The original “date” was set as end of year 2010. Which gave way to the potential All Star Game finalization. Now it appears the deadline may run till end of the first quarter 2011.

Given the Blues “dumpster diving” for KHL castoffs and inability to make the deal for Jamie Langenbrunner, it appears the ownership issue is finally starting to hinder daily operations. Checketts may not like that assertion, but on the exterior it appears to be true. This organization has been riddled with injuries, but doesn’t have the capability to add even a modest salary like Langenbrunner’s prorated amount.

There doesn’t appear to be a deep pocket savior riding in on a white horse to bail out the Blues. So clear out that image. The long and the short of it is that the Blues need to win and do it consistently with who they have. That’s the only way they’ll be able to sustain higher ticket prices without excessive discounting and promotions like they currently use. Yes, they sell out virtually every game, but the ticket revenue (and TV) just isn’t there to give them disposable income.

Injury Updates

Forward Andy McDonald has been activated from Injured Reserve. He missed 24 games with a concussion and post concussion symptoms. Ironic that his first game back in over a month will be against the Edmonton Oilers Friday night. On December 4th he sustained his concussion in Edmonton when he fell face first in to Oilers captain Shawn Horcoff’s leg/skate.

Defenseman Barrett Jackman is set to return to the lineup, if he has his way. Davis Payne had been non committal that Jacks will return Friday. However, it sounds like he will be back given what the Blues MSM is reporting on Thursday.

Fellow blueliner Carlo Colaiacovo is still out with an injury sustained around his eyes. Cola has been out since January 18th against the LA Kings when he deflected a Drew Doughty shot straight in to his face. Word Thursday is that Carlo has been skating and progressing. Though there isn’t a firm return date.

Erik Johnson nearly joined the walking wounded list earlier this week. While working on the power play a shot tipped by McDonald struck EJ in the mouth. The result is a face Big Walt would be proud of. Surgery is over and done for now and he will not miss anytime due to the injury.

With the return of McDonald Forward Phil McRae was returned to the Blues AHL affiliate, the Peoria Rivermen. In 7 NHL games this season the son of former Blues toughguy Basil McRae has 1 goal and 1 assist. Far from outstanding numbers, but McRae performed very well in his tour of duty. A fair comparison of his debut wiould be to that of Lars Eller’s last season.

Prospects in the organization aren’t without their own injury troubles.

Jaden Schwartz broke his ankle at the World Juniors, but the bug didn’t stop with the Colorado College forward.

Vladimir Tarasenko injured his shoulder after the WJC during KHL action. Originally thought to be season ending, he will only miss a month. Hopefully keeping his summer arrival in North America on schedule. In 42 games Tarasenko has 9 goals and 19 points for Sibir.

2009 2nd round pick, Defenseman Brett Ponich, needs surgery to repair a torn ACL. The captain of the Portland Winterhawks was having a solid season. Posting 12 helpers and a Plus-23 rating. For a defensemen with mobility concerns once he reaches the professional level, this injury could be a big set back.

Backes At The All Star Game

Inglorious always represents St. Louis and American hockey well. He did so again at the 2011 NHL All Star Game in Raleigh, NC last week. Selected in the 17th round to Team Staal, David netted 3 assists in the game itself. He also competed in the hard shot competition. Registering a high mark of 96.9 mph. He also participated in the skills relay where he had to skate and stickhandle around a series of Gatorade bottle looking obstacles.

Check out the Blues All Star page for links and videos.

The Blue

The NHL Guardian Project hasn’t received the warmest reception amongst hockey fandom. I tend to deviate from the norm there. Nothing wrong with letting your geeky side show.

The Blues hero is aply named “The Blue”.

I was always a fan of Nightcrawler and “the Blue’s” teleprtation is pretty similar. Though, I do like the Stargate-ish use of the minature Gateway Arch as his teleportation device.

My only suggestion, make the blue note more pronounced.

Great Blues Pictures

For those out there looking for some great Blues pics, checkout my site, BlueNoteZone.com. I’ve partnered up with Scott at TSN Photography to bring his work to the masses.

There are several galleries on our Photos Page now.

Follow Scott on Twitter, @TSNPhotography.

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As always, you are invited to follow @618_STLBlues and @BlueNoteZone on Twitter and on the  BlueNoteZone Facebook Fan Page for in game updates and Blues news. Please also check out the St. Louis Blues Blogs Facebook Fan Page for links to Blues blogs all over the Internet.

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On the Injury Front

Roman Polak made a successful return to the lineup in a 3-1 loss to the Vancouver Canucks on December 20th. After missing three day short of two months thanks to a lacerated tendon in his wrist Roman hasn’t missed a beat. Posting a Plus-1 Rating with an assist while averaging over 19 minutes a night in his five games back.

TJ Oshie‘s broken ankle appears to be progressing ahead of schedule. Enough that the Blues GM Doug Armstrong said the target for evaluation is now around the All Star Game (January 30th) instead of a few weeks after in mid February. He has been seen skating prior to practice recently. Solo light skating and no contact of course, but no one is complaining about progress. His energy is sorely missed in all facets.

Andy McDonald‘s recovery from concussion seems to be coming along better than David Perron‘s. Rumors have been circulating that McDonald exercised on stationary bikes, but Armstrong wouldn’t confirm. The company line is that no updates will be announced till the forwards are symptom free for 48 hours and can take the required tests for clearance. Head Trainer Ray Barille is in contact with both players daily and reports to Army as needed.

Here Today, Gone Tomorrow

Marek Svatos wasn’t a member of the Blues long. Just about 24 hours. The former Avalanche winger was signed and practiced at Scottrade on Tuesday, but had to clear waivers before it all became official. The Nashville Predators placed a claim and gabbled up the two time 25+ goal scorer to supplement their own depleted forward reserves. With the Preds without top scorer Steve Sullivan as well as Mike Lombardi and Martin Erat, their need was equally great to keep pace in the Western Conference.

Nothing ventured, nothing gained for the Note. If the roles were reversed, the Blues would do the same to a Central Division rival.

Would Blues fans like to see Ryan Johnson back in St. Louis? Could the Blues pay the waiver wire love forward on another division rival (Chicago Blackhawks)?

Healthy Horses

While some leading the charge to a 7-4-2 December to date record are not a surprise, one in particular is.

Vladimir Sobotka has been a diamond in the rough find. Since being granted permission to play his style of game (by virtue of his exit from Boston),  the Czech Center/Winger has been an impact player for Davis Payne. Being an assertive, aggressive, get under your skin energy line center till he earned a promotion to be the wing man to David “Inglorious” Backes. Since that time, basically the last 14 games, he has 4 goals and 12 points. Trailing only Alex Steen (7 goals, 13 points) and Backes (6 goals, 15 points) in offensive production over the same time frame.

Patrik Berglund may only have 3 goals and 6 points in his last month or so of games played, but in the last week to ten days he has been effective in all the ways a coach loves without making the scoresheet. Winning draws, finishing checks, controlling the offensive zone, commanding the puck and attacking the net. Once again it appears new Assistant Coach Scott Mellanby is really helping Bergie. At Wednesday’s optional skate, Patrik was out there with Mellanby working hard on plays in tight space around the net.

Grinding wingers Brad Winchester and BJ Crombeen deserve kudos for their play of of late as well. Using their size effectively on the forecheck and along the boards. Helping to create space for their respective lines play makers.

Matt D’Agostini and Brad Boyes seem to be coming around. After hitting a bit of a sluggish stretch, both are working at the level they should be. For what it’s worth, D’Ag’s hit on Hawks captain Jonathan Toews was not dirty.

Tweeting For Charity

A while back David Perron and Erik Johnson started a campaign on Twitter to hot “x” number of followers and then they would donate $5,000 to a charity. Perron, @DP_57, hit his goal of 20,000 today. As of very early Thursday morning he was at 20,111. EJ, @erikjohnson6, was looking for 15,000 followers and at last count was sitting at 14,800. Follow them both today and help out a deserving charity. They haven’t picked yet, but expect a worth benefactor to be named.

In fan news a wonderful little girl named Hailey, @IansBlueLiners, auctioned off an Ian Cole, @ICole28, autographed stick for Autism Speaks. She is Ian’s “official fan club” and was drumming up support on Twitter. The stick went for $150. She also gave away an autographed 8×10 of Cole to one of her 161 followers. Blues beat writer Lou Korac, @lkorac10, won the dice roll.

Prospects at WJC

The Blues have four prospects representing their native lands at the 2011 World Junior Hockey Championships in Buffalo. Jaden Schwartz (Canada), Vladimir Tarasenko (Russia), Sebastian Wannstrom (Sweden), Jani Hakanpaa (Finland).

Schwartz and Tarasenko had solid games in their head to head tournament opener. So far Tarasenko has just one assist, but Schwartz had a goal and two helpers in two games before breaking his ankle against the Czech Republic. According to the Blues he will be out at least six weeks. Wannstrom had a pair of assists in Sweden’s opener.

Check out this thread over at the Blues Forum on HF Boards for more info.

Armstrong did say Tuesday that the current plan is to talk to Tarasenko following the end of his KHL season (or end of World Championships) to see about getting the young scoring winger over the Atlantic. Sounds like they want him over for summer conditioning prior to training camp, but by training camp at the least.

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As always, you are invited to follow @618_STLBlues and @BlueNoteZone on Twitter and on the  BlueNoteZone Facebook Fan Page for in game updates and Blues news. Please also check out the St. Louis Blues Blogs Facebook Fan Page for links to Blues blogs all over the Internet.

Only one word can accurately describe the three game road trip the Blues concluded Monday night in Chicago.

Frustrating.

In 190 minutes of play the Blues matched the pace or outworked the home teams for roughly 157 minutes (give or take). The only major hiccups were the opening 18 minutes in Nashville, 10 minutes in the first period and 5 minutes in the third period against the Blackhawks. Most teams would gladly take that 87% and assume a couple of wins are in the bank.

Sadly, the inability to execute in the remaining 17% (and some of the 83%) cost the Blues much needed points against key conference opponents.

Timely special teams conversions? Nope. Which is surprising considering historical the effectiveness of the penalty kill.
Timely goal to widen the lead beyond two goals? Nope.
Timely defensive stop and zone clear? Nope.

For most of the game, all three of those scenarios play out in the Blues favor. Yet, when the game is on the line (early and late) there is a regression to the methods that haunted the Blues all through 2009-10. One facet of the game doesn’t quite go their way and the breakdowns begin.

- An assumed tired Nashville squad jumps on the Blues for two goalies before half the lineup breaks a sweat.
- Kari Lehtonen stands on his head as Dallas converts on two defensive lapses to force OT and win in a shootout.
- Chicago absorbs the attack and gets a late game power play. The PK is pushed back without pushing back and Marian Hossa steals the points.

A bad start, hot goalie, and bad penalty cannot rattle a team. At least not a team that wants to be considered a true competitor. Those teams maintain composure, work harder and think faster as the stakes get higher. Sure, the effort doesn’t pay off in every game, but it does more often than not.

It’s that “killer attitude” that is lacking once again. Which only seems to be in short supply in only the bleakest of situations. Where is the fight and the desire to win from January 19th, 2009? The Blues 2008-09 season was about to fully slide in to the cellar once again. Down to the Bruins late in the third the Blues throw everything they had at Tim Thomas. David Perron scored on the power play with 1:20 left and David Backes does his best Albert Pujols impression to whack in the tying goal with less than a second left. The Blues win in the shootout and ride the wave of momentum to their first post lock out playoff birth.

That is the intensity needed to win day in and day out in the NHL. Chicago brought it Monday night, just their seventh game of the season.

Till the Blues realize that and act accordingly, there is a very bumpy, frustrating ride ahead. The personnel in place have all the potential to make the needed corrections. Is anyone going to step up and do it?

For those with a half full glass of a blue children’s drink, there are encouraging signs.

In both Nashville and Chicago the Blues showed a higher level of resiliency than displayed last season. After waking up down 2-0 to the Predators with a few minutes left in the first, the Blues slowly chipped away at the lead and wore down the defense. After giving up two goals to Hossa the Blues came back and controlled the overtime set till Patrick Sharp scored the game winner.

Both types of games would have ended in a regulation loss with less drive to get back in the game.

The transition passing and possession game are a 150% improvement over last season. The number of stretch passes going tape to tape up to the forwards from Erik Johnson, Alex Pietrangelo, Carlo Colaiacovo highlighted the Blues ability to match up with heavy possession teams like Chicago.

Jaroslav Halak is everything that everyone involved with the St. Louis Blues hoped he would be. When given the opportunity he has been able to keep the Blues in games. His play was a little rough around the edges back in Nashville, but he made quality stops in the third to keep the Blues within striking distance. He could use a little help keeping his crease clear at times.

Pietrangelo is the real deal. Write it down. Head Coach Davis Payne tested the 20 year old by pairing him with Barrett Jackman for the Blackhawks contest. Meaning more minutes in higher value situations. He responded with poise, maturity and confidence well beyond his age. The effective use of his body to lay a respectable check, pinch in, hold the blueline and protect the puck should only help increase his icetime.

Having Scott Mellanby behind the bench is already paying dividends. His extended work with Patrik Berglund is showing signs of paying off. Berglund scored in Dallas on a nice deflection thanks to Mellanby’s instruction for body positioning and nearly scored a second. All three games have shown growth in Berglund’s overall game. Time to get Backes back to the wing and let Mellanby work some magic there as well.

Eric Brewer is really playing the game right now. For all the grief fans have thrown at the captain, he has had a solid season to date. Yes Eric, you can thank your improved health and Roman Polak now. The duo seems to be doing very well together.

One rough game in Chicago does not tarnish the previous four games of solid work by TJ Oshie. Coming in to Monday’s game he lead the team in points with one goal and four points in four games.

The fourth line continues to be effective in a limited role. Many Blues fans may not have noticed Vladimir Sobotka‘s return, but they will soon enough. The pest of a Center has recovered from off season shoulder surgery and skated with Brad Winchester and the surprisingly strong Matt D’Agostini. The trio had chances and offensive zone time.

Davis Payne deserves his fair share of the credit for the pieces that have fit together correctly. Little line up tweaks here and there have worked as have the lines he put together. It’s time for the 20 guys he puts on the ice to hold up their end of the bargain.

Jeff Quirin
NHLHS St. Louis Blues Correspondent
jquirin@nhlhotstove.com
Twitter: @618_STLBlues

The St. Louis Blues advertising campaign this season is “Every Game Counts”. Truer word couldn’t be spoken, especially regarding Monday’s matchup in Chicago. The Hawks are in a three way tie atop the Central Division and the Blues want their share as well. A win keeps the pace and a loss could set them up for a six point gap with Friday’s Blues vs Hawks game in St. Louis.

Failing to make this game count means a larger, more crowded hill to climb down the road.

Lineup

Tentative lineup – Will pass along updates as they become available.

Forward Lines
David Perron-David Backes-TJ Oshie
Andy McDonald-Patrik Berglund-Brad Boyes
Alex Steen-Jay McClement-BJ Crombeen
Brad Winchester-Vladimir Sobotka-Matt D’Agostini

-  With Ryan Reaves being returned to Peoria, best guess is that Vladimir  Sobotka is ready to play. He practiced on a line with Brad Winchester and Matt D’Agostini as his wingers. This was an anticipated line coming out of camp and was put on hold due to Sobotka’s prolonged shoulder surgery recovery. Sobotka and D’Agostini bring speed, skill and a scoring touch with Winchester providing the beef.

Look for this line to get about 10 minutes of work. Don’t be surprised to see a goal from this group taking on Chicago’s weakened depth on defense.

Defensive Pairings

Carlo Colaiacovo-Erik Johnson/Alex Pietrangelo
Barrett Jackman-Alex Pietrangelo/Erik Johnson
Eric Brewer-Roman Polak

- Reports Sunday suggested that the defensive pairings at practice may stick for the game against the Hawks. The one major update was the flipping of Alex Pietrangelo and Erik Johnson. Piertangelo skated with Barrett Jackman and Johnson with Colaiacovo.

Should Payne make the switch, it  could quickly pay dividends. Colaiacovo and Johnson had chemistry when  together last season and Pietrangelo would be free to create offense with increased icetime next to Jackman.

Goaltender

Fully expect Jaroslav Halak to get the start. Ty Conklin will back up.

Blues News & Game Notes

- The Blues lead the NHL in shots on goal per game (39.0) and shots on goal against per game (22.8)

- With only 20 Giveaways the Blues have the fourth lowest total in the league. However, their 19 Takeaways is the fourth lowest.

- An average of 27.8 penalty minutes per game is the second highest in the NHL. Still a lot of carry over from the Monday Matinee Brawl with the Ducks.

Opponent Insight

Today’s insight on the Chicago Blackhawks comes from Ryan Hackett of NHLHotStove.com. Follow Ryan on Twitter at @hawknut.

Coming  in to Sunday’s action the Hawks were 19th in the NHL in Goals  Against  and 23rd in Goals Against/Game. The Hawks were 6th best last  season  with a 2.48 Goals Against/Game. What can this flip flop be  attributed  to?

The negative turn-around in goals-against can mostly be attributed to the injury issues they are dealing with, mainly Brian Campbell, as well as the fact that there’s a lot of new personnel that is still working to get on the same page.  Once they start playing with a group mind, that number will definitely drop.

Marian Hossa leads the league in Goals and Points so far. How good has he been?

He’s been ridiculous. Not only is he scoring at a tremendous clip, but he plays both ways as good or better than anyone in the game today. His backchecking is invaluable and it creates so many opportunities for himself as well as his linemates.

Tomas  Kopecky has one goal and six assists so far. Is his offensive   production coming from his own work or is he just feeding off his line  mates?

Kopecky’s production can be attributed to both factors. He works his tail off on every shift, but being on the same line with Hossa cannot be overstated. Those two have always thrived off of each other, whether it was in Detroit or in the Olympics.

How  has the pairing of Duncan Keith and Brent Seabrook played so far.  Any  major difference from last season’s dominating performance?

Keith and Seabrook have looked a little rough to start this season, #7 in particular. Duncan Keith is averaging over 30 minutes per game, a number which is completely unsustainable over an 82-game season (+ playoffs). Seabrook has looked a bit tentative early, but as soon as Keith’s minutes come down a bit, I feel they will begin thinking on the same wavelength like they did last season.

How have the depth players like Bryan Bickell, Viktor Stalberg and Jake Skille performed compared to prvious depth players like Andrew Ladd, Kris Versteeg and Dustin Byfuglien?

Bickell has really justified his existence in the early going. Stalberg and Skille have played well, but again, they will need a bit of time to hone the chemistry to reach the levels of last year’s squad. But don’t get me wrong, there has been no shortage of effort on the part of the bottom 6 forwards for the Hawks, which is a very good sign.

Who to Watch For?

Strenght Down the Middle – With the play of Patrik Berglund on the up and up the have two big bodies that can control the middle of the ice. Add in the trusty Jay McClement and the Blues have a decent chance of keeping with the likes of Toews, Sharp and Bolland. How effective each side is at owning the center will greatly impact the game.

Keys to Victory

- Fight Fire With Fire? The Blackhawks are amazingly strong in terms of their possession play. Can the Blues us their vastly improved transition and possession game to counter the Hawks? If so, it will mean a better performance in the face-off circle.

- Don’t Play From Behind: Chicago can smother a team quickly with fast goals and puck movement. The Blues can’t spot any team, let alone the Hawks, any early scores.

- Keep the Shot On Goal High: A low shooting percentage shouldn’t be a deterrent to throwing everything at the Hawks net. The goals may not have come against Lindback and Lehtonen, but maybe a little Turco is the perfect remedy?

Silent Jay for Selke!

“We have only begun to fight!”, says Brad Lee. The Jay McClement for Selke train is starting to move. I am just one of the many 100% behind the efforts. [St. Louis Gametime]

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As always, you are invited to follow @618_STLBlues and @BlueNoteZone on Twitter for in game updates and Blues news.

Doors opened at 9 am with the Gold practice. While most of the events were of standard fare,  but a few plays and players stood out.

- David Backes beat Ty Conklin multiple times in front in a 3 man drill with two forwards and Defensemen putting pucks on net from the point. Backes flashed a bright smile before heading back in line.

- Alex Steen brought his usual work ethic to the table. In the same drill he came hard down the wing with the puck and parked himself in front of Conklin. Russian import Nikita Nikitin takes the puck at the point and puts a firm shot on net, just off the ice. Steen deflects it straight up and over Conklin’s shoulder. More smiles as it pings off the crossbar and in the net.

- Nikitin is battling former young journeyman Tyson Strachan and former first round picks Alex Pietrnagelo and Ian Cole for the final two spots on the Blues defense. The 24 year old Omsk native did not look out of place. His level of play matched Cole, Strachan and two time Memorial Cup winner Mark Cundari.

The scoring stared early in the scrimmage.

Cam Janssen opened up an early lead for Team Blue when he scored at the 2:30 mark. Stefan Della Rovere would knot up the score five minutes later on a penalty shot. The penalty for an infraction was not a power play, but a penalty shot as the offending team skated sprints. At 2 minutes in to the 25 minute half Matt D’Agostini showed his scoring abilities by sniping the right corner on big Ben Bishop. Less than three minutes later Team Gold executed a two line stretch pass to break out of the zone. Phillip McRae found David Perron who found Brad Boyes open in the slot. A fantastic finishing shot ties the game at 2-2.

The second half started with less scoring as the first goal came nearly 10 minutes in. Patrick Berglund took a drop pass from Matt D’Agostini and hammered home a one-timer from the top of the left wing circle past Conklin. Roman Polak would tie the game at 3-3 and a few minutes later David Spina would put Team Blue back up 4-3. Peoria Rivermen forward Adam Cracknell tied the game at 4-4 with less than 3 minutes remaining in the game.

In the shootout Roman Polak and Andy McDonald traded misses while shooting on the own goalie. Nikitin flashed some offensive skill with a nice head fake and shot for the first goal of the shootout. D’Agostini missed his opportunity, leaving the door open for Boyes. While Boyes may have struggled in 2009-10 to light the lamp in the first 65 minutes of a game, he was lights out in the shootout. He finished off his attempt and gave Team Gold the win.

There were many positives to take away from Sunday’s action.

- The fans are ready to go. A scrimmage brought out 3,500 in the rain, on the same day as a Cardinals home game and a Rams game.

- The intensity level on the rise. Hits came from everywhere and everyone. There was a tense moment when Cole caught in the corner by Dave Scatchard. There was no injury on the play, but he was a little slow to get up. Nikitin and Johnson both made big hits on the blue line. Oshie lined up Perron along the bench only to have Perron squared up and Oshie was  “Oshie’d”.

- Line chemistry started forming. Both the Perron-Phil McRae-Boyes and Oshie-Berglund-D’Agostini lines produced several scoring chances and gelled together.

- There is capable depth, now and later. Whether that’s Scarchard, Nic Drazenovic, TJ Hensick, Della Rovere, Tyler Shattock, McRae or Brett Sonne. If you don’t believe me, take Darren Pang’s word for it.

- Jaroslav Halak is a fan favorite already. When Chris Kerber announced that Halak was coming in to the game he received as thunderous a response as Janssen or Oshie.  It is no secret what Halak means to the Blues organization. The fans are very happy to see a long term solution begin his career between the pipes in St. Louis.

While hopes ride high with Halak, he cannot carry the team alone. The five skaters in front of him must do their job as well. If Sunday was any indication, their heads and hearts are in the right place to make this season special.

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As always, I welcome you to follow me on Twitter – @618_STLBlues and @BlueNoteZone.