You think Backes is giving up? No. Neither should you.

The St. Louis Blues played well enough to win Game One but lost, then turned in their worst performance at the worst possible time in Game Two. Both games were at home, and the combination results in a 2-0 series deficit in this best-of-seven Western Conference Semifinals series with the Los Angeles Kings. If you’re a Blues fan who saw this coming and readily admitted as much before the series, you’re probably in the minority. It is natural for a fan to look at this turn of events and act like all is lost, when in reality things could be just beginning. It is also natural for a grave deal of concern going into Game Three of this series late tomorrow night at Staples Center.

But if you’re throwing in the towel right now, please walk gently toward the door and get the hell out of my team’s fan base. Now.

We can give excuses as to why the Blues played so horrendously in Game Two until we’re blue in the face. We can give all sorts of reasons why the Blues are in the predicament they are in . . . essentially the League favorite in Vegas, needing four wins in five possible games to advance. But if you’re going to tell me that you’re not going to watch the rest of this series because “Oh, I know what’s going to happen, the Blues are going to ass this up completely” or something similar to that mold, I don’t want you anywhere near this team. Why? Two reasons . . . 1) Positives (AND YES, THERE WERE SOME) that can be taken from the first two games, and 2) Past history, and RECENT past history at that.

On the first point . . . the Blues were able to play two solid periods after getting shelled in the first on Monday, and they were able to match – if not surpass – the physicality displayed by the Kings in those 40 minutes. For all intents and purposes, the first 20 to 30 minutes of Game One were won by the Blues, and there is a solid chance Alex Pietrangelo returns for Game Three to steady the defensive corps, as he played most of those minutes. On the second point . . . we only have to look to the Boston Bruins, last year’s Stanley Cup Champions, for reference. In their Eastern Conference Quarterfinal series with the Montreal Canadiens, they dropped the first two games at home. What happened after that? The Bruins did what they had to do . . . they stole two games in front of a hostile crowd in Montreal and held serve at home to advance to the next round. Anything is possible, folks.

In the past week, I’ve been called everything from a sore loser to a dumbass for my dedication to this team, and yet I still believe in this team.  I refuse to let two games change my dedication to this squad.  I’m all in.

I won’t even ask a question this week . . . I’m going to channel my inner Jim Fassel . . . and shove my chips to the center of the table and go all in on this crazy game of poker. If you’re in, you’re in. If you’re out, you’re out.

Why not the St. Louis Blues.

How Long Will Alex Pietrangelo Be Out?

-

The primary trend that the first round of the 2012 NHL Playoffs will be remembered for is the volume of questionable/dirty acts.

It all started with the league’s lack of strict discipline administered to Nashville’s captain, Norris finalist Shea Weber, slamming Detroit’s superstar Swede Henrik Zetterberg’s face in to the glass in move better suited for WWE or Moral Kombat action. Open season was declared and the boys ran amuck from the wild west to the northeast. It seemed that when Sheriff Brendan Shanahan stepped in and dispensed stiff justice on Phoenix forward Raffi Torres for his brutal and blatant attempt to injure Chicago winger Marian Hossa that peace had been restored heading in the the conference semifinals.

Obviously not.

Late in the second period of the St. Louis Blues’ 3-1 loss last night LA Kings depth winger Dwight King recklessly boarded defenseman Alex Pietrangelo.

Intent is pretty clear in this case.

With Pietrangelo facing the boards and Jordan Nolan covering Kris Russell there is no dangerous counter transition play available. All King has to do to be an effective role player is follow Pietrangelo in to the boards and create an opportunity for Nolan to out muscle Russell for position to dig the puck out.  If unable to follow to the boards then match pace and go shoulder to shoulder as he turns to go north. Really, it’s not overly complicated. The correct play is made countless times a night. Instead King puts his forearm in to the numbers and pushes off. The resulting face first crash prevented the Blues top defenseman from returning from the game and appearing at practice today.

No. The “c” word hasn’t been discussed or confirmed, but given the situation and the Blues luck with such injuries over the last two years, not many would be surprised if that’s ends up being the case. Although head coach Ken Hitchcock is a little more optimistic.

Will the league handout supplemental discipline? After watching the video over and over one may think so, but as of early Sunday afternoon there won’t be.

Disgusted? Most Blues fans would be as they should. This hit was not like the one TJ Gallardi put on Andy McDonald. Where a hockey play that could have happened didn’t because the player being hit didn’t put himself in wise position. The hockey play in the King hit was avoided in favor of a dangerous attempt to separate the defender from the puck.

Does anyone expect Kings fans to be? Even the most egalitarian of us have their doubts. What about the Kings media? Certainly most of the MSM will steer clear of discussing the event other than to report what happened and what the involved parties have said. Among the blogging community, well that’s a different story.

Many of you know I cover the Blues for Hockeybuzz.com now. Matthew Barry is my Kings counterpart. A blogger I’ve been reading for a long time and have suggested to Blues fans as someone covering a team not their own worth investing sometime in following. Needless to say, I was more than a little shocked and disappointed when I read his recap blog.

The Ancient Art of Asian Justice?

Revenge is a dish best served cold (noticed Ek beat me to the punch). The Japanese culture is big on waiting for the right moment to dish out revenge (I’m not the forgiving type. I’m very big on revenge), even if it takes years.

It took nearly 14 years but Dwight King began to even the score for what ****** Courtnall did to Jamie Storr. In an otherwise pretty clean game, it was nice to see one of their warriors NOT return to the game. It’s only a matter of time before Carlo Coliaccovo crumbles to pieces like a coffee cake.

For those who need a refresher on what transpired in the 1998 Playoffs between the Blues and Kings, here’s the video:

I pride myself on going out of my way to see all the shades of gray possible. I want to find every angle, learn from them, discuss  and grow my own perspective because of them. How many times have Jaroslav Halak and Brian Elliott been trampled in their crease this season and it wasn’t called? How many times have other illegal acts not been called – Pavel Datsyuk elbow to Barret Jackman’s head anyone… – resulting in negative impacts to the Blues chances of winning a game. I completely understand why Kings fans would hold bitterness in their hearts for the outcome. Think of how Steve Yzerman is remembered in St. Louis. Storr didn’t return to the game and the retribution on Geoff Courntall earned a five minute major that turned in to four power play goals and one of the most thrilling comebacks in franchise history.

It’s a sore spot. One any of the other 29 teams would claim. One they all have.

However, in this instance I cannot promote the notion. There is no gray area on the King hit. It’s as black and white as they come. The defense of such for any reason is reprehensible, immature, and wreaks of a complete lack human decency or sensationalistic attention whoring. To celebrate the injury goes beyond to an indescribable depth of moral depravity. Even the most well known of knuckle dragging former players turned commentators refrain from opening that door and walking down to the crypt.

I’m not one for throwing any writer under the proverbial bus. Especially colleagues in the community. We all put our opinions out for anyone to read knowing full well that someone will disagree with us. Beating up on each other is not productive. That said, there are times when peers have to be hard on each other for the benefit of the whole. The glorification of potentially career threatening injuries to settle scores is not acceptable. It may generate hits and discussion, but can only perpetuate the stereotypes that keep bloggers in the basement and out of the press box.

So sad that once again the glorious event that is playoff hockey has been overshadowed by the games darkest elements.

It's playoff time, expect a scrum after almost every whistle.

After the Canucks and the Sharks had both won their respective games, the western conference was finally pegged down. The Canucks claimed the West and the President’s trophy. The Blues finished second, set to face off against the San Jose Sharks in the first round of the Stanley Cup playoffs.

Looking at the rosters of each club, you can judge who’d better for yourself.

Jaroslav Halak/Brian Elliott vs Antti Niemi/Thomas Griess

There should be no question whatsoever in this case. You have the best statistical goaltender in the NHL in Brian Elliott and while Niemi has a cup, most would prefer Jaroslav Halak in net over the Finnish Niemi.

Halak and Elliott will share the William Jennings trophy for fewest goals allowed in the NHL. San Jose finished eighth in goals against, letting in fifty more goals overall than the Blues.

Offense Isn’t Lacking On Defense

When looking on the defensive side of the puck, both teams aren’t lacking offensively.

Dan Boyle lead the San Jose Sharks offense from the defense this year, scoring nine goals, 39 assists for 48 points on the year. He’s followed by Brent Burns’ 37 points (11 goals, 26 assists). Burns, however, adds a solid defensive game and grit on the blueline as well.

The Blues counter offensively with Alex Pietrangelo’s 51 points (12 goals, 39 assists) and Kevin Shattenkirk’s 43 points (9 goals, 34 assists). Pietrangelo, however, has been playing at a Norris caliber level all season long for the Blues, something the Sharks haven’t had.

Then you have the supporting cast behind the “big two” for each club.

For San Jose, it’s the likes of Marc-Edouard Vlasic, Douglas Murray, Justin Braun, Colin White, Jason Demers, and Jim Vandermeer.

While the Blues have guys like Barret Jackman, Roman Polak, Kent Huskins, Carlo Colaiacovo, Kris Russell, and Ian Cole.

Obviously, you have to give the experience to the Sharks group, but overall, it’s fairly close and hard to really pick one side. We’ll call it a wash as I honestly can’t make a decision.

Depth The Story Offensively

While the Sharks probably have more well known names in Joe Thornton, Patrick Marleau, and Joe Pavelski, they cannot say they have the depth like the St. Louis Blues do. The Sharks bottom six guys compared to the Blues bottom six just don’t add up.

When you have guys like Alex Steen, Jason Arnott, and even the struggling Chris Stewart playing third line minutes compared to Michal Handzus, Dominic Moore, and Andrew Desjardins, you’re going to have an edge offensively.

After the top nine, the Blues hold depth over the Sharks with the fourth line along with their scratches as well. The Sharks have Dan Winnik’s 23 points as top among their fourth liners, while the Blues have a guy who notched 20 goals last season in Matt D’Agostini and Jamie Langenbrunner’s 24 points as well.

The Blues are also holding a top prospect ready to play in Jaden Schwartz as well, very much like the Sharks did a few seasons ago with Logan Couture.

In terms of toughness, Ryan Reaves is by far the toughest player on either club’s roster, and given his ability to play a effective checking line role, he’s a valuable asset to the Blues here.

Heated History

We must also remember that these two organizations aren’t the biggest fans of one another. From the most recent Joe Thornton incident of Joe Thonrton concussing David Perron with a blindside hit, to the upset in 2000, games between these two are usually up tempo, hard hitting, grinding games, which favors the Blues more defensive system than the Sharks more offensive system.

Fighting usually isn’t common in the post season. The big, hard hits, the board battles usually tell the stories in playoff hockey, and that should give the Blues the advantage, like it has in the season series against these clubs, in which the Blues went 4-0 against them this season.

Leading The Ship

Another advantage the Blues have over the Sharks is leadership where it matters, the coaches. While Todd McLellan is a very good coach, he doesn’t have the pedigree that Ken Hitchcok has, which includes a Stanley Cup. Hitchock knows what it takes to get his team wins. Leading a team that many have stated was ‘built for the playoffs’ will again, give the Blues an advantage over San Jose.

The Sharks only have two players who have won a Stanley Cup on their roster in Dan Boyle who won it with Tampa, and Colin White, who won it with New Jersey.

The Blues have four guys in Jason Arnott (NJD), Jamie Langenbrunner (NJD, DAL), Andy McDonald (ANA), and Kent Huskins (ANA) who’ve won Hockey’s Holy Grail. So though as a team the Blues don’t have a lot of experience, they have more guys who’ve been there and know what it takes to win it all.

Home Sweet Home

The biggest factor in this series likely wont be the players, or the coaches, or the history of these two teams, it will be the Blues having home ice advantage. The Sharks will go into a hostile territory in which the Blues have lost six, yes only six games on home ice all season long. It will easily give a boost to the Blues all series long.

If the Sharks can take a game in St. Louis, it could help them gain momentum, but that will be no easy feat. Expect the crowd’s energy to carry over into the players and it could end up giving the Sharks fits if they cannot find a way to put the puck in the net.

Overall, the advantage has to be in St. Louis’ favor in this series from goaltending to forward depth, coaching and style of play. This projects to be a very hard fought series and the winner will have to earn their victory. This is where it all matters, where players will disappoint and players will prove their worth. Who will shine? We’ll have to watch to find out!

Series Schedule

Game One – San Jose vs St. Louis -Thursday, April 12th, 6:30 pm

Game Two – San Jose vs St. Louis -Saturday, April 14th, 6:30 pm

Game Three – St. Louis vs San Jose-Monday, April 16th, 9:00 pm

Game Four – St. Louis vs San Jose- Thursday, April 19th, 9:00 pm

Game Five (if necessary) – San Jose vs St. Louis – Saturday, April 21st, 6:30

Game Six (if necessary) – St. Louis vs San Jose – Monday, April 23rd, TBD

Game Seven (if necessary) – San Jose vs St. Louis – Wednesday, April 25th, TBD

The young defender has done nothing but impress since he’s joined the Blues full time after spending two extra seasons in Juniors, a route in which Doug Armstrong deserves a ton of credit for.

Many people have talked about Pietrangelo’s play this season, and rightfully so, he’s easily been the best defender on the ice for the Blues this season. His offensive play is obviously there, as he is third on the team in points with 36 points (10 goals, 26 assists) in 64 games this season, but his shutdown game is what comes as a surprise to most.

Alex Pietrangelo, courtesy of TSNPhotography

The King City, Ontario native plays defense so well, because he always has the puck on his stick. If he doesn’t, he uses his stick skills to get the puck on his stick. You can just watch him in a game and his decisions and skills with and without the puck allow him to be the Blues top defenseman, night in and night out.

Pietrangelo has all the makings of an Norris caliber defensemen and I do believe one day he’ll win one, if not multiple Norris Trophies. I also believe he’ll receive a handful of votes for the Norris this year, however, I do not see him reaching the top three for nominees. Erik Karlsson of Ottawa, Shea Weber of Nashville, and Zdeno Chara of Boston have all but locked down those three slots.

As Blues fans, we’re all hoping that a few Norris trophies aren’t the only thing Pietrangelo can bring to the Blues. A nice Stanley Cup ring or two or five would be quite nice, don’t you think?

The Blues are in Columbus tonight to face off against the Blue Jackets.  For game information, see today’s BNZ Game Preview.  Who will score first for the Blues tonight? Give us your best guess!  Remember, you just need to comment on this post to be entered into the contest; the person with the most correct guesses at the end of the season will win a Blues themed prize (prize still TBD).

Game Info:

Location: Columbus

Opposing Netminder: Steve Mason (per Daily Faceoff)

Expected Line Combos:

Perron – Backes – Oshie
McDonald – Berglund – Langenbrunner
Porter – Sobotka – Stewart
Crombeen – Nichol – Reaves

Colaiacovo – Pietrangelo
Jackman – Shattenkirk
Russell- Polak

St. Louis Blues

(34-14-7)

vs

Columbus Blue Jackets

(16-34-6)

at

Nationwide Arena

Game Time 6:00pm CDT

TV- FS-MW(HD) Radio- KMOX

Possible Starting Lineup for tonights match up

(per dailyfaceoff.com)

St. Louis Blues

Forwards:
Perron-Backes-Oshie
McDonald-Berglund-Langenbrunner
Porter-Sabotka-Stewart
Crombeen-Nichol-Reaves

Defenseman Pairings:
Jackman-Shattenkirk
Colaiacovo-Pietrangelo
Russell-Polak

Starting goalie:(per Daily Faceoff)
Jaroslav Halak

St. Louis Blues Team Recap- The St. Louis Blues are coming off a very successful weekend home stand in which the Blues bagged 4 of a possible four points.  They defeated the Colorado Avalanche 3-2 in overtime on Saturday night. On Sunday, the San Jose Sharks came calling to the Scottrade Center in a game where the Blues had one of their most impressive defensive games of the season. The Sharks have been on a roll as of late and were looking to take advantage of a Blues team that had played a hard fought game the night before. What ensued after the drop of the puck in the first period was something that made every Blues fan grin from ear to ear. Alex Pietrangelo had a big night with 2 goals to accompany a very dominate effort in and around his own end. Jaroslav Halak recorded his 6th shut out of the season and the Blues went on to a 3-0 victory. Tonight the Blues are in Columbus to take on the Blue Jackets.

St. Louis Keys To The Game- The Blue Jackets have not played very well this season and their last in the NHL record would suggest to solidify that notion. The only issue the Blues come up against is finding the ability to keep their game plan in tact when facing an opponent that may not challenge their abilities. Tonight the Blues will look to keep the train moving down the tracks and pick up another two points to pad the coffers. Andy McDonald will have his first road game since coming back Sunday night from a concussion. Andy, in his first game back, had 1 assist and was an obvious offensive presence on the ice against the Sharks. When Andy steps out for his shift, the opposing team has to take note of where he is at all times opening up lanes for his linemates.  The Blues need to keep the tempo upbeat tonight and not allow the Blue Jackets to get into a game which the Blues should dominate. Any NHL team can beat you on any given night and the Blues had best take note of that concept and not leave their “A game” at home.

Columbus Blue Jackets Team Recap- The Blue Jackets are 3-3 in their last 6 games, coming off a loss to the Anaheim Ducks on Sunday in Columbus. The Jackets have not had many things to celebrate this season. With a high first round draft pick in their near future, Jackets fans can take hope in a fairly solid draft forecast for this summer’s NHL Entry Draft. Blues fans can closely relate to Jackets fans as, not so far in our franchise’s history, there was a time when things looked like there was no way up. I am not a huge Jackets fan, and I won’t pretend to be, but I do understand where they are currently in the process. To the fans of Columbus keep supporting your team and keep them where they are instead of being plucked and shipped to the far north. It is important to grow hockey here in the states, and Jackets fans will have a reason to get excited if they just keep the faith. Ownership in Columbus has stated publicly they are aware of the dissatisfaction with this season and will take steps to do what they can to put a better product on the ice in the near future.

Columbus Keys To The Game- The Blue Jackets have suffered this season finding ways to play a consistent and effective 60 minutes of hockey. Jumping out to early leads or going down by 1-2 goals, they have yet to figure out how to rally back or keep their foot on the pedal. The Jackets will have to work at 110% if they want to keep up with the hard-working St. Louis Blues tonight. The Jackets need to get St. Louis to take bad penalties and put traffic in front of the net to screen the goal tender. The Blues give up the fewest shots per 60 and the PK has been a sore spot for the blues in recent history. If the Jackets get a goal or two lead on St. Louis tonight they had best find a way to keep the puck away from them going into the third period. The Blues have shown that a 1-2 goal lead is not safe against them, and they will come back if you allow them to hang around the game. A tough task for Columbus awaits them tonight when the puck drops at Nationwide Arena.

Blues News- Forward Matt D’Agostini remains out with a concussion. No update on his condition or any time frame for a possible return has been reported. Defenseman Kent Huskins is nearing 100% and will be getting back in to the line up  in the very near future. Huskins has been sidelined since an October game in Calgary where he blocked a shot off his ankle which resulted in a fracture that was surgically repaired. Forward Alex Steen remains on the side lines still not feeling quite himself after suffering his first career concussion. Steen is progressing, but will remain out of the line up for the near future. Forward Andy McDonald returned to the Blues line up Sunday night against the San Jose Sharks. Andy was out since game number three of the season with a concussion he suffered on an accidental blow to the head from Blues Captain David Backes. Andy had one assist in the game against the Sharks and looked as though he had not missed a single game this season. Look for Andy to continue to play well for the Blues as they make their push toward the top seed in the NHL’S Western Conference. The Blues go into tonight’s game against the Blue Jackets just 3 points behind league leading Detroit with 75 points. Tonight, with a Blues win and a Detroit loss, the Blues could pull to with in 1 point of first place in the toughest division in hockey, the Central Division.

Do not take tonight off as Blues fans. Even though Columbus has had a bust season, I still look for it to be a good game in Ol’ Ohio. Get out the Blues garb, hit up your favorite establishment, and let the world know that Blues fans are ready for the cup to come to ST. LOUIS! Let’s Go Blues!!!

Deryk Engelland has my utmost respect. If you like hockey fights, he should have your utmost respect as well. Image via Dan4th/Flickr

A good effort is not good enough in Detroit, but it shows you’re ready to battle. The St. Louis Blues played well enough to beat just about every team in the league last night, but they did not play well enough to beat the Detroit Red Wings at home. The 3-1 win, while it derails a hot stretch by the team, does not kill too much of the momentum the team held up to this point. Also, quite unexpectedly, there was a fight in this contest. Brad Stuart, after planting Alex Pietrangelo on a hit I felt was legal but some have thought to be dirty, answered the bell against Chris Stewart and got his ass handed to him. Serious demerits went to Stuart for punching Stewart (confused yet?) after both had fallen to the ice. That’s crap, Brad. (The video of the whole skirmish can be found here.) So the Blues now have collected 24 fighting majors on the National Hockey League season, which remains good for 10th alone in that category. With yet ANOTHER fight victory, the Blues’ fight record stays impressive, now at 12-2-10.

You may skip this, or wipe your ass with a printed copy of it, if you wish. That’s my official comment on the first time I’ve ever been personally flame-bombed by a Red Wings blogger. They couldn’t pay me to care.

Moving on . . . let’s welcome the red hot Pittsburgh Penguins to town! Yes, even though this team is missing Sidney Crosby, this team has seemed to find cohesiveness, in addition to finding ways to win hockey games. Evgeni Malkin might have a lot to do with that (I hear he’s pretty good at hockey). The Blues were able to defeat the Penguins in Pittsburgh in overtime on November 23rd (here’s the report from prior to that game), and there was a fight in that contest (you’ll find video in the next paragraph). In fact, the Pens are not in the least afraid of fisticuffs, unlike last night’s opponent. The Penguins have collected 25 fighting majors on the NHL season, good for a tie for eighth in that category with the New Jersey Devils. Their fight record is relatively average at 9-7-9.

The Pens are led in fights by Arron Asham (5’11’, 205lbs, 5-1-1, out indefinitely with a concussion), who has seven. Deryk Engelland (6’2”, 202lbs, 2-2-2 including a loss to Ryan Reaves) has worked six scraps. The awesomely-named Tyler Kennedy (5’11”, 183lbs, 1-1-1) has fought three times. Craig Adams (6’0”, 197lbs, 0-1-1), St. Louis native Joe Vitale (5’11”, 205lbs, 0-1-1) and Eric Tangradi (6’4”, 221lbs, 0-1-1) have each fought twice. Solo fighters include Matt Niskanen (6’0”, 200lbs, Win), Ben Lovejoy (6’2”, 215lbs, Draw) and Chris Kunitz (6’0”, 193lbs, Draw).

With Asham out, your best bet for a scrap would be a rematch between Engelland and Reaves (being that he sat out last night and the team lost, I will assume Reaves plays this game). I think it would be a great tilt, as the first one was. Otherwise, I’d love to see hometown kid Vitale mix it up with someone, just because it would be incredibly fun, and funny, to watch.

Last game before the All-Star Break. A home win would be an awesome send-off.

LET’S GO BLUES!!!!!

Information obtained via the incomparable Fried Chicken’s Hockey Fights

From Russian hockey blogger Alessandro Seren Rosso:

So, in Russia they say Tarasenko was traded to Dynamo Moscow. Truth or not? #StlBlues If he gets traded I think he’ll go to NHL this summer

From DmitryChesnokov of the Puck Daddy blog on Yahoo Sports:

#KHL’s Sibir will reportedly trade Vladimir Tarasenko to Dynamo Moscow. It means he will likely join the #stlblues over the summer.

From Fedor Fedin of Russian Machine Never Breaks:

According to the rumors, #STLBlues prospect Vladimir Tarasenko will be traded to Dynamo Moscow very soon. Will give him playoff experience.

More from Rosso clarifies the rumor:

Interview with Tarasenko’s agent – he kind of confirms a trade is coming, will decide about NHL after WC bit.ly/yFfEsw #KHL #StlBlue

Interview Translated by Rosso:

Sports.ru published a short interview with [Taraseno's agent, Alexi] Dementiev by Igor Eronko:

“The situation isn’t decided for now, and it won’t be before January 14th. Any information which didn’t come directly from me it’s just speculation. A trade to Dynamo Moscow is certainly possible, but they are just one of the teams which showed interest toward Tarasenko.

Analysis

Solid information about happenings in the KHL are not easy to come by on the Blues side of the world. For the time being the trade appears to be of rumor only. However, given who is the bearer of such news and the words to Dementiev, I would expect a move to a playoff bound team soon. The KHL trade deadline is January 15th.

The situation referenced in the translated interview is that of a trade. That said, Dementiev later states that no decision will be made on Tarasenko’s defection to the NHL till after the World Championships. He also states that his Russian contract expires on April 30th. Sorry to burst some euphoric bubbles, but in all honesty that really does mean there is no chance Tank plays for the Blues (or the Rivermen) till the 2012-13 season no matter what. Even if they make the playoffs and win a round or two to keep playing after the World Championships’ wraps up, he wouldn’t be added to the roster.

For those wondering why a trade likely equals leaving home, as speculated by Chesenokov, it’s not too difficult to understand. Earlier this season Sibir their head coach who just happens to be Tarasenko’s father. This deep linking to the franchise is what likely kept the 20 year old in his homeland for another season. A further severing of ties to his only hockey family he’s known opens a huge door to start his North American career. When coupled with his contracts expiration he is no longer held back by anyone other than himself. Don’t forget, he’s stated he that making it to the NHL is a dream of his. The connecting lines are easy to draw.

Should Tarasenko agree to his ELC and cross the Atlantic, where would he play? One option is likely out of consideration. Sorry Peoria fans, the AHL is not a desired destination for the franchise or the player. Though Jaden Schwartz would not be a bad consolation prize. That does not mean a spot is already delegated for him. Doug Armstrong has already dismissed that notion in both words and actions. But much like TJ Oshie, Patrik Berglund and Alex Pietrangelo, Tarasenko will probably be given a roster spot to lose at training camp. Meaning so long as he is not injured or a total bust, he’ll be with the big club for game number one and many more after that.

There is some precedence for a Blues prospect to be traded from a languishing team to a contender. Pietrangelo was traded from the Niagara Ice Dogs to the Barrie Colts on January 7th, 2010. Remember that the Blues did not return Petro to his junior club after appearing in 9 games in the 2009-10 season. Instead they scratched him, as to not activate his ELC and kill its rollover ability, until the World Junior Hockey Championships. After the WJC concluded the Blues still had no plans to send him back due to fears of regression if playing for a struggling team. Niagara traded the defenseman in order to get something rather than nothing. While the Blues had no direct hand in the deal, they’re holding of Pietrangelo in St. Louis certainly played its part. It’s highly doubtful that the Blues had any bearing on Tarasenko’s impending trade, but its certainly a move they favor over staying put with Sibir. The added experience of playing in the KHL playoffs and playing at a high level will help prepare him for the NHL as well as test his current performance level.

What does this mean for teammate and fellow Blues prospect Jori Lehtera? With his contract expiring as well and his desire to play with Tarasenko, he may follow to the US. Though his path to a NHL roster spot isn’t as clear. He may need to go to Peoria first.

Stay tuned as this story develops. So far, it’s only good news from a Blues perspective.

Fellow blueliners Kris Russell (groin) and Kent Huskins (ankle) are still on IR which brings the Blues down to only five healthy defenders (Jackman, Colaiacovo, Pietrangelo, Polak, and Shattenkirk) who can play on Tuesday night.

Cade Fairchild (image TSNphotography)

So it’s pretty obvious that the Blues are going to have to recall a player from the Peoria Rivermen. Considering their play as of this season, the top two options for a recall, in my mind are Cade Fairchild or Danny Syvret.

Fairchild, a rookie out of the University of Minnesota has made a big impact  for the Rivermen this season already. His 17 points (4 goals, 13 assists) have helped the Rivermen to a 17-15-2-1 record this season.

He’s already had one call up this season, and he didn’t look out of place in his only game played. He finished the night with a clean score sheet, an even +/- and no penalty minutes. He’s my number one option of getting a recall in fill in for Cole.

Danny Syvret (image TSNphotography)

Syvret is not to be looked over also, as a potential call up. His 20 points (3 goals, 17 assists) leads all defensemen on the Rivermen squad and tied for fifth among AHL defensemen this season.

What Syvret brings, however, which could give him the heads up on Fairchild is his experience.  His 59 NHL games and 10 playoff games rank much higher than Fairchild’s one game, and that alone could give Syvret an edge  in his chances of being called up. He has 3 goals, 4 assists in those 59 regular season games while recording zero points in his ten playoff games.

If I was in Doug Armstrong‘s shoes, I’d go with Syvret. He gives you the experience, he plays an offensive game but isn’t inadequate defensively either. While the call up is likely only going to be for the three games, it doesn’t force the Blues to put to much pressure on the call up either.

While I could see positives for Fairchild, I’d like to see him develop a little more in the AHL this season and get his call ups next season when he’s a little bigger, stronger, and more experienced.

Yet again, however, I’m not Doug Armstrong, so the call up could eventually be between two entirely different defenders. Watch me debate Fairchild and Syvret, then Mark Cundari gets the call up.

We should find out later today on who gets the call up.

(12-8-2)

vs

Washington Capitals

(12-9-1)

at

Verizon Center

TV- FSMW(HD) Radio- KMOX

Game Time- 6:00 pm CDT

Blues Team Recap- The St. Louis Blues stroll into Washington tonight to take on the Capitals in the first meeting of the season between these two teams. The Blues are coming off of a 2-1 win in Columbus 2 nights ago and are playing some very gritty hard nosed hockey. Tonight will proove to be a new challange for this Note as the Caps recently fired head coach Bruce Boudreauand named Dale Hunter as the new commander and chief. Hunter takes over after spending the last 11 seasons in the OHL as head coach of the London Knights. A shot of energy is what the Caps are hoping for tonight against St. Louis with the coaching change. The Blues will need to put their best foot forward if they wish to take yet two more points on to their next desination on this three game road trip.

Blues Keys To The Game- Contain number 8. Do not give him break aways, do not leave him in front of the net alone, and for god sakes do not give him room to skate. Yes,Washington has plenty of capable skaters and play makers but no one can finish like Ovi can. Like him or not, he is one of the most prolific goal scorers in the NHL. Keep the great Russian quiet and the rest of the team should fall into place for the Blues. Check them hard and keep them in the offensive zone. Do not allow Washington to dictate the flow of the offensive puck possession time. If St. Louis allows the Caps to handle the puck for a majority of the play, they will find themselves looking at the little black rubber bicuit behind Halak A LOT tonight.

Washington Capitals Team Recap- After having one of the best if not the best start in franchise history, the Caps have fallen flat on their faces. Losing 6 of their last 8 games and giving up a 5-1 beat down at the hands of the tattered Buffalo Sabers in their last game prompted the front office to vote Bruce Boudreau off the island. A record of 17-20 in post season play has been hard for Captials fans to swallow after their team played so well and dominate like during the regular season. It seemed under Boudreau the team lost its ability to play during the playoffs. Call it fatigue, call it lack of preparation, call it plain being out coached the Caps no longer have to worry about that. Dale Hunter has taken over the reigns and if it is any indication from his past history in the NHL the Caps players are in for a rude awakening if they think they can just skate by and not give a 110% effort each night. Hunter was known for being hard nosed and determind player around the puck and did not shy away from contact. Will the Capitals become a more physical team? I am not convinced with the group of players assembled that they can be a truly physical team. The Caps rely on a fast transition game that allows them to use their speed and offensive ability to overwhelm the oposition. Time will tell if this switch is what the doctor order or if it will be a complete mega star melt down.

Capitals Keys To The Game- The Caps have looked just awful in thier last 6 games. They can’t score goals, they can’t keep the puck out of their zone, and they can’t keep the puck out of the net. Simplify the game… Be responsible in your own end and get the puck out of the offensive zone quickly. Do not allow St. Louis to get the cycle set up along the low boards. Inevitibly, some one will come open in front of the Caps net minder and it will end up not a pretty picture for the team from DC. The Blues play a very physical and up tempo game. The Capitals must match the speed and the physicality the Blues will bring to the rink tonight. The Blues take a lot of penalties. If the Capitals can “Capitalize” ( I know right..) on the Blues mistakes they may have a shot at winning this game tonight. If they sit back on their heels and let the Blues dictate the pace of the game the Caps are going to loose this game by a large margin.

Blues News- Tonight Alex Pietrangelo will not be in the line up. Petro has been sick per a Jeremy Ruthuford tweet earlier today and will not play in tonights match up. Cade Fairchild has been recalled from the Peoria Rivermen and will play in his place tonight. No word on possible pairings has been released yet. Pietrangelo is not expected to miss more then one game at this point. David Perron might get back into the line up as early as this saturday against the Chicago Blackhawks. Blues beat writer Jeremy Rutherford has a hunch that David could get back into the action this weekend providing a shot in the arm in terms of scoring and puck handling ability. Andy Mcdonald remains sidelined with a concussion with no time table for return. Defenseman Kent Huskins is still nursing a fractured ankle back to health and is expected to miss 3-4 more weeks. BJ Crombeen has skated with the team wearing the red no contact jersey and is slated for a late December or early Janurary return to the line up. Defenseman Carlo Colaiacovo is nearing a return from the IR with a hamstring injury. No exact date is available but it is assumed he will return soon. Vladamir Sabotka will miss tonights game as well after suffering a fractured maxilla (upper jaw bone) when he blocked a puck with his face against the Calgary Flames in St. Louis this past weekend. Sobotka is traveling with the team and may return to play against the Colorado Avalanche on Friday night at the Pepsi Center in Denver.

With Sobotka and Pietrangelo out tonight, the Blues will need to work together to get through this match up. Play strong, hard, and fast and get us another two points to bring home! LET’S GO BLUES!!!

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