Will David "Inglorious" Backes go from "Captain American" to Captain of the St. Louis Blues?

With most of the off-season moves done around the league, front offices are doing some minor work filling out the depth and minor leagues as well as some fine tuning within the organization. As the calendar turns to the dog days in August, some players are returning to their NHL cities to do some workouts and meet with the team trainers and doctors to get a head start on their training.

For the Blues, players like TJ Oshie, Ben Bishop, David Backes, Alex Pietrangelo, and others have been seen in St. Louis for various off-season activities. To say that these men are more dedicated than the rest of the team is unfair, but it’s also no coincidence that the players who are here early are mostly the leaders of the Blues. None of us have ever been a part of an NHL dressing room, but leaders emerge from them based on work ethic and not necessarily performance. If play on the ice translated to leadership, how did Eric Brewer get to wear the ‘C’ prior to last season? Even as he sat out game after game in most of his tenure here, he was voted as the captain of the Blues by his teammates when then-head coach Andy Murray decided a captain was needed.

Full Disclosure: I am not, nor have I ever been, a Brewer hater. I believe he is a fine defenseman when given the proper role, something the Blues could not give him after he came here via trade. Before the trade deadline last season, General Manager Doug Armstrong shipped Eric and all his haters to Tampa Bay for a rugged Junior defenseman with a cool name, Brock Beukeboom, who could eventually become a Roman Polak type player. But I digress.

Losing Brewer was a result of the emergence of Petro and young studs like Ian Cole and Nikita Nikitin progressing well. However, a hole was left on the roster in the veteran presence department. Andy McDonald was the oldest player on the team at the relatively young age of 33. A Cup winner with the Ducks, he was able to share his experiences but with the playoffs out of reach, how valuable was that advice last year? And from what I know, Andy Mac isn’t the most vocal of the Blues players.

Soon Davis Payne will announce his Captain for this team. The alternates will also be chosen…will Payne go with a rotational system for the home/road schedule like last year or will he have a concrete group of leaders? Every indication from Blues fans on the forums and message boards is that the REAL Captain America, Backes, will succeed Brewer as the locker room leader. He is one of the longest tenured Blues and also a draft pick of the organization. Barrett Jackman holds those same credentials, but being a free agent after this season and the small possibility he won’t be retained keeps the arrow pointed to #42. Alex Steen is also a possibility but likely will be given an ‘A’ again this year. Pietrangelo has also been thrown around the rumor mill, but would the Blues want to give that big responsibility to someone who just recently became legally eligible to buy a beer? Oshie…well, what’s that I said about buying beer? I’m not sure I’d trust him even being an alternate with his lack of self control off the ice. Hopefully he makes me eat crow this year.

David Backes is prototypical NHL team Captain material. He goes to the front of the net willing to sacrifice a body part for a goal. He’ll fight the opponent or an entire country of opponents to gain an edge in a game. He will speak up when things are bad and keep the team level headed when (and if) things get on a roll. The community work he and his wife do is great for promotional and good will service as far as the Blues marketing people are concerned. Long story short, Backes bleeds blue.

On the flip side, should Payne go a different route and give the C to someone else, Backes will still be the unofficial leader of the Blues. Think back to when Brewer was given the Captain’s role – did rookies like Perron, EJ, Oshie, and Berglund look up to Brewer and ask him for advice or go to Keith Tkachuk, who had been with the team since the beginning of 2000, sans a few games for the Thrashers? That answer is obvious even if we haven’t stepped foot in the Blues locker room.

Big Walt was no doubt the leader of the team the minute Chris Pronger and Al MacInnis left via trade and retirement, respectively. Brewer was hurt, sitting in the press box, and the team had a handful of players wearing the ‘A’ on the chest. Big Walt was the unquestionably the seniority member of those alternates. The dude lost a tooth to score a goal against the Blackhawks in a game that was out of reach in Payne’s debut as coach. That should settle any debate whether or not he was the true Captain at that point in time. And it’s no shocker that Backes learned the trade of crashing the net from Big Walt.

If this franchise is ever going to win the Stanley Cup in the next 8-10 years, I want Gary Bettman to announce to the crowd that David Backes can come get the Cup, shake his hand, and watch as he raises the Holy Grail over his head.

Eric Brewer:

Now former captain of the St.Louis Blues and current member of the Tampa Bay Lightning, Brewer played his best hockey in the 10-11 season as a member of the Blues. The big veteran defenseman had been plagued by injuries his entire time in St.Louis and was finally healthy for a full year, some will argue Brewer was in a contract year, I lead to believe health goes a long way and we finally got to see the real Eric Brewer that Larry Pleau traded for. Before Brewer was dealt to Tampa he had tied a career high in goals (8) in the regular season. Brewer’s success continues on as he along with Matthias Ohlund have anchored down the blue line for the Tampa Bay Lightning as they make a run for Lord Stanley.

Barrett Jackman:

There’s only a few words that can describe the veteran and longest tenured Blue, tough as nails. At times during the 2010-2011 season number 5 looked like a true number 1 defenseman, at other times he was a liability which often led to his play being scrutinized by fans. When healthy Barrett Jackman was the Blues most consistent defenseman this season; Jackman is a solid second line defenseman but can be overexposed logging too many minutes. I would like to hear what Patrick Kane has to say about playing against Jackman several times a year.

Erik Johnson:

Blues fans and management had high hopes for the former #1 overall pick heading into this year as Johnson left the Blues fans wanting more with his spectacular play at last year’s Olympics and hopeful that the young defenseman would mature into a franchise player. Johnson struggled mightily for the majority of the year, he arguably had his best game early in the year vs. the Pittsburgh Penguins, EJ dominated the overtime frame before netting his first goal of the year, Johnson recorded 19 points and was -8 in 55 games with Saint Louis. The up’s and downs of his play along with the emergence of rookie Alex Pietrangelo made the former #1 overall pick expendable in the eyes of Blues GM Doug Armstrong, rumors began to swirl around the hockey world that the Blues were shopping EJ, those rumors became true in the wee hours of the morning on February 19th as Johnson was dealt to Colorado along with Jay McClement.

Kevin Shattenkirk:

What a hurdle this kid overcame earlier in the year after being sent down to Lake Erie of the AHL and working his way back to the NHL and taking Avalanche fans by storm, acquired in the Johnson trade, most credible hockey sources considered “Shatty” to be a steal in the trade. The former first round pick Shattenkirk is known as a puck moving defenseman (compared by some to Brian Rafalski) who was a little raw on the defensive side. At times, Kevin Shattenkirk looked like a veteran defenseman. Shatty was tied for 5th (1st among d-man) in points amongst all rookies; he tallied 17 points in 26 games with St.Louis and has given the Blues blue line a new look. Blues fans have a lot to get excited about in the future with Pietrangelo and Shattenkirk manning the Blues back line. Shattenkirk is currently representing Team USA in the IIHF World Championships in Slovakia.

Ian Cole:

Not many Blues fans expected to see much of Ian Cole this year but with the amount of injuries and inconsistent play of Tyson Strachan (when inserted into the lineup); we were able to see Cole for 26 games. Cole not really known for an offensive game registered 4 points in his first year as a Blue, he picked up his 1st goal NHL and points against the Columbus Blue Jackets. Cole was solid in his first call up, after that his play was very lackluster, at times it looked as if the young defenseman was afraid to make a mistake in fear of being booked on the Peoria shuttle. In his most recent call up Ian Cole looked like a veteran defenseman, making quick smart decisions with the puck, stepping up and holding the blue line and using his size and strength more then what we had seen early in the year.

Alex Pietrangelo:

“Petro” made every game count when it came to his first full year in the NHL. The highly touted Blues rookie took the league by storm with his tremendous play this year. There’s not a single Blues fan out there that can honestly say that they expected Pietrangelo to be as good as he was this year’ Pietrangelo registered 11 goals and 43 points; Pietrangelo and teammate Kevin Shattenkirk led all rookie defenseman in scoring. Throughout the year Petro looked like a man among the boys, a 10 year veteran and an absolute stud not only on the offensive side of the puck but on the defensive side as well. The 21 year old has nowhere to go but up and has opened the eyes of many around the league; he will represent Team Canada in the IIHF World Championships.

Carlo Colaiacovo:

Not known or acquired for his defense, when healthy Colaiacovo was a steady/solid all around defender. Colaiacovo missed a handful of games on two occasions after being struck in the face by a puck, after the second occurrence Colaiacovo was forced to wear a full cage before switching to a half shield visor towards the end of the year. Carlo arguably played his best hockey down the stretch along side Alex Pietrangelo; the two have reportedly become very close and have made a bond, will the Blues shop Colaiacovo this summer in favor of a veteran defenseman or will they hold onto him? Time will tell. Carlo Colaiacovo was a late addition to team Canada in Slovakia for the IIHF World Championships.

Tyson Strachan:

Not much can be said about Strachan as he made the team out of camp as a 7th defenseman, before coming into this year Strachan had been a solid go to guy when called upon but when inserted into the lineup he was far from good this year, it’s not very hard to see when Ian Cole and Nikita Nikitin were recalled several times in favor of Strachan. I fully expect the Blues and Strachan to go their separate ways this summer.

Roman Polak:

After being one of the Blues most consistent all around defenseman in the 09-10 season the Blues and fans had high hopes for Roman Polak. Polak missed 27 games after being cut by Sidney Crosby’s skate early in October which required wrist surgery; Roman was not the same guy the rest of the year and his play left a lot to be desired although Polak played his best hockey down the stretch along side Russian defenseman Nikitia Nikitin. Look for Roman to bounce back in 11-12 to anchor the Blues defense and work his way into a top 4 position.

Nikita Nikitin

Blues fans didn’t know what to expect from the rookie Russian d-man, not much was out there in terms of scouting reports or analysis. Nikitin opened the season on the IR after breaking his wrist late in training camp. Nikitin made his NHL debut in November and was solid at times, but looked lost at times; it comes to be expected for a guy that did not speak a lick of English and was working with a translator and adjusting to a whole new culture. It’s been noted that Tyson Strachan took big Nikitin under his wing in terms of adjusting to the lifestyle in the United States. “NN64” was sent to Peoria to re-tool his game, after his recall Nikitin looked like a veteran defenseman and flat out looked more comfortable in the NHL. Nikitin is a big body defenseman who is physical, has a heavy shot as we’ve seen him on the power play and solid defensively, fully expect Nikitin to be better next season as he has a full summer to work out in North America with teammates and become more acquainted to the lifestyle.

Overall the Blues defense was mediocre, as the rest of the team injuries really affected this group; the penalty kill was not as good as the past couple of years but in large part that can be credited to the departure of Mike Weaver. The Blues found a new style of hockey that included an up tempo pace from their blue line after the deals that sent Eric Brewer and Erik Johnson packing, this has been some of the most exciting play we have seen from the blue liners since Pronger/MacInnis. General manager Doug Armstrong has some tough decisions to make come July 1st, it’s no secret that the Blues could benefit from the addition of a true veteran defenseman, two names that instantly come to mind is Kevin Bieksa and Hal Gil. Will Armstrong kick the tires on throwing an offer at these guys, or will he move a guy like Carlo Colaiacovo along with a draft pick and or prospect for a defenseman? Another reason to keep your eyes peeled to the St.Louis Blues this summer, bottom line is this team and organization cannot afford to miss the playoffs yet again in the 11-12 season.

-

The St. Louis Blues attempt to stretch their winning streak to three as they arrive in Nashville to take on the Predators for the fourth time this season. Can the Blues contain the usual suspects?

Lineup

Projected lineup based on keen speculative guess work. Will update as confirmations become available

Forward Lines

Andy McDonald – David Backes – Brad Boyes
Alex Steen – Patrik Berglund – Matt D’Agostini
Brad Winchester – Jay McClement – BJ Crombeen
Vladimir Sobotka – TJ Hensick – Chris Porter/Cam Janssen

Defensive Pairings

Eric Brewer – Alex Pietrangelo
Carlo Colaiacovo – Erik Johnson
Nikita Nikitin – Tyson Strachan

Goaltender

Jaroslav Halak is the expected starter.

Injured (Out)

Roman Polak (Wrist – Late December/January)
David Perron (Concussion- Day to Day)
TJ Oshie (Fracture Ankle – January/February 2011)

Blues News, Game Notes & Random
Thoughts

- Barrett Jackman has been practicing with the team and may make his return to the lineup tonight. He has missed nine games with a knee injury sustained on November 4th against San Jose. If Jacks is back, expect Nikitin to get a night off.

(*Update 12:45pm CST: Jackman has been activated from IR. Expected in the lineup. According to Dan O’Neill, they are likely dressing 7 Defensemen.)

- SSDD regarding David Perron’s recovery.

- Brad Boyes is on fire lately. Registering 4 goals and 7 points in his last 7 games.

- Anyone else noticed Patrik Berglund has 13 points in 19 games? Basically a 60 point pace over 82 games. Quietly rebounding nicely in the first quarter of the season.

- Is Matt D’Agostini the biggest postitve surprise this season? I think so. His 6 goals in 19 games is a 26 goal pace for a full season. A good deal at a minimal salary.

- Negative Surprise? Has to be Erik Johnson’s 5 points in 19 games offensive output. Kudos on the improved defense, but the offensive play needs to start improving.

– Can the Blues shut down Patric Hornqvist? In 9 career games against he has 4 goals and 9 points. Doing so will be key as is a primarty offensive catalyst on the Preds roster.

– Keep an eye on Brad Winchester to see if his eleveated level of play continues or starts to slide. Any degredation of play could easily earn Steen his old spot back.

- Pekka Rinne is starting in net.

- According to the Preds Blogososphere, expect US Olypmian and Shea Weber’s pairing parter Ryan Suter to return. A big bonus for a weakened Nashville blueline. David Legwand didn’t skate this morning and will not dress.

REMINDER

The game is on at 7:00 PM Central on Versus, not FSMW. KMOX 1120 AM will still carry the game.

I know Doug Armstrong has said that the roster is virtually set heading in to training camp. Barring a trade, the Blues are ready to get the 2010-11 NHL season started.

What if a trade is out there?

No rumor here, just my own conclusions and hypothetical pondering.

As mentioned by Caps blogger Steven Hindle, Barrett Jackman would look very good on the Caps blue-line. The Blues could also be in the market to add some scoring ability at forward with the loss of Paul Kariya and Keith Tkahuck. Is there a match to be made?

Yes and no.

The Blues have three previous 30+ goal scorers. David Backes, Brad Boyes and Andy McDonald. Alex Steen netted 24 last season. TJ Oshie, David Perron and Patrik Berglund can all score 15 or more goals. Both BJ Crombeen and Brad Winchester have scored 10 or more in a season. So has Matt D’Agostini. There is plenty of depth, but questions remain. Can Berglund, Backes and Boyes rebound to be legitimate scoring threats? Can Steen and McDonald maintain their level? Can Oshie and Perron grow?

The Blues are banking on a “yes” to to all of the above.

Doubters can look to Czech scorer Tomas Fleischmann is an attractive potential return from Washington. His 42 goals in 142 games over the last two seasons may not seem like much, but the ability is there. He has progressively increased his goal total over the last three seasons from 10 to 19 to 23 in less than full seasons. Caps Head Coach Bruce Boudreau has said Fleischmann has the ability to score 30 goals a season in the NHL. At 26 he is would be a long term addition with a short term boost. Giving the Blues three capable scoring lines.

Has Fleischmann been hidden behind the Ovechkin show or is he benefiting from going against weaker lines and defensive pairings? That is a question Doug Armstrong likely doesn’t want to answer. Especially when it would cost a veteran on a younger blue-line.

The likely scenario is that the Caps would like to move a non-skill player like Dave Steckel or Jason Chimera. The Blues are have plenty of enery line depth. Interest would be very low for that type of return.

I’m very skeptical that the Caps would make an offer that is solid enough for Armstrong to pull the trigger. Then again the Halak deal came out of left field.

5 Predictions – The Forwards

On Monday I took a look at five goal scoring predictions. Today I want to look at the Forwards in general.

5. Cam Janssen continues to improve his overall game and shows he is capable of playing more than 3 minutes a night.

4. Jay McClement has another solid season and ends with 35 points. Not a finalist for the Selke, but in the contention when the season is over.

3. Patrick Berglund and David Perron assert themselves as consistent offensive producers. Both hit 20 or more goals and 50 or more points.

2. David Backes produces more consistently offensively and fully makes his case for an extension and to be the next captain of the Blues.

1. Alex Steen maintains his high level of two way play to the tune of a 20-20-40 season with a Plus rating.

Other News and Notes

Aaron Music, Avs blogger for Hockeybuzz, has an blog up with his take on the Blues rebuild.

The Fourth Period’s take on the Blues offseason. You should be following Blues TFP correspondent Susan Crosby on Twitter, @kittypets

The Hockey News says TJ Oshie is one of 5 players to watch in 2010-11. I agree. Also on the list: Filppula (DET), Jordan Staal (PIT), Okposo (NYI), and Karlsson (OTT).

THN also predicts the Blues are in the Top 8 in the West. They haven’t been listed from 15 to 9…

Blues Q&A 7 is rolling along this week.

Question: Who should start the season paired with Erik Johnson? Barrett Jackman, Eric Brewer or Carlo Colaiacovo?

Vote on Twitter by sending an @ message to @MuSigma45 and @BluteNoteZone.

Voting goes through 11:59 PM Saturday, August 21st.

Location: Scottrade Center, St. Louis, MO
Game-time: 7:00 pm Central
TV: FSMW (HD)
Radio: KMOX 1120 AM

Stat Pack

St Louis Blues: 13th in Western Conference & 4th in Central Division – 51 Points

Anaheim: 11th in Western Conference & 5th in Pacific Division – 53 Points

Power Play:
Anaheim (Road): 12.6%, (26th)
St. Louis (Home): 14.4%, (29th)

Penalty Kill
Anaheim (Road): 76.9%, (22nd)
St. Louis (Home): 87.5% (T-10th)

Goals Scored per Game vs. Goals Against per Game
Anaheim (Road): 2.20 GF/G (26th) | 3.20 GA/G (23rd)
St. Louis (Home): 2.46 GF/G (26th) | 3.08 GA/G (27th)

Hot & Cold
Anaheim : Matt Beleskey (5 Goals in Last 10 Games) | Jonas Hiller(3 Goals or more allowed in Last 5 Starts)
St. Louis: Alex Steen (4 Goals and 6 Points in Last 6 Games) | Erik Johnson (2 Assist in Last 19 Games)

Food For Thought

What might have been, eh?

The Blues departed on a week long, three game road trip out by less than 10 points. A sweep would have meant being three points back of the 8th spot (current held by the Deadthings). Instead lack luster play in Columbus and Ottawa has lead the Blues to being seven points back. Only gaining one point on the final spot in three games.

The Ducks come to town charging up the standings. They are 7-4-0 this month and have split their last four after winning 5 straight.

If you take a gander (bad Duck pun I know) down at the Player Notes you will see TJ Oshie listed as centering the “top line”. He will skate between Paul Kariya and Brad Boyes. It seems like Brad has served his time on the checking lines and is making a comeback to the scoring lines. I have to honestly say I am excited to see how TJ does at Center. In my opinion, Coach Payne is showing a lot of confidence in our young padawan learner (reference is linked below) to step up and take charge of an important mission. Will Payne use the “Oshie” line the same way Backes was used? To take on the other teams top line? With Boyes out there I somehow doubt that. I would expect to see the match up card played and the McSteenbeen line seeing the Getzlaf line quite often at even strength.

If you look down again you will see Patrik Berglund moved down to “line 4″ with Brad Winchester and Cam Janssen. I am interested to see how fans react to this move. Andy Murray had made similar moves multiple times earlier this season, much to the chagrin of the fans. I don’t see anything too wrong with that, but at the same time it should be a one game move, or so long as Backes is out. Relying on Keith Tkachuk to center the second line with Andy McDonald and David Perron is not ideal. Hopefully Berglund keeps his feet moving and plays hard, earning a mid game line promotion.

Anyone think that Barrett Jackman has forgotten the knee to knee “hit” form Ryan Getzlaf? I doubt he has. Watch out for a fired up Jackman tonight.

Previews and Links

Blues Official Website Preview

Jeremy Rutherford’s Morning Skate Blog is now up.

Norm Sanders Blog up on Steen and tonight’s game.

Gameday Thread @ STLTODAY.com Blues Forums

HF Boards Gameday Thread

STL Game Time has their preview up as well…gotta say…not so impressed with the Star Wars spin on the Might Ducks.

The OC Register has a take on the game as well. I will say, it leaves a lot to be desired.

Lou Korac has just put up his Gameday as well. Take a look here.

Barkin’ For the Blues is happening down at the Scottrade tonight. Proceeds form this event will go to benefit Stray Rescue of St. Louis (Barrett’s Buddies) and the St. Charles Humane Society (David’s Dogs).

The Blues are also having a 50/50 Raffle at the game to raise money to help earthquake ravaged Haiti.

Difference Makers:

Special Teams

The Blues were totally shut down by the Senators Thursday night. They were held scoreless on the power play and killed only ONE of FOUR Senator power plays. The Ducks come in to tonight’s game with one of the leagues worst Road Special Teams Units. If the Blues want to win and start crawling back in to the race for the 8th spot

Player Notes:

I would expect to see Chris Mason back between the pipes tonight. According to Lou Korac (via Ducks radio color commentator Dan Wood), Jones Hiller will start tonight for the Ducks.

Most reports coming in to today mentioned David Backes returning tonight/ According to Lou and Belleville News Democrat scribe Norm Sanders, that will not be the case. Both Backes and Carlo Colaiacovo are expected to be out for tonight’s game. Assuming the pairs stay in tact, look to see a lot of Jackman-Polak and Brewer-Johnson at even strength with Weaver and Sydor working the kill. Here is a link to Norm’s most recent blog.

Lou also has the lowdown on the lineup:

Paul Kariya-T.J. Oshie-Brad Boyes
Andy McDonald-Keith Tkachuk-David Perron
Alex Steen-Jay McClement-B.J. Crombeen
Brad Winchester-Patrik Berglund-Cam Janssen

Eric Brewer-Erik Johnson
Barret Jackman-Roman Polak
Darryl Sydor-Mike Weaver

Chris Mason in net.

Keys to the Game

1. Special Teams need to be special again
-  As much improvement the Blues have seen from their power play, the timely goals are still not there often enough to steal them needed points. The power play must click at home to drop the Ducks.

2. It’s Over and Done
- Forgot the road trip and opportunity lost. Start a new at home and get back in the race.

3. Clean Up  the Game
- Keep it simple. Play hard, fast, and always keep moving. Don’t take bad penalties where the Ducks skill players can work you over.

Who to Watch for?

TJ Oshie

Tonight TJ Oshie fills in for David Backes as the center on the Blues "top line". TJ has had solid game after solid game this season. Look for TJ to have a good one thrust in to an important role.

I made a point to keep track of scoring chances last night. Maybe not the same scoring chances the league would offer to you, but chances that went on net for a play that could have lead to a goal. Here is what I came up with by period.

1st Period – Calgary – 5 | St.Louis – 4
2nd Period - Calgary – 9 | St. Louis – 9
3rd Period – Calgary – 4 | St. Louis – 3
Overtime – Calgary – 2 | St. Louis – 4
Total – Calgary – 20 | St. Louis – 20

Ballparking it, there were about 40 decent chances at creating a goal and only two goals were scored. The game really was a defensive battle decided by the goaltending.

The marquee match up was the Jackman-Polak pairing facing the Iginla line. Iginla was held to three shots on goal and a Minus-1 rating. Jarmoe is possibly the best Power Forward in the game and Jackman was able to match his level of physical play. This game looked much more like his performance shutting down the Thornton Line vs. San Jose than his performance against Tampa Bay. I like that Murray focused more on just matching Ginila with Jackman than trying to match the Iginla line with the McClement stopper line and the Jackman-Polak pairing.

Keeping with the defensemen, I was not impressed with the Brewer-Johnson pairing. I though both had solid games, but nothing earth shattering from those two. Which is probably a good thing on the road. I was a little concerned that Brewer fell down or nearly fell down multiple times. Not sure if it was the ice or just Eric getting back in to the swing of things. I was impressed with Johnson’s close quarters puck handling and passing in his own zone. Multiple times he protected the puck in a tight area and quickly send the puck over to his supporting forward to clear the puck from the zone. You can see the small things and details falling back in to place for EJ. It’s only a matter of time before he is rolling again.

Didn’t see much out of Colaiacovo, but mike Weaver quietly had a very good game. He just seems to know the perfect time to pinch, dump, pass, clear, etc. The list just goes in. He is really reminding me of Rob Scuderi and what he meant to the Penguins the last two years. A safe and steady 3rd pairing defensemen who can take out his man and play the penalty kill. His little dump play when the shooting lane was blocked lead to the Berglund goal. If Weaver tries to shoot, that’s blocked and an odd man rush going the other way. Instead it turned in to the first goal of the game.

Overall the Blues effort level was good enough to get points, but not to the same level that was displayed in Vancouver and Edmonton. The Blues did work their transition quickly, mainly because at least one forward was coming back to help get the puck up ice. Brewer had multiple good outlet passes as did Weaver. I also liked that I saw the Blues push the forecheck deeper in the zone. Multiple times the Blues had one man pressing around the net and two on the boards around the faceoff circle. The aggressive forecheck worked well when the guys were moving their feet. Calgary was able to match and get speed going up ice because of their defensemen. It seemed like they were a little more willing to let their defensemen carry the puck to exist the zone where the Blues did not. The Blues were out hit 26 to 11. Calgary really does like the up tempo physical game, but the Blues cannot be out hit that badly on the road. There were some good hits in this game delivered by TJ Oshie and Daymond Langkow. The Blues did a better job supporting each other fighting for pucks and it turned in to more puck battles won. Calgary really dominated their boards in first period and most of the game.

Not too many teams are so good at playing the puck in to open space, but the Blues did a good job. While I am a bit of a homer for my teams, I have to say that the Penguins do this better than anyone and the Blues did it to a similar level. The Boyes second effort chip in to the zone to allow McDonald to break in on net is a play the Pens use. The Brewer defensive zone chip along the boards around to Oshie to clear the zone is another example. It was nice to see the puck in open space and the Blues racing to pick it up. That speed creates confusion for the defenders and opportunity for the attackers.

I said in the Gameday blog that Berglund and Perron would be difference makers and they were. Berglund played at a very high level for the second game in a row and Perron had an improved game going. He seemed a little more decisive with the puck to me in the offensive zone. I didn’t like the weak Holding the Stick penalty he took in the offensive zone, but generally he was effective. Berglund looks like the 2008 version only a year wiser now. He was back checking, supporting the players on the boards, working deep in both zones. He just needs to find a way to keep up the effort. The effort level is making his game simpler and its producing results.

The power play wasn’t so hot, but the Blues penalty killing was status quo.

Calgary did a good job of managing the Kariya-Backes-Oshie line. They really didn’t allow them any room to operate and set up chances. They couldn’t get set or create pressure in transition. The Blues reciprocated holding Rene Bourque to one legit scoring chance that he put high and wide on Masons’s left.

The Blues didn’t really contain Olli Jokinen very well though. He had 3 very good scoring chances. Two off the post and one big save by Mason. You can’t contain everyone and Mason (with some luck) handled the rest.

The Blues lost multiple important 3rd period faceoffs. Interesting that McClement and Tkachuk couldn’t get it done, but Backes won his defensive zone faceoff. Overall the Blues only lost 3 more than they won (winning 25 of 53), but the third period Calgary seemed to control the faceoff dot.

Calgary’s only goal came off a shot form Mark Giordano from the point that found its way through.

In the third the Blues never really generated scoring chances. By my count they had three, but they couldn’t get the puck up ice often with control of the puck. The only positive of this was that the puck went deep most of the time they made it to the red line. Which is key late in the game to force the other team to carry the puck the full length of the ice.

The Blues had a higher volume of chances and they were generated by Johnson and a nice passing play by Polak to Oshie. Polak is starting to show some legit offensive ability as well. In overtime Polak’s play will become an important asset to help generate chances.

The shootout winner came from TJ Oshie on his 23rd Birthday. Did Kiprusoff even try to stop it? Didn’t look like it.  Boyes had a very nice head fake to a forehand stuff goal similar to TJ Oshie’s first shootout goal vs. Chicago last year. Calgary failed to make Mason make a save in the shootout. One his iron and the other didn’t even go on net.

The Blues and the rest of the NHL have two days off before retuning to action on Saturday the 26th. The Blues will be in Minnesota to fight off the Minnesota Wild. Going in to that game both teams are tied with 39 points. An important game in deed.

Blues Player of the Game

Patrik Berglund

Berglund scored the Blues only goal in the second period. Berglund now has 2 Goals and 3 Points in his last 2 Games.

]]> http://bluenotezone.com/2009/12/24/recap-12-23-09-blues-vs-flames/feed/ 2 http://bluenotezone.com/2009/12/15/gameday-12-15-09-blues-vs-flames/ http://bluenotezone.com/2009/12/15/gameday-12-15-09-blues-vs-flames/#comments Tue, 15 Dec 2009 06:14:07 +0000 Jeff Quirin http://bluenotezone.com/?p=877

Game Info

Location: Scottrade Center, St Louis, MO.
Game-time: 7 pm Central
TV: NO TV
Radio: KMOX 1120 AM

Stat Pack

Calgary Flames: 5th in Western Conference & 2nd in Northwest Division – 42 Points
St Louis Blues: 14th in Western Conference & 5th in Central Division – 31 Points

Power Play:
St Louis (Home): 10.8%, 30th in NHL
Calgary (Road): 15.2%, 22nd in NHL

Penalty Kill
St Louis (Home): 83.3%, 12th in NHL
Calgary (Road): 87.3%, 2nd in NHL

Goals Scored per Game vs Goals Against per Game
St Louis (Home): 2.12 GF/G (30th) | 2.82 GA/G (19th)
Calgary (Road): 2.72 GF/G (10th) | 1.94 GA/G (3rd)

Hot & Cold
St Louis: None | Andy McDonald (1 assist in his last 7 games)
Calgary: Jarmoe Iginla (12 goals in 18 road games) | Not Many when on the road.

Food For Thought

Yet another night where the Blues will honor a member of days past. Tonight’s ceremonies are for the great Golden Brett, Brett Hull. The last time such a ceremony was held, former coach Mike Kitchen was let go a short while after. Will history repeat itself?

The Blues do not have a good history against Calgary, at least in the last few years. The Blues can look no further than Mikka Kiprusoff for an explanation why. In his last 8 starts against the Blues (2007 to current season) he is 7-1-0 with a 2.23 GAA and .916 Save%.

Calgary is the third stingiest team on the road in the NHL. Posting a 1.96 GAA on the road. The previously mentioned Kiprusoff has something to do with that. On the road Calgary has one everyday player at s negative figure in the +/- column (Eric Nystrom, Minus-1). Do those two figures paint an accurate portrayal of what the Blues will be facing Tuesday night? A team that plays tight road game and gets good goaltending. The Blues have had issues with teams that play that way all season.

Will Calgary push over the powder puff version of the Blues? Hopefully not if Barret Jackman has anything to say about it. I absolutely love his attitude in a quote from a recent St. Louis Post Dispatch article.

When Andy Murray heard what Barret Jackman said after the Blues’ 5-3 loss to Edmonton on Friday, the coach was puzzled.

Frustrated after the team blew a three-goal lead, Jackman told reporters, “If guys need to be sitting, or if guys need to be smacked upside the head by a teammate, it’s going to have to happen.”

Truer words haven’t been spoken by Barrett. Yes, he was an accessory to the crime last Friday night, but his words still ring through. This team is playing soft and easy to run over on Scottrade Ice. Chris Mason talked about the Blues problems on his weekly segment on 101.1 ESPN Radio’s The Fast Lane Monday night as well. To paraphrase, Mason said that he cannot remember a game last year where the team was outworked. That Scottrade was one of the hardest arenas to play in throughout the league and this year it’s the opposite.

The part that should really bother Blues fans is that they are both 100% on the mark and very little has been done 30 games in to the season. At least very little that the everyday fan can see. Sure, things might change behind the Blues doors, but the fans still see the same song and dance on the ice.

I was at the HoHo Show Sunday night down at Scottrade (Thanks Breaking Benjamin for the seats once again). I have to say that I was more entertained at that show than I was by any hockey game I’ve seen in person this year. I heard Sick Puppies play You’re Going Down and wondered when the last time I heard that at a game? As much as I want to see four lines roll, I want to see Cam Janssen dress (whom I saw with quite an entourage at the concert) and beat the tar out of someone in a Calgary uniform. The Blues need to be dirty and scrappy and not be pushed around on a night celebrating the greatest player to play for this franchise. Wayne doesn’t count, he wasn’t here long enough. I really hope that I show up tomorrow and see Winchester-Tkachuk-Janssen on a line multiple times.

Difference Makers:

It’s not going to be goal scoring…at least for the Blues. This is about strength against strength.

This is going to be about the “McSteenbeen” Line and the Jackman-Polak pairing getting back on their feet and shutting down Calgary’s top line. All five were touched for goals late in Edmonton’s comeback. They will all need to be on their top form to stop the likes of Rene Bourque, Jarome Iginla, and Olli Jokinen. Then all the have to worry about is Jay Bouwmeester and Dion Phaneuf activating off the blue line.

I know many fans, myself included, want to see less matching and more flow at home. THe Blues can do that, but they need to keep tabs on the top producers and at least try to match them against Jackman and Polak.

Player Notes:

I do not see how Chris Mason will not get the start after Conklin’s 3rd Period shelling last Friday.

The Lines/Pairings looked like the following  at Sunday’s skate per St. Louis Post Dispatch Blues writer Jeremy Rutherford.
Andy McDonald-Keith Tkachuk-Brad Boyes
Paul Kariya-David Backes-T.J. Oshie
David Perron-Jay McClement-B.J. Crombeen
Brad Winchester-Patrik Berglund-Alex Steen

Barret Jackman-Roman Polak
Darryl Sydor-Erik Johnson
Carlo Colaiacovo-Mike Weaver

Looks like we may not see Cam Janssen, but given some of the recent chippy history between the two teams, I could see Berglund being scratched in favor of Cam.

Keys to the Game

1. Shut Down the Big Men
- The Blues did this for 2 periods against Edmonton. Can they do it for three? If they get Jokinen and Iginla, can they stop Bourque. Maybe one of the most underrated scoring wingers in the NHL right now. He is cut from a comparable mold that fit David Booth and Zach Parise. A strong, quick, agile left winger who can produce goals from all over the offensive zone.

2. Watch for the Defensemen
- Another team from Alberta and another team to worry about offense off the blue line. Phaneuf and Bouwmeester are deadly threats from the point. IF they Blues want to win, its not just Iginla and Kiprusoff they have to resolve.

3. Take the Game to the Flames
- There must be a 100% commitment to the North-South game. Working hard to support exiting the zone, getting through the neutral zone, getting pucks deep and supporting the forecheck. Do that, just like in a road game and two points should be attainable.

Who to Watch for?

Jarome Iginla

With 12 goals in 18 road contests, the Blues need to be on the lookout for one of the best power forwards in the league.

I am going to try to keep it brief on a work night.

- Physical Presence
The Blues matched the level of physical play San Jose brought. They really remind me of the Caps. A big team with skill. The Blues were strong in their own crease, protecting Conklin and generally strong getting to Nabakov. They didn’t always succeed, but the effort was there. The effort to work the boards was ok, but the second man support was not present many times tonight.

I commend David Backes for taking the body to Dany Heatley in the third period, but why drop teh gloves? heatley is not going to man up and go tow to toe with Backes. For one he knows he would get destroyed. Second, it was the wrong time to even try from a Sharks point of view. The momentum could have easily shifted back to the Blues.

- Offensive Pressure
I thought the Blues had good offensive possession, but in general generated no second chances. Partly due to Nabakov’s play, partly due to the defensive positioning of the Sharks, and partly due to the Blues inability to take a quick shot. The Blues were prone to the old “just inside the blue line” turnovers, but for the most part it wasn’t as bad as previously this season.

The Backes and McDonald lines continue to do very well. For all their hard work, all they had to show was a Minus-1 rating with no points. However, the chances were there and pressure was greatest while those 6 were on the ice.

The rust continues to fall off Erik Johnson. He floats around the offensive zone more and more each game. He is really looking like a bigger version of Mike Green. He doesn’t move as well laterally as Green does, but the offensive zone pressure and creativity is there, especially at even strength. I was really impressed with his pinches deep in to the zone. He really wasn’t burnt tonight getting deep. The team is backing him up more and he is picking better times to do it. He had 4 shots, but he crated at least twice as many chances.

I was really disheartened by the volume of one and done chances on Nabakov. He was finding the lanes the Blues were shooting in, but in general the shots were easy to control based on his position. Give credit to the Sharks limiting of the Blues lateral movement. They need that to get Nabakov moving and the Sharks really didn’t allow it. The Blues also can’t get a “quick shot” off. It takes too long to get from pass reception to shot far too often.

Part of that one and done I think was a level of predictability with the Blues even strength offense. Once in the zone the Blues carry down to the red line, cut back up the wall and dis to the point or force to middle. Yes, I was very happy to see fewer in tight chances with little room. At the same time, they need some to keep the defense honest and not break up the lateral play to the middle out high. Which is how Heatley scored the first goal of the game. The Blues didn’t have an ability to break up that lateral pass. The Sharks did.

- The Tenacious Trio
The Blues did a good job of limiting their chances. You cannot prevent them all, so limit what you can and hope for the best. They did that with the McClement line and the Jackman/Polak pairing. Heatley did get the first of the game with an assist for Thornton, but for the rest of the game they were off the score sheet. I was not impressed with Patrick Marleau. The Blues were physical on them and made them pay the price every time to get to the net.

- Bad Penalties
I am calling out Mike Weaver, Brad Boyes, and Keith Tkachuk on this one. Weaver, Tkachuk, and the Blues bench combined to 6 penalty minutes between the 15 minute mark of the first and 11 minute mark of the second. Three straight penalties that really gave San Jose control of the flow of the game till about 5 minutes left in the second. Yes, San Jose’s home power play is bad, but you cannot give talent that many chances to take over a game. More times than not, they will.  Under normal circumstances, 5 penalties to San Jose would mean at least on power play goal. The Blues played with fire and go lucky going 5 for 5 on the kill.

- Players
Jackman – Perhaps his best game of the season. He was working hard, getting a little dirty in front of the net and helped to shut down the top line in the NHL. IN a post game interview, Colaiacovo called Jackman the “heart and soul of this team”. Pretty hefty words passed along over Twitter by Blues Radio Play-by-play guy Chris Kerber.

Johnon – As mentioned before he was all over. Took a shot off his foot in OT and was really hobbling, didn’t miss a shift.

Colaiacovo – Mediocre game, but came through when needed. Though he looked sluggish at times, but made a couple good rushes. Cant complain with him notching the game tying goal with less than a minute left.

Oshie – Working hard and rewarded with the game winning shootout goal. The chemistry with Backes is certainly still there. Nice hesitation to draw out the poke check on Nabakov and slide it it under him for the Shootout winner.

Backes – Was all over the ice and had a very nice power move to the net (with speed) coming off his off hand wall.

Berglund – Was the same Berglund as before. Not working hard enough. It’s time for a drive up to Peoria.

Tkachuk – Starting to really show his age. You want him in, but a few nights of a lessened load might help. I know he time has been cut back from where it was in October, but maybe he needs a few lighter games and put the brunt of the load on the top 2 lines.

Boyes – As good as he had been playing, we was borderline invisible again to night. Losing battles for pucks and offensive zone turnovers. Amazing that his lazy hooking penalty nearly cost us the game, but “won” the game at the same time.

McDonald – Still creating chances, but nothing has been going in for his line. When Pang commented that he wondered if McDonald would go stick side where he has had success lately..I thought “I hope he goes fore hand > back hand and throws off Nabakov”. Sure enough he did and it worked.

Conklin – He deserves his own category for tonight, he was just that good. It is really refreshing to have a capable, experienced back up who can step in and steal a game on the road. He wasn’t given much chance on the Heatley goal and the Pavelski goal was a deflection because no one picked him up coming to the net. What Conklin saw, he stopped. That’s all you can ask on the road. He carried the Blues tonight stopping 32 of 34 shots and 2 of 3 in the shootout.

- Overtime and the Extra Point
Someone mentioned on a Blues forum how much they dislike the “loser point”. I have to say that I love it and am totally for keeping it. That “loser point” kept the Blues in the playoff hunt last year (as it did for several other teams). It also kept fans coming to many more games than they would have normally.

Tonight that “loser point” gave the Blues a reason to really push for the tie. They could have packed it in after the second and gotten ready for LA. They didn’t and they were rewarded with a crazy goal from Colaiacovo and an exciting OT. Tonight’s game is a prime example as to why you keep the “loser point”.

- The Boston Effect
Could this game have a similar effect to this team as the huge comeback win in Boston last season did? It was a come back win against a high powered, tops in conference team in the shootout. I think so. This team is healthy (save Brewer) and starting to gel, taking 11 of their last 16 possible points over their last 8 games. That confidence will be needed facing an improving LA Kings team that has had the Blues number since the lock out.

Next up for the Blues is the LA Kings on Saturday afternoon, its a 3pm Central start on FSMW (HD).

Player of the Game

Ty Conklin

Ty Conklin lead the Blues to a 3-2 SO Victory with several key saves, stopping 32 of 34 total shots by the San Jose Sharks.

Location: Philips Arena Atlanta, Georgia
Game-time: 6:00 pm Central
TV: FS-MW
Radio: KMOX 1120 AM

Previews:

ESPN Preview
Blues Official Website Preview
Thrashers Official Website Preview

Food For Thought

The Blues are coming off a 2-1 Shootout loss to the Flyers Saturday night and are looking to pick up two points for the first time since October 28th. Minus two games in Sweden, the Blues have been mired in a funk full of inconsistent effort and mental break downs. Since the Carolina game, the Blues have picked up the pace. Taking points in the last two games and having solid performances in 3 of their last 4 losses. The only problem now is that the pucks aren’t going in the net, despite an elevated work ethic.

Atlanta is a team without its Captain. The Blues know this feeling. However, the Blues didn’t lose a 45 goal, 90+ point scoring, top 10 player in the league. Ilya Kovalchuk is out and will not play. They are also with out the services of  goalie Kari Lehtonen. Starting in goal is Ondrej Pavelec. Considered one of the better goalie prospects in the league, he has in general struggled at the NHL level. A career 3.32 GAA and .898 Save% in 31 Games Played shows how he has struggled. You cannot deny talent, but Pavelec is still only 22 and has time to build a solid career still.  Playing against Pavelec would be a a great opportunity for the Blues. His GAA’s in the last three games are 4.00, 4.10, and 7.53.  In those three games he has let in 13 goals on 95 shots. Poor play by the goalie or poor play of the defense? Either way this should be recipe for Blues success.

With both teams coming off a game last night, its possible we see Ty Conkin and Johan Hedberg. In case you are wondering Hedberg is 4-2-0 with one shutout against the Blues for his career. I love historical stats like that, but it may not hold too much water in this case. His last game versus the Blues was in 2006. The Blues are a vastly different team now compared to almost 4 years ago.

While Atlanta has been sliding, their power play is still dangerous. Currently the power play is clicking at a 25.5% rate for 3rd best in the NHL. The Blues did a good job versus the best power play in the league Saturday (Flyers), let’s hope that continues. With the Blues latest surge in penalty killing proficiency they have worked back to an 82% kill rate, good enough for 11th in the NHL. The last few games have had a very interesting dynamic of  high level power plays versus the Blues penalty kill. The Blues have held the Flames and Flyers to a combined 1-for-11 on the power play. Can the Blues take down another highly rated power play? If they do, it should mean at least a point based in the last few games.

Player News

Carlo Colaiacovo was basically a health scratch last night. Officially, I believe he was listed as out with the flu. However, earlier this week Andy Strickland of Hockeybuzz.com reported that Colaiacovo should play today.

Andy McDonald and Barret Jackman are with the team on this trip and are expected to play today. What does that mean for Alex Pietrangelo and Lars Eller? I would assume Eller is heading back to Peoria and Pietrangelo will be scratched. That would leave the Blues with 22 players on the active roster. That seems to be the “easiest” move to make.

I have not heard if Chris Mason or Ty Conklin will start.

I will try to get an update in once Rutherford or Strickland put out some info on who is expected to play tonight. There will be some roster moves no doubt. I just hope it includes Eller not heading back to Peoria. I believe if the Blues wanted to file the paperwork, they can keep Eller on the roster as a traditional call up. Right now he was recalled under emergency conditions for the injured Andy McDonald. Given that Peoria is off till the 11th and the Blues play again on the 10th, I can see Eller staying up and then being sent back after the game against Vancouver. The Blues play Vancouver at home so it would be a short trio for Lars.

Will Blues fans riot when Eller is sent back to Peoria? I say yes if he keeps playing well.

Who to Watch For?

Rich Peverley

Since the Thrashers claimed Peverley off waivers from the Nashville Predators, he has been a very solid player. He has 2o goals and 52 points in 53 career games for the Thrashers. Many fans of the Western Conference team do not likely remember him from the few games he played in Nashville, but you will remember him after tonight.

Prediction

Blues 5 (Perron, Backes, Boyes x2, Johnson)

Thrasher 3 (Peverley, Kane, Little)

It started with Jackman, a defenceman that wont find the scoresheet very often, but seems to have a steadying influence on the entire defence. His work on the PK can’t be understated. His return to the lineup should not be rushed however, as the dreaded high ankle sprain can reappear rather quickly, ala TJ Oshie last year.

Speaking of Oshie, all Blues Fan’s understand the importance of this player to the team. His constant energy seems to trickle through the lineup whenever he plays. He’s an ideal winger for a player such as Berglund. Yet another piece of the PK unit that is sorely missed.

Staying with another huge part of the PK unit is Alex Steen, possible our best forward before he got hurt. His all-around game was as good as it ever was at the beginning of the year, being part of arguably the best shutdown line in the league with Jay McClement and BJ Crombeen.

The combination of missing these types of players who really bring that level of intangibles to the team can’t e understated. Cam Janssen has improved his game, but the sooner these forwards return and force him out of the lineup, the better the Blues will be.

It can be argued that Yan Stastny is making a case for taking Brad Winchester out of the lineup. Winchester seems to have taken a step back last year. You see flashes last years play, but not in long stretches. The talk of him improving his skating over the summer doesn’t seem to have translated into early season success. It’s a shame, because as he showed last year, he has the tools to be a very effective player. He’s a player that also is a great team player and quickly comes to the defence of any fellow Blue is necessary.

One would hope that this can be turned around without the return of these three, and this team definitely still has the available resources to play winning hockey without them, but the boost of these type of players returning could be huge.

Brewer’s Return

It sure was good seeing Eric Brewer on the ice again this past week. You could see some rust in his game in the last 2 games, but having him back was good. More suited to a shut down role, Brewer really should use his skating ability to get up in the play more often. Whenever he joins the rush, he seems to have the sense to put himself in the right position where the puck finds him. Doesn’t have the best finishing hands, but the more chances he creates, the better. I really liked when they paired him with Erik Johnson last game. They seemed to work fairly well together. If that pair sticks it would allow a pairing of Jackman, when healthy with Alex Pietrangelo. A partner like Jackman would serve Pietrangelo well, much like it did the Roman Polak last year, and Erik Johnson the year before. This pair wouldn’t be set in stone and in close games a player like Polak would be slotted in with Jackman. As has been discussed by many, there are decisions galore to be made on the Blues back-end in the coming weeks.