The St. Louis Blues hockey team has struggled this season with development, and finding a winning streak. With changes in players this year because of trades and new faces, the newest addition is Drew Bannister, as the Blues Head Coach.
General manager and president of the St. Louis Blues, Doug Armstrong came to the conclusion of firing Craig Berube after six straight seasons with the Blues. After four straight consecutive losses for the Blues, Armstrong took charge and eliminated what he thought was the issue. This change in authority happened December 12th, after the Blues played The Detroit Red Wings, and lost six to four.
With the recent trade of Robert Bortuzzo, the Blues have yet to find their rhythm this season. The Blues currently are in sixth in the Central Division, out of eight teams. With their record of 13-14-1, the team needs better consistency and effort. The Blues just acquired Kevin Hayes, who was expected to excel on the Blues, but has yet to show his talent on the ice.
The leading goal scorers Robert Thomas and Pável Buchnevich, only have just ten goals each. The team needs to generate more offensive opportunities that lead to better scoring chances. Fans were also expecting more from the new additions to the team, and returning players such as Sammy Blais and Jordan Kyrou.
Craig Burube was the first coach in Blues history to lead the boys to a Stanley Cup Championship in 2019, and has had plenty of other successes in his time as head coach. Fans are concerned by this recent coach change, because of how the boys are playing. Burube has been a consistent asset to the Blues players, and will be missed by many. Doug Armstrong has made some questionable decisions. The Blues hockey program needs a coach who won’t give up which is one of the many positive qualities Burube had.
Bannister has big shoes to fill by stepping up after Berube was fired. Blues fans are hoping this change in authority leads to a successful second half of the season. The Blues have lots of work to do and are fully capable with the talent at hand.
