In an era where NHL coaching changes are as common as power play drills, the St. Louis Blues are hoping their latest appointment will lead them to the promised land of postseason glory. Jim Montgomery, former assistant coach for the Blues from 2020-22, has returned to St. Louis, this time stepping up as the head coach after a turbulent stint with the Boston Bruins.
Montgomery's journey back to the Blues comes against a backdrop of recent upheaval. The Blues missed the playoffs last season under coach Drew Bannister, who himself had succeeded Craig Berube in December. With the team struggling early this season, beginning with a 9-12-1 record, it was clear that changes were necessary.
Montgomery, despite being dismissed from the Bruins following a difficult stretch where his team lost 12 out of 20 games, boasts a notable track record. His tenure with Boston was highlighted by an impressive 65-win, 135-point season in 2022-23, which not only solidified his reputation but also earned him the Coach of the Year accolade. This stark contrast between triumph and trial is a testament to the resilience that defines Montgomery’s coaching career.
The Call of the Blues
Returning to St. Louis was, in Jim Montgomery's words, "a no-brainer." Having already coached over half the current Blues lineup, Montgomery's familiarity with the team is an asset. As he remarked, "I have worked with over half this lineup already, and I know how committed they are. For me, this was a no-brainer for me to come back home." His previous association with the team and the players is anticipated to facilitate a smoother transition and integration of his strategies.
Montgomery shared insights into his decision-making process, influenced significantly by a conversation with Blues President and General Manager Doug Armstrong. "When you get a phone call and you hear Doug Armstrong's plan and how you're a big part of it, that makes you feel it is the right place to go," Montgomery stated, highlighting Armstrong’s vision for the team as a pivotal factor in his decision.
A Five-Year Commitment
The Blues' ownership, led by Tom Stillman, has shown its confidence in Montgomery by offering a five-year deal, evidencing a commitment to long-term development rather than short-term fixes. Montgomery noted the significance of this backing, asserting, "It's about your relationships in life... The five-year deal shows the commitment of Tom Stillman and the ownership group, that we are in this together."
With the Blues currently averaging 2.36 goals per game and ranking in the bottom third for both the power play and penalty kill, Montgomery has a challenging task ahead. The offensive and defensive stats indicate room for improvement, areas where Montgomery's strategic acumen will be tested. Yet, the depth of his experience and his existing rapport with much of the team provide a foundation for optimism.
Rebuilding for the Playoffs
The road to the playoffs is notoriously challenging. As Montgomery alluded, "It's not easy to make the playoffs in this league. Half the teams miss it. But I do think that in time this is a caliber playoff team." This perspective is a reminder of the competitive nature of the league and the substantial effort required to rise above the pack.
Underneath the surface statistics, there's a strong belief that Montgomery can mold the Blues into a formidable force. Doug Armstrong voiced his confidence, saying, "He's one of those coaches that I really do believe can be with this team now and as it grows." This endorsement reflects the management’s faith in Montgomery’s capabilities to guide the team not just through the current season, but into a successful future.
Jim Montgomery’s return to the St. Louis bench brings a blend of familiarity and new expectations. His challenge will be to capitalize on his previous successes while addressing the current struggles facing the franchise. The Blues are at a crossroads, and Montgomery’s leadership could be the catalyst for a resurgence back towards championship contention. As he embarks on this journey, the team, management, and fans alike are hopeful that his guiding philosophy — "When you do the right thing, another door opens" — will lead to the successes both he and the Blues aspire to achieve.
