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Blues Camp: Urgency Key to Fast Start
18 Sep
Summary
- Blues camp prioritizes early intensity for faster season start.
- New camp structure divides players into NHL roster and bubble groups.
- Contract talks for key young players are ongoing but secondary to play.
The St. Louis Blues have revamped their training camp strategy under new general manager Alexander Steen and coach Jim Montgomery. The primary goal is to avoid slow starts to the regular season, a trend seen in recent years. This year's camp emphasizes "urgency" with an abbreviated exhibition schedule, leading to a condensed timeline and a more intense focus on practice drills and scrimmages.
A significant change involves dividing players into two distinct groups: Group A, comprising the projected NHL roster, and Group B, for players on the bubble or destined for the AHL. This structure allows for focused evaluation and aims to foster immediate chemistry among potential line combinations and defensive pairings.
Coach Montgomery unveiled initial line combinations and defensive pairings on the first day, aiming to establish Game 1 lineups early. Notable pairings include Dylan Holloway, Robert Thomas, and Jimmy Snuggerud, and Philip Broberg with Logan Mailloux. The team also addressed contract extensions for key restricted free agents like Snuggerud, Neighbours, and Hofer, with management emphasizing that on-ice performance will dictate future contracts.
GM Steen highlighted that the team's approach focuses on allowing players to prove their worth, stating, "The ice speaks for itself." The philosophy aligns with past successes after long breaks, aiming to replicate that intensity from the outset of the upcoming season.
