No scoring this period, and it possibly was for a lack of trying on Detroit’s part. They had three straight power plays that period, and five straight for the game, but the Blues’ special teams coupled with the sudden impotency of the Red Wings’ power play made for smooth sailing for St. Louis. Three power plays in the third, and the Wings managed four shots on goal. If you’re trying to capitalize on another team’s goof-ups, here’s a hint: shoot at the net. The Blues, however, managed 11 shots on even strength most of the period save for a power play followed by a 5-on-3 power play to finish the game.
T.J. Oshie and Alex Steen both played like players possessed tonight. Oshie in particular has especially ratcheted up his game under coach Ken Hitchcock. The Blues as a whole are thriving. They’re 3-0-1 on the homestand under their new coach, taking seven of eight possible points. The Blues’ win puts them in a two-way tie with Detroit for third in the Central and a 5-way tie for the 8th and final play off spot. It’s too early to be standings-watching, but it’s still fun to watch the team creep up.
The Blues’ next challenge is against the Florida Panthers on Thursday to close out the homestand. The Panthers have been playing outstanding hockey and are on pace to make the playoffs for the first time in over ten years.