Jaroslav Halak, as it was mentioned multiple times in this broadcast tonight, has the all time winning record in the Bell Center with a line of 38-15-3. He can add another win to that column after a masterful 3-0 shutout of the Montreal Canadiens. The Blues 7th shutout of the year (and second in a row) came from tight defense, excellent goaltending, and absolute grit that overpowered the smaller Habs team. Montreal can be dangerous when allowed to get their speed going, and the Blues stopped that by literally being all over them. The third period was all about keeping the shutout streak going, and the Blues did that perfectly.
The one goal in the third period came from Chris Stewart. Stewart, since he’s been paired with David Backes, has really come alive. The two power forwards were unstoppable tonight, with Stewart getting the assist on Backes’ goal, and now vice versa. A great defensive move by Backes to strip the Habs of the puck in their own end winds up on Stewart’s stick for an easy open net flick.
Halak ended the night having to make just 19 saves to improve the Blues’ record against the Eastern Conference to 8-0-0, and their record when scoring three or more goals to 18-0-0. The Montreal crowd rewarded him with a well deserved standing ovation and the first star of the game, which was pure class on their part.
For right now the Blues are in sole possession of first place in the Central Division and more than likely will be squaring off against the Vancouver Canucks on Thursday for first in the Western Conference.