Brian Elliott didn’t have to work too hard for the Blues 12th shutout on the season. The Blues allowed only 13 shots on goal, and Elliott stopped every one of them en route to yet another shutout. That’s not to say that this afternoon’s game wasn’t without some excitement. In the first period you had Ryan Reaves’ surprising goal, and in the second period you get one from Barret Jackman (and Andy McDonald, which is less surprising). The third period? Who’s it gonna be?
Vladimir Sobotka, of course. He scored just his third goal of the year from David Perron’s laser of a pass:
It’s flabbergasting to think that’s Perron’s 16th assist of the season in just 33 games since his return from concussion. He’s 4th on the team in points in over 20 fewer games played than the three guys above him.
After Sobotka’s goal, the wheels came off the Wild and the frustration began to show. It’s understandable, considering the massive slide that they’ve undergone, but Warren Peters’ crosscheck of David Backes’ head was inexcusable and borne directly out of frustration. All you have to do is look at the third period penalties on the box score to understand what was going on. It’s not pretty. Peters more than likely will be getting a call from Brendan Shanahan to discuss his poor decision.
With the shutout, Brian Elliott solidifies his position at the tops of the NHL save percentage list, and re-gains the top of the league’s goals against average standings. He also has 6 shutouts, tying him with teammate Jaroslav Halak for the league lead.
Elliott will more than likely be in net tomorrow for the 11:3- game against the Chicago Blackhawks. Scramble some eggs, make some bacon, and get some bloody marys mixed up. Tomorrow is some brunch time hockey.