Jim Montgomery's return to the St. Louis Blues has fans and analysts keenly observing how his seasoned coaching acumen will impact a team striving to find its rhythm. Previously an assistant coach for the Blues from 2020 to 2022, Montgomery steps into the role of head coach under a cloud of optimism tempered by challenges from the previous season.
Montgomery’s Significance
The Blues, after missing the playoffs last season under Drew Bannister, are eager for a turnaround. Montgomery, who experienced a notable tenure with the Boston Bruins, brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record. His dismissal from the Bruins came amid a challenging season streak, yet it cannot overshadow his achievement of a 65-win, 135-point season and his recognition as Coach of the Year for 2022-23.
Jim Montgomery has spoken openly about the significance of his appointment, noting, "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." Doug Armstrong, the President and General Manager of the Blues, expressed his confidence in Montgomery, stating, "He's one of those coaches that I really do believe can be with this team now and as it grows."
Challenges and Opportunities
The Blues have had a rocky start to the current season, holding a 9-12-1 record, and their offensive output, averaging 2.36 goals per game, places them in the bottom third for both the power play and penalty kill. Montgomery’s familiarity with over half the current Blues lineup offers a unique opportunity to leverage pre-existing relationships within the team. "I have worked with over half this lineup already, and I know how committed they are. For me, this was a no-brainer to come back home," Montgomery remarked with a sense of returning purpose.
The team has also faced the pressure of high stakes in a competitive league where nearly half of the NHL teams miss the playoffs each season. Montgomery is realistic yet optimistic about the team’s potential. "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," he shared, signaling a vision for gradual but assured improvement.
A New Chapter for the Blues
Jim Montgomery's enthusiasm is shared by Tom Stillman, head of the Blues' ownership group, whose commitment to the team’s new trajectory is underscored in the five-year deal offered to Montgomery. This long-term engagement speaks to a collective belief in a shared journey toward elevating the team’s performance. "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," Montgomery emphasized, highlighting the synergy desired between the coaching team and ownership.
Montgomery's career points percentage of .659 provides a solid foundation as he embarks on steering the Blues through a season that demands resilience and strategy. His philosophical guidance resonates with the wisdom learned over years in the sport. "The best line that put his hooks into me is, 'When you do the right thing, another door opens.' I guess I was a T-bone that day," he mused, embodying a profound understanding of the ebb and flow within professional sports.
Looking Ahead
As the St. Louis Blues enter this new chapter under Jim Montgomery's leadership, fans can anticipate a blend of tactical acumen and familiar leadership driving the team forward. Montgomery's track record and insights position him as a catalyst for transformation. The Blues face an uphill battle, but with Montgomery at the helm, there is a renewed sense of optimism and determination within the organization. The journey may be challenging, but the potential for success is tangible, as Montgomery’s return signifies not just a change in leadership but a reinvigoration of the team’s core values and aspirations.