In a stirring return to St. Louis, Jim Montgomery stands at the helm of the Blues, donning a deep blue sweatshirt that prominently features the team’s iconic logo. Having previously served as an assistant coach from 2020 to 2022, Montgomery exudes palpable enthusiasm about his latest opportunity. “Crazy — there’s no other word for it,” the 55-year-old expressed, just days after the Boston Bruins let him go. Montgomery’s joy is evident as he steps into the role of head coach, following the dismissal of Drew Bannister. With extensive experience and a sense of familiarity with the current roster, Montgomery believes this appointment feels like a natural fit. “For me, this was a no-brainer to return home,” he confided.
Despite Montgomery’s optimism, the Blues are facing a daunting challenge. Their performance thus far this season has raised concerns among fans and management alike; with a record of 9-12-1, they currently rank near the bottom of the league in scoring, averaging only 2.36 goals per game. Moreover, both their power play and penalty kill units are struggling, placing them in the lower tier of the NHL. The Blues, who reached the pinnacle of success with a Stanley Cup victory in 2019 under coach Craig Berube, have found themselves adrift since Bannister’s arrival.
Montgomery’s arrival brings new hope and urgency, but the task at hand is substantial. His prior success with the Bruins, culminating in a record-setting 65-win season last year, sets a high bar for expectations. Yet, he remains focused, believing in the collective potential of this squad. “It’s not easy to make the playoffs in this league,” he cautioned, acknowledging the fierce competition. “Half the teams miss it. But I do think that in time, this is a playoff-caliber team.”
Montgomery’s coaching pedigree speaks volumes; he boasts a remarkable .659 points percentage over his career, which places him among the elite in NHL coaching history. Each team he has coached for a full season has successfully qualified for the playoffs, a testament to his ability to rally talent and foster winning cultures. His philosophy is rooted in building relationships and establishing trust with his players, elements he feels are essential for long-term success.
“I believe in this group,” he reassured the media, echoing the sentiment that there is more to this team than what the current statistics might suggest. Montgomery’s outlook on fostering relationships resounds throughout his career, and he intends to apply the same principles with the Blues.
The transition from Boston to St. Louis has been bittersweet for Montgomery. After being fired by the Bruins due to a rocky start to their season, the veteran coach maintains a philosophy of looking forward. “I’m a firm believer that when one door closes, another one opens if you do the right thing,” he reflected, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a positive mindset amidst adversity.
Blues President and General Manager Doug Armstrong lauded Montgomery’s potential, revealing that the decision to assign him to lead St. Louis represented a crucial step forward. “When you hear Doug Armstrong’s plan and how you’re a big part of it, that makes you feel it’s the right place to go,” Montgomery stated, relishing the chance to not only contribute but to help steer the organization back to elite status.
Montgomery’s fresh five-year contract signals the faith the Blues have in him to not only navigate the immediate challenges but to also provide stability and growth over the years to come.
As Montgomery embarks on this new chapter, he carries the weight of expectations and hope on his shoulders. The journey ahead is not merely about reviving the team’s fortunes but also about cultivating a culture of excellence and resilience. His experience, insight, and commitment to nurturing player relationships serve as critical assets.
The road may be fraught with challenges as the Blues strive to return to their former glory, but with Montgomery at the helm, optimism brews within the organization and its dedicated fanbase. The combination of a fresh start and a seasoned coach might just be the formula the Blues need to reignite their postseason aspirations and reaffirm their place among the NHL’s elite.