Montgomery Returns to St. Louis: A New Era for the Blues
The St. Louis Blues are ushering in a new chapter by appointing Jim Montgomery as their head coach. Montgomery, who brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record, returns to a familiar environment, seeking to revive a team that fell short of the playoffs last season under Drew Bannister. Bannister had stepped in for Craig Berube in December but was unable to steer the Blues into postseason contention.
A Familiar Face in a New Role
Jim Montgomery is no stranger to the Blues organization, having served as an assistant coach from 2020 to 2022. His deep familiarity with over half of the current roster was a significant factor in his decision to return. "I have worked with over half this lineup already, and I know how committed they are. For me, this was a no-brainer for me to come back home," Montgomery remarked. His confidence is rooted not only in his history with the team but also in his comprehensive approach to coaching.
President and General Manager Doug Armstrong echoed this sentiment, emphasizing Montgomery’s potential impact: "He's one of those coaches that I really do believe can be with this team now and as it grows." Montgomery is stepping into the leadership role with high expectations to rejuvenate a team that has started the new season with a discouraging 9-12-1 record and is averaging just 2.36 goals per game.
A Tarnished Tenure in Boston
Following a challenging stint with the Boston Bruins, Montgomery's path to St. Louis was anything but straightforward. Despite leading the Bruins to a remarkable 65-win, 135-point season in 2022-23 and earning Coach of the Year honors, Montgomery faced tough times. This season, he endured a losing streak where his team dropped 12 of 20 games. Ultimately, his departure from Boston was sealed, presenting him with this fresh opportunity in St. Louis.
"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," Montgomery shared, highlighting the allure of Armstrong's strategic vision and the unanimous support from the organization’s leadership, including Tom Stillman and the Blues' ownership group, who committed to a five-year deal. "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 added.
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
The Blues have their work cut out for them. Ranking in the bottom third in both power play and penalty kill, there is a pressing need for improved strategic execution and consistent performance. Montgomery’s appointment injects an expected infusion of energy, expertise, and tactical acumen that may well catalyze the team's transformation. "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 asserted, setting the tone for his tenure.
As Jim Montgomery settles into his role, Blues fans and the wider hockey community are hopeful that his deep connections within the organization, coupled with his expansive coaching skill set, will lay the foundation for a promising future. Given Montgomery's .659 career points percentage and his established credentials, he seems precisely the visionary leader the Blues need to navigate the intricate demands of the NHL.
The Road Ahead
The St. Louis Blues, under Montgomery's guidance, are poised for a transformative journey. With the steadfast backing of the management and a coach ready to harness the potential within the team, the Blues are aiming to climb back to prominence. For Montgomery, it’s an opportunity to turn the page on recent struggles and to capitalize on the promise that once characterized his coaching career. As he poetically expressed, "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."
With hopes pinned on this new beginning, the unfolding chapters will determine whether Montgomery and the Blues can fully unlock the talent and grit needed to succeed at the highest level.