St. Louis Blues Shake Things Up: Jim Montgomery Hired as Head Coach

 

SUNDAY NOV 24TH: Change has come early for Christmas in St. Louis, as the Blues have parted ways with head coach Drew Bannister and welcomed Jim Montgomery back to the team. Montgomery, who was dismissed by the Boston Bruins just five days ago, has signed a significant five-year deal to take the reins in St. Louis. 

This marks a homecoming of sorts for Montgomery, who previously served as an assistant coach with the Blues during the 2020-21 and 2021-22 seasons. Known for his sharp hockey mind and leadership skills, Montgomery's task will be no small one, revitalizing a struggling team that sits sixth in the Central Division with a 9-12-1 record and a .432 points percentage. 

Bannister's Short-Lived Tenure Ends

Bannister was hired on an interim basis last December following the firing of Craig Berube. While he guided the team to a respectable 30-19-5 finish and a .602 points percentage, the Blues ultimately missed the playoffs by six points. His interim tag was removed in May, and he signed a two-year extension. 

However, a rocky start to the 2024-25 season, coupled with a pair of humiliating 8-1 losses and ongoing injury woes, led to the organization cutting ties. Bannister's final game at the helm was a 3-1 loss to the New York Islanders on Saturday, a performance that underscored the team's inconsistency.  

Montgomery's Proven Track Record 

Montgomery's return to St. Louis comes with an impressive resume. During his tenure with the Bruins, he guided the team to a dazzling 120-41-23 record, including a historic 2022-23 season that earned him the Jack Adams Award as the NHL's best coach. Under his leadership, the Bruins set league records for wins (65) and points (135) in a single season. 

Despite his regular season success, Montgomery struggled to replicate that dominance in the playoffs. His Bruins suffered back-to-back early exits, falling to the Florida Panthers both times, which ultimately led to his dismissal following an 8-9-3 start this year. 

A Chance for Redemption  

Montgomery's journey has not been without challenges. His time as head coach of the Dallas Stars ended abruptly in December 2019 due to personal issues, including alcohol abuse. Since entering rehab and returning to coaching, Montgomery has earned a reputation as a resilient leader who connects deeply with his players. 

The Blues' decision to bring him aboard signals a desire for stability and a proven track record. General Manager Doug Armstrong has bet big on Montgomery's ability to turn things around, offering him a five-year deal, which is unusual in a league where short-term commitments are more common for coaches. 

Challenges Ahead

Montgomery inherits a team plagued by injuries to key players including Robert Thomas, who recently returned after missing 12 games with a fractured ankle, and defenseman Philip Broberg, who is still sidelined with a leg injury. The Blues haven't reached the playoffs since 2022, when they advanced to the second round before falling to the Colorado Avalanche. 

With a roster eager to shake off a sluggish start, Montgomery has the opportunity to reshape the Blues' identity and make his mark in a city hungry for a return to postseason success. 

The next test for Montgomery and the Blues comes quickly, as they take on the high-flying New York Rangers on Monday. The game will offer a glimpse of what is to come under Montgomery's leadership. 

One thing is certain, St. Louis isn't waiting around to see if things improve. They're beating on Montgomery to make an immediate impact and bring the Blues back into contention.