The St. Louis Blues are gearing up to face the Seattle Kraken at home today. The game is scheduled for 6 p.m. This match marks the beginning of a four-game homestand for the Blues (5-8-2), while the Kraken enter with a record of 6-3-4.
Notable Player Changes
Forward Jordan Kyrou will return to the lineup today after being a healthy scratch in the last game. In that match, the Blues achieved a 3-0 victory over the Buffalo Sabres. Kyrou will take the ice alongside Robert Thomas and Brayden Schenn.
Kyrou’s Mindset
Kyrou expressed a renewed focus ahead of today’s game, acknowledging the need to improve his performance. “I just need to work harder,” he said. “I think I can be a lot better.” His absence during the previous game served as a wake-up call for the team, with other players also stepping up their game in response.
Coach Insights
Blues coach Jim Montgomery commented on Kyrou’s situation, appreciating the professional manner in which he handled being scratched. Montgomery stated that such decisions are made for the benefit of the team. He anticipates a strong performance from Kyrou today.
Performance Expectations
Among the players returning from healthy scratches, Mathieu Joseph shone brightly in the last game with one goal and two assists. “Jordan is such an important part of this team,” Joseph noted, highlighting Kyrou’s role in the team’s success.
Montgomery pointed out the importance of players adhering to expectations and fulfilling their responsibilities on the ice. “When you don’t live up to your standard, you risk the chance of coming out of the lineup,” he explained.
Goalkeeping Details
Joel Hofer will start in goal for the Blues. He recently secured a shutout and is set to play in consecutive games for the first time this season. Montgomery emphasized the importance of allowing Hofer to continue building momentum after a strong outing.
Current Lineup Projections
- Blues Forward Lines:
- Brayden Schenn – Robert Thomas – Jordan Kyrou
- Dylan Holloway – Pius Suter – Pavel Buchnevich
- Alexey Toropchenko – Dalibor Dvorsky – Jimmy Snuggerud
- Mathieu Joseph – Nick Bjugstad – Nathan Walker
- Blues Defensive Pairings:
- Philip Broberg – Colton Parayko
- Cam Fowler – Justin Faulk
- Tyler Tucker – Matthew Kessel
- Kraken Projected Lineup:
- Jaden Schwartz – Matty Beniers – Kaapo Kakko
- Berkly Catton – Chandler Stephenson – Jordan Eberle
- Mason Marchment – Shane Wright – Ryan Winterton
- Tye Kartye – Ben Meyers – Eeli Tolvanen
Goaltending for the Kraken will feature Philipp Grubauer as the starter, with Matt Murray as backup. Some players remain out due to injuries, impacting both teams.
Game Day Preview
As the Blues prepare to take on the Kraken, all eyes will be on the performance of returning players like Kyrou and the overall team response following recent challenges. The game promises to be an exciting matchup as both teams aim to improve their standings.
