As Jim Montgomery steps into his role as head coach of the St. Louis Blues, it’s evident that emotions are high. Dressed in the team’s signature blue sweatshirt adorned with the iconic blue note logo, Montgomery radiates a sense of belonging and excitement. Having previously served as an assistant coach for the Blues from 2020 to 2022, his return feels less like a career change and more like a homecoming. At 55, Montgomery’s enthusiasm is palpable as he reflects on his time spent with the team, stating unequivocally that this opportunity is a dream come true. His experience with over half of the existing roster creates a foundation of familiarity that he is thrilled to build upon.
Montgomery’s joyous demeanor starkly contrasts the challenges facing the Blues, who struggled last season and started the current one with a disappointing 9-12-1 record. The team has found itself grappling with low goal-scoring output—ranking among the bottom three in the league—and ineffectiveness on both power play and penalty kill units. St. Louis fans, accustomed to a more competitive team, are hopeful that Montgomery’s leadership will turn the tide.
Montgomery arrives in St. Louis amidst considerable expectations, particularly after his impressive tenure with the Boston Bruins, where he navigated the team to a record-setting 65 wins and earned the title of Coach of the Year for the 2022-23 season. His strategic vision and ability to optimize player performance is undeniable, as seen in the Bruins’ substantial regular-season success under his leadership. Montgomery’s body of work in the NHL paints him as a coach capable of bringing a team back into the playoffs—a crucial aspect considering the recent struggles of the Blues.
Upon Montgomery’s hiring, Blues president and general manager Doug Armstrong made it clear that he sees Montgomery as a vital element in the team’s future. The coach’s recent dismissal from the Bruins, despite the team’s overall strong performance, adds an intriguing layer to his narrative.
Despite the unfortunate circumstances that led to his departure from Boston—losing a string of games that led to his firing—Montgomery emphasizes a commitment to positivity and growth. He likens his career trajectory to the idea that “when one door closes, another one opens,” showcasing his unyielding belief in the power of relationships and a positive mindset. This outlook is bound to encourage a culture of resilience among his players, something which is essential for revitalizing the struggling Blues.
Montgomery also acknowledges the solemn reality of the NHL playoffs, understanding that half the teams miss the cut each season. Yet, his confidence in the Blues is unwavering. He recognizes the effort and talent present in the locker room and believes that, with time and development, they can evolve into a playoff-caliber team. His drive towards building a winning culture is palpable, aiming to transform St. Louis into a formidable opponent once more.
Long-Term Vision and Commitment
The new coach has a vision that extends beyond immediate wins and losses. With a five-year contract secured, Montgomery is equipped with the time and support to establish a long-term strategy that could solidify the Blues’ standing in the NHL. Armstrong’s confidence in Montgomery is evident, as he stated that the coach possesses the capability to not only handle the current team dynamics but also guide them through the ups and downs of growth and development.
Montgomery’s journey in the NHL has not been without its challenges, and his previous experience, both good and bad, provides valuable lessons as he navigates this new chapter. His commitment to building strong personal and professional relationships will be profoundly critical as he works to mesh his strategies with the unique personalities of the Blues’ roster.
As the St. Louis Blues prepare for the remainder of the season under Jim Montgomery’s guidance, expectations are cautiously optimistic. Fans and players alike are eager to witness how Montgomery’s experience, emotional intelligence, and winning philosophy will translate into results on the ice. The challenge ahead is vast, requiring both patience and tenacity, but with the right leadership, the Blues may soon find themselves back among the league’s elite. Montgomery’s return is not just a new coaching assignment; it is a beacon of hope for a team longing for resurgence.