Welcome to another thrilling edition of “Since 2000” where we take a walk down memory lane and rank the top-ten St. Louis Blues non-2019 Stanley Cup Playoff wins! Strap in and get ready for some heart-pounding action on the ice.
One of the most memorable victories in recent Blues history came when Alexander Steen answered the call against the Kings. With the game hanging in the balance, Steen made a bold move as he rushed towards Jonathan Quick in the Kings’ end. Quick tried to play the puck behind the net, but Steen swooped in, stole it, and executed a flawless wrap-around goal. The shorthanded goal sealed the win for the Blues in a dramatic fashion, snatching victory from the jaws of defeat.
But that’s not the only nail-biting win we’re going to relive today. Let’s rewind to a pivotal Game 3 against the Chicago Blackhawks. The Blues were reeling from a controversial loss in Game 2, where a crucial go-ahead goal was disallowed due to an offside call. To make matters worse, the Blackhawks scored the game-winner amidst controversy over goalie interference. With the series tied and the pressure mounting, the Blues entered the third period trailing 2-1.
In a display of resilience and determination, the Blues refused to let history repeat itself. Former first-round picks stepped up when it mattered most, with Patrik Berglund and Jaden Schwartz scoring crucial goals to turn the tide in the Blues’ favor. Goalie Brian Elliott put on a show between the pipes, shutting down the Blackhawks to secure a 3-2 victory. This win was a statement to the hockey world that the Blues were a team to be reckoned with, capable of overcoming any obstacle in their path.
Digging deeper into the archives, we find ourselves transported back to the 2000-01 playoffs, a time of redemption for the Blues. After a disappointing early exit in the previous year’s playoffs despite winning the Presidents’ Trophy, the Blues were hungry for success. Facing off against the formidable Dallas Stars in the second round, the Blues shocked the hockey world by winning the first two games on the road.
Game 3 proved to be a true test of the Blues’ mettle, as they found themselves down 2-0 before clawing their way back to tie the game and force overtime. In a thrilling double-overtime showdown, Cory Stillman came through in the clutch with the game-winning goal, propelling the Blues to a pivotal victory. The Blues went on to sweep the series, exorcising the demons of the past and setting the stage for a deep run in the playoffs.
This win was more than just a sweep; it was a statement of intent from the Blues, showcasing their ability to rise to the occasion when it mattered most. By dispatching a tough opponent like the Stars, the Blues proved that they were a force to be reckoned with in the postseason, setting the stage for future success in the Western Conference Final.
As we reflect on these historic victories, one thing is clear: the St. Louis Blues have a rich tapestry of memorable wins that have defined the team’s resilience, character, and grit over the years. From epic comebacks to statement wins, the Blues have left an indelible mark on the annals of hockey history, and their legacy continues to inspire fans and players alike. So here’s to the Blues and the thrilling victories that have shaped their journey to glory on the ice.
