Welcome to another thrilling installment of the “Since 2000” series, where we delve into the captivating world of hockey history! Today, our focus is on the unforgettable moment when the St. Louis Blues took their talents overseas and outdoors.
It was a truly remarkable honor for the Blues to be selected for these prestigious games. Fresh off their miraculous journey to the Stanley Cup Playoffs the previous year, following a stunning rise from the depths of last place in January, the Blues were determined to make some noise in the 2009-10 season. With a core group of former first-round picks solidifying their roles in the NHL and a squad boasting multiple seasoned veterans, the Blues were poised for greatness.
Yet, despite their ambition, the Blues still found themselves in the shadow of the mighty Red Wings, considered the “younger brother” to the Detroit powerhouse. The Red Wings had recently made back-to-back appearances in the Stanley Cup Final, showcasing a roster replete with future Hall of Famers. It was evident that the NHL had its sights set on marketing the Red Wings in Stockholm, with the Blues seemingly playing a supporting role.
As expected, the Blues were designated as the road team for the first game, allowing the NHL to spotlight the iconic red jerseys of the Red Wings. Chris Osgood stood between the pipes for Detroit, while Chris Mason guarded the net for the Blues. The game began in typical fashion, with the Blues falling behind 3-1 by the second period, succumbing to the formidable force of their rivals.
But then, a twist of fate unfolded. Enter Paul Kariya, a true legend in his own right. The Blues rallied, with Kariya scoring two crucial goals to level the playing field and propel his team ahead. In a stunning turn of events, the underdog Blues seized the lead, with Mason delivering a stellar performance in the third period to secure a remarkable victory on foreign soil.
The following day saw the Blues assume the role of the home team for the second game, providing an opportunity to showcase their striking third jersey, adorned with the iconic blue note nestled within the Gateway Arch. However, the Wings wasted no time in asserting their dominance, netting two quick goals against former Wing Ty Conklin, setting the stage for a fierce battle.
In a series of thrilling events that captivated fans on both sides, the St. Louis Blues and the Detroit Red Wings clashed in an unforgettable showdown on foreign ice, leaving an indelible mark on the annals of hockey history. As the final buzzer reverberated through the arena, it was clear that this epic clash would be etched in the memories of fans and players alike for years to come.
