GDHQNHL15_4pg-St. Louis Blues 1

St Louis Blues Gameday HQ

St. Louis WESTERN CONFERENCE BLUES CENTRAL DIVISION David Backes Offense The Blues lay claim to one of the most physical groups of forwards in the entire NHL. This fearsome set of forwards that specialize in forechecking the opposition’s defense is led by captain David Backes. Backes set the tone on a number of occasions last season as he came away with 273 hits during the 2013-14 regular season, good enough to tie for third in the entire league. While the Blues captain is best known for his physical prowess, he is also relied upon to produce offensively. In 74 games played, he put up nearly 60 points (27 goals, 30 assists) and came away with a plus/minus of +12, showing that he is one of the better defensive players in the league as well. Perhaps one of the biggest surprises for the Blues last season was the play of Russian winger Vladimir Tarasenko. The 22-year old registered 43 points (21 goals, 22 assists) in 64 games played. While most youngsters falter under the pressure of the playoffs, Tarasenko thrived as he tallied four goals in six games for the Blues. Blessed with size and scoring ability, Key Additions: C Paul Stastny, C Jori Lehtera, C Peter Mueller, D Carl Gunnarsson Key Subtractions: G Ryan Miller, C Vladimir Sobotka, C Derek Roy, LW Brendan Morrow, D Roman Polak Strengths: Superior special teams and depth throughout the lineup. Weaknesses: Goaltending competition is a minor question. Mark Buckner/NHL/Getty Images


St Louis Blues Gameday HQ
To see the actual publication please follow the link above