The St. Louis Blues fired head coach Drew Bannister and hired Jim Montgomery to a five-year contract, marking a pivotal moment for the team. Montgomery, previously with the Dallas Stars and Boston Bruins, returns to the Blues with a strong history as a player and coach. Andy Strickland compares this move to past coaching changes, highlighting Montgomery’s ability to develop talent and his reputation as a players’ coach. Strickland also discusses the Blues’ struggles this season, including injuries and underperformance from key players like Pavel Buchnevich and Brandon Saad.
Josh Schertz joins the conversation, offering insights from his coaching experience on the importance of culture, leadership, and team resilience. Schertz emphasizes how coaching adjustments can rejuvenate a team and relates Montgomery's challenge to his own approach in handling adversity with the Billikens. He also provides updates on the injury status of players like Robbie Avila and Josiah Dozier, focusing on their impact on team dynamics.
Bernie Miklasz offers his perspective on the coaching change, stressing the need for proactive decision-making in the NHL. He examines Montgomery’s track record with previous teams and the Blues’ current struggles, including a 9-10-2 record. Miklasz underlines the importance of developing young talent and revitalizing team chemistry under Montgomery’s leadership to secure future success.
The episode concludes with a shift to Mizzou football. Bernie and Tom Ackerman reflect on the Tigers’ impressive 10-win season and their potential bowl game matchup. They celebrate Mizzou’s progress while highlighting the importance of building on their recent success to ensure continued growth.
