3 Takeaways From Blues’ 3-1 Win Over the Red Wings

The St. Louis Blues returned to the win column Tuesday night, defeating the Detroit Red Wings, 3-2. Pius Suter and Justin Barron scored early in the second period to put the Blues ahead, and Jimmy Snuggerud added insurance late in the third. The Blues have swept the season series with the Red Wings, the second time in three seasons.

Here are some takeaways from this important win.

Takeaway #1: Mailloux’s Return

Logan Mailloux played in his first game of the season after being injured during the final game of the preseason. The young defenseman played well in his return. He played just over 18 minutes and recorded a shot on goal. It wasn’t a spectacular performance, but it was nice to see him back on the ice in a meaningful game.

It may take a little time for Mailloux to find his footing again, but it is worth remembering how he emerged late last season. He played on the Blues’ top pair on Tuesday, so it appears Head Coach Jim Montgomery wants to see if the Ontario native can replicate that success now that he is back.

Takeaway #2: Dvorsky Benched

Dalibor Dvorsky returned to the bench with 13:48 left in the second period. He did not play another second. He ended the game with nine shifts and 6:36 of ice time.

Dvorsky remained on the bench for the remainder of the game. If he were injured, he likely wouldn’t have stayed on the bench. Montgomery confirmed in his postgame press conference that he benched the forward.

Montgomery’s comments show he still believes in Dvorsky’s potential, but wants to hold him accountable so he can reach it. It will be interesting to see if Dvorsky can answer the call on Thursday.

Takeaway #3: Shifting Momentum

The Blues dominated the first period. They peppered John Gibson with shots from the opening seconds and the Red Wings on the ropes early. However, momentum flipped when Andrew Copp scored with 13 seconds left in the period. The goal followed a misplay by Cam Fowler and Jake Neighbours that resulted in an icing. Despite dominating the period, the Blues trailed. How would this affect the game now that the Wings had stolen momentum?

Well, the Blues did not let the late goal deter them. Just 37 seconds into the second period, Suter scored to tie the game, which was also his 100th career goal and 200th career point. Montgomery elected to start the fourth line, and the decision proved worth it. Alexey Toropchenko made a great pass to Suter to set up the goal. Momentum shifted back to the Blues. Just a few minutes later, Barron gave the Blues a lead they would not lose.

The Copp goal could have derailed the Blues. Yet, they stuck to their game and grabbed an important two points.

Stick Taps

I am giving stick taps to Ross Johnston. The forward dropped the gloves with Andreas Englund midway through the second period. It reminded everyone the Blues have an enforcer in their lineup once again. While others have played a physical game and the enforcer’s role is much different in today’s hockey, there is no question Johnston is the closest the Blues have had to one since Ryan Reaves.

Johnston also finished the game with a plus-1 rating, as he was on the ice for the Suter goal. He only played 9:41, but he found a way to make an impact.

Next Game

The Blues’ next game takes them back on the road. They will face the Utah Mammoth for the first time this season on Thursday night. Check in with The Hockey Writers for the gameday preview, and stick around after for game takeaways.