Preseason Matchup Overview
The St. Louis Blues are set to face off against the Dallas Stars in a highly anticipated preseason matchup on Tuesday at 7 p.m. This game serves as a significant benchmark for the Blues, who enter with a record of 0-2-1, while the Stars boast a stronger 3-1-0 record during this exhibition season. Fans can catch the action via stlblues.com, the Blues app, or listen on ESPN 101.1-FM.
Coaching Insights and Player Debuts
Coach Jim Montgomery emphasized the increasing presence of NHL-caliber players as training camp draws to a close. He noted that for players vying for a position on the roster, Tuesday’s game represents a critical opportunity to showcase their skills.
The Blues will debut three players, including Pius Suter, who will assume the role of center on a line with Dylan Holloway and Jordan Kyrou. Montgomery expressed enthusiasm about this trio, highlighting Suter’s ability to facilitate puck movement both offensively and defensively, which could enhance their possession in the offensive zone.
In addition to Suter, Kyrou, alongside defenseman Justin Faulk, will also participate in his initial preseason game, increasing the competitiveness of the lineup. The Stars are expected to feature a near-complete version of their main roster, including key players like Mikko Rantanen and Jason Robertson, presenting a formidable challenge for the Blues’ younger players as they seek to secure their spots with the team.
Player Highlights
Among those players is Otto Stenberg, the 25th overall pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, who will join Jake Neighbours and Nick Bjugstad on the ice. Stenberg commented on the elevated pace and intensity of the game compared to previous levels of competition he faced, noting the higher skill level of players and the physicality of the defensemen.
Montgomery has taken notice of Stenberg’s growth since the start of training camp, appreciating how he has adapted his game to fit with various line combinations. Stenberg expressed confidence in his adaptability, suggesting that his versatility allows him to effectively contribute, regardless of the line assignment.
Another exciting prospect is Dalibor Dvorsky, another 2023 first-round selection who recently scored his debut goal during a previous game. Montgomery remarked on Dvorsky’s improvement in his understanding of the team’s play style and his increasing speed on the ice, which bode well for his development.
Tonight’s game will also see Mathieu Joseph take on the center position on a line with Alexandre Texier and Milan Lucic. Montgomery acknowledged the advantage of players who are capable of performing well in multiple forward positions, as this provides greater strategic flexibility for the coaching staff.
Jake Neighbours will make his second consecutive appearance after recently returning from personal matters, stating he is eager to regain his rhythm and contribute effectively. Rating his current performance at about a six out of ten, Neighbours is keenly aware that he needs to continue improving as the season approaches, especially with the caliber of players Dallas is bringing.
Projected Lineups
As for the anticipated lineups for both teams, the Blues are projected to play:
- Dylan Holloway – Pius Suter – Jordan Kyrou
- Jake Neighbours – Nick Bjugstad – Otto Stenberg
- Alexey Toropchenko – Dalibor Dvorsky – Aleksanteri Kaskimaki
- Milan Lucic – Mathieu Joseph – Alexandre Texier
On defense: Philip Broberg, Justin Faulk, Theo Lindstein, Matthew Kessel, Leo Loof, and Hunter Skinner, with Joel Hofer expected to start in goal for two periods, while Colten Ellis will serve as backup.
The Stars are expected to send out:
- Jason Robertson – Roope Hintz – Mikko Rantanen
- Sam Steel – Matt Duchene – Tyler Seguin
- Justin Hryckowian – Wyatt Johnston – Mavrik Bourque
- Oskar Back – Radek Faksa – Nathan Bastian
On defense: Esa Lindell, Miro Heiskanen, Thomas Harley, Nils Lundkvist, and Ilya Lyubushkin, with Casey DeSmith projected as the starting goalie and Remi Poirier as the backup.
Conclusion
Fans are certainly in for an exciting game that promises to offer insights into the teams’ preparations as they approach the regular season.
