Jim Montgomery Returns to St. Louis as Head Coach Amid Challenging Season Start
In a strategic move by the St. Louis Blues' management, Jim Montgomery has been appointed as the new head coach. This appointment comes after the team's disappointing performance last season, where they missed the playoffs under coach Drew Bannister. Bannister had stepped in mid-season to replace Craig Berube, but his tenure was unable to secure a playoff berth for the team. The Blues' current season, which has started with a struggling 9-12-1 record, adds to the urgency of Montgomery's appointment.
A Familiar Face in a New Role
Montgomery is no stranger to the St. Louis organization, having previously served as an assistant coach for the Blues from 2020 to 2022. His familiarity with the team extends beyond coaching roles; he knows more than half of the current lineup. "I have worked with over half this lineup already, and I know how committed they are. For me, this was a no-brainer for me to come back home," Montgomery shared, expressing his confidence and optimism in rejoining the team.
A Proven Track Record and High Expectations
Although Montgomery was recently let go by the Boston Bruins, where he endured a challenging season with a 12-loss streak in 20 games, his previous tenure with the team was formidable. The Bruins experienced a remarkable 65-win, 135-point season in 2022-23 under his leadership, earning him Coach of the Year honors. His career points percentage stands at an impressive .659, underscoring his capability and efficacy as a coach. Doug Armstrong, President and General Manager of the Blues, articulated his confidence in Montgomery's ability to lead the team: "He's one of those coaches that I really do believe can be with this team now and as it grows."
Strategic Goals and Collaborative Planning
Montgomery's hiring comes with a clear vision and direction from the upper management of the Blues. "When you get a phone call and you hear Doug Armstrong's plan and how you're a big part of it, that makes you feel it is the right place to go," Montgomery remarked. His relationship with the team's ownership, led by Tom Stillman, has been solidified with a five-year contract, demonstrating a commitment to achieving long-term success. "It's about your relationships in life. ... The five-year deal shows the commitment of Tom Stillman and the ownership group, that we are in this together," Montgomery commented on the collaborative spirit within the organization.
Challenges Ahead
The Blues face significant hurdles this season, with their current average of 2.36 goals per game and power-play and penalty-kill rankings placing them in the league's bottom third. Montgomery acknowledges the challenges, stating, "It's not easy to make the playoffs in this league. Half the teams miss it. But I do think that in time this is a caliber playoff team." The road to recovery and reaching the playoffs is fraught with difficulties, especially given the competitive nature of the NHL.
Montgomery brings with him a sense of resilience and hope. His personal philosophy, as he describes, is rooted in perseverance and faith in the process. "The best line that put his hooks into me is, 'When you do the right thing, another door opens.' I guess I was a T-bone that day," he said, reflecting on his career journey and leadership approach.
As Jim Montgomery steps into the head coach role, the Blues and their fans are optimistic for a turnaround. With a strong blend of familiarity, proven success, and strategic vision, Montgomery is poised to guide the St. Louis Blues with renewed vigor and a commitment to restoring the team’s competitive edge.