Binnington’s Brilliance and Holloway’s Double Strike Lead Blues to Triumph Over Leafs
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Maple Leafs’ Homecoming Spoiled by Commanding Blues Performance
On a chilly Thursday night, Jordan Binnington was a bulwark in net, stopping a remarkable 40 shots. Dylan Holloway found the net twice, aiding the St. Louis Blues in their 5-1 demolition of Toronto, thereby throwing cold water on Craig Berube’s first face-off against the Blues since his December dismissal.
Former Stanley Cup Champion Coach Faces Blues for the First Time
Berube, who masterminded St. Louis’ historic Stanley Cup victory in 2019, could only watch as his former team flexed their muscle. Goals from Philip Broberg, Alexandre Texier, and Jake Neighbours further propelled the Blues, lifting their season record to an impressive 5-3-0. The dynamic duo of Jordan Kyrou and Pavel Buchnevich each contributed two assists to the cause.
Oliver Ekman-Larsson managed to get one back for Toronto, who saw Joseph Woll register 22 saves in his season debut, following a groin injury. This defeat sees the Maple Leafs’ record level out at 4-4-0.
Blues Offense Comes Alive in Dominant Win
The Blues drew first blood as Broberg skillfully navigated through a sea of players to find the net. Holloway quickly doubled the lead with a power play goal. Although Ekman-Larsson managed to get Toronto on the scoreboard in the second period, Texier’s goal ensured a comfortable two-goal cushion heading into the final period.
Key Takeaways from the Game
Blues: The absence of center Robert Thomas, who suffered a broken ankle in a recent loss to Winnipeg, did not hinder St. Louis’ performance. Thomas is projected to be sidelined for at least six weeks.
Maple Leafs: Despite the loss, Woll delivered several key saves. Anthony Stolarz, filling in for Woll, managed an impressive 3-2-0 record, a .938 save percentage, and 1.83 GAA.
Turning Point of the Game
The Leafs had a golden opportunity to close the gap during a power play while trailing 3-1 in the second period. However, their inability to convert proved decisive, as they failed to score on three power play opportunities in the game and fell to 3 for 26 on the season.
Player of the Match
Broberg, who joined the Blues from Edmonton in August with Holloway, has been instrumental in the team’s success, tallying seven points in eight games.
What’s Next for the Teams?
The Maple Leafs will attempt to bounce back in a two-game series beginning Saturday in Boston, while the Blues ride high into Montreal for the second game of their road trip.
