Blues Head Coach Drew Bannister Makes Lineup Changes for Rematch Against Capitals

In preparation for their rematch against the Washington Capitals on Saturday night, St. Louis Blues Head Coach Drew Bannister has announced multiple lineup changes. Bannister aims to shake things up and reinvigorate the team after a recent string of losses.

One significant change involves the forward lines, as Bannister plans to mix up all four lines. Jordan Kyrou, who had been absent from the first line, is expected to re-join Robert Thomas and Pavel Buchnevich. This move is intended to add some firepower to the top line and create scoring opportunities.

Meanwhile, Jake Neighbours will be moved back to the second line, where he will play alongside Kevin Hayes and Brayden Schenn. Neighbours' physical presence and playmaking abilities will be valuable assets on the second line.

Another notable adjustment is the inclusion of AHL leading scorer Adam Gaudette on the third line. Gaudette, who made his debut with the Blues on Thursday, will team up with Brandon Saad and his former Springfield Thunderbirds teammate Nathan Walker. This combination brings together a mix of skill and chemistry that could prove fruitful for the Blues.

On the defensive end, Marco Scandella is set to make his return to the lineup after being sidelined since January 11th. Scandella's absence has been noticeable, as the team's defensive performance has suffered in his absence. Bannister believes that getting Scandella back in the lineup will help strengthen the team's backend and improve their chances of securing a victory.

Bannister expressed the importance of these changes, stating, "We haven't won since (Scandella) has been out, quite honestly. It think it's important to get him back in the lineup. Our backend hasn't been as good as it was when he was in it, so we have to make changes."

The projected lineup for the upcoming game is based on Friday's practice, but Bannister noted that there may be further adjustments during pregame warm-ups. The full projected lineup sees Pavel Buchnevich, Robert Thomas, and Jordan Kyrou leading the first line, followed by Brayden Schenn, Kevin Hayes, and Jake Neighbours on the second line. The third line features Brandon Saad, Nathan Walker, and Adam Gaudette. Lastly, Alexey Toropchenko, Nikita Alexandrov, and Oskar Sundqvist round out the lineup.

With these lineup changes in place, the Blues will be eager to rebound and secure a victory against the Capitals. The game promises an exciting clash between two formidable teams, and fans will be eagerly awaiting the puck drop at 7 p.m. CT on Saturday night.