St. Louis Blues Prepare for Intense Stretch Following NHL All-Star Break

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ICARO Media Group
News
10/02/2024 20h13

The St. Louis Blues are gearing up for a challenging schedule as they return to action after the NHL All-Star break and bye week. With three games in four days, including back-to-back afternoon contests against the Buffalo Sabres and Montreal Canadiens, the team will have little time to ease back into the competitive rhythm.

Head Coach Drew Bannister has made some lineup changes for Saturday's game. Kasperi Kapanen, who had been sidelined for seven games due to a lower-body injury, has been activated from injured reserve and is set to make his return. Kapanen was seen practicing with the second line during Friday's practice in St. Louis and is expected to maintain that position for Saturday's game.

In addition to Kapanen's return, Calle Rosen will also be making his first appearance of the season. This comes as the Blues face injuries on defense, with both Justin Faulk and Scott Perunovich ruled out and designated as week-to-week by Coach Bannister.

The forward lines for Saturday's game will feature Pavel Buchnevich, Robert Thomas, and Jordan Kyrou on the top line, while Jake Neighbours, Brayden Schenn, and Kasperi Kapanen will form the second line. Brandon Saad, Kevin Hayes, and Sammy Blais will make up the third line, and Alexey Toropchenko, Oskar Sundqvist, and Nathan Walker will complete the fourth line.

On defense, Nick Leddy and Colton Parayko will provide a strong pairing, while Torey Krug and Matthew Kessel will man the second defensive line. Marco Scandella will be joined by Calle Rosen, who will make his season debut and provide valuable support to the defensive unit.

The St. Louis Blues will face a tough challenge in the coming days, as they aim to regain their momentum and secure important victories. With key players returning from injury and the addition of Calle Rosen to bolster the defense, the team is determined to overcome obstacles and continue their pursuit of success.

Despite the intense stretch ahead, the Blues remain focused and determined to make their mark on the ice. Fans eagerly await the return of their beloved team and look forward to an exciting series of games ahead.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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