5-1-2

Are the St. Louis Blues for real? Thus far on this young season they appear to be. A quick scan of the Western Conference shows they have the 3rd highest point total in the entire conference with 12 (the conference leaders, LA, have 14 points). Their overall record is 5-1-2. Not too shabby, eh? I realize it's still early and it's a long season....but in years past the Blues have not started the season well. They rebound in the 2nd half, but typically that's been too little too late. So, it's fun to see them playing well straight out the gate.

The difference this season? In my opinion it is the addition of Jaroslav Halak in goal. That guy is pretty much amazing. The last time the Blues had a goalie this good was back in the Curtis Joseph days....and that was about a billion years ago. Halak makes it look easy out there. Another difference? I heard an interview with Cam Janssen last night (STL native!) and he said one of the things he thinks is helping is that they are a close bunch-no cliques (his words), everyone gets along and are like one big happy family. Team chemistry can take you a long way folks (granted, it didn't work for the Cubs this season but I digress).

When did Nashville become our biggest rival? Did I miss that memo? Anyway....they are, and the Blues handed them their first lost in regulation last night. Halak got his 2nd shutout in a row and life was good. It's not just one guy contributing-it seems like everyone is which is awesome. I haven't had this much hope in my hockey team since Brett Hull had that beautiful golden mullet and the Cavallini brothers were still playing......