St. Louis Blues’ goalies will have heightened expectations heading into the 2025–26 season, especially after last years playoff return. While forward depth and defensive additions have been a focus point this off-season, goaltending will be the true backbone of the team. Consistency in the crease could determine if the Blues build on last years progress or regress back down.
Blues’ Goalie Analysis
Jordan Binnington: Stability and Leadership
Jordan Binnington has been a Blues starter since 2019. He was a pivotal player last season in the Blues playoff push, as well as getting the Blues to seven games against the Jets. In March and April, when the Blues won 12 straight, he posted a goals saved above expected (GSAx) of +3.2 during the stretch.
Entering the 2025-26 season, the challenge for Binnington will be sustaining solid level of play throughout the entire season. That means avoiding the mid-season slumps that have happened in the past. His .900 save percentage last season was below league average, which can traced back to his slumps near the start and middle of the season.
Consistency on the penalty kill will be important. If he can raise his shorthanded save percentage from last years .860 to .875, it would boost the Blues’ special teams performance, and could make the difference in a lot of close games. Managing his workload will also be crucial. If he can stay healthy and start around 50 games or so, with Joel Hofer managing the rest, he will stay fresh and be well positioned for the playoffs.
Joel Hofer: Development and Potential
Behind Binnington, Joel Hofer is expected to take on a larger role this season. Having just signed a two-year extension this summer, the Blues know he has potential to be more than just a reliable backup. He has shown flashes and composure in his game, helping the team win five one-goal games.
Hofer will most likely see 30 or more games this year, a test that will see if he can handle the workload and pressure that comes with it. Starting in 28 games last season, Hofer went 16-8-3, recording a .905 save percentage. His growth this season could be a big swing factor in the Blues making the playoffs.
Between him and Binnington, there is a fine balance in the Blues net. With that, if Hofer can shine this season, we could see a true 1a/1b goalie tandem this season.
Support on the Ice
Goaltending success, however, will not come without good defensive structure. Last season, gaps in the Blues defensive coverage led to plenty of high-danger scoring chances. Binnington and Hofer were put under pressure in an already tough position. Reinforcement on the blue line and responsible two-way play will be needed for goaltending to have a lighter load.
The St. Louis Blues’ goaltending entering the 2025-26 season is a wildcard. Jordan Binnington remains a proven star who will need a solid campaign. Joel Hofer shows glimpses of potential and will need to shine this season. The success of this season will depend heavily on this tandem. They will be relying on the defense to make their improvements this year, and the offense to give them a goal cushion. If all goes well, this team could emerge as one of the stronger and more balanced squads in the Western Conference.
Main Photo: Jeff Curry- Imagn Images
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