Drew Bannister’s tenure as head coach of the St. Louis Blues has come to an abrupt end, with the team parting ways less than a year after his promotion to the role. In a swift move, the Blues hired former Boston Bruins coach Jim Montgomery just five days after his dismissal, signaling a decisive shift in the organization’s strategy early in the season.
The Blues’ president and general manager, Doug Armstrong, emphasized that Montgomery’s unexpected availability was a major factor in the decision. “This was about securing someone of Jim’s caliber,” Armstrong stated, describing Montgomery as a top-tier coach with the experience to guide the Blues through their current retooling phase and beyond. Armstrong added that Bannister’s inexperience and challenges adapting to his first NHL head coaching role were factors in the change, though he commended Bannister’s effort in a tough situation.
Bannister’s short stint saw some bright spots, including 30 wins in the final stretch of the previous season, but the Blues ultimately missed the playoffs. This year, they struggled again, losing 13 of their first 22 games and grappling with offensive issues, poor special teams performance, and injuries. Armstrong admitted he was initially willing to ride out the rough patches but acted when Montgomery became available.
Montgomery, 55, brings a wealth of experience and success to St. Louis. Known for his ability to maximize team potential, he boasts an impressive .659 career points percentage as an NHL coach, with every team he has led for a full season qualifying for the playoffs. Armstrong praised Montgomery as being at the “prime of his coaching career” and expressed confidence in his ability to steer the Blues forward.
Montgomery’s arrival marks a homecoming of sorts, as he previously served as an assistant coach with the Blues under Craig Berube in 2020. The new five-year contract solidifies his return to the organization, which gave him a chance to re-enter hockey following personal struggles that led to his dismissal from the Dallas Stars in 2019. Armstrong noted Montgomery’s growth since those challenges, calling him a well-rounded leader for the team.
The quick turnaround for Montgomery reflects a growing trend in the NHL, where midseason coaching changes are increasingly common. The Blues’ decision to act decisively echoes past examples, such as Bruce Boudreau’s rapid rehire in 2011. This marks the 23rd coaching change in the league since early 2023, highlighting the high stakes and rapid shifts in the NHL coaching landscape.
Armstrong concluded, “A coach that I believe is a difference-maker became available, and we reacted to it. Now, it’s time for all of us to support him and do our jobs.”
