St. Louis Blues Face Tough Test Against Surging Anaheim Ducks

The St. Louis Blues host the Anaheim Ducks Monday night. The game starts at 7 p.m. CT at Enterprise Center. This is a key divisional matchup with playoff implications.

The Ducks arrive with one of the league’s hottest young offenses. The Blues are fighting to maintain momentum in a tight Western Conference race.

Injury Report Shifts Blues Lineup Ahead of Pivotal Game

Team injuries will directly impact this contest. The Blues confirmed forward Jimmy Snuggerud is out for roughly six weeks. Winger Alexey Toropchenko is also listed as week-to-week.

In response, St. Louis recalled forward Aleksanteri Kaskimaki. According to NHL.com, he is projected to make his NHL debut tonight. This adds a fresh element to the Blues’ forward lines.

Anaheim brings its own significant firepower. Rookie sensation Cutter Gauthier leads the Ducks with 30 points in 25 games. His performance will be a primary focus for the St. Louis defense.

The Blues have shown resilience recently. They have earned points in 10 of their last 12 games since early November. Protecting home ice against a fast Anaheim team is their next challenge.

Key Matchups and Tactical Battles to Decide Outcome

Special teams will likely be decisive. The Ducks’ power play operates at a 20.0% success rate. The Blues’ penalty kill sits at 75.4%, a area they must solidify.

Controlling the tempo is crucial. Anaheim prefers a high-speed, transition game. St. Louis will aim to slow play down and win puck battles along the boards.

Historically, the Blues have dominated this series at home. Breaking that streak requires Anaheim to score first and mute the crowd. Both goaltenders will be under early pressure.

Coaching adjustments will be key. Watch for line matching changes after stoppages. The team that wins the special teams war will likely leave with two points.

This Blues vs Ducks clash is a measuring stick for both clubs. The result will echo in the tightly contested Central Division standings. Expect a hard-fought, physical game from the opening puck drop.

Info at your fingertips

What time is the Blues vs Ducks game?

The game starts at 7:00 p.m. Central Time. It is being played at Enterprise Center in St. Louis.

Who is out for the St. Louis Blues?

Forward Jimmy Snuggerud is out approximately six weeks. Alexey Toropchenko is also sidelined and considered week-to-week.

Who is Anaheim Ducks’ top scorer?

Rookie forward Cutter Gauthier leads the Ducks. He has recorded 30 total points so far this season.

How have the Blues been playing recently?

St. Louis has been collecting points consistently. The team has points in 10 of its last 12 games played.

Is anyone making an NHL debut tonight?

Yes. Blues forward Aleksanteri Kaskimaki was recalled. He is expected to play in his first NHL game against Anaheim.