Devils vs. Blues: Binnington Returns in Highly Anticipated Rematch Against Hughes
The St. Louis Blues will welcome back goaltender Jordan Binnington to the net on Saturday as they take on Jack Hughes and the New Jersey Devils (4 p.m., FanDuel Sports Network Midwest, 101 ESPN). This matchup is particularly compelling as it marks the first encounter between the two players since their dramatic gold medal game showdown at the Olympics in Milan. Hughes secured the victory for his team with a game-winning overtime goal, a moment that undoubtedly fuels the rivalry.
Olympic Rematch & Team Performance Post-Break
Both Binnington and Hughes have since rejoined their respective NHL teams. The Blues are off to a positive start following the Olympic break, boasting a 1-0 record. Conversely, the Devils have stumbled, going 0-2 in their first two games back. This contrast in form adds another layer of intrigue to Saturday’s contest.
Blues Lineup: Consistency Up Front, Changes on Defense
Head Coach Jim Montgomery has opted to maintain the forward lines that proved successful in the Blues’ 5-1 victory against the Seattle Kraken on Thursday. However, the defensive pairings will see some adjustments.
Colton Parayko is currently sidelined due to back spasms and is considered doubtful for both Saturday and Sunday’s games. He is listed as day-to-day. This injury necessitates changes on the blue line. Justin Faulk will be elevated to the top defensive pairing alongside Philip Broberg, while Matthew Kessel will step in as the sixth defenseman.
Projected Lineups
Forwards
- Jake Neighbours – Pavel Buchnevich – Jordan Kyrou
- Brayden Schenn – Dalibor Dvorsky – Jimmy Snuggerud
- Dylan Holloway – Pius Suter – Jonatan Berggren
- Alexey Toropchenko – Jack Finley – Nathan Walker
Defense
- Philip Broberg – Justin Faulk
- Cam Fowler – Logan Mailloux
- Tyler Tucker – Matthew Kessel
Goalie
- Jordan Binnington
Robert Thomas remains on leave of absence from the team.
This game promises to be a thrilling contest between two talented teams, with the added narrative of the Binnington-Hughes Olympic rematch. Fans can expect a high-energy battle on the ice. For more in-depth NHL coverage, visit NHL.com.
