You Again! [Game #43 Preview - STL]

Didn't we just do this?  The Blues beat the Kings 6-4 at home almost a month ago (12/16).

So, what have you been up to?  The Blues (20-16-6) seem to be our streaky cousins in this Conference.  They're 0-4-1 in their last five games, and 12th in the West.  However, even with 3 more wins, the Kings are only one point ahead of them at 9th.

Well, you're looking good! [Really?]  They're on a losing streak, but who are we to judge?  I mean, really.  Look at us.  The Kings held a closed-door meeting after the loss to Toronto, and the Blues are eager for redemption after being lit up 7-4 by the Ducks. (Side note: getting to play teams in the latter half of back-to-backs hasn't been what it's cracked up to be.  The Blues are also 6-1-1 in those situations.)

David Backes has been hot lately, and also leads the team in points (14 G, 21 A).  Ditto for veteran Alex Steen (30 pts on the year).  Matt D'Agostini also has 8 points in last 5 games.

Since Conklin was in net last night, Jaroslav Halak (.910 SV%, 2.54 GAA) should get the start.  He's a perfect 2-0 against the Kings in his career.

Hey, whatever happened to... Blues rookies Adam Cracknell and T.J. Hensick were sent back down to the AHL, and Philip McRae and Ryan Reaves were called up.  Reaves scored his first NHL goal last night in his debut.

How's that workin' for ya? St. Louis' PP is 25th in the league (14.8%), though they went 2 for 5 in their last outing against the Kings.  Their PK is 18th (81.4%).  Though the Kings have actually been scoring a fair amount lately (bumping their PP to 18.6, 12th NHL), their penalty kill is now 11th (82.9%).  The Kings will look to tighten up their overall defense tonight.

OMG, did you hear about... Injured Kings: Scott Parse (hip).  Injured Blues: Andy McDonald, David Perron (concussions), T.J. Oshie (ankle), and Dave Scatchard (knee).  Defenseman Carlo Colaiacovo was struck in the face by a puck last night, and will sit out.  Eric Brewer was injured in a fight and is also questionable.

Okay, well, nice to see you as always... Season series: Blues up, 1-0. This is game 2 of 4.  Will Cliffy have a happy birthday tonight?  Let's see what these meetings and speeches produce on the ice.