St. Louis Blues: Top 3 reasons they can repeat as Stanley Cup champions

2. A Revived Power Play

The St. Louis Blues are an excellent defensive team, which causes people to underrate them offensively. Last season, from Jan. 1, 2019 to the end of the regular season, they scored the 11th-most goals per game. Though they’ve fallen to 15th this season, that’s understandable because they haven’t had Vladimir Tarasenko in their lineup since late October.

Despite not having Tarasenko, the Blues have been remarkably productive on the power play. They’ve converted on 24.0% of their chances, which is the fourth-best mark in the NHL. Though special teams don’t matter as much as 5v5 play in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, having a lethal power play in your back pocket can be beneficial.

Last season, the Blues power play wasn’t a huge part of their Stanley Cup run, as they only converted on 16.3% of their chances. That’s why 5v5 scoring is so important. But the Blues have to be encouraged by their numbers on the man advantage without Tarasenko, who’s such an important part of their power play.

Their power play is very well-balanced, as they have four skaters in the top 40 in power play points. Once Tarasenko comes back, it should be even more productive. That should frighten every team in the Western Conference.