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ST. LOUIS (AP) — In a commanding performance, the St. Louis Blues triumphed over the Winnipeg Jets with a score of 5-1 on Sunday, leveling their playoff series at two games apiece after facing an initial two-game deficit in Winnipeg.
Brayden Schenn, Tyler Tucker, and Justin Faulk all netted goals in the second period, contributing significantly to the Blues’ victory. Additionally, Robert Thomas and Jake Neighbours added to the scoreboard, while goaltender Jordan Binnington performed admirably, making 30 saves. The Blues now boast an impressive 14-game winning streak at home in both regular season and playoff matches dating back to February 23.
“We understood our position,” Faulk commented. “Upon returning home, we had a mission: to play well and get back to our game. The first game here went favorably, and we aimed to replicate that success today.”
Winnipeg’s Kyle Connor scored their lone goal, while Connor Hellebuyck managed only 13 saves before being replaced after Thomas scored his second goal of these playoffs early in the third period. Eric Comrie took over in net, marking a challenging stretch for Hellebuyck, who has faced criticism for allowing four or more goals in 10 of his last 13 playoff games and has been pulled in consecutive games for only the second time in his career, including the regular season.
“When I review the goals allowed, I see that these are coverage issues that we typically manage well. Unfortunately, we didn’t execute that tonight,” said Jets coach Scott Arniel.
Schenn boosted the Blues’ lead to 3-1 late in the second period, skillfully wristing a puck into the net just as Jets captain Adam Lowry returned from a penalty. “Having forwards like Kyrou, Schenn, and Neighbours on the second line offers us advantageous matchups at home,” said Blues coach Jim Montgomery. “These players made a mark by capitalizing on a power-play opportunity and also scoring important goals in 5-on-5 situations. When skilled players like Kyrou contribute by creating screens, it demonstrates our team’s strong commitment.”
Tucker’s moment came with a slap shot from the point, marking his first career playoff goal and granting the Blues a 2-1 lead just past the midway mark of the second period. He left the ice late in the game after an awkward collision with the boards while Oskar Sundqvist delivered a hit nearby.
“I don’t have any updates about Tucker’s condition,” Montgomery remarked. “His goal was crucial in helping us establish and maintain the lead. He played with commendable aggression, showcasing his best performance in this series.”
Neighbours later redirected a shot from Colton Parayko to mark his first-ever playoff goal as the first period was drawing to a close. “It felt incredibly rewarding, particularly after my earlier mistakes contributed to their first goal,” he noted, expressing the excitement of making a positive impact for his team. “In the playoffs, the drive to compete for your team is heightened, and scoring felt fantastic.”
Connor’s goal, his third of the postseason, initially put Winnipeg ahead 1-0 early in the first period. “We need to reset now,” said Jets defenseman Luke Schenn. “No one anticipated an easy series. Personally, I didn’t. Having followed the Blues’ performance over the last two months, it’s clear they’re the hottest team in the NHL and possess an outstanding home record.”
The series now heads back to Winnipeg for Game 5, scheduled for Wednesday night.
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globalnews.ca