The most shocking part of the new plan isn’t a trade or a star signing. It is the quiet confidence that the St. Louis Blues will grab a playoff spot as a wild card entry. While the Central Division looks like a four-team lock with Dallas, Colorado, Minnesota, and Utah fighting for three spots, the Blues have a very good chance to beat the other three rivals for that final berth. This is a bold call that goes against the grain of a division known for its depth.
According to Bleedin’ Blue, the team’s path is paved by specific matchups. The Blues were very good against the Pacific Division last season, and that trend should continue in 2026-27. If they keep winning those games while the big four fight each other, the math works in their favor. It is a simple formula: beat the weak, survive the strong, and sneak into the dance.
The Top Line Stays Put
Most teams would shake up a lineup after one good run. The Blues are betting on continuity. Robert Thomas, Dylan Holloway, and Jimmy Snuggerud are hoped to sustain their outstanding performance from the previous season without interruption. A bold prediction says this trio will man the top line together for the whole 84-game season.
Because both Holloway and Snuggerud have previously dealt with injuries, this approach carries significant risk. But reports note that this season could be much different. If they stay healthy, the team has a built-in defense. Rivals understand that targeting the top line means they must also contend with the fourth line’s intensity. That bottom unit has an average height of 6-foot-5, which is a nightmare for smaller forwards trying to make a play.
Defense and the Goalie Battle
The blue line is where things get messy. Logan Mailloux had a turbulent year in 2025-26. It was rocky, unimpressive, and underwhelming. But that might change. Mailloux finished last season strongly, and should he resume that form immediately, the 2026-27 first defensive pairing could consist of two reliable players. He is threatening to take the top spot from Philip Broberg.
Per Bleedin’ Blue, the goaltending situation is even more dramatic. Initially, it was believed Joel Hofer would be assigned over 60 starts for the upcoming season. While that remains possible, there is an indication that Jordan Binnington will receive substantial playing time if this serves as a farewell tour. Binnington will likely attract intense trade deadline interest, hoping Hofer becomes sufficiently prepared by then to serve as the St. Louis Blues’ premier starting goaltender.
The prediction is specific: Hofer notches 50 starts and wins 30+ games. Expect him to secure 30 victories as the Blues return to the postseason. It is a tall order for a backup, but the numbers suggest he is ready. The team also expects Carbonneau and Jiricek to be the lone call-ups from the minors, keeping the roster stable while others struggle to find their footing.
With the summer almost over and training camp right around the corner, the stakes are clear. The Central Division is a war zone, but the Blues have a map to survive it. If the top line stays healthy and the goalie tandem works, the wild card spot is within reach.
