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Hermann Today
By the People, for the People
Blues Shake Up Lineup for New Year's Eve Clash with Avalanche
Key changes to forward lines and defense expected to bring fresh energy to the ice
Apr. 11, 2026 at 1:11am
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A cubist interpretation of the high-stakes New Year's Eve clash between the St. Louis Blues and Colorado Avalanche, capturing the dynamic energy and strategic adjustments of the game.Hermann TodayThe St. Louis Blues are making some strategic lineup adjustments ahead of their New Year's Eve showdown against the Colorado Avalanche. Forward Jonatan Berggren returns to the top line, while rising star Jimmy Snuggerud earns a promotion to the second line. On defense, Matthew Kessel could replace Logan Mailloux. In goal, Jordan Binnington will look to build on his recent Olympic roster announcement for Team Canada.
Why it matters
The Blues are hoping these lineup changes will provide a spark and help them end 2025 on a high note against their divisional rival, the Avalanche. With both teams vying for playoff positioning, this game could have significant implications for the rest of the season.
The details
Head Coach Jim Montgomery is looking to reignite the spark that forward Jonatan Berggren showed in his initial games by placing him on the top line alongside Robert Thomas and Pavel Buchnevich. Rising star Jimmy Snuggerud has earned a promotion to the second line after his recent goal-scoring heroics. On defense, Matthew Kessel could be stepping in, possibly replacing Logan Mailloux. In goal, Jordan Binnington, fresh off his Olympic roster announcement for Team Canada, will be between the pipes.
- The lineup changes are based on Tuesday's practice.
The players
Jonatan Berggren
A forward for the St. Louis Blues who is returning to the top line.
Robert Thomas
A forward for the St. Louis Blues who will be playing on the top line with Berggren and Buchnevich.
Pavel Buchnevich
A forward for the St. Louis Blues who will be playing on the top line with Berggren and Thomas.
Jimmy Snuggerud
A rising star forward for the St. Louis Blues who has earned a promotion to the second line.
Matthew Kessel
A defenseman for the St. Louis Blues who could be stepping into the lineup, possibly replacing Logan Mailloux.
Jordan Binnington
The goaltender for the St. Louis Blues who was recently named to the Canadian Olympic team.
What they’re saying
“We need him to make an impact and showcase his versatility.”
— Jim Montgomery, Head Coach, St. Louis Blues
What’s next
The lineup changes will be tested when the Blues take on the Avalanche on New Year's Eve. The game will reveal whether these adjustments were a stroke of genius or a risky move.
The takeaway
The Blues are making some bold lineup changes in an effort to end 2025 on a high note against their divisional rival, the Avalanche. These adjustments could provide a much-needed spark, but the true test will come when the two teams face off on New Year's Eve.
