The St. Louis Blues have stormed back into their first-round playoff series against the Winnipeg Jets, tying things up at 2-2 after dropping the first two games. Now, with momentum swinging in their favor and a clear formula for success emerging, the Blues are poised to pull off what could be the most stunning upset of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs—eliminating the NHL’s best regular-season team in Round 1.
A Tale of Two Halves
The first two games in Winnipeg painted a grim picture for the Blues. They looked outmatched and outpaced against a Jets squad that dominated the 2024-25 season. But once the series shifted to St. Louis, the Blues came alive. Using home-ice energy and their trademark physicality, they throttled the Jets in Games 3 and 4, including a 5-1 statement win that evened the series.
The key to this turnaround? Pressure—both physical and mental—on Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck.
Exposing a Vezina Finalist
Hellebuyck may be a Vezina Trophy finalist this season, but he’s had an uncharacteristically poor showing in the playoffs so far. With a save percentage of just .817, the worst of his postseason career, he’s struggled to withstand the offensive assault from the Blues. St. Louis has found success with their speed and relentless attack, which has forced Hellebuyck into awkward positions and rebound-prone situations.
Special teams have also tilted in the Blues’ favor. With 18 power-play opportunities—the most in the postseason—they’ve converted on six, capitalizing on Winnipeg’s undisciplined play. Hellebuyck, who had a solid regular-season penalty kill SV% of .855, has cratered to just .615 SV% in this series while shorthanded, the lowest mark among all goalies in the playoffs.
Physicality as a Weapon
St. Louis has played a bruising style, ranking fourth in hits across the league with 176 through four games. This physical edge has worn down the Jets’ defense and created space in the offensive zone. It’s also led to more high-danger scoring chances and forced Hellebuyck to work harder, further compounding his struggles.
If the Blues can maintain this aggressive, high-tempo style heading into Game 5, they have a real shot at tipping the series in their favor.
A Historic Upset in the Making?
Should St. Louis complete this comeback, it won’t just be a first-round win—it will be a statement. Taking down the league’s top team after an 0-2 start would be a historic feat and a testament to the team’s resilience and adaptability.
The Blues were written off after Game 2, but with momentum on their side and Winnipeg’s star goaltender rattled, this underdog story is far from over. If they stick to the blueprint—push Hellebuyck, win the special teams battle, and stay physically dominant—they could make history by pulling off the biggest upset of the 2025 NHL Playoffs.
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