Blues Adjust Lines Ahead of Crucial Game 7 Against Jets

WINNIPEG, Manitoba — With the series tied at 3-3, the St. Louis Blues are making lineup changes as they prepare for a decisive Game 7 against the Winnipeg Jets. Coach Jim Montgomery has shifted Jordan Kyrou to the top line with Robert Thomas and Pavel Buchnevich during Saturday’s practice.

Kyrou, the team’s leading scorer in the regular season with 36 goals, has struggled in the playoffs, netting just two goals in six games. The adjustment aims to revive Kyrou’s offensive contributions at a critical juncture. “He leads our team in 5-on-5 scoring chances as we track them, so he is getting his opportunities or he is setting people up,” said Montgomery. “The puck hasn’t gone into the net.”

Both of Kyrou’s goals came on power plays, as he has been underwhelming offensively compared to his regular-season performance. Montgomery noted, “I thought last game he skated really well. You can tell that he’s really close to just separating. With his talent, it’s just a matter of time.”

On the other side, the Jets faced potential lineup changes of their own. Center Mark Scheifele, who was absent in Game 6 due to injury, skated in a track suit during practice and remains a game-time decision. “That’s a great sign,” Jets coach Scott Arniel said of Scheifele’s participation in practice.

As both teams gear up for Game 7, the Blues are seeking to extend their remarkable record of winning four consecutive Game 7s. Montgomery stated the importance of overcoming the trend of home teams winning in the series, with both clubs dominating on home ice, each with a perfect record on their respective rinks.

In Game 6, the Blues asserted their dominance with a 5-2 victory, kicking off the second period with four goals in 5 minutes and 23 seconds. Captain Brayden Schenn emphasized the need for the team to translate that home success to the road. “It’s what you play for,” he said.

As the series heads back to Winnipeg for the final showdown, both teams are keenly aware that anything can happen in playoff hockey, and every adjustment could mean the difference between victory and elimination.