After just five days of being without work, Jim Montgomery has landed back on his feet as the new head coach of the St. Louis Blues. This whirlwind transition follows his abrupt firing from the Boston Bruins after what many considered to be a disappointing start to the 2024-25 season. Montgomery's abrupt exit from Boston, which came after only 20 games, was followed closely by his hiring by the Blues, highlighting a notable shift within the NHL coaching ranks.
Montgomery's tenure with the Bruins had seen its fair share of highs and lows. He entered the 2024 season having led the team to significant success previously, including winning the Jack Adams Award as coach of the year for the 2023 season—a year characterized by the Bruins' historic record. The 55-year-old's firing came after the team limped to an 8-9-3 start, raising questions about the future direction of the franchise.
Upon his departure from Boston on November 19, 2024, the Blues’ management wasted no time moving on from Drew Bannister, who had taken the helm for only 22 games after being promoted from the AHL. Montgomery's arrival is seen as not just timely but strategic, representing the Blues' clear intent to revitalize their performance after missing the playoffs for the last two seasons.
Montgomery’s connection with the Blues is not new. He previously served as the team’s assistant coach under Craig Berube before taking over at Boston. This familiarity with the organization and its culture undoubtedly contributed to the team’s swift decision to offer him the role. Blues GM Doug Armstrong expressed respect for Montgomery's coaching ability, stating, “This was more of an opportunity to get someone of Jim’s caliber than anything else.” Armstrong’s comments indicate the firm belief he has in Montgomery’s ability to lead the Blues back to prominence.
One day after being introduced, Montgomery stated, “Crazy. Crazy. There’s no other word for it,” as he reflected on the rapid changes of the past week. He shared feeling surprised and grateful for the opportunity to coach again so quickly. The Blues are currently sixth in the Central Division, and Montgomery's immediate objective will be to help reverse the team’s fortunes as they struggle with injuries and inconsistent performance.
While the Blues look to turn around their season—currently marked by struggles on both ends of the ice—Montgomery's past coaching record speaks volumes. His extensive experience includes a previous coaching position with the Dallas Stars, where he finished with a commendable winning record. All told, Montgomery's NHL head coaching record stands at 180 wins, 84 losses, and 33 overtime losses, showcasing his ability to lead teams effectively.
Montgomery’s first test as Blues head coach will be against the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden. Montgomery noted his excitement to reconnect with familiar players and create relationships with those he hasn’t coached before. He emphasized the importance of collective energy and attitude, highlighting his commitment to creating the right environment for his team.
The St. Louis Blues, after winning their first and only Stanley Cup in 2019, have experienced difficulties, culminating in consecutive playoff misses. Montgomery's hiring signals the organization’s vision for its next winning era, hoping to replicate the past success Monty had with the Bruins.
Overall, his quick hiring speaks not only to his abilities as a hockey coach but also to the confidence Armstrong and the entire Blues organization have placed on him to guide the franchise back to success. Looking forward, not only will players be gauging his effectiveness, but fans will eagerly anticipate how the Montgomery era will shape the franchise's immediate future.
The NHL continues to be what it has always been: unpredictable and dynamic. Montgomery’s new chapter will certainly be one to watch closely as he embarks on this new coaching challenge. The hockey community remains intrigued by how Montgomery’s past experiences and his blend of familiarity with the Blues can converge to forge positive outcomes as the season progresses.
Montgomery inherits a team eager for revival following the steps back they’ve taken over recent seasons. With both early successes and setbacks behind him, his fresh approach—rooted deeply within relationship-building and motivational tactics—could make all the difference as he aims to guide the Blues to playoff contention. The wait to see how quickly he can implement change begins now. For the St. Louis Blues, new hope arises as they look to Montgomery not just as their head coach, but as the architect of their return to prominence.
