Following a disappointing start to the 2024-25 season, the St. Louis Blues relieved Drew Bannister of his duties as head coach and swiftly appointed Jim Montgomery as his replacement on November 24, 2024. Despite the team's struggles under Bannister, a closer examination reveals compelling reasons why retaining him, regardless of the season's outcome, would have been a strategically sound decision for the organization.
Bannister's journey with the Blues began on December 12, 2023, when he stepped in as interim head coach following the dismissal of Craig Berube. Inheriting a team in disarray, Bannister managed to steer the ship, leading the Blues to a 30-19-5 record and finishing just six points shy of a playoff berth. This performance, deemed a progression by General Manager Doug Armstrong, earned Bannister a two-year contract as the full-time head coach on May 7, 2024.
Several factors contributed to the argument for keeping Bannister. Firstly, his track record with the Springfield Thunderbirds, the Blues' AHL affiliate, demonstrated his ability to develop young talent and instill a winning culture. Given the Blues' need to retool and integrate younger players into the lineup, Bannister's expertise in this area was invaluable.
Secondly, Bannister had earned the respect of the Blues' leadership group, including captain Brayden Schenn and All-Star Robert Thomas. Building strong relationships with key players is crucial for any coach's success, and Bannister had already established a positive rapport with the team's core.
Thirdly, firing Bannister after just 22 games into the season reflects a lack of patience and a short-sighted approach to team building. Coaching changes disrupt team chemistry, require players to adapt to new systems, and can create a sense of instability within the organization. Giving Bannister more time to implement his vision and work through the challenges would have been a more prudent course of action.
Ultimately, the decision to replace Bannister with Montgomery appears to be driven by a desire for immediate results. While Montgomery's experience and track record are undeniable, his arrival doesn't guarantee a quick fix. The Blues' struggles stem from deeper issues, including inconsistent scoring, a lackluster power play, and injuries to key players. Addressing these problems requires a comprehensive strategy and a long-term commitment, not just a change in leadership.
In conclusion, while the Blues' decision to hire Jim Montgomery is understandable given their desire to return to contention, retaining Drew Bannister would have been a more strategic move. His ability to develop young talent, his rapport with the team's leaders, and the need for stability all pointed towards giving him more time to prove his worth. The Blues' impatience may ultimately hinder their long-term success.
