The ice hockey world thrives on rivalries, and few are as compelling or historically charged as the one between the St. Louis Blues and the Montreal Canadiens. While geographical distance might seem to preclude a heated battle, the history books tell a different story. These two franchises, steeped in tradition and Stanley Cup aspirations, have woven a tapestry of memorable moments and intense clashes that continue to captivate fans today.
A Rivalry Born in the Expansion Era
To understand the Blues-Canadiens rivalry, we must journey back to 1967 and the NHL's expansion era. The league, eager to establish its presence across North America, welcomed six new teams, including the St. Louis Blues. Pitted against established franchises with decades of history, the expansion teams faced an uphill battle.
Montreal, already a hockey powerhouse with a legacy etched in championships, presented a formidable challenge. The Canadiens, boasting legends like Jean Beliveau and Henri Richard, became a measuring stick for the fledgling Blues. The early years saw the Canadiens dominate the regular season series, but it was in the playoffs where the rivalry truly ignited.
Playoff Battles and Unforgettable Moments
The 1968 Stanley Cup Playoffs marked the first postseason encounter between the Blues and Canadiens. St. Louis, led by goaltending sensation Glenn Hall, embarked on an improbable run, sweeping both the Philadelphia Flyers and the Minnesota North Stars. Awaiting them in the Stanley Cup Finals: the mighty Montreal Canadiens.
The Canadiens, true to form, swept the Blues to secure the Stanley Cup. However, the games were far from one-sided. Each contest was fiercely contested, marked by hard-hitting play and stellar goaltending. The Blues, despite falling short, had announced their arrival as a team to be reckoned with.
Over the next few years, the Blues and Canadiens would meet three more times in the playoffs (1969, 1970, 1972), with Montreal emerging victorious each time. The 1970 quarterfinals, in particular, offered a glimpse into the intensity of the rivalry. The series, which went the distance to seven games, included overtime thrillers and controversial moments that further fueled the fire.
Geographic Distance, Enduring Passion
As the NHL realigned divisions and conferences over the decades, the Blues and Canadiens found themselves competing in different conferences. The frequency of their meetings decreased, but the passion and intensity never waned. Whenever these teams clashed, the games carried an extra weight, a reminder of the historic battles that had come before.
The rivalry's longevity can be attributed to several factors:
- Historical Significance: The early playoff encounters helped shape the Blues' identity as a franchise. Those battles against the Canadiens are etched in the memories of longtime Blues fans.
- Contrasting Styles: Historically, the Canadiens have often exemplified a finesse-based, puck-possession style of play, while the Blues have been known for their physicality and defensive grit. This clash of styles has often made for captivating hockey.
- Passionate Fanbases: Both St. Louis and Montreal boast incredibly passionate and knowledgeable hockey fanbases. The roar of the crowds at the Enterprise Center and the Bell Centre when these teams collide is a testament to the enduring rivalry.
Modern Chapters and the Future of the Rivalry
In recent years, the Blues and Canadiens have continued to add chapters to their storied rivalry. The 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs saw the Blues, en route to their first-ever championship, eliminate the Canadiens in the second round. The series, while ultimately a Blues victory, was tightly contested, featuring overtime games and dramatic moments.
While the Blues and Canadiens may not meet as frequently as some other NHL rivals, their games remain must-watch events for hockey fans. The blend of history, passion, and skill on display ensures that the Blues vs. Canadiens rivalry remains one of the most captivating in the sport. As long as these teams take to the ice with Stanley Cup aspirations, the fire of this rivalry will continue to burn bright.