The St. Louis Blues have emerged as the hottest team in the NHL, claiming a position in the playoff race with an impressive winning streak. Their recent performance has sparked discussions about their potential playoff prospects, especially considering the confidence instilled by management's decision to stand pat at the trade deadline. Key players like Jordan Binnington and Dylan Holloway have been pivotal during this stretch, with Binnington's confidence boosted by international competition.

Dylan Holloway, originally an underdog, has exceeded expectations since joining the Blues. His offensive prowess has made him a top-six forward, demonstrating the impact of the Blues' offseason strategy. However, concerns linger regarding the team's inconsistent performance and special teams struggles, as they sit near the bottom of the league in penalty killing. With the regular season winding down, the Blues will need to maintain their momentum to secure a playoff berth amidst rising competition.