Since Jim Montgomery became Blues 14 games ago on Nov. 25, the team has evolved into a top-three NHL team in goal prevention. This is a huge change from the first 22 games, before the coaching change. Under Drew Bannister were one of the worst teams in the NHL at preventing goals, and that made it difficult to win on a consistent basis.

The Blues still struggle to score goals -- a problem that must be addressed by GM Doug Armstrong in a trade -- but by dominating the high-danger areas and keeping invaders out of the slot and crease, the strict goal-prevention improvement gives STL a strong foundation that was missing before the coaching switch. With Montgomery behind the bench, goaltenders Jordan Binnington and Joel Hofer have had a better chance to shine, and they're provided the best save percentage in the league (.940) at 5-on-5 since Armstrong brought in Monty.

Merry Christmas and happy holidays!