Scott Rovak – USA TODAY Sports
While the St. Louis Blues once again have a healthy Jaroslav Halak ready to go, head coach Ken Hitchcock has already decided to go with the hot hand and open the first round of the playoffs by starting Brian Elliott. After a more-than-impressive run in April, it’s hard to think Elliott doesn’t deserve this opportunity. He was recently named the second star of the month after posting an 11-2-0 record with a mind-blowing 1.28 goals-against average and three shutouts. No Blues goaltender had ever recorded 11 wins in April, and the three shutouts came in consecutive starts to tie another franchise record (that he also tied last season).
This is just the third career trip to the postseason for Elliott, and just like last season he is playing some of the best hockey of his career at the right time. This time around the Blues hope it will last a little longer, as they made an exit in the second round last season. Elliott was 3-4 with a 2.34 goals-against average in the 2012 postseason, and while he may be incredibly hot right now it is unlikely Hitchock keeps him in over Halak if he starts to struggle.
Elliott’s amazing month not only kept the Blues on fire heading into the playoffs, but also helped them secure the fourth seed and home ice advantage. His three consecutive shutouts all came on the road, though, so where the game takes place doesn’t seem to matter much when he’s playing this good. Elliott will need consistent offensive support for the Blues to get out of the first round, with defending Conn Smythe winner Joanthan Quick and the defending Stanley Cup champion Los Angeles Kings at the other end of the ice.
Jonathan Katje is an NHL senior writer for Rant Sports. You can follow him on Twitter or add him to your circles on Google Plus.
