Jonatan Berggren is set to re-enter the lineup for the St. Louis Blues after a brief spell as a healthy scratch. As the Blues (15-17-8) face off against the formidable Colorado Avalanche (29-2-7) in their final game of 2025 on Wednesday night at Denver’s Ball Arena, Berggren will play alongside Robert Thomas and Pavel Buchnevich on the first line. The Avalanche have proven to be a tough opponent this season, boasting an impressive 16-0-2 record on home ice.
Berggren, who was claimed off waivers from the Detroit Red Wings on December 16, began his time with the Blues on a high note, tallying two goals and two assists in his first four games. However, he struggled in his last two outings, leading to his healthy scratch during a matchup against the Buffalo Sabres on Monday. Reflecting on the experience, Berggren noted the benefits of taking a step back to analyze the game from the stands.
“I think for myself, I played really good the first three games and then the last two were not to my standard that I want to play,” Berggren remarked. “It was nice to get a little reset and watch the game from the stands.” He aims to recapture the aggressive play and attention to detail that initially made him a valuable asset to the team.
Blues head coach Jim Montgomery has emphasized Berggren’s potential, noting, “He thinks the game at their level. He has the speed and the skill to make the finishing plays.” However, Montgomery also pointed out the areas where Berggren needs to improve, particularly in his effort on loose pucks and maintaining offensive pressure.
As Berggren gears up for this key matchup, he is determined to play his game effectively alongside Thomas and Buchnevich, both dynamic players. “I think the games we have played together, I think we’ve done that and had success. It will be really fun to play with them again,” he said.
In addition to Berggren’s return, Matthew Kessel will also be joining the lineup, making his first appearance since December 17. Kessel takes over for Logan Mailloux, who struggled against the Sabres. Montgomery acknowledged the need for better performance within the team and hinted at holding players accountable, suggesting that every player’s effort level would be under scrutiny moving forward.
Facing the Avalanche, currently leading the NHL in several statistical categories and known for their impressive home record, the Blues find themselves with a significant challenge ahead. Montgomery noted the importance of acknowledging their opponent’s strengths while also invoking a healthy sense of urgency to compete. “Fear of losing brings out the best in you,” he stated, reflecting on the need for heightened focus and commitment from his players.
With both teams heading into this matchup, the stakes are high for the Blues as they look to turn their season around against one of the league’s elite teams. The return of Berggren and Kessel may provide the necessary spark as they aim to improve their standings and capitalizing on the opportunities ahead.