ST. LOUIS — In an exciting encounter on Saturday, Alexey Toropchenko led the St. Louis Blues with both a goal and an assist, while goaltender Joel Hofer delivered a stellar performance with 26 saves. The Blues outplayed the Chicago Blackhawks, securing a 4-1 victory.
In addition to Toropchenko, Robert Thomas, Nathan Walker, and Zach Bolduc each found the back of the net for St. Louis. Hofer’s impressive form continues as he has now improved to a 4-0-1 record over his last five outings, contributing to the Blues’ fifth consecutive win. The team maintains firm control of the second wild-card position in the Western Conference standings.
Ilya Mikheyev was the sole goal-scorer for the Blackhawks, while Arvid Soderblom managed 21 saves but couldn’t prevent Chicago from extending their winless streak to 0-6-1 over the last seven games.
The Blues took the lead with Thomas scoring at 15:13 in the second period by swatting an airborne puck into the net. Toropchenko doubled the lead at 17:20 with a skillful shot from the right side. Chicago responded with an unassisted short-handed goal by Mikheyev just before the period’s end, narrowing the margin to 2-1.
In the final period, Walker widened the Blues’ lead by converting a set-up from Toropchenko at 1:12, and Bolduc sealed the game with a goal at 7:43.
**Takeaways**
For the Blackhawks: St. Louis native Pat Maroon declared his retirement plans before the match. Starting the game, he played his last in his hometown and was lauded with a standing ovation during the second period. Maroon was instrumental in the Blues’ 2019 Stanley Cup triumph and went on to win two more with Tampa Bay in 2020 and 2021.
For the Blues: Since the break for the 4 Nations tournament, St. Louis has been exceptional, recording an 11-2-2 streak. Their home record remains impressive with six straight victories.
**Key moment**
A highlight occurred at 5:59 in the third period when Pat Maroon and Tyler Tucker engaged in a bout, energizing the crowd.
**Key stat**
The Blackhawks, eliminated from playoff contention and placed last in the Central Division, lack short-handed goals this season. Mikheyev accounts for both, showcasing his individual prowess.
**Up next**
Both teams are set to play again on Sunday. The Blackhawks will face off against Philadelphia at home, while the Blues will compete against Nashville in St. Louis.