Gordo grades Blues defensemen, goaltenders: Binnington, Hofer, Parayko stood out

On balance, the Blues' defensive corps was slightly better this season than in 2022-23 thanks to Colton Parayko's excellent campaign and the emergence of rookie Matthew Kessel as a viable stay-at-home defender. The Blues remained in the playoff chase this season for one big reason: Their goaltending was great. Both Jordan Binnington and his first-year backup Joel Hofer had excellent campaigns. If the Blues keep this tandem intact next season, that team strength should keep them in the chase.