In a swift move by the St. Louis Blues, head coach Drew Bannister has been relieved of his duties following a stint that lasted under a full calendar year. The organization turned the page quickly, appointing Jim Montgomery as the new head coach. Montgomery, freshly cut by the Boston Bruins, is back in the coaching game almost immediately, assuming the role just five days post-dismissal.

St. Louis Blues' higher-ups, notably President and General Manager Doug Armstrong, indicated the decision to switch coaches mid-stream was heavily influenced by Montgomery's sudden availability. Heralding the experience and track record Montgomery brings to the table, Armstrong said in a statement that he did not anticipate making a change, as reported by Fox2Now. A new era beckons for the Blues as they navigate a period of retooling, with eyes on reclaiming their Stanley Cup contender status.

As the 28th coach in the franchise's history, Montgomery comes with a five-year contract under his belt, ready to lead the Blues. According to KSDK, Sports Director Frank Cusumano, he has expressed optimism, praising Montgomery's charisma and positive demeanor, both deemed lacking in the organization since prior coaching departures. Montgomery, who boasts an impressive record with the Bruins, is tasked with injecting new energy into a lagging Blues squad.

Under Bannister's 39-31-6 record, Montgomery faces heightened expectations. Bannister's 54-game tenure as interim and full-time coach, despite a recent two-year contract, failed to secure his place within the organization. As reported by St. Louis Today, Armstrong is set to address the media, likely to elucidate the forward trajectory of the Blues under its new yet experienced leadership.