St. Louis Blues Separated Ineffective Top Line
Coach Jim Montgomery shuffled the lineup after the trio failed to record a point through three games.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Hockey
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Should coaches break up underperforming star player lineups after only three games?
The St. Louis Blues have broken up their top line of Robert Thomas, Dylan Holloway, and Jimmy Snuggerud following a scoreless start to the 2026-27 season. The trio logged over 26 minutes of five-on-five play without registering a single point.
Why it matters
The change follows a slow offensive start for the team, which has scored only seven goals in three games. Coach Jim Montgomery indicated the shift was necessary because the players were overly focused on outcomes rather than the team process.
The original top line was outscored 2-0 while on the ice during their 26 minutes and 40 seconds of five-on-five action. The team power play unit is currently operating at 1-for-8 on the young season.
The players
Jim Montgomery
He is the head coach of the St. Louis Blues who is responsible for adjusting line combinations during the season.
Robert Thomas
He is a center for the St. Louis Blues who played on the team's top line during the first three games.
Dylan Holloway
He is a forward for the St. Louis Blues who was moved to the third line after failing to record a point.
Jimmy Snuggerud
He is a forward for the St. Louis Blues who has recorded two points in the 2026-27 season.
Pavel Buchnevich
He is a forward for the St. Louis Blues who was moved to the top line following the team's recent loss.
The details
Following a 4-2 loss to the Chicago Blackhawks, coach Jim Montgomery moved Pavel Buchnevich onto the line with Robert Thomas and Jimmy Snuggerud. Dylan Holloway has been reassigned to the third line to balance the roster.
Timeline
Sept 17, 2026: The top line scored twice in a team scrimmage.
Saturday, Oct 3, 2026: The Blues suffered a 6-1 loss to the Colorado Avalanche.
Tuesday, Oct 6, 2026: The team fell 4-2 to the Chicago Blackhawks.
Season Trajectory
This lineup shuffle signals a rapid change in the team's offensive identity as they look to correct early-season scoring struggles. The decision to move players like Dylan Holloway reflects an urgent attempt to build momentum before falling further behind in the standings.
Pavel Buchnevich now occupies a key role on the top line, which could significantly impact his fantasy production and shot volume. The power play unit remains a concern for the team, as they have converted only one of eight opportunities so far.
The takeaway
Early-season lineup adjustments are a common mechanism for coaches to spark stagnant offensive units. Fans should monitor whether these new line pairings lead to increased goal production in upcoming matchups.
Further reading
For more updates on the roster, visit the St. Louis Hockey section.
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Should coaches break up underperforming star player lineups after only three games?
