Jordan Binnington Focuses on Process Amidst Olympic Uncertainty
Montreal – teh pressure is palpable for St. louis Blues goaltender Jordan binnington. While onc considered the frontrunner to guard Canada’s net at the upcoming Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics in February, a challenging start to the NHL season has sparked debate about his place on the national team roster. But Binnington, a proven performer, is choosing to focus on what he can control.
He understands the scrutiny. “I’m aware of what’s going on, and you want to put yourself in the best position to make that team and make it easy for people making the decision,” Binnington told The Canadian Press. However, he’s leaning on a familiar strategy: concentrating on his own game and trusting that results will follow.
A Rocky Start, But a Familiar Path
This isn’t the first time Binnington has faced adversity. His current stats are undeniably below his career average. Currently, he holds a .875 save percentage,ranking 68th in the league among qualifying goalies.Analytics from Natural Stat Trick further illustrate the challenge, placing him fifth-worst in the league with a -10.86 goals-saved above average.
Yet, those who know Binnington best aren’t writing him off. He’s navigated difficult stretches before, most notably during the Blues’ improbable 2019 Stanley Cup run.
Sunday night’s 4-3 victory over the Montreal Canadiens offered a glimpse of the Binnington that fans and coaches know well. He delivered 23 saves, including a crucial stop on canadiens star Cole caufield in the dying seconds, securing his seventh win of the season.
“Numbers aren’t necessarily where you want them to be,” Binnington acknowledged. “I’ve been approaching it as just focusing on my own process and what I need to feel good at the right time.”
The Olympic question & A Hands-Off Approach
the looming olympic selection adds another layer of complexity. Interestingly, Doug Armstrong – Binnington’s GM with the Blues – also holds the GM role for the Canadian Olympic team. despite this dual role,the two haven’t directly discussed Binnington’s Olympic prospects.
“We haven’t talked about it at all,” Binnington stated. ”I think nothing needs to be said really, just do your job, focus here and the better the St. Louis Blues do, the better that is for that situation as well.”
This approach speaks to Binnington’s maturity and understanding of the bigger picture. He recognizes that improved team performance in St.Louis will naturally strengthen his case for Olympic consideration.
Why Binnington Remains a Strong Contender
Despite the statistical downturn, several factors keep Binnington firmly in the Olympic conversation:
* Proven Track Record: He’s a Stanley Cup champion, demonstrating an ability to perform under immense pressure.
* Clutch Performance: His performance in the recent 4 Nations Face-Off – stopping 31 of 33 shots against the united States, including a game-saving stop on Auston Matthews - underscores his ability to rise to the occasion.
* Mental Fortitude: Coaches and teammates consistently highlight his mental toughness and unwavering belief in himself.
“If you’re looking at statistics, you would, you know… but Binnington is such a winner,” said Blues coach Jim Montgomery. “It doesn’t matter the stage, he always has the ability to bounce back as of his mental toughness, his belief in himself, and he was outstanding [Sunday].”
Ultimately, Binnington’s Olympic fate remains uncertain. but one thing is clear: he’s committed to refining his game, focusing on his process, and letting his performance do the talking. For you, the hockey fan, that means watching a goaltender who, despite the challenges, consistently demonstrates the resilience and competitive spirit that defines a champion.
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