Jordan Binnington Sets Blues Goaltending Record, reflects on Legacy and Future
St. Louis Blues goaltender Jordan Binnington etched his name into franchise history Tuesday night, surpassing Mike Liut for the most games played by a netminder in team history. The milestone, achieved in a 3-2 victory over the Calgary Flames, is a testament to Binnington’s decade-plus commitment to the organization and a moment he intends to playfully acknowledge with his agent, Liut.
Binnington, 32, reached the record with his 348th career game. This accomplishment builds upon his already extraordinary legacy,having previously become the blues’ all-time wins leader in 2024 – also surpassing Liut. It’s a full-circle moment for a player drafted in the third round in 2011 who has spent his entire professional career in St. Louis.
A Career Defined by Loyalty and Achievement
Binnington’s journey to this record isn’t just about longevity; it’s about consistent performance and unwavering dedication.Consider these key highlights:
* Franchise Wins Leader: Binnington boasts 152 career wins, solidifying his place as the winningest goalie in Blues history.
* Stanley Cup Champion: He was the backbone of the Blues’ historic 2019 Stanley Cup run, a championship that remains the franchise’s only title.
* Record-setting Games Played: Now holding the record for most games played by a Blues goaltender, surpassing a franchise icon in Mike Liut.
“I’m truly honored and humbled,” Binnington stated after the game. “We’ve had some good teams here and some good players. I just keep my head down and do my best.”
Bouncing Back and Staying Focused
The record-setting night came on the heels of a challenging start last week.Binnington was pulled from a game against the Washington Capitals after allowing four goals on just 15 shots, including a milestone goal by Alex Ovechkin.However, he demonstrated resilience against Calgary, stopping 38 shots to secure the win.
This ability to rebound is a hallmark of Binnington’s career. He emphasizes the importance of enjoying the game and focusing on the present. “You’ve got to play for the love of the game and why you started,” he explained. “I enjoy these moments, trying to close out a game here at home.”
A Tight Game and a Promising Outlook
The Blues built a 3-0 lead against the Flames, but Calgary responded with two quick goals in the second period. Binnington faced a barrage of 31 shots in the final two periods, showcasing his ability to remain composed under pressure.
Despite the late push from Calgary, the Blues held on for the victory.Binnington believes this hard-fought win is a sign of things to come. “It was a fun game back and forth,” he said. “I think it’s only going to get better.”
The Liut Connection: respect and a Pleasant Rivalry
The unique aspect of this record is the connection to Mike Liut. Not only is Liut a Blues legend and Hall of Famer, but he also currently serves as Binnington’s agent. Binnington plans to playfully remind Liut of the new record.
“Maybe I’ll send him a text tonight just for fun,” Binnington said with a smile. “He’s someone I look up to and he’s been a big part of my career. it’s cool how life works like that.” This demonstrates a level of respect and camaraderie that underscores the tight-knit nature of the hockey world.
Binnington’s achievement is more than just a statistic; it’s a symbol of dedication, perseverance, and a deep connection to the St. louis Blues organization and its fans. As he continues his career, you can expect Binnington to build upon this legacy and remain a cornerstone of the team for years to come.
