Myth or Fact? Exploring Narrative of Binnington’s Sophomore Slump

As the 2019-20 season wore on, questions began to emerge about Jordan Binnington’s ability to lead the St. Louis Blues over the long haul.

After a storybook rookie year where he posted a .927 save percentage in 32 regular season games, followed by a Stanley Cup win, Binnington’s 2019-20 season looked like a step back by the usual statistics. He played 50 games, certainly enough to make him the chosen starter above veteran Jake Allen, but his .912 save percentage (especially compared to Allen’s .927), while above league average, didn’t garner much praise. Whispers of a dreaded “goalie controversy” were almost audible at different points of the season, and while Binnington’s strong previous playoff performance meant he will be the starter this post season, there was a feeling his leash would be shorter.