The St. Louis Blues are facing an enviable dilemma: they may have two goaltenders capable of leading them deep into the 2025–26 season. Joel Hofer has continued to show steady growth, and his consistency could force the team to rethink its crease strategy.
Back in 2023–24, Hofer impressed fans with a .913 save percentage, 2.65 goals-against average, one shutout, and a .593 quality start percentage — all during his age-23 season. The question was whether he could maintain that level. In 2024–25, he proved it wasn’t a fluke, posting a .904 save percentage, 2.64 GAA, one shutout, and an improved .643 quality start rate. Those numbers suggest he deserves more time alongside established starter Jordan Binnington.
That doesn’t mean a goaltending controversy is brewing. This is still Binnington’s net until general manager Doug Armstrong and head coach Jim Montgomery decide otherwise. But Hofer has earned the chance to play around 35 games, if not more. It would set up a 1A/1B situation that gives the Blues depth and confidence, avoiding the drop-off that comes when teams rely on a weaker backup.
Experimenting with Hofer in a larger role makes sense. His numbers haven’t declined, and his progress proves he can handle the responsibility. With the Blues evolving into a strong contender, splitting time between Binnington and Hofer ensures fresh legs and reliable performance, especially during heavy stretches of the schedule.
In fact, Hofer could likely be a starting goaltender on many other NHL teams right now. That alone shows the Blues’ advantage: goaltending has become their greatest strength. With Binnington’s experience and Hofer’s consistency, St. Louis has a tandem that can compete against even the toughest opponents in the Central Division.
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