Jeremy Rutherford: I just posted a Morning Skate blog . . . take a look . . . Patrik Berglund is questionable for tonight's game against San Jose.

IndyBluesFan: With all due respect to this season and the Blues' exciting push for a playoff spot. How many players do you think the Blues are away from reaching that next level (i.e. making the playoffs and being able to compete for the conference championship)? And do you think those players are in house (if so who are they) or will the Blues have to go outside the organization to get them (and do you see them willing to do so in the off-season)?

Thanks!

Jeremy Rutherford:
Fair question. The Blues are a couple of players away from being contenders. Even when they get Paul Kariya back, which is important, I believe they need another goal scorer. T.J. Oshie, Patrik Berglund and David look like they'll be good offensively, but if the Blues are going to be contenders in the next two years, they need another scorer. Defensively, getting Erik Johnson will be important because they need a strong puck-moving presence on the blue-line. But they need another sturdy defenseman. Maybe Roman Polak will be that, but the Blues could probably use another one.

Andrew: JR,
I remember hearing a comment on Blues hockey that bothered me. It wasn't anything negative or anything but in dealing with trading young talent for an older veteran who can establish some consistency. Instead of trading for talent why not let the young talent grow into play makers? you already have a line of young talent there's no need to go after older veterans.

Jeremy Rutherford: Former Blues writer Tom Wheatley made a good point the other day. He told me that throughout the franchise's history, whenever the Blues had mainly veterans, they wanted to get younger . . . when they're young, they want to get older . . . when they had a good defense, they wanted to trade it for some forwards.

The point is: stick with what you go. The young players will grow into their roles. That's why you drafted them. Look at Jay McClement and David Backes. A couple of years ago, they were on the "kid" line. Now they're maturing into their roles and helping the organization. I say stick with what you got and develop it. This is the plan that you had in place.

brann316: JR,
There have been a lot of comparisons between this year's Blues and last year's Blackhawks: both young teams, similarities between the young stars ( Oshie/Berglund vs. Towes/Kane), got off to slow starts then made a run at making the playoffs down the stretch, picking up valuable experience in games that were meaningful. This year it has paid off, with the Hawks going to the postseason. That being said, the franchise stepped up this past summer, spending a lot of money to fill their needs (Brian Campbell, Huet,) putting them over the top to get in. Should the Blues do the same this coming summer (at least pick up one more free agent scorer), and do you think they will?
MB

Jeremy Rutherford:
The comparison is valid. As far as will the Blues go out and sign a Brian Campbell or someone to put the team over the hump, I don't know that Campbell has made the difference. I know you're just using Campbell as an example, but there's been reports that Coach Quenneville isn't a big fan. So, you have to be careful with the money that you spend. Huet has been a good pickup, but Khabibulin has also played well this season. Dave Checketts said Tuesday that the Blues will be competitive next year, and they will sign some players to help.

Craig (clg22glc): So I know this is not the most important question, but it has been on the boards alot. Who do you think the next Blues Captain will be, and why? I personaly hope its Oshie. Thank you for your time JR

Jeremy Rutherford: Well, it will be Eric Brewer for the next two years, assuming he bounces back from his back injury. After that, depending if Brewer re-signs, he could remain the captain. But if you're asking the question "When Brewer moves on, who will the captain be?" . . . my guess would be someone from the group of David Backes, T.J. Oshie or Erik Johnson.

Rodimus Prime: Good to have you back this week on the chat JR, thanks for taking our questions.

What is the organizations feelings for the future role of David Backes? His goal scoring has increased each year and he is playing a very well rounded game. Do they see him as a potetnial top 6 power forward who can contirbute 20-25 goals and a big presence crashing the net?

Its obvious David can play and he has taken on some big tasks this year, but with Kariay coming back and the growth of Oshie as a winger, is it assumed that David would go back to a 3rd line energy/checking role? Or is it more of if David proves he's earned it, its his spot on the top lines to take?

Thanks JR.

Jeremy Rutherford:
I don't think you'll ever see Backes back in a third-line checking role. He may have some spot duty there, as he is on the fourth line in recent weeks. But with 22 goals, after a slow start mind you, Backes has established himself as a legitimate scoring threat in the NHL. He will likely play center for the foreseeable future and will probably be in a top-six role. I know the Blues have Andy McDonald and Patrik Berglund, but Backes will fit in somewhere.

Bert: Will Murray keep the youngster line together? Will they get more PP time? I know he loves his veterans, but the kids need to play to get better.

Jeremy Rutherford:
Murray said this morning that if they continue to play the way the have (Oshie, Berglund and Perron were a plus-7 against Dallas), then they'll stick together.

David Lee: Do you see Mason getting a rest at some point this season, or is it pretty certain he starts every game from here on out? I ask because I'm just worried that if the Blues do make the playoffs, Mason may not have much left in the tank at that point.

Jeremy Rutherford: The Blues intend to play Mason the rest of the season. They really have no choice, and that's no slap at Ben Bishop. They have to win as many as 13 of their last 16 games. So they need Mason. But you're right, the Blues have to be careful with him. Mason could play the last 16, and then be wiped out when the playoffs start. But for now, he's got to play.

rich4mde: JR Thanks for your time.

With the recent article in the post dispatch. Do you think next season with the whole 10% increase in tickets is going to turn away alot of fans that have recently been coming to the games, as well as also the people who want to become season ticket holders next year? Seems like they have already made mad alot of season ticket holders with all the discounts for single games!

Also I think alot of people from what I hear are kind of upset about the free food game Sunday. You get two hot dogs or chicken fingers, popcorn, and a soda. Alot of people just found this out recently this is all your going to be getting, compared to last year where it was as much as you wanted. What do you think?

Keep up the GREAT WORK!!!

Jeremy Rutherford: From what I've heard, season-ticket holders are elated about the prices staying the same for next season, as long as they renew by April 10th. I can't speak for season-ticket holders because I'm not one, but putting 10 percent down by April 10th seems very reasonable. There were probably season-ticket holders who were relieved to hear that prices weren't going up across the board, without the luxury of freezing the prices.

As far as the 10 percent increase for those who don't renew by April 10th, or those who are planning to purchase season ticketes for the first time next season, it's a steep jump. But the Blues do have some of the cheapest season tickets in the NHL, and fans are asking the ownership to keep the team competitive. You can't have a competitive team and the lowest ticket prices in the league.

I really don't think anyone can complain about FREE food. The Blues are going out of their way to put that promotion on, and it seems out of place to complain about 10 hotdogs or 2. I understand where you're coming from, but it is FREE food after all.

wwalker: I am curious how do the scouts compare taveres to stamkos are they for the most part equal talents ? thank you for your time

Jeremy Rutherford:
I've heard more about Tavares this year than I heard about Stamkos last year. Tavares appears to be a once-in-a-decade player, as he showed at the World Jr. Championships.

Adam: I don't understand why the NHL wants to mess with fighting. It is a major part of the game. I enjoy those "staged" fights because they usually happen towards the beginning of the game, therefore they get the crowd into the game and also help set the tone for the game.

Jeremy Rutherford:
I am with you. It is part of the game. I was in Nashville a few weeks ago, and listened to commissioner Gary Bettman say the same thing. He didn't seem to be wishing for fighting to go away anytime soon. Obviously there's been a lot of talk lately because of the GM meetings going on, but a lot will have to happen before it would be eliminated.

Chocolate Thunder: JR,
Since this year is shot.
What chance do we have to make the playoffs next year?
Thanks

Jeremy Rutherford:
It's going to be a long shot, but at least it's a shot. As we stand today, the Blues are three points behind Nashville for the eighth and final spot in the West. Ending the season with six of their last seven games on the road will be tough. But the Blues have played well on the road lately.

Conrad: Hi Jeremy,

Walt and Perron for Kessel. What stopped it from happening?

Thanks,

Conrad

Jeremy Rutherford:
That was the rumor. I don't have inside knowledge on whether that was the deal talked about, or how close it was.

Eoman: Why would the the Blues oganization, at this critical juncture of the season, allow for three of the most crucial games in years to be shown on the terrible picture, no HD, KPLR 11. They say all home games in HD, then pull this crap at this time. No excuse.

Jeremy Rutherford:
I was told by the folks at Fox Sports Midwest that they will be carrying basketball tournament this week. That's why the games are on KPLR.

Justin: JR, it seems Jay McKee is back from the dead. Given what he has the potential to bring to this hockey club, juxtaposed with how disappointing he's been since signing that big contract three years ago, what are the chances of the Blues buying him out over the summer, especially given the potential glut of competent defensemen that will be in camp?

Jeremy Rutherford: Despite all that's been said and written about McKee over the past three years, McKee is still a key veteran who provides a lot of leadership on this team. That was some hit he laid on Mark Parrish Tuesday night, huh. The Blues would like to see more of that from McKee. Of course, you're not going to get a big hit like that every night, but if he plays a steady defensive game, and plays physical at times, the team will be happy.

But there's still a chance that the Blues could trade McKee, or buy him out in the summer. Despite all that's

Go Cards Go Blues: JR - What are the chances that Chris Mason needs rest and the Blues either start Ben Bishop (or recall Chris Holt from Peoria) during this 3-game home stretch? Thanks!

Jeremy Rutherford: The only indication that I've been given is that Mason will continue to start.

Geaux Blues: Hey JR,
Don't you think it would behoove the Blues to put the "C" on Tkachuck at this point? I know its just a title, but I think it would be good for the team trying to make the playoffs.

Thanks

Jeremy Rutherford: That's a good point. If Eric Brewer is out for the rest of the season, and the players are talking about Tkachuk as their leader, why not put the C on him for the rest of the year. He obviously doesn't need to wear it, as everyone is looking toward him anyway. But it would be a nice gesture and one that makes sense.

stljumpster: According to this website: http://www.sportsclubstats.com/NHL.html

the Blues have a 17.7% chance of making it to the playoffs. IF the Blues win Tonite & on Sunday, what kind of chance do you think the Blues have. Also, the Power Rankings are up on Yahoo Sports. It seems that Yahoo is pessimistic on the Blues' chances, saying: "It’s been an impressive showing to stay close to the pack, but the Blues are not headed to the playoffs." What are your thoughts?

Thanks for all that you do keeping us informed.

stljumpster

Jeremy Rutherford:
That's a bit pessimistic, but it's reality, too. The Blues have made valiant effort to get into the playoffs, and they may pull it off. But if you're handicapping their chances, especially if you're a reputable website, you've got to be honest.

KB: Regardless of the result of the year, will the Blues resign Walt? I would love to see him back with us next year as long as he is up for it. Thanks.

Jeremy Rutherford: Tkachuk said last week that he definitely wants to play next year. There's still a chance the Blues could re-sign him. It would definitely be a one-year deal.

Daniel: Last year, you wrote how the veterans pulled pranks on the rookies (cutting Perron's laces, etc.). Has there been any rookie pranks this year?

Jeremy Rutherford: I've asked and asked around the locker room about pranks this season, and nobody has anything to report. Here's my observation: there's been a lot of tough days the past couple of years because of the losing and guys like Dan Hinote were good at keeping the locker room loose. But with the Blues in a playoff hunt, the mood has been a little more serious this year. That's not to say guys aren't joking around, but I haven't heard of any pranks.

Tim Boeckelmann: I will be at the game tonight. Any roster changes or line moves I should expect?

Jeremy Rutherford: No lineup changes, unless Patrik Berglund (back) can't play.

JeffinColorado: Given the Blues record just before and just after Andy McDonald has returned to the lineup. Do you see the Blues as being more consistant or less consistant with or without him?

Jeremy Rutherford:
This team is much better with Andy McDonald in the lineup. He's been a big boost since returning to the lineup.

Pandaman: Why do the Blues players reveal such bad taste in music and movies during the pregame footage on Blues Live?

Jeremy Rutherford: Ha ha, that's funny. I do watch the footage on the JumboTron sometimes, and you're right . . . those are some movie picks. I guess they don't have enough free time to find a good movie.

Greg: I am sure the Blues have to be thinking that Walt has had a good year, but the harsh odds are he is only going to slow down due to age.

Based on your observations and gut feeling, do you think it is less likely or more likely Tkachuk will be signed another year? Or do the Blues commit those dollars and the roster space to a younger, UFA forward?

This has got to be a tough decision for this Blues this summer.

Jeremy Rutherford:
If I had to bet, I would guess he won't be back, but as I've said, there's still a chance.

JarmoBlues89: Thanks for the chat JR. I was wondering why you said earlier that we need to win 13 of the last 16 games. Do you really think it will take that much? Or is that more of a "if we win 13 theres absolutely no way we will be short of the playoffs"? I just don't think we need 96 points to get in this year.

Jeremy Rutherford:
I was basing it off the story I wrote in Monday's paper. The Blues need roughly 94 points to make the playoffs. That means they probably needed to win 14 of 17 and now 13 of 16 after the win over Dallas.

Yes, the Blues could go 10-3-3 and qualify, but that means it won't take 94 points to get in this season. And that's quite possible. But if they won 13 of their last 16, which would be some achievement, they would get in.

stlmo: Hey JR - any word on when they will have authentic 3rd jerseys available again for purchase on-line? I didn't get to buy one when I was in STL for the Sharks game on Dec 27th (what a game! - my wife is now hooked on live hockey).

Thanks
Drew in Tucson

Jeremy Rutherford:
Hey Drew:

I really don't have the answer. I would contact the Blues' shop at Scottrade Center and get an answer from them.

Kris: Just wondering how it's decided which injured players are mentioned in the "Injuries" section of the game-day box in the newspaper. For example, in today's paper only Steen and Brewer are mentioned, even though Kariya, King, and Johnson are also out. I guess players out for the rest of the season aren't mentioned? If so, does this mean Brew has a chance of returning?

Jeremy Rutherford: That's a good observation . . . we no longer list the guys who are out for the rest of the year. It's a waste of space because most people know they're out.

PICKLE ARMY: If you could only keep one of the three ... Oshie, Bergs, and Perron .... who do you keep?

Jeremy Rutherford:
All three . . . too tough to answer.

Bryan S.: Do you see any of the Blues prospects leaving their colleges or junior level teams and playing for Peoria at the end of the year? Also anybody who could possibly join either the Blues or the Rivermen by next season?

Jeremy Rutherford:
Ian Cole (Notre Dame), Lars Eller (Sweden), Aaron Palushaj (Michigan) . . . those are a few.

Bryan S.: Who becomes the backup next year for goalie? If we have just Mason and like Holt (because I am assuming they want Bishop to stay in Peoria and get games), then you are right back to where we were at the end of last year, 1 good/ decent goalie with not a really capable backup of a long stretch of games, or they are unproven. Im not calling Holt the next Toivonen, maybe hes like a Curtis Sanford, but would the blues go out and get somebody, and if they did who is available?

Jeremy Rutherford: The Blues will have to add a goaltender in the offseason. If they like Mason as the No. 1, then they'll likely add a depth guy who can be a solid No. 2.

I've mentioned Nikolai Khabibulin's name in the past and Josh Harding of Minnesota (although he's had a tough season record-wise). I don't think they'd have any interest in Curtis Sanford.

Bryan S.: Are the Blues planning on unveiling the Al MacInnis Statue this season or next season? Any idea when? I saw with the report of the Blues "ice your price" some of the people will get a replica of that statue, so I was curious. Thanks

Jeremy Rutherford: I did see the note about the MacInnis statue replicas being given away, which leads me to believe it they will unveil the statue this season. The last I heard, it was going to be unveiled this season.

walt: J.R.

Here's hoping they keep the kid line together. I would love to see this team get into the playoffs if just to get some experience. Although they will obviously see a pretty tough draw in the opening round I think they could be competitive. How about Blues/Sharks to open up? The Sharks would be heavily favored but I'll bet they wouldn't take the Blues lightly. I'm already getting excited about next season. I saw the comment about Kariya thinking he could be ready if the team makes the playoffs. What's your take?

Jeremy Rutherford:
I'm also in favor of keeping the kid line together. But you do have to pay attention to matchups and with a big physical team like the Sharks, you have to put some thought into the lines. You might see the Blues mix and match their lines tonight.

I don't think you'll see Kariya this season, and that's probably best. Marian Gaborik, who had a similar surgery is back on the ice, but keep in mind that Kariya had both hips operated on. I would hold him off to next season.

woodstown@excite.com: JR!
I'm interested in your thoughts on Colaiacavo- at 25, he's only played 158 games. He looks like a top 4 defender to me and there's a number of videos on youtube showing some stout open-ice hits he's delivered. However, it seems like he has games where his mental game is not sharp- he doesn't seem consistent to me. Have you seen him become more consistent since he's arrived? Will this lack of consistency keep him from becoming one of the blue chip defensemen the blues are trying to develop?
Thanks!

Jeremy Rutherford: Colaiacovo has had his ups and downs since he's been with the Blues, but overall, he's been a big contributor. His puck-moving ability has been much needed on this roster. Colaiacovo is probably a 4-5-6 defensemen when everybody is healthy.

Brent M: JR, why wasn't Barch given a 2 minute instigator penalty for the fight with Jansen? Barch dropped his gloves first and immediately went after Cam. Granted it's Cam's job as the enforcer but usually both players will drop their gloves, square off and then go at it. This particular time, Barch initiated the scrum, so why wasn't he given an extra 2?

Jeremy Rutherford: Barch might have dropped his gloves first, but Janssen was ready to go, too. You're never going to see an instigator in that situation with two fighters barking at the face-off circle.

baddawwg69: Hi JR,

As you read the forums, Perron is a lightning rod. Some people seem to think he's not a good locker room guy, that other players don't like him and that Andy Murray doesn't like him. You addressed this some time ago, but given continuing forums posts, can you again please comment? In the past you have indicated that he's well liked by both the players and the coaches.

Thanks.

Jeremy Rutherford: To my knowledge, Perron is well-liked in the room. The "lightning rod" that follows anything related to him really is blown out of proportion.

Jeremy Rutherford: Thanks for the questions and thanks for being patient during the chat. It's a juggling act on game days, and really appreciate you guys sticking with me.