Can Blues' Robert Thomas Breakout Against the Struggling Blackhawks?

Through two games, newly appointed captain Robert Thomas has been unable to record his points as captain.

This was an issue last year for Thomas, who got off to a slow start and then was hampered by injuries for the next little while. When he returned and was healthy again, Thomas was dominant, but the Blues need the best version of him from the start of the season, rather than for portions.

The first two games of the season have been on the road and against top opponents, the Dallas Stars and the Colorado Avalanche. With star centers like Wyatt Johnston, Roope Hintz, Nathan MacKinnon, and Brock Nelson to deal with, lighting it up offensively was always going to be difficult. However, Thomas has posted strong results despite not producing any points. 

According to NaturalStatTrick.com, Thomas has posted an expected goals for percentage of 60.01 percent and a Corsi For percentage of 55.77, but has been outscored 2-0 at 5-on-5. 

The on-ice shooting percentage won't stay at zero percent, and his goalies' save percentage won't stay at .778. 

Tonight, the Blues travel to Chicago to take on the Blackhawks, who have started the season 0-3-0. They have been putrid defensively, allowing five goals per game and averaging only 1.67 goals per game. The Blackhawks are allowing 32.3 shots per game and have a penalty kill percentage of just 66.7 percent. 

With the Blackhawks' struggles and Thomas' career stats of five goals and 22 points in 27 games against the Blackhawks, the hope is that the 27-year-old finds his offensive groove. 

Every sign points to the Blues being able to get players who are off to slow starts, up and running. Outside of Thomas, the Blues would love to see Dylan Holloway, Jake Neighbours, and Pavel Buchnevich find their way onto the score sheet. 

That said, underestimating their opponents would be a mistake. Thinking tonight's game will be a points night and an easy two points is the fastest way to lose a winnable game. 

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