Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports

Player to watch vs. Jets: Joel Hofer

Originally posted on St. Louis Blues on SI | By Lou Korac | Last updated Feb 27, 2024 1:54 PM ET

Joel Hofer has talked about going to Canada Life Centre as a kid and watching the Winnipeg Jets as a fan.

A native Winnipegger, the 23-year-old goalie has faced his hometown team already, shutting them out on 33 saves last season at Enterprise Center, but this will be a different element.

Blues player to watch vs. Jets: Joel Hofer (2:18)

Hofer will face the Jets in his hometown for the first time today at 7 p.m. and there will be, and should be, a different feel for him.

The spotlight will be on him, family and friends will be in attendance, and under such circumstances, I expect Hofer to perform well and at the very least, give the Blues (30-25-2) a chance to win the game.

Hofer comes into the game 10-9-0 with a 2.91 goals-against average and .910 save percentage, and it seems when the microscope has been placed on him, he's come out smelling like a rose.

It's been no surprise that a Blues goalie has been asked to hold the fort together. And I expect nothing short of a solid performance once again.

This article first appeared on St. Louis Blues on SI and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: