SALT LAKE CITY – In the third period with a two-goal lead, Utah defenseman John Marino showed pure heart with what could easily be the defensive play of the year for the Hockey Club.
Off of a deflection, St. Louis had a perfect look from the right wing. Or so they thought.
Elite defense.
This is what it takes to win hockey games.
Just a relentless effort to make big plays and step up for your teammates. https://t.co/WamFsi4CtR
— Cole Bagley (@BagleyKSLsports) January 19, 2025
Coming from the back side, Marino put himself between the shooter and the net.
Utah was able to clear the puck and keep the penalty kill alive.
In a little over 20 minutes on the ice, Marino had an assist, a shot, and a block. There was no shortage of highlight defensive plays against the Blues.
Here’s the save I was talking about earlier.
Big time. Easily could’ve ended up in the back of the net. https://t.co/2lhlHaXj1i
— Cole Bagley (@BagleyKSLsports) January 19, 2025
In addition to a rock-solid performance from the back line, goaltender Connor Ingram played phenomenally in just his third game back.
St. Louis had 21 shots and four power plays. But, one of the best defensive performances of the year from Utah negated those opportunities.
Utah HC (18-19-7, 43 points) is hosting the division-rival St. Louis Blues (22-20-4, 48 points) on Saturday, January 18 at Delta Center.
Delta Center and fans of Utah Hockey Club have made hockey night in Utah the place to be despite the team’s 6-11-4 at home.
The team has failed to capitalize on a season-long seven-game homestand, losing four of the first five before tonight’s contest. Utah has a long road to battle back into a playoff spot, and it begins at home with games against the Blues and Winnipeg Jets before heading back out on the road.
Utah Hockey Club games can be viewed on SEG+. Fans can also tune in on the KSL Sports app or 97.5 and 1280 The Zone. Click here for the full schedule.
Cole Bagley is the Utah Hockey Club insider for KSL Sports. Keep up with him on X here. Listen to Cole break down the team on KSL Sports Zone and KSL 5 TV.
Find KSLSports.com coverage of the Utah Hockey Club here.
