The Legacy of Goaltender Curtis Joseph and Versatile Player Red Berenson in Blues History
The St. Louis Blues have a rich history filled with remarkable players who have left an indelible mark on the franchise. Among these legends are goaltender Curtis Joseph, affectionately known as "CUJO," and the versatile Red Berenson. Their contributions to the team not only shaped the Blues’ identity but also solidified their places in the annals of NHL history.
Curtis Joseph: The Rise of CUJO
Curtis Joseph, a native of Keswick, Ontario, joined the St. Louis Blues as a free agent in June of 1989. Over the next six seasons, Joseph became a cornerstone of the franchise, dressing for 280 games and achieving a commendable record of 137 wins, 96 losses, and 34 ties. His tenure with the Blues was marked by exceptional performances that showcased his skill and determination.
Joseph’s impact on the ice was further amplified by his iconic goaltending masks, which became some of the most recognizable in NHL history. The nickname "CUJO," a playful nod to the horror film character, was affectionately adopted by Blues fans, encapsulating both his fierce competitive spirit and his larger-than-life persona.
In the 1992-93 season, Joseph led the NHL with a remarkable save percentage of .911, a testament to his prowess between the pipes. His consistency was evident as he topped the league in total saves for three consecutive seasons from 1992 to 1994. Joseph’s ability to keep the puck out of the net earned him a spot in the Top 10 for goals-against average during the 1992-93 season and recognition in the Top 5 of Vezina Trophy voting twice (1993 and 1994).
The 1993-94 season was particularly memorable for Joseph, as he made one of his two career appearances in the NHL All-Star Game. He finished that season with a record of 36 wins, 23 losses, and 11 ties, marking it as the second-winningest campaign for a goaltender in Blues history. Today, Joseph ranks fourth in franchise history for wins, second in total saves with an impressive 7,940, and seventh in save percentage at .907 (minimum 100 games). Notably, his 17 career assists remain a record for goaltenders in Blues history, showcasing his ability to contribute beyond just stopping pucks.
Red Berenson: A Versatile Force
Red Berenson’s journey with the St. Louis Blues began in the 1967 expansion draft when he was the first skater selected from the Montreal Canadiens. Hailing from Toronto, Ontario, Berenson was a versatile player who could seamlessly transition between forward and defense. Over six seasons with the Blues, he played in 395 regular-season games, accumulating 157 points.
Berenson’s contributions were pivotal during the Blues’ early years, helping the team reach the Stanley Cup Final in three consecutive seasons from 1968 to 1970. His talent did not go unnoticed, as he earned back-to-back All-Star Game selections in 1969 and 1970, solidifying his status as one of the league’s top players.
In the 1971-72 season, Berenson took on the role of captain, demonstrating his leadership qualities both on and off the ice. After a second stint with the Canadiens, he returned to the Blues in 1977, where he played his final season in the NHL during the 1977-78 campaign.
Following his playing career, Berenson continued to make significant contributions to the Blues organization. In the 1995-96 season, he took the helm as head coach and general manager of the Worcester Ice Cats, the Blues’ minor league affiliate. His return to St. Louis as an assistant coach the following season marked the beginning of a six-season coaching tenure, which included a brief stint as interim head coach in 1996-97. Berenson’s influence on the team extended beyond his playing days, as he helped shape the next generation of Blues players.
Celebrating the Blues Hall of Fame
The legacies of Curtis Joseph and Red Berenson are celebrated in the St. Louis Blues Hall of Fame, a testament to their contributions and impact on the franchise. Their stories are woven into the fabric of Blues history, inspiring future generations of players and fans alike.
For more information on the Blues Hall of Fame and to explore the rich history of the franchise, visit stlouisblues.com/halloffame. The stories of CUJO and Berenson serve as reminders of the passion, dedication, and talent that have defined the St. Louis Blues over the years.