He is now 7-0-1 in his last eight decisions and 11-1-2 overall with a 1.84 goals-against average and a .928 save percentage. Despite starting only 13 of the Blues’ 40 games this season, he would be tied for No. 1 in the NHL in shutouts with four if not for the late goal by Wild defenseman Ryan Suter.

“I’ve just been doing the same thing, like I’ve done my whole career, just try to fight for every start, give the guys the best chance to win possible and they’re coming up huge,” Elliott said. “Guys like Ian Cole blocking nine shots (Thursday) night is huge. It definitely makes my job easier. When you stop the ones you should and the rest of the guys are doing their job, it usually works out well.”

Blues coach Ken Hitchcock believes that teammates are rallying behind Elliott because of his personality — taking the ice in warm-up gear on an optional day of practice — and his work ethic.