Binnington fueled by critics entering sophomore season: 'I love it'

Jordan Binnington is out to prove his Cinderella rookie campaign wasn't a fluke.

The spotlight is shining brightly on the St. Louis Blues netminder as he enters his second year, with many wondering if he can duplicate his freshman performance. Binnington recently discussed the matter with The Athletic's Jeremy Rutherford.

"It's part of it, right? I love it. People put me under the gun, and it might not be perfect, it might not be right away. But I'll turn that gun right back around and point it back at you."

Binnington took over in St. Louis' goal in December and sparked a remarkable turnaround that culminated with the first Stanley Cup in franchise history. The 26-year-old went 24-5-1 with a .927 save percentage in the regular season before clinching the championship with a .914 clip in the playoffs.

He was rewarded for his efforts with a two-year, $8.8-million contract in the offseason.