The St. Louis Blues were an extremely good team last season, making the playoffs in a tightly-packed Western Conference. However, they did not get far in the playoffs. GM Doug Armstrong wanted to make the roster stronger without draining the prospect pool. He may have done that without breaking the bank. Depth is more important to this Blues team as they look for a better playoff outcome this season.
Blues offseason recap
Armstrong was busy building the roster for the upcoming season. he made a deal with the Montreal Canadiens, acquiring defenseman Logan Mailloux in exchange for forward Zach Bolduc. he also added depth down the middle, signing Nick Bjugstad and Pius Suter, both to two-year deals. While these additions do not make headlines, they were not supposed to. Armstrong saw a flaw on the roster and made the right adjustments in the offseason. Good center depth is hard to find, but he made an effort to do so this season and was effective in doing so.
Where does Mailloux fit in?
Mailloux has been in the league for a short time but one can see the promise in the young defenseman. He has been impressive in his short career and could end up being a steal by Armstrong. With the Canadiens, he scored two goals and three assists for five points in only eight NHL games, averaging 16:50 of ice time.
It remains to be seen how the Blues use him and better his development but he would be on the second pairing with either Justin Faulk or Phillip Broberg. he may also get some power play time as he has a good low shot.
Which prospect could have a breakthrough?
The Blues are secretly blessed with a lot of young talent that may be their way to the playoffs once again. One player sticks out who could have a breakout season and that player is Jimmy Snuggerud. Last season he played only seven games in the NHL but scored one goal and three assists for four points. His last five games saw him produce three points on one goal and two assists. Now that the Blues have better center depth, this could fit Snuggerud and increase his scoring chances while in a middle-six role. If the Blues are going to make a run it will be players like Snuggerud who make that difference.
The Blues are a good team with plenty of depth and prospects. Their playoff appearnace last season may have been a surprise but they were solid from start to finish. These additions will help them not only score more goals but with the addition of Bjugstad be more effective in the playoffs. Do not be surprised if they get to the second round this season.