Full Breakdown
St. Louis Blues: Aiming for Continued Success in the 2025-26 NHL Season
8/26/2025, 7:46:58 PM
Core Event: Blues Seek to Build on Last Season's Playoff Return
The St. Louis Blues are entering the 2025-26 NHL season with the goal of solidifying their status as a playoff contender after returning to the Stanley Cup Playoffs last season for the first time in two years. The team finished with 96 points (44-30-8) and is focused on improving further, with President of Hockey Operations Doug Armstrong emphasizing the importance of incremental progress. Armstrong stated, “When you want to turn things around, it takes a while... we had 92 points (in 2023-24); this (past) year we had 96... if we do that again next year, that gets us close to 100 points.”
Key Figures & Groups: Leadership and New Additions
Head Coach Jim Montgomery, who took over mid-season last year, is expected to have a more significant impact with a full offseason to implement his system. Montgomery noted the importance of starting strong to avoid chasing a playoff spot. The Blues have also made strategic roster changes, including the acquisition of forward Pius Suter, who signed a two-year contract worth $4.125 million annually. Suter is projected to center the third line and is coming off a career-best season with 25 goals and 46 points.
Prospects to Watch: Emerging Talent
The Blues are also looking to integrate young talent into their lineup. Notable prospects include Dalibor Dvorsky, who had a strong AHL season, and Justin Carbonneau, a recent draft pick expected to make an impact. Dvorsky, selected with the No. 10 pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, is anticipated to earn a spot on the roster, while Carbonneau, who scored 46 goals in the QMJHL last season, is seen as a potential middle-six player.
Official Statements & Responses: Team Outlook
Captain Brayden Schenn expressed optimism about the team's direction, stating, “Do we feel like we're in a better spot now than we were (last season)? Absolutely.” He emphasized the need to learn from past experiences to improve. Armstrong echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of accountability and growth within the team.
Criticism & Opposition: Challenges Ahead
Despite the positive outlook, challenges remain. The Blues must overcome the disappointment of a seven-game series loss to the Winnipeg Jets in the first round of the playoffs, where they squandered a 3-1 lead in Game 7. Schenn acknowledged the difficulty of making the playoffs, stating, “You're never a playoff team until you are again next year.”
What's Next: Season Expectations
As the Blues prepare for the upcoming season, the focus will be on maintaining momentum and building a competitive roster. The integration of new players and the development of young talent will be crucial as they aim to return to the playoffs and potentially contend for the Stanley Cup.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I think we have turned the tide on the re-whatever and we're starting to become a competitive team that has expectations.” — Doug Armstrong, President of Hockey Operations
- “We're going to learn from the experiences we had and you have to find ways to get better.” — Brayden Schenn, Captain
The St. Louis Blues are poised for a significant season, with a blend of experienced leadership and emerging talent as they strive for playoff success.
