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Blues Sign Top Prospects Carbonneau and Susuev for Training Camp

9/11/2025

Summary

Blues Sign Prospects

The St. Louis Blues signed first-round pick Justin Carbonneau and seventh-round pick Nikita Susuev to three-year, two-way entry-level contracts.
Carbonneau, 18, scored 46 goals and 89 points in 62 games last season in the QMJHL, earning a First All-Star Team spot.
Susuev, 20, has KHL and MHL experience, totaling 18 points in 42 games last season but is currently injured.
Both players will participate in training camp starting September 18, ahead of the preseason opener against the Dallas Stars on September 20.
The Blues aim to return to the Stanley Cup Playoffs after last season's first-round exit.

Summary

Zach Dean Enters Program

Zach Dean, a prospect for the St. Louis Blues, has entered the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program, leading to an indefinite leave from training camp.
The former first-round pick played only 11 games last season due to injuries, scoring four points.
Acquired from the Vegas Golden Knights in February 2023, he aimed to secure a roster spot this season.
Dean will remain off the ice until program administrators clear him, risking his participation in training camp and the regular season.
His absence could affect the Blues' depth as they prepare for the upcoming season.

History

Historical Context

The NHL's 2005 Collective Bargaining Agreement transformed player contracts, allowing teams like the St. Louis Blues to sign young talents such as Justin Carbonneau and Nikita Susuev. This shift aimed to address player health concerns, a recurring issue in the league. The Blues' current focus on roster enhancement reflects a long-term strategy to improve competitiveness, echoing historical challenges in player management.

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Blues Sign Prospects

The St. Louis Blues signed first-round pick Justin Carbonneau and seventh-round pick Nikita Susuev to three-year, two-way entry-level contracts.
Carbonneau, 18, scored 46 goals and 89 points in 62 games last season in the QMJHL, earning a First All-Star Team spot.
Susuev, 20, has KHL and MHL experience, totaling 18 points in 42 games last season but is currently injured.
Both players will participate in training camp starting September 18, ahead of the preseason opener against the Dallas Stars on September 20.
The Blues aim to return to the Stanley Cup Playoffs after last season's first-round exit.

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