The Blues have bolstered their roster by signing veteran center Nick Bjugstad to a two-year contract with a salary cap hit of $1.75 million. Bjugstad’s experience and size are expected to add depth down the middle as the team prepares for the upcoming NHL season. Last season, he contributed eight goals and 11 assists in 66 games with Utah, and though he had a quieter year, he previously tallied 45 points in the 2023-24 season while playing for Arizona.
At 6 feet 5 inches and weighing 205 pounds, Bjugstad’s physical presence on the ice is significant. He averaged about 12:19 of ice time last season and was not utilized on the power play or penalty kill, indicating his role may be focused on even-strength situations and depth contributions.
With Bjugstad’s signing, the Blues have established a strong center lineup featuring Robert Thomas, Brayden Schenn, Oskar Sundqvist, and Bjugstad. This depth will be vital as the team navigates the challenges of the NHL season.
Additionally, the Blues have made headlines by trading forward Zack Bolduc to Montreal for defenseman Logan Mailloux, who is preparing to enter his third professional season after a stint in the AHL with Laval.
On the prospect front, Adam Jiricek, the Blues’ first-round pick from 2024, is aiming for a healthier season after facing injury issues during the previous campaign, where he only played 27 games with Brantford in the OHL. The organization’s commitment to developing young talent while enhancing the current roster bodes well for the team’s future.
Overall, these strategic moves highlight the Blues’ efforts to strike a balance between enhancing their immediate competitiveness while also planning for long-term success. The addition of Bjugstad, coupled with key trades and the development of prospects like Jiricek, provides a positive outlook as the team builds toward the season ahead.