May 19, 2022; Denver, Colorado, USA; St. Louis Blues left wing David Perron (57) talks with center Ryan O'Reilly (90) and defenseman Colton Parayko (55) in the second period against the Colorado Avalanche in game two of the second round of the 2022 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
Goaltending and defense are again major concerns. Hofer could be the franchise’s future goaltender, though Binnington remains the starter. Colton Parayko was one of the underachieving players last season, and he is crucial to the blue line, which is considerably smaller but should be able to score. Sundqvist and Blais’ return should make St. Louis more difficult to play against.
WHAT TO EXPECT: The Blues are one of a few clubs in the Western Conference that are still on the bubble. If Thomas and Kyrou perform well, Binnington recovers, and the blue line keeps together, St. Louis has a chance to compete for a berth in the Central Division behind Colorado and Dallas. That is a lot.
Vrana is a low-risk, high-reward player if he can regain his scoring ability. The Czech winger has not contributed since a 2021 trade from Washington to Detroit. St. Louis represents a new beginning for Vrana, who went through the player assistance program and was waived by the Red Wings before signing with the Blues. He scored 14 points in 20 games for them last season.
