What's Happening?
The St. Louis Blues have signed forward Milan Lucic to a professional tryout, as announced by President of Hockey Operations and General Manager Doug Armstrong. Lucic, a veteran of 17 NHL seasons, last played for the Boston Bruins during the 2023-24 season. He took an indefinite leave of absence and entered the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program, which he has since completed. Lucic has a career total of 586 points and 1,301 penalty minutes across 1,177 regular-season games. He has also contributed significantly in postseason games, including winning the Stanley Cup with Boston in 2011.
Why It's Important?
Lucic's signing is a strategic move by the Blues to bolster their forward group with experienced talent. His extensive career and past achievements, including a Stanley Cup victory, bring valuable experience to the team. The tryout offers Lucic a chance to prove his readiness to return to professional play, potentially enhancing the Blues' roster depth. This development is significant for the Blues as they prepare for the upcoming season, aiming to strengthen their lineup and improve their competitive edge.
What's Next?
Lucic will participate in training and evaluation during the tryout period, where his performance will be closely monitored by the Blues' coaching staff. If successful, Lucic could secure a spot on the team, contributing to their efforts in the new season. The Blues will continue to assess their roster needs and make decisions to optimize their team composition. Fans and analysts will be watching Lucic's progress and the impact of his potential inclusion in the Blues' lineup.