The Blues’ Crossroads: A New GM’s Dilemma and the Future of a Franchise
The St. Louis Blues find themselves at a fascinating juncture—one that feels both precarious and full of potential. As a hockey analyst who’s watched this team’s trajectory for years, I can’t help but see this offseason as a defining moment. New GM Alex Steen steps into a role that’s less about inheriting a smooth-sailing ship and more about navigating a storm. The Blues’ recent setbacks, coupled with the bold moves (and non-moves) at the trade deadline, have left the franchise at a crossroads. But what makes this particularly fascinating is the why behind it all.
The Directional Dilemma: Rebuild, Retool, or Reverse?
One thing that immediately stands out is the Blues’ apparent identity crisis. Do they double down on a rebuild, retool around their core, or—in a move that feels almost Quixotic—reverse course entirely? Personally, I think the latter is a pipe dream. Yes, their late-season surge was impressive, but let’s not forget the division they’re in. The Central is no cakewalk, and banking on a quick turnaround feels like wishful thinking.
What many people don’t realize is that the Blues’ current cap space and draft picks give them flexibility, but flexibility alone doesn’t win games. If you take a step back and think about it, the decision to rebuild or retool isn’t just about the roster—it’s about the message they’re sending to their fanbase and the league. A full rebuild would signal patience, a willingness to endure short-term pain for long-term gain. Retooling, on the other hand, feels like a hedge, a bet that they can stay competitive while tinkering around the edges.
Here’s where it gets interesting: Steen’s first major decision will define his tenure. Does he go all-in on a youth movement, potentially moving veterans like Colton Parayko or Jordan Binnington? Or does he play it safe, keeping the core intact while making incremental changes? In my opinion, the safer route—retooling—is also the more likely one. But it’s not without risks. A retool could leave the Blues in no-man’s land, too good to tank but not good enough to contend.
Locking Down the Future: Jake Neighbours and the Cost of Potential
Let’s talk about Jake Neighbours, because his situation is a microcosm of the Blues’ larger dilemma. Neighbours is the kind of player you build around—a power forward with a scoring touch and a physical edge. What this really suggests is that the Blues have a cornerstone piece, but at what cost?
A detail that I find especially interesting is the comparison to Dylan Holloway’s recent extension. Holloway signed for $7.75MM, and while Neighbours might not command that much, he’s not far off. Personally, I think a $6.5MM-$6.75MM deal over six years makes sense, but here’s the catch: Neighbours has arbitration rights next summer. If the Blues lowball him, they risk alienating a key piece of their future. If they overpay, they could hamstring their cap flexibility.
This raises a deeper question: How much are the Blues willing to invest in their young core? Neighbours isn’t just a player—he’s a statement. Locking him up early would signal a commitment to the future, but it’s a commitment that comes with a price tag.
The Goalie Conundrum: Hofer vs. Binnington
The goaltending situation is another head-scratcher. Joel Hofer has shown flashes of brilliance, but is he ready to be the guy? Meanwhile, Jordan Binnington’s decline has been steep, but his track record still holds value. From my perspective, the Blues need to make a call—and fast.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the timing. Moving Binnington now, while he still has some trade value, could net the Blues a decent return. But here’s the rub: In-season goalie moves are rare, and teams might be hesitant to take a chance on a 32-year-old coming off a down year. If I were Steen, I’d be on the phone with every GM in the league, gauging interest.
Extending Hofer, meanwhile, feels like a no-brainer—if he’s the starter. But what if he’s not? What if next season becomes a repeat of last year’s timeshare? This isn’t just about goaltending; it’s about clarity. The Blues need to decide who their franchise goalie is, and they need to do it now.
The Coaching Staff: A Quietly Crucial Decision
Lastly, let’s not overlook the coaching staff. Jim Montgomery stays, but two assistants are out. Steve Ott’s future is up in the air, and the hires Steen makes here could be just as telling as his roster moves.
What many people don’t realize is that coaching hires are often a window into a team’s soul. If the Blues bring in young, developmental-focused assistants, it’s a clear sign they’re embracing a rebuild. If they go with veteran coaches, it’s a retooling play. Personally, I think Ott’s fate will be the most revealing. Keeping him in the AHL would suggest a long-term vision, while bringing him back to the NHL bench would feel like a short-term fix.
Final Thoughts: The Blues’ Identity Crisis
If you take a step back and think about it, the Blues’ offseason isn’t just about moves—it’s about identity. Are they a team willing to endure short-term pain for long-term gain? Or are they content to tread water, hoping for incremental improvement?
In my opinion, the Blues are at a point where half-measures won’t cut it. Steen has the unenviable task of charting a course that satisfies both the front office and the fanbase. It’s a delicate balance, and one that will define not just his tenure, but the franchise’s future.
What this really suggests is that the Blues are at a crossroads—one that will test their resolve, their vision, and their willingness to take risks. As a fan of the sport, I’m all in on the drama. As an analyst, I’m skeptical of their ability to thread the needle. But one thing’s for sure: this offseason will be one to watch.
