It seems that Torey Krug will miss the entire 2024-25 NHL season for the St. Louis Blues. The team announced on Tuesday morning that Krug will need surgery on his left ankle, which will keep him out for the upcoming season.
Krug’s availability for the season had been uncertain throughout the summer. In July, it was disclosed that he had a pre-arthritic condition in his ankle. Despite spending the offseason rehabilitating the injury without surgery, it became clear that the conservative treatment wasn’t effective, leading to the decision for surgery.
Last season, Krug had 4 goals and 35 assists, totaling 39 points in 77 games. His production was similar to the previous year, and his 0.51 points per game was consistent with his 2022-23 performance, marking his lowest rate since his early NHL years.
Krug, who was an undrafted free agent, signed with the Boston Bruins after a standout college career at Michigan State. He made his NHL debut in 2012 and spent seven seasons with the Bruins before joining the Blues on a seven-year contract worth $6.5 million per season. He’s entering the fifth year of that deal.
In Krug’s absence, the Blues will rely on their offseason additions to fill the void. They signed Ryan Suter in free agency and acquired Philip Broberg through an offer sheet, which the Edmonton Oilers did not match. Dylan Holloway was also added, joining other notable newcomers like Radek Faksa, Mathieu Joseph, and Alexandre Texier.
As the new season approaches, it’s a good time to review the progress of hockey prospects. Every fan hopes their prospects excel, with some becoming key players while others may not pan out. Prospects can improve by overcoming weaknesses, developing new skills, or simply increasing their production.
Here’s a look at ten prospects who have shown significant improvement:
– **Mailloux**: After a dominant junior career, he’s translating his game to the pro level. Initially a one-dimensional player, he impressed in the AHL, showing his skills against tougher competition and looking poised for an NHL spot.
– **Cowan**: Drafted 28th overall by the Leafs, he shocked many by earning both OHL MVP titles and setting a record 42-game point streak. His performance in the OHL playoffs and with Canada’s World Junior team suggests he might make the Leafs roster.
– **Chadwick**: A surprise sixth-round pick who signed an NHL contract six months later. His significant improvement from 20 points in his rookie year to 56 points last season shows his potential as a future NHLer, possibly earning a spot on Canada’s World Junior Championship team.
– **Perreault**: Known for setting a scoring record with USA Hockey, he demonstrated improved playmaking at Boston College this year. His progress, including better skating, suggests he could be a top-line player at the NHL level.
– **Lindstein**: Initially doubted, he became one of the standout defensemen at the World Junior Championship and continued to impress at the World Junior Summer Showcase. His strong performances in Sweden indicate he could become a top-four defenseman for the Blues.
– **Del Mastro**: Surpassed expectations in his rookie season, showing improvement as an offensive distributor and physical presence. His skills and 6-foot-4 frame suggest he will be a valuable part of the Blackhawks’ defense in the future.
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