St. Louis blues news
The 2025-26 NHL season is just around the corner, and the St. Louis Blues have made roster upgrades to build on last year’s success. But while the team looks to contend, this season is also crucial for several players facing contract uncertainty. Nine skaters are entering the final year of their deals (10 if Matthew Kessel qualifies as a Group 6 UFA), including four restricted free agents and five unrestricted free agents.
Many of these players are in good position for extensions. Dylan Holloway and Philip Broberg are expected to be re-signed, while veteran Cam Fowler—though aging—proved last year that he remains a stabilizing force on defense. Still, three players in particular must raise their game if they want a future in St. Louis or anywhere else in the NHL.
Alexei Toropchenko
After a breakout 2023-24 season with 14 goals and 21 points, Toropchenko regressed in 2024-25, producing just four goals and 18 points. With a manageable $1.7 million cap hit, he still brings value, but if he wants a raise and a secure spot in the lineup beyond this season, he must show he can outplay the prospects pushing for NHL minutes.
Mathieu Joseph
Joseph endured a rough 2024-25 campaign, struggling to score, seeing his ice time drop by five minutes per game, and frequently landing as a healthy scratch. With a nearly $3 million cap hit, his production did not match expectations. Unless he turns things around quickly, it’s hard to see him remaining with the Blues after this season.
Alexandre Texier
Set to become an arbitration-eligible RFA next summer, Texier enters the season with some leverage. However, his 11 points in 31 games last year won’t cut it, especially with a $2.1 million cap hit. With several young forwards knocking on the door, Texier needs to prove he deserves a regular roster spot over the Blues’ incoming youth movement.
What’s at Stake
The Blues will only be able to retain a limited number of players after this season. For Toropchenko, Joseph, and Texier, 2025-26 is truly a prove-it year. Their performance could determine whether they secure new contracts in St. Louis—or find themselves searching for opportunities elsewhere.
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