September 10, 2025
St. Louis blues
The St. Louis Blues are preparing for what could be a defining campaign in 2025-26. After a productive offseason that bolstered both offense and defense, the organization is optimistic about returning to playoff contention. But beyond the team’s ambitions, several individual players face a critical crossroads in their careers.
With nine skaters set to hit free agency next summer—four restricted and five unrestricted—the Blues’ front office will have tough decisions to make. While the future seems secure for standouts like Dylan Holloway and Philip Broberg, and veteran Cam Fowler’s leadership remains valued, three players in particular enter this season under heavy scrutiny.
Alexey Toropchenko:
Toropchenko’s 2023-24 breakout suggested he could be a long-term middle-six winger, with 14 goals and 21 points highlighting his potential. But last season saw a sharp decline, with just four goals and 18 points, leaving his consistency in question.
At 25 years old and with a $1.7 million cap hit, Toropchenko is at a career crossroads. If he rediscovers his scoring touch and proves he can contribute as a reliable two-way forward, he could secure a new deal in St. Louis. If not, the door opens for younger prospects eager to claim his role.
Mathieu Joseph:
Perhaps no player faces more pressure than Joseph. Once expected to be a steady secondary scorer, Joseph’s production cratered in 2024-25. His ice time dropped by nearly five minutes per game compared to the previous season, and he spent long stretches as a healthy scratch. With a cap hit close to $3 million, the Blues can’t afford another year of underperformance.
This season is likely Joseph’s last chance to prove he belongs in the lineup. Unless he finds a way to contribute—whether through scoring, penalty killing, or physical play—his time in St. Louis could end when his contract does.
Alexandre Texier:
Texier enters the season as an arbitration-eligible RFA, which gives him some leverage next summer. But his numbers last year—11 points in 31 games—were far from enough for a player carrying a $2.1 million cap hit. Injuries limited his opportunities, but the reality is that the Blues have a wave of young forwards pushing for NHL spots.
If Texier doesn’t establish himself as a consistent producer, management may choose to prioritize developing younger, cheaper talent instead. This season could determine whether he’s part of the Blues’ long-term core or becomes expendable in the team’s rebuild-on-the-fly approach.
What’s at Stake
For Toropchenko, Joseph, and Texier, the stakes could not be higher. Their performances this year won’t just shape their future with the Blues but may determine whether they remain NHL regulars at all. With the Blues aiming to climb in the Central Division and secure a postseason berth, the team will need depth contributions across the roster—leaving little room for passengers.
The Blues have shown a willingness to move on quickly from underperforming players, and with multiple contracts set to expire, the 2025-26 season could be career-defining for several skaters. For these three, it’s either step up—or step out.
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