The St. Louis Blues prepare for training camp with uncertainty surrounding former first-round pick Zachary Bolduc's role on the team. After a commendable performance last season, Bolduc appeared poised for a spot, contributing five goals and nine points in 25 games. However, recent acquisitions, including forwards Dylan Holloway and defenseman Philip Broberg, have left Bolduc on the outside looking in. As the Blues retool for the upcoming season, Bolduc's path forward now hinges on his performance in training camp and preseason games.
While some argue Bolduc should play in the minors for consistent game time, others suggest that his development may benefit from limited NHL exposure under the guidance of seasoned veterans.
Bolduc's Performance Last Season
Bolduc was a bright spot for the Blues in his 25-game call-up last season. He showed promise with his five goals and nine points, indicating his potential for a larger role on the team. The Blues were fighting for a playoff spot, and Bolduc contributed positively on the ice. This led many to believe he had earned a place on the 2024-25 roster, even after the Blues made multiple additions to their forward corps.
The Impact of New Acquisitions
However, Blues General Manager Doug Armstrong made a bold move by tendering offer sheets to forward Dylan Holloway and defenseman Philip Broberg of the Edmonton Oilers. When the Oilers declined to match the offers, Holloway and Broberg joined the Blues. This acquisition of another forward meant that someone would have to lose their spot on the regular lineup, and unfortunately, Bolduc became the odd man out.
Bolduc's Uncertain Future
If the Blues were serious contenders for the Stanley Cup, the conversation would end here. Bolduc would start the season in the minor leagues and would only get a chance to play if injuries occurred in the NHL roster. However, while the Blues are expected to be competitive, they are not considered serious contenders. The team is still in a retooling phase, and retooling teams often give opportunities to their young players.
This means that the Blues likely have an interest in Bolduc having a role on the team this year, even if it is not a full-time one. He is not completely out of the picture.
The Importance of Training Camp and Preseason
The most important aspect of Bolduc's situation is his performance in training camp and the preseason. These are crucial for him to showcase his skills and his growing maturity to the Blues. He has already had a chance to impress in the recent prospect camp, where he looked confident on the ice, showing that his limited NHL experience has paid dividends. However, he needs to continue to impress during training camp and in preseason games to truly earn a role on the team.
Bolduc's Potential Role
If he earns a spot, Bolduc will likely start the season on the Blues roster but as a healthy scratch. However, unlike other healthy scratches, Bolduc will get regular playing time, being rotated into the lineup. He is a candidate to fill in for certain players, and while he is unlikely to see time on the first line, even the second line may be a stretch. However, if he is on the roster, expect to see him play maybe once every three games. Given the Blues' schedule in the first few months, with three or four games a week, Bolduc could easily play a game a week.
The Debate About Bolduc's Role
Some argue that if Bolduc is not playing regularly, he should be sent to the minor leagues to get consistent game time. This is a fair point, as the best way to learn is by playing. However, the Blues are not contenders, and they want to give their young players a chance to develop. Bolduc seems ready for the NHL, even though he still needs to develop further. The Blues' current position allows him to learn by playing at the NHL level, as well as by observing and learning from the team's veteran players, which is not possible in the minor leagues.
Conclusion: Bolduc's Future in His Hands
While Bolduc's future with the Blues is uncertain, one thing is for sure: the puck is in his court. If he wants to get back into the lineup, he knows what he has to do. This could be the best thing for a young player, as it forces them to prove their worth.
The Unpredictable Nature of the NHL
This situation highlights the unpredictable nature of the NHL, where even promising players have to fight for their spot. Teams are constantly looking to improve, and sometimes, it comes at the expense of a player. Bolduc will have to work hard to earn his place, but this could also be a valuable learning experience for his development.
Bolduc's Uncertain Future, a Story Yet to Be Written
Bolduc's situation is a story that is yet to be written. His role with the Blues is uncertain, but his potential is undeniable. He will have to prove himself in training camp and the preseason to secure a spot on the team, but if he does, he could be a valuable asset for the Blues. The next few weeks will be crucial for Bolduc, and we will be watching closely to see how he performs and what his future holds.
