Blues miss playoffs, face critical decisions

The St. Louis Blues are facing an uncertain future after missing the playoffs for the third time in four years. With new GM Alex Steen stepping in, the team is tasked with addressing significant issues, particularly an offense that ranked fifth-worst in the NHL this season, averaging 2.68 goals per game, and a defense that fell to 21st in goals-against average.

Steen has approximately $21.7 million in salary cap space to navigate roster changes, including potential trades of key players like Jordan Kyrou and Robert Thomas, both of whom have struggled this season.

Additionally, the future of goalie Jordan Binnington is in question, as his performance has declined sharply, prompting discussions about embracing Joel Hofer as the new starter. The Blues also have three first-round picks in the upcoming draft, presenting an opportunity to rebuild with young talent, including consensus top prospects Gavin McKenna and Ivar Stenberg.

This offseason will be crucial for the Blues as they look to reestablish themselves as contenders in a competitive Central Division, where they must keep pace with teams like the Colorado Avalanche and Dallas Stars.

Coach Jim Montgomery's position appears stable despite the team's struggles, as he aims to guide the team into the next phase of development.