The St. Louis Blues have signed their first round pick from the 2021 draft, Zachary Bolduc, to an entry-level deal. The deal is for three years. The team announced the signing late Monday afternoon.
We've agreed to terms on a three-year entry-level contract with 2021 first-round pick @zack_bolduc. https://t.co/33WrE6BfMQ #stlblues #NHLDraft
— St. Louis Blues (@StLouisBlues) August 23, 2021
Blues Sign Zachary Bolduc
Bolduc had a good year for the QMJHL’s program in Rimouski in 2020-21. He scored 10 goals and 29 points in 27 games. It wasn’t a full season in Quebec and Bolduc was also hurt late in the season, but the fact that he was able to play in Canada at all is somewhat remarkable. His last full season was also good with 30 goals and 52 points in 55 games in 2019-20 before the pandemic ended things.
The Blues selected Bolduc with the 17th pick in the 2021 Draft and it looks as though they selected someone with a high ceiling, but also a low floor due to inconsistencies. Our own scouting details a player with numerous good qualities like a strong variety of shots, but defence and stickhandling leave something to be desired. The 6’1′ skater will need some time to work on his issues as he works towards the NHL. Hopefully, a full 2021-22 season is enough to iron some struggles out.
What To Expect
St. Louis fans probably shouldn’t expect Bolduc to reach the NHL until the final year of the deal. It seems as though his issues are enough that it will take at least one season, possibly two, before he is truly ready for regular NHL action. However, there is a lot of potential in his game as a strong offensive threat. It just may take some time before there is room on the depth chart for him to make an impact.
The Blues have very little left to do as 2021-22 approaches. Most of their roster is set, but Robert Thomas still doesn’t have a deal. With Zachary Bolduc signed, that is likely the only significant thing for the team left to do as they prepare for what should be another strong campaign.
Main Photo:
