The St. Louis Blues and Centre Oskar Sundqvist have agreed to terms and he signs a one-year contract. The deal is worth $775K according to the reports. This will be Sundqvist’s second stint with the St. Louis Blues. Previously, he played parts of five seasons from 2017 to 2022. Therefore, he must have left a positive impression on the organization.
Oskar Sundqvist is (re)joining the #STLBlues on a one-year contract worth $775,000.
— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) July 12, 2023
Former and Now Current St. Louis Blues Oskar Sundqvist Signs Contract
Not to throw around the word perfect, but the fact Oskar Sundqvist signs this contract might be perfect. At 29 years old, he has been on three different Cup-winning teams in different capacities. He appears on the cup only once, in 2019 with the St. Louis Blues. Moreover, that postseason he was a key contributor with the Blues, chipping in nine points in 25 games. Also, he played with the Pittsburgh Penguins in each of their Stanley Cup seasons. However, he did not qualify to get his name on the cup. Regardless, he has been in the dressing room on multiple Stanley Cup Championship teams. He does the little things right. Throughout his NHL career, he has 50 goals, and 73 assists through 355 regular season contests, over eight seasons.
What Does This Mean for the Blues
On the surface, this is just a depth move for the Blues. Even still, at this salary, it is a bargain. It is the type of move that allows for room for General Manager Doug Armstrong. In addition, in Sundqvist provides a locker-room presence that will be invaluable for the young players. Seeing a player making smart plays, and being strong on the puck. Most importantly, leaving his ego out of the equation. The Blues do not go into 2023-24 with high expectations, but they want their young talent to improve. Jordan Kyrou and Robert Thomas and some of their prospects, could benefit from his presence. One final thought is the Blues roster, is a bit of a reclamation project at this point. Names like Jakub Vrana, Kevin Hayes, and Kasperi Kapanen, might not be high-end goal scorers. In contrast, like Sundqvist, they can be frustrating to play against. Maybe the Blues have formed an identity, one Armstrong can potentially raise a few eyebrows with on the ice.
MAIN PHOTO: Matt Blewett USA TODAY Sports
