Blues Lose Toropchenko for Six Weeks With Upper-Body Injury
St. Louis Blues forward Alexey Toropchenko will be re-evaluated in six weeks after suffering an upper-body injury in Friday's season opener against Dallas. He was hurt in the second period after being hit behind the net and was favoring his arm and elbow. The Blues may use Dillon Dube or Zach Dean in his spot and could call up another forward for depth.
St. Louis will re-evaluate Alexey Toropchenko in six weeks after an upper-body injury in Friday's opener at Dallas. He was hit behind the net by two Stars players in the second period and favored his arm and elbow while leaving the ice. His earliest return would be the week of Nov. 15, when the Blues have three games before a seven-game, 12-day stretch.
With Toropchenko out, Dillon Dube or Zach Dean could take his fourth-line spot, while Ross Johnston is expected back Tuesday against Chicago. The Blues may add a forward, considering Nathan Walker or Dylan Peterson for physicality, or Oskar Sundqvist or Jack Finley for center depth. Tyler Tucker and Logan Mailloux are already unavailable.
The absence could affect the Blues' lineup depth and physical style, potentially changing how coaches deploy fourth-line forwards. Teammates may absorb extra minutes, while fans and local businesses tied to game nights could see modest effects if results shift. It may also create opportunities for call-ups and younger players to gain NHL experience.