St. Louis Blues forward Robert Thomas was placed on injured reserve with a lower‑body issue, sidelining him for at least two weeks, while defense prospect Logan Mailloux secured a one‑year, one‑way contract extension. The moves highlight the team’s urgent push for playoff points and its balancing act between immediate roster needs and future cap flexibility.
Robert Thomas on Injured Reserve
Thomas, the Blues’ leading scorer with 41 points in 46 games, suffered a lower‑body injury during the Jan. 19 loss to the Vegas Golden Knights. The injury was initially described as a bruised hip but is now classified as a “lower‑body issue” requiring a minimum two‑week recovery. Placing him on IR frees a roster spot while keeping his cap hit intact.
His absence comes at a critical juncture: the Blues sit just outside the Central Division’s final playoff spot, trailing Nashville by one point and Minnesota by three. Thomas averaged 0.89 points per game and led the power play with a 27 % conversion rate. Since his injury, the team’s scoring dropped to 2.1 goals per game, down from 3.0 when he is on the ice.
Impact on Lineup and Power Play
- Coach John Hynes reshuffled lines, promoting depth forwards such as Andrew Peeke and rookie Liam O’Brien.
- Power‑play coach Dave Kelley indicated Kyle Kendig could see increased minutes as the first‑liner configuration changes.
- Defensive pairings are being adjusted to compensate for the loss of Thomas’s offensive contribution from the blue line.
Logan Mailloux’s One‑Year Deal
On the same day, General Manager Doug Armstrong announced a one‑year, one‑way extension for 24‑year‑old defenseman Logan Mailloux. The contract, valued at approximately $1.1 million, runs through the 2024‑25 season and reflects the organization’s confidence in his two‑way abilities and hockey IQ.
Mailloux spent most of the 2022‑23 season with the AHL’s Springfield Thunderbirds and logged 12 NHL games in December, posting a +2 rating and 0.3 points per game. At 6‑2, 215 lb, his size and positional play make him a candidate to fill gaps left by aging veterans like Alex Goligoski and Paul Stastny, who are also battling injuries.
Strategic Reasoning Behind the Extension
- The “prove‑it” deal allows the Blues to evaluate Mailloux’s consistency before committing long‑term money.
- Maintains cap flexibility ahead of the trade deadline, enabling potential acquisitions for veteran depth.
- Signals a commitment to developing young talent while protecting core assets.
Season Outlook and Playoff Push
The Blues have experienced a roller‑coaster season: a strong November start gave way to a slump marked by injuries and defensive lapses. Their goals‑against average now sits at 3.08, the worst in the conference, underscoring defensive concerns.
With Thomas sidelined and Mailloux aiming to earn a larger role, the next two weeks will test St. Louis’s resilience. Success against upcoming division rivals could keep the playoff bubble within reach, while further setbacks may seal a disappointing finish.
Fan Engagement and Broadcast Plans
To keep the fan base energized, the Blues will air a free live broadcast of the Friday night game against the Utah Mammoth on First Alert 4 and Matrix Midwest. The matchup offers a platform for depth players and Mailloux to showcase their contributions as the team fights for every point.
Key Takeaways
- Robert Thomas is on IR for at least two weeks, weakening the Blues’ offense and power play.
- Logan Mailloux secured a one‑year extension, positioning him as a potential regular on the blue line.
- The team’s playoff chances hinge on how quickly they adapt to Thomas’s absence and integrate Mailloux.
- Cap management and strategic roster moves remain central to the Blues’ approach as the trade deadline approaches.
