As reported by Andy Strickland, a rinkside reporter for FanDuel Sports Midwest, seasoned defenseman is keen on staying with the Blues. The 20-year NHL veteran hopes to secure an extension and relocate his family to St. Louis.
He says, with his wife’s blessing, he’d like to play beyond this season. He has really enjoyed his season in STL and has raved about the leadership of Brayden Schenn. He’s quietly said he’d like to move his family to STL full time if he gets extended. Wants to win but has…
— Andy Strickland (@andystrickland) March 2, 2025
Analysis: Initially, this news might come as a surprise. Ryan Suter has yet to win a Stanley Cup in his career, and with him now 40 years old, his chances of securing one are dwindling. As a pending free agent at the end of the season, there’s a possibility he could be traded to a playoff contender before the trade deadline. However, Suter seems to believe that the Blues have the potential to make the playoffs, which may be why he’s keen on staying with the team.
Suter Has Been An Asset to the Blues
Suter signed with the Blues this summer on a one-year deal after being bought out by the Dallas Stars. The team brought him in due to an injury to Torey Krug and uncertainty surrounding Scott Perunovich’s situation.
Through 61 games with the Blues this season, Suter has tallied 12 points. While this may seem underwhelming, especially given that Suter has posted 40+ points in several of his previous seasons, it’s important to note that he’s still performing well on the ice. He hasn’t been a defensive liability, and his offensive output has been somewhat offset by the contributions of newcomers Cam Fowler and Philip Broberg.
Does It Make Sense for the Blues?
The only left-handed defencemen under contract for next season are Broberg, Krug, and Nick Leddy. However, Krug’s future is unknown due to his injury, and the Blues would like to get his salary off the cap. What happens with Suter may depend on what the Blues decide to do with Krug.
In the Blues minor league system, there are no left-handed defenceman who will be ready to join the NHL next season. They are probably a year or two away. So, it could make sense to bring back Suter to take a spot until the youngsters are ready.
Does it make sense to bring back Suter? It could definitely be an option. However, the front office needs to figure out a lot before making a decision.
Trade Implications
Heading into this deadline week, Suter is one of three Blues who could be traded, alongside captain Brayden Schenn and centre Radek Faksa. Both Schenn and Faksa have popped in rumours, and they would bring value to a contender.
However, Strickland’s report has some interesting bits. Strickland says Suter has enjoyed having Schenn as captain. In addition, there is Suter’s aforementioned belief that the Blues can be a playoff team. These two things contradict the idea that the Blues could be major sellers. Furthermore, it shows that there is belief in the Blues locker room that the team can be a playoff team.
General manager Doug Armstrong and future general manager Alexander Steen have some decisions to make in these next few days. It is an interesting week to be a Blues player, fan, coach, and office personnel.
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