St. Louis Blues: 2023 Prospect Update on Quinton Burns

With the 74th selection in the 2023 draft, the St. Louis Blues opted for Quinton Burns to join their team.

A native of Ontario, Burns, who is currently 19 years old, has spent the past three seasons playing in the OHL.

As a defenseman, Burns is expected to develop into a reliable player and perhaps compete for an NHL roster spot in the coming years.

Still protected by NHL draft rights rules, Burns has yet to sign an official NHL contract with the Blues, essentially being required to prove himself at a lower league level.

Quinton Burns is improving each year in OHL play

Burns has only played for the Kingston Frontenacs in the OHL, seeing substantial gameplay.

Kingston Frontenacs

2021-22: 42 games, 0 goals, 4 assists, 4 points.
2022-23: 54 games, 2 goals, 27 assists, 29 points.
2023-24: 58 games, 6 goals, 29 assists, 35 points.

As a defenseman, Burns stands at 6’1” and is listed at 180 lbs. Given that he was a third-round pick, it is reasonable to expect that he will continue to develop his skills and, potentially, secure a position on an AHL roster at some point in the future.

“Quinton Burns is proven capable of handling long minutes and tough defensive assignments. His strength and balance will enable him to box out opponents from the front of the net and his mobility to neutralize passing lanes and deny space. Burns has all of the advanced transition ideas, he spins off checks, attacks the inside, looks cross-ice for options, and even manipulates incoming pressure,” EliteProspects.

The Blues, who are in need of help on defense, are unquestionably closely monitoring Burns and how he is developing. We know fans are excited for updates on contracts or assignments, but fans need to hang tight and be patient; development is often a long process.