St. Louis Blues: Alexey Toropchenko should receive a contract extension

The St. Louis Blues roster boasts a variety of talented players, but when it comes to physical size, few can compare to the measurements of Alexey Toropchenko. Standing at 6'6" and weighing 222lbs, he is truly a force to be reckoned with.

Despite not having an exceptionally high point and goal totals, Toropchenko demonstrated growth in the 2023-24 season, finishing the year with 14 goals and 21 points.

His ice time was limited, averaging under thirteen minutes for each game.

Toropchenko has good potential

Toropchenko is young, turning 25 this summer. His impressive height gives him a remarkable advantage, making him a forceful opponent.

Thanks to Toropchenko's ability to remain healthy, he was able to compete in a total of eighty-two games. 

But more impressively, he concluded the season with 164 hits, following Sammy Blais (194) and Brayden Schenn (169). This is the type of physicality the Blues desperately need. His high hit total is impressive considering the limited time he spends on the ice.

While some might argue that Toropchenko needed more development before coming to the NHL, his numbers have increased in each of his three years playing for the Blues. This is exactly what the coaching staff wants to see in a young player.

Toropchenko's contract status

Toropchenko signed a two-year contract in 2023. This means he is locked in through 2024-25. Toropchenko, a fourth-round pick by the Blues, still has significant potential.

With general manager Doug Armstrong's youthful direction in mind, Toropchenko could complement Robert Thomas and Jordan Kyrou on the roster. There's a chance he will continue honing his skills and become an even more powerful player on the ice.

Keep an eye on Toropchenko; this could be the year he breaks out. Armstrong should consider offering a three-year contract extension to reward Toropchenko for his improvement over the last two years, notably his ranking as No. 3 in team hits.