St. Louis Blues History: A look at the last 5 Captains
Brayden Schenn
Captain status: 2023–Present
Most Points (Blues), Season: 2017-2018, 70 points.
Initially drafted by the Los Angeles Kings, Schenn also played professionally for the Philadelphia Flyers before joining the St. Louis Blues in the 2017-2018 season. Few can match Schenn's leadership and loyalty. Schenn won the cup with the Blues in 2019. The Blues locked him into an 8-year contract in 2019, ensuring his time in St. Louis continues for the years to come.
Schenn recently shared his expectations for next season:
Ryan O'Reilly
Captain status: 2020–2023
Most Points (Blues), Season: 2018-2019, 77 points.
Ryan O'Reilly has been a bit of a journeyman, drafted by the Colorado Avalanche and also playing for the Buffalo Sabres, St. Louis Blues, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Nashville Predators.
O'Reilly is a three-time NHL All-Star and Stanley Cup Champion (2019). Though it is the fiercely competitive nature and aggressive play, many might remember O'Reilly for.
His skills and competitive drive mirrored former Blues head coach Craig Berube. Fans are still missing O'Reilly's gameplay.
Alex Pietrangelo
Captain status: 2016–2020
Most Points (Blues), Season: 2017-2018, 54 points.
Drafted by the St. Louis Blues, some thought Alex Pietrangelo could be a lifelong Blues player.
Like O'Reilly, he has three NHL All-Star appearances but two Stanley Cup Championships, one with the Blues and the other with the rival Vegas Golden Knights.
In his tenure with the Blues, Pietrangelo was a beloved player among fans, showcasing his leadership skills and commitment to the city of St. Louis.
Contract negotiations never developed, leading to his departure for Vegas in the 2020-2021 season.
David Backes
Captain status: 2011–2016
Most Points (Blues), Season: 2010-2011, 62 points.
Like Pietrangelo, the Blues drafted David Backes, and he spent most of his career in St. Louis. He concluded his NHL career with the Boston Bruins, followed by the Anaheim Ducks.
Backes was a one-time NHL All-Star but brought an often-overlooked captaincy to the team. Known as a sincere family man, Backes was often called a quiet leader anyone would follow.
He continues to be remembered by fans and maintains a love for St. Louis upon retiring from the league.
Eric Brewer
Captain status: 2007–2011
Most Points (Blues), Season: 2006-2007, 29 points.
The last player on the list is defenseman Eric Brewer. Initially drafted by the New York Islanders, Brewer played for several NHL teams, ending up in St. Louis for the 2005-2006 season.
Brewer spent most of his career in St. Louis along with several years in Tampa Bay. He was a one-time NHL All-Star who played in 1009 NHL games.
Though often criticized by the media, GM Doug Armstrong once said of Brewer, "He's a good captain. He has the pulse of this team. He's an Olympian; he's won a gold medal. Eric Brewer is a good captain."