General Manager Doug Armstrong is set to make multiple strategic offseason decisions.
Armstrong can sign a defenseman or two with a fair amount of cap space.
However, with the existing talent and young core of Robert Thomas and Jordan Kyrou, Armstrong should focus on a proven leader to further bolster the locker room.
David Perron has unique characteristics that can help the St. Louis Blues win
Armstrong let David Perron walk, and by Perron's admission, he wanted to stay in St. Louis.
Why wouldn't he want to play in St. Louis? He always returns to a St. Louis uniform regardless of where he has played.
Perron is older, turning 36 in late May. However, his numbers are still impressive.
First, he played 76 games for the Detroit Red Wings this past season and earned 47 total points.
He ranked No. 6 in team hits with the Red Wings, recording 111 in the 2023-24 season.
Ironically, if he had played for the Blues, his 111 hits would have ranked him No. 6 on their team.
While his aggressiveness is exciting and desperately needed, his veteran leadership is irreplaceable.
Perron is beloved in St. Louis, and his leadership traits are evident to even casual fans.
Given that Jordan Kyrou is widely regarded as one of the two key pillars of the current team, it is important to highlight that Perron's role in mentoring these players and acting as a mediator between the young stars and fans could be significant.
As Perron reaches 36, Armstrong won't make the mistake of overpaying and will certainly avoid doing this. It's important for Armstrong to acknowledge Perron's fundamental qualities and think about reuniting with him.
Perron's storybook career wouldn't be complete without ending it with the Blues.