Top 5 defensemen prospects the St. Louis Blues to consider in the 2024 NHL Draft

Leo Sahlin Wallenius, LD/Vaxjo Lakers

One of the better scorers at the blue line in the 2024 draft, Leo Sahlin Wallenius also boasts decent size at 6’0, 183 lbs. And wow, did his productivity make a leap this past season, or did it make a leap? Sahlin Wallenius produced just eight points and two goals in J20 Nationell in 2022-23 across 30 games, and he was shut out in the postseason for Vaxjo. 

He returned and saw 43 contests in 2023-24, scoring 11 goals and contributing 42 points in the regular season, plus a trio of assists in five playoff games. The leap Sahlin Wallenius made was incredible, to say the least, and it should leave us wondering what he will do in both Sweden and at the international level next season. 

Okay, so his play in the offensive zone is good, but what about his defensive game? Defense remains a work in progress, and it’s something sources like Cap Friendly imply in their brief scouting report. 

If nothing else, Sahlin Wallenius could at least turn into a player with high-end offense and perhaps serviceable defensive ability that will play to his strengths. It’s not ideal, but for a team like the Blues that has struggled to score, Sahlin Wallenius would make for a welcoming addition to the system, and when he’s deemed ready, the pro ranks.