When Jordan Binnington's tenure as the Blues starting goaltender comes to an end, there is a concrete plan in place for his successor. It is not going to be anyone they draft in the future, or sign from an external source. This future franchise goaltender might already be in the organization, and he just signed a two-year deal to stay with the St. Louis Blues.
Joel Hofer
Back-up goaltender Joel Hofer has to replicate last season's success, and it could result in a very big reward. With starting goalie Jordan Binnington entering his ninth year of NHL service at 32 years old, there is a very small chance that Hofer could split starts with him in 2025-26. Depending on how both goaltenders are fairing, the end-of-season stat sheet could reach a 41-41 start split between the two goalies.
Last season, Hofer was stellar coming off the bench. He appeared in 31 games and held a record of 16-8-3. That is a fantastic job, and he showed himself to be a valuable asset in one of the best-kept secrets in the Western Conference. Both Binnington and Hofer proved they were one of, if not the best, goaltending tandems in the NHL.
Rest assured, this is still Binnington's team, and that is his net. Until he shows that he cannot keep this team in the heat for the playoffs, Hofer can only ride the pine and be ready when called upon.
Recieving the torch soon?
As Hofer signed a two-year extension this offseason, the outlook of the Blues future at goaltender got a little bit clearer. This is a bridge contract to see if the success from last season carries over for another year or two. Can Hofer be ready to receive the torch from Binnington when the time is right?
Could that happen this season? Very likely not. With a new-look defensive core and some new additions to the offense, the Blues are going to be a better team in 2025-26. With the Olympics scheduled in the middle of February, and Binnington once again getting the nod to join his country's team, watch out for him to have a career year next season. It is actually very possible that both Hofer and Binnington have fantastic seasons, giving the Blues the best possible outcome.
That torch passing is going to come, sooner rather than later. It is inevitable. There is no stopping Father Time, and Binnington knows that. But, General Manager Doug Armstrong made a smart decision in keeping a great goalie in Hofer around to try and fight for that top spot. He has a goalie who will be ready to take the reins whenever necessary. Plus, as Hofer is a tender age of 25 years old, there is a chance that the cycle of good and reliable goaltending for years to come can start over.