Three Forwards Remain After Cuts (what to expect)

By ANDREW ALLSMAN

ALHAMBRA, IL-- The Blues announced after Saturday’s game that 3 forwards would remain on the team due to the injury of B.J. Crombeen.  The question that is now presented is which of the 3 will be playing on the 4^th line spot.

IMG_4638.jpg by bridgetds

Ryan Reaves:  The projected player to take Combeen’s spot due to his physicality, and his ability to drop the gloves when needed.  Reaves appeared in the NHL roster numerous times last year due to injuries and recorded 2 G and 2 A, but Reaves has said that he is working to become an all around player and contribute offensively to this team.

IMG_8703.jpg by bridgetds

Evgeny Grachev:  After being acquired in a trade during this year’s draft, former New York Ranger Evgeny Grachev is looking to be a part of the lineup permanently.  With no past playing time with the Blues, and little NHL experience, this feat will prove to be a tough one.  The Blues are projected to start Reaves opening night, but it is possible that Grachev could sneak into the lineup very soon after opening night so the Blues can take a look at him at the NHL level.  If Reaves underperforms, the Blues will have no problem replacing him with Grachev.



IMG_5948.jpg by bridgetds



Chris Porter:  Chris Porter was another player that was brought up last year to fill the gaps left by injuries (I use that phrase lightly).  It is likely that Porter will see a decent amount of playing time this year, especially with Crombeen sidelined, but I would rather see Reaves or Grachev play before him.  There is a good chance the Blues are thinking the same way I am, and I would imagine that Porter will spend most of his time up in the press box this season.

With this being said, all of these players will play at some point this year, but how much remains to be seen.  While Crombeen’s injury presented one more player with the opportunity to play in the NHL, if any of the three players don’t make the most of their opportunities it could be short-lived.  Also the players have to take into account that F David Perron is expected to return as soon as November which takes away another roster spot.


Also check out:
Blue news

My central division predictions

Elliot beats out Bishop for backup spot

You can email me at drewallsman@yahoo.com