After re-signing Jamie Langenbrunnner to a one-year contract
extension, the Blues made another transaction soon after by trading B.J.
Crombeen and a 2014 fifth-round draft pick to the Tampa Bay Lightning in
exchange for two fourth round draft picks, one in 2013 and one in 2014.
Crombeen spent the first part of the 2011-12 campaign
recovering from a left shoulder fracture he sustained in a pre-season game
against the Dallas Stars.
Crombeen turned 27 on Tuesday, the same day he was
notified that he was headed to the Sunshine state as part of a deal that would
send two fourth round draft picks to the Blues.
Crombeen has been a member of the Blues’ organization since being claimed
off of waivers by the Note on November 18, 2008. He has since played 265 games with St. Louis,
totaling 49 points (26 goals, 23 assists) and 515 penalty minutes. B.J.’s father, Mike, spent five seasons with
the Blues as well from 1978-1983.
The 6’2”, 210-pound forward nicknamed ‘Beener’ by his
teammates, is known for his fearlessness and ability to bring the crowd to life
with heavy hits and timely fights. He is
loved by his teammates for his personality which often brings life to the
locker room.
To date, Crombeen has played in 288 NHL games, recording 56
points (27 goals, 29 assists) and 580 penalty minutes.
The Denver, Colorado native spent his 2011-12 season
splitting playing time with another tough guy, Ryan Reaves, whose play ultimately led
to the Blues feeling comfortable making this trade.
“I would like to thank B.J. and his wife, Janet, for their time
here in St. Louis,” said Blues’ General Manager Doug Armstrong. “BJ gave us
everything he had on the ice and along with his wife, was very active in our
community.”