Table of Content
St. Louis Blues defenseman Logan Mailloux is nearing a return to the lineup, prompting adjustments to the team’s defensive pairings.
Upcoming Return From Injury
Mailloux has missed the first 17 games of the 2026-27 regular-season after suffering a hand injury during a pre-season contest. At Monday’s practice, the 23-year-old participated fully and skated alongside Philip Broberg on the top pair, recreating a partnership that built strong chemistry toward the end of last season.
The coaching staff originally planned for the duo to anchor the top pairing from the start of the season before the pre-season injury altered those arrangements.
Lineup Adjustments and Rookie Progress
With Mailloux approaching his return, Adam Jiricek practiced as an extra defenseman for the first time in his NHL career. Jiricek earned an opening-night roster spot due to team injuries and appeared in all 17 games, collecting one goal and three points while averaging 15:51 of ice time.
Jiricek has previously partnered with Broberg and Cam Fowler during his unexpected stint. While the shift to extra defenseman may appear to be a demotion, reaching the NHL roster without prior American Hockey League experience exceeds initial expectations for the 20-year-old.
If Mailloux returns and injured defenseman Tyler Tucker follows, Jiricek could potentially be assigned to the AHL to continue his development. Meanwhile, general manager Alexander Steen faces critical decisions regarding whether to pursue veteran additions for a playoff push or focus on accumulating draft picks and prospects.
Practice Pairings and Schedule
The defensive pairings featured Philip Broberg paired with Logan Mailloux, Justin Barron alongside Colton Parayko, and Cam Fowler partnered with Brandon Carlo, with Theo Lindstein and Adam Jiricek serving as extras.
The Blues return to action on Tuesday to host the Detroit Red Wings.
