The last thing the St. Louis Blues wanted to see to open the 2026-27 season was the injury bug. Not even two periods into the new season, and it has bitten. Forward Alexey Toropchenko left Friday’s season-opening game against the Dallas Stars and has been ruled out for the remainder of the game.
Toropchenko’s Injury
The forward was checked behind the Blues’ net in the first half of the second period. Stars’ defenseman Lian Bichsel delivered the hit, which sent the Moscow native to the ice. Toropchenko needed help leaving the ice. Furthermore, he was favoring his elbow as he headed down the locker room.
Toropchenko has a reputation of being one of the team’s toughest players. To see him fall to the ice and stay there and need help leaving is a sign this could be a serious injury.
The Blues will play the remainder of the game with just 11 forwards.
Looking Ahead
The Blues come right back and play the Colorado Avalanche on Saturday night. Assuming Toropchenko is unable to play, it is likely either Zach Dean or Dillon Dube will enter the lineup. Both were surprising additions to the team’s final roster (although both had a strong camp and preseason), and could be in for a large role should Toropchenko miss extended time.
If Toropchenko does miss time, the Blues have options in the American Hockey League (AHL). Nathan Walker might be the likely candidate to get called up, but after a strong performance in the preseason, it should not be surprising if Dylan Peterson is called up.
Toropchenko is the latest Blue to be bitten by the injury bug. Both Logan Mailloux and Tyler Tucker are unavailable to start the season due to their respective injuries.
Stay Tuned
The Hockey Writers will look to provide updates as they become available.
Free Newsletter
Get St Louis Blues coverage delivered to your inbox
In-depth analysis, breaking news, and insider takes - free.
Subscribe Free →
