In a groundbreaking move earlier this month, the St. Louis Blues made a bold acquisition by trading for centre Alexandre Texier from the Columbus Blue Jackets. At just 24 years old, Texier brings with him a wealth of potential and talent that could potentially shape the future of the Blues franchise.
Following the trade, the Blues wasted no time in securing Texier’s services for the next two years with an extension. This move clearly indicates the team’s interest in integrating Texier into their lineup and giving him a chance to showcase his skills on the ice. While he may need to show some flexibility and adaptability by moving around different positions, it is evident that the Blues have high hopes for the young centre.
Texier’s performance in the previous season was nothing short of exceptional, making it all the more intriguing to see if he can replicate that success in the upcoming games. The Blues will be closely monitoring his development as a two-way forward, looking for signs of growth and consistency in his playing style.
“If Texier wants a future with the Blues, he needs to continue to develop as a player and build on past success,” said a source close to the team. “He has to prove that last year was not just a fluke and that he has what it takes to contribute to the team’s success in the long run.”
With the impending free agency of newly-acquired centre Radek Faksa after this season, the Blues will have some decisions to make regarding their centre lineup. Despite this uncertainty, the team remains confident in their roster depth, with established players like Robert Thomas, Pavel Buchnevich, and Oskar Sundqvist expected to anchor different lines.
Building a solid core of centres has been a priority for the Blues in recent years, reflected in their strategic moves to acquire key players like Brayden Schenn, Ryan O’Reilly, and Tyler Bozak. Texier’s addition to this lineup signals the team’s commitment to maintaining a strong centre presence on the ice.
Looking ahead to the future, the Blues are already envisioning a lineup with Texier as a key component for the 2025-26 season. By extending his contract early on, the team aims to secure his services and solidify their roster well in advance.
While the Blues have players who can play defensively at a high level, the absence of a true two-way forward like O’Reilly and Ivan Barbashev has been felt. Texier’s arrival could potentially fill this gap and bring a new dimension to the team’s playing style, further enhancing their chances for success in the seasons to come.
