In a surprising twist of fate, Torey Krug’s potential absence for the entire season due to arthritis has created a golden opportunity for up-and-coming defenseman Scott Perunovich to make his mark on the lineup.
Perunovich has been turning heads with his impressive play that mirrors Krug’s style on the ice. Despite lacking in size, Perunovich’s offensive skills have been a standout feature of his game. His ability to smoothly carry the puck out of the defensive zone and kickstart offensive transitions has caught the attention of scouts and fans alike.
One particular aspect of Perunovich’s game that shines through is his prowess on the power play. His adept puck-handling skills allow him to control the play and set up scoring opportunities for his teammates. With the ability to deliver long, accurate passes, Perunovich has the potential to create scoring chances and capitalize on odd-man rushes.
The young defenseman’s offensive capabilities were on full display when he clinched the prestigious Hobey Baker Award in 2020 as a prospect. His rise through the ranks had sparked excitement among Blues fans, leading some to question the decision to sign Krug in 2020, especially with Perunovich knocking on the NHL’s door.
While Perunovich’s NHL experience is limited to just 73 games, all resulting in assists, his potential and promise have not gone unnoticed. The Blues’ decision to offer him a one-way contract earlier this summer speaks volumes about their faith in his abilities. Whether he plays in the NHL or the minors, Perunovich is set to receive equal pay, indicating that he’ll likely be a fixture at the top level.
With Krug’s unfortunate injury creating a void that needs to be filled, Perunovich has an even greater opportunity to showcase his talents on the ice. Among the Blues’ left-handed defensemen, Perunovich is the best-suited to step into Krug’s role seamlessly. While competition from players like Pierre-Oliver Joseph and Ryan Suter looms, giving Perunovich a shot in Krug’s position seems like the logical next step for the team.
As the Blues gear up for the season, all eyes will be on Scott Perunovich to see if he can rise to the occasion and make the most of the opening created by Torey Krug’s absence. This could be the breakout opportunity that Perunovich has been waiting for to prove himself as a valuable asset to the team.
