Blues project near-opening lineup for preseason finale in Chicago
St. Louis lists four forward lines, three defence pairs and Joel Hofer in goal for Saturday’s exhibition finale.
The St. Louis Blues are projecting a lineup close to their opening-night group for Saturday's preseason finale against the Chicago Blackhawks at United Center. Puck drop is scheduled for 6 p.m. CT.
Head coach Jim Montgomery said earlier in camp that the last exhibition would offer a look at the group expected to open the regular season. St. Louis visits Dallas for that opener on Oct. 2. The club said Saturday's projected lines were based on Friday's practice at Centene Community Ice Center.
Projected forwards
Dylan Holloway — Robert Thomas — Jimmy Snuggerud
Pavel Buchnevich — Mason McTavish — Connor McMichael
Jake Neighbours — Dalibor Dvorsky — Jonatan Berggren
Alexey Toropchenko — Pius Suter — Zach Dean
Projected defence
Philip Broberg — Logan Mailloux
Theo Lindstein — Colton Parayko
Cam Fowler — Brandon Carlo
Projected goaltender: Joel Hofer.
Jordan Binnington, Ross Johnston and Dillon Dube are absent from the projection because each has already played twice and NHL preseason rules limit veterans with at least 100 games to two exhibitions. Defenceman Tyler Tucker is also out with an injury, the club said.
