JUST IN: Two Former Blues stars return

Two Former Blues Who Could’ve Made a Difference in 2024-25
By Todd Matthews | May 23, 2025

The St. Louis Blues exceeded expectations this season, but it’s hard not to think about what might have been if a couple of familiar faces were still around. A return to the Western Conference Final may have been a stretch, but with these two former forwards in the lineup, a top-three finish in the Central Division wouldn’t have been out of the question.

Here’s a look at two ex-Blues who could’ve made a big impact had they still been wearing the Blue Note.

Vladimir Tarasenko
Although Tarasenko struggled in Detroit, it likely came down to poor system fit rather than declining ability. He performed well enough during his stops in New York, Ottawa, and Florida, and there’s little reason to believe he wouldn’t have contributed in Jim Montgomery’s system in St. Louis.

Sure, his production might have dipped slightly due to the team’s younger offensive core, but Tarasenko would have brought valuable depth scoring, a physical edge, and a veteran presence in the middle six. Even if not at his peak, his blend of experience and toughness would’ve added a reliable dimension to the Blues’ offense.

Ivan Barbashev
In contrast to Tarasenko, Barbashev is still in his prime and could’ve been a long-term fit for St. Louis’ retooled roster. Back in 2021-22, he notched 60 points and showed he could be a major contributor. His age and skill set would have slotted him in perfectly alongside players like Pavel Buchnevich in the top six.

Barbashev’s grit and scoring ability would’ve been especially valuable in the postseason. His physical play style suits playoff hockey, and with the Blues catching fire offensively late in the season, his presence could’ve tipped the scale. With him and Tarasenko, it’s not hard to imagine the Blues finishing off the Jets in five or six games.

While hindsight is always 20/20, bringing either of these players back might have changed the course of the season. Bringing both back? That might’ve meant a much deeper run.