Overview
- Alexey Toropchenko left the St. Louis Blues’ season-opening game on Friday and did not return after a hit behind the net delivered by Dallas defenseman Lian Bichsel.
- Video and beat reporting show Toropchenko needed help off the ice and was favoring his elbow, which raised immediate concern about a potentially significant injury.
- The Blues finished the game with 11 forwards after his exit and are considering internal lineup changes that could include Zach Dean or Dillon Dube.
- If Toropchenko misses additional games the team could recall AHL options such as Nathan Walker or Dylan Peterson to restore depth.
- The loss compounds early-season absences for St. Louis, including Logan Mailloux and Tyler Tucker, and the club is awaiting official medical updates that will determine matchups and short-term roster moves.