Professional hockey player Milan Lucic’s attempt to return to the NHL is on indefinite hold. The St. Louis Blues announced on Tuesday that they are ending his professional tryout offer.
Details on Lucic’s Tryout
Lucic, a veteran forward aged 37, had not played in the NHL for over a year. He initially joined the Blues on a professional tryout contract before the start of the training camp.
During the preseason, Lucic registered one goal and one assist across four games. However, he later missed several games due to a lower-body injury.
Performance with Springfield Thunderbirds
After recovering, Lucic played for the Blues’ AHL affiliate, the Springfield Thunderbirds. In five games there, he managed only one assist and failed to record any shots on goal in four of those matches.
His most recent game was on November 21, where the Thunderbirds won 2-1 against the Utica Comets.
Lucic’s Career Highlights
- Lucic spent his first eight seasons with the Boston Bruins.
- He was part of the Bruins’ 2011 Stanley Cup-winning team.
- He achieved three seasons with over 20 goals.
- Lucic left the Bruins after the 2014-15 season, playing for teams like the Los Angeles Kings, Edmonton Oilers, and Calgary Flames.
- Before the 2023-24 season, he returned to the Bruins on a one-year, $1 million contract.
Challenges During His Return
In four games with the Bruins, Lucic recorded two points. He then sustained an ankle injury after being hit by a puck. This injury led to his placement on long-term injured reserve.
Lucic’s situation worsened when he faced arrest on charges of assault and battery involving a family member. Following this incident, the Bruins decided to place him on indefinite leave for the remainder of the season.
Current Status of the Blues
The St. Louis Blues have endured a tough start to the season, with a record of 7-10-6. After qualifying for the playoffs last year, they currently sit seven points behind the Utah Mammoth and the Vegas Golden Knights for the final wild-card spot in the Western Conference. They are also four points clear of the Nashville Predators, who have the fewest points in the NHL.
