Dvorsky, Alexandrov Could Lead Charge For Bottom-Six Shakeup in 2025-26

As the St. Louis Blues prepare for the 2025–26 season, their draft-and-develop identity remains central to their roster-building approach. With a crowded forward group, limited cap space, and a new head coach in Jim Montgomery, players like Dalibor Dvorsky and Nikita Alexandrov are poised to challenge for full-time NHL roles. Both had strong AHL seasons and now find themselves in the mix to shake up the Blues’ bottom six.

Dvorsky’s NHL Push

Dvorsky, the 10th overall pick in 2023, continues to build momentum in his development. The 20-year-old center posted 21 goals and 45 points in 61 games with AHL Springfield this season, including 10 power-play goals—tied for second among league rookies. He also impressed on the international stage with five goals and nine points in five games at the 2025 World Juniors.

His offensive instincts, quick-release shot, and high hockey IQ make him a strong candidate for NHL minutes. He made his debut in March, appearing in two games with limited ice time, but show promise and great offensive instincts. 

While Dvorsky projects long-term as a center, the Blues may choose to ease him into the NHL on the wing—similar to how they introduced Robert Thomas in his rookie season. That would allow Dvorsky to adjust to the pace and physicality of the league while minimizing the immediate defensive burden.

Alexandrov’s Opportunity Under Montgomery

Alexandrov, a restricted free agent, is also positioned to push for a roster spot. The 24-year-old followed up a strong 2023–24 with 21 goals and 49 points in just 48 games for Springfield in 2024–25, showcasing a mature, well-rounded game.

Though he has yet to establish himself at the NHL level—posting 14 points in 66 career games—he may benefit significantly from the coaching change. His intelligent, two-way style and positional versatility could fit more naturally under Jim Montgomery’s puck-possession system than Craig Berube’s forecheck-heavy structure. If Alexandrov earns a contract extension and continues to build on his AHL success, he could thrive as a depth forward in a more skill-friendly environment.

Where They Fit

Here’s a look at how the Blues ended their 2024-25 season against the Winnipeg Jets: 

• Buchnevich – Thomas – Kyrou
• Neighbours – Schenn – Snuggerud
• Joseph – Sundqvist – Bolduc

Ahead of the 2025-26 season, Dylan Holloway is expected to be healthy in time for training camp and will likely land in the top six on the left side, likely bumping Jake Neighbours down to a more defensively responsible third-line role. That move, along with Jimmy Snuggerud’s arrival, makes the bottom six more competitive—and more crowded.

With Oskar Sundqvist still under contract for another season, he slots in as the likely third-line center unless the team opts to shift him into a fourth-line role, should they not re-sign veteran forward Radek Faksa. 

That would open up the third-line center spot for someone like Dvorsky or Alexandrov, depending on camp performance. Alexandrov could also be considered for fourth-line duty alongside Alexey Toropchenko and Nathan Walker with Sundqvist remaining on the third line.

Big Picture Decisions

Dvorsky brings clear top-six upside, but his transition to the NHL may require patience. The Blues could opt to keep Dvorsky in the AHL to start the season, giving him the opportunity to continue developing in a top-six role with consistent power-play minutes. 

While his long-term future is bright, St. Louis has historically preferred a patient approach with top prospects, and another few months in Springfield could benefit his overall growth. 

In the meantime, Alexandrov—now a more well-rounded, pro-ready forward—has earned the benefit of the doubt through two strong AHL seasons. His production, maturity, and versatility give him a legitimate shot to claim a depth role in the NHL, but he’ll still need to prove himself in training camp to lock down a roster spot.

Ultimately, the Blues’ 2025–26 roster will hinge on performance in camp and offseason decisions. With a deep forward group and increased internal competition, both Dvorsky and Alexandrov are fighting for limited spots—but each brings a unique skill set that could push the team forward. Whether it’s a young sniper breaking in on the wing or a two-way veteran finally getting his shot, the Blues’ bottom six could look very different come October.

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