The St. Louis Blues made a notable roster move Tuesday, recalling forward Dalibor Dvorsky from the AHL’s Springfield Thunderbirds as they look to inject some offense into a sluggish start.
Dvorsky, 20, has been one of Springfield’s most dynamic players early in the season, leading the team with three goals and five points in six games. The 2023 first-round pick (10th overall) is coming off an impressive rookie campaign with the Thunderbirds, where he posted 45 points (21 goals, 24 assists) and was selected to both the AHL All-Star Classic and the league’s Top Prospects Team.
The recall comes as Jake Neighbours heads to the IR and with the Blues try to find traction following a five-game losing streak and a 3-6-1 start to the season. The team has struggled to generate consistent offense, ranking near the bottom of the league in goals per game.
Head coach Jim Montgomery confirmed that Dvorsky will make his NHL season debut Thursday night against the Vancouver Canucks. He’s expected to slot into a depth role at forward but will also see time on the power play, where his lethal one-timer from the right circle could give St. Louis a much-needed new look.
Meanwhile, Robert Thomas is “getting better,” according to Montgomery, but remains doubtful for Thursday’s game as he continues to recover from a minor injury. His absence opens the door for Dvorsky to take on key offensive situations and potentially spark a lineup searching for confidence.
What to Expect from Dvorsky’s Call-Up
With the Blues mired in a five-game losing streak and off to a 3-6-1 start, Dvorsky’s recall feels less like a shakeup and more like a search for a spark. The Blues aren’t likely to thrust him into a top-six role just yet, at least not right away. Expect him to begin in a depth position, where he can adjust to NHL pace and build confidence without being overextended.
Three key things to watch:
- Pace and spacing: This will be Dvorsky’s first real test against NHL speed. The Blues will monitor how he handles less time and space, especially when transitioning through the neutral zone.
- Lethal one-timer: His biggest weapon is his quick, heavy release from the right circle — a shot that’s already proven deadly in Springfield. If the Blues’ power play continues to sputter, he could become a reliable trigger man on the second unit.
- Confidence with the puck: Maintaining a creative, assertive mentality, even in limited minutes, will determine how long this stint lasts.
This recall is about timing and opportunity. St. Louis needs offense, and Dvorsky’s skill set gives them a different look. Even if this stay is brief, it’s a valuable next step in his development and a preview of the player the Blues believe can eventually anchor their top six.