Projecting the Blues Forward Lines for the 2026-27 Season

With training camp still a couple of months away, the St. Louis Blues forward group is already shaping up to be one of the most intriguing units in the Central Division. A talented mix of established stars, young NHL contributors, recent acquisitions, and high-upside prospects are all battling for spots on the opening-night roster. The organization has made it clear through their offseason moves and development paths that they want speed, skill, size, and two-way reliability across all four lines. 

Holloway - Thomas - Snuggerud

The top line writes itself this summer. Dylan Holloway, Robert Thomas, and Jimmy Snuggerud form a dynamic and exciting trio that should set the tone for the Blues’ attack. Thomas remains the clear engine in the middle, using his elite vision and playmaking ability to set up teammates while controlling the pace of play. Holloway brings the physical edge, forechecking intensity, and defensive reliability that make the line dangerous in all three zones. On the right side, Snuggerud adds a legitimate scoring threat with his shot and developing NHL presence. Together, this group has the speed and offensive upside to create consistent pressure against opposing top pairings.

Neighbours - McTavish - Buchnevich

Building off that foundation, the second line pairs Pavel Buchnevich with Mason McTavish and Jake Neighbours. Buchnevich brings veteran scoring touch and versatility, capable of playing either wing and contributing on the power play. McTavish, the big, strong center acquired at the 2026 NHL Entry Draft, adds size and net-front presence while winning battles along the boards. Neighbours complements the group with his own power-forward style and goal-scoring instincts. This combination gives the Blues a heavy, physical middle-six line that can match up well against other teams’ second units while still generating offense.

McMichael - Dvorsky - Berggren

The third line would offer a nice blend of skill and youth with Connor McMichael, Dalibor Dvorsky, and Jonatan Berggren. While McMichael, and really any of this line, could easily swap spots with Neighbours, starting him on the third line could allow for an interesting blend and advantage on the ice. McMichael's hockey sense and versatility allow him to play either center or wing, bringing offensive instincts and responsible two-way play. Dvorsky is the young center with size and scoring potential, continues his development in a meaningful way. Berggren adds another layer of skill on the wing. This group should be fast, competitive, and capable of producing secondary scoring while handling tougher defensive assignments when needed.

Johnston - Suter - Toropchenko 

Rounding out the lineup is a physical, energy-driven fourth line featuring Ross Johnston, Pius Suter, and Alexei Toropchenko. Johnston provides the size and toughness that every successful bottom-six needs. Suter serves as the skilled, reliable veteran who can win faceoffs, kill penalties, and chip in offensively in limited minutes. Toropchenko brings his long reach, physical presence, and defensive reliability to the right side. This trio is built to grind, forecheck hard, and wear down opponents over the course of a game.

Depth Options

Depth remains a major strength for the Blues heading into camp. Players like Otto Stenberg, Justin Carbonneau, Aleksanteri Kaskimaki, and Dylan Peterson are all pushing hard and could force their way onto the roster if they stand out during preseason. Veterans and depth options like Nathan Walker, Jack Finley, and Dillon Dube will also add further competition and flexibility for injuries or matchup-specific adjustments.