The St. Louis Blues have taken a proactive approach to their future by securing two key contract extensions, reinforcing the team’s depth for the coming seasons. While the players on the ice focus on the present, General Manager Doug Armstrong continues to make moves to ensure the Blues remain competitive long-term.
Building a championship-contending team isn’t just about the stars—it’s about having reliable depth. The Blues’ 2019 Stanley Cup victory was a testament to this philosophy, and Armstrong is once again ensuring the team maintains a solid foundation.
Niko Mikkola and Ville Husso: Locked In for Two More Years
The Blues have signed defenseman Niko Mikkola and goaltender Ville Husso to two-year, one-way contracts that keep them with the organization through 2022. This move not only secures their futures in St. Louis but also gives the team financial flexibility and potential trade assets.
What Does This Mean for Jake Allen?
Drew VerHagen JerseyFor fans speculating about a shake-up in the Blues’ goaltending situation, these signings fuel rumors of Jake Allen’s potential departure. Some argue that carrying a high-paid backup goalie isn't sustainable, despite Allen forming one of the league’s best goaltending duos with Jordan Binnington.
Husso’s extension suggests that the organization sees him as a potential NHL regular, but he remains unproven at the highest level. While Binnington was once an unproven rookie himself, the Blues may prefer the stability of Allen for now—especially during a playoff push.
However, Husso’s contract provides cost certainty for St. Louis, making him an attractive trade chip should the right deal arise. If another team seeks a young, promising goaltender with a manageable cap hit, Husso could become a valuable trade asset.
Mikkola’s Role in the Blues’ Future
On the defensive side, Niko Mikkola has shown promise when given the opportunity. As a left-handed defenseman with size and reach, he could be a natural successor if the Blues decide to move on from Jay Bouwmeester or Carl Gunnarsson in the near future.
Mikkola may not yet be ready for a top-pairing role alongside Colton Parayko, but his contract provides the Blues with options. Whether he starts in the NHL or AHL, his $787,500 cap hit is far more manageable than Bouwmeester’s $3.25 million or Gunnarsson’s $1.75 million.
Smart, Strategic Signings for the Blues
These extensions are low-risk, high-upside moves for St. Louis. They allow for cap flexibility, provide valuable depth, and maintain roster stability without overcommitting.
Whether Husso or Mikkola become long-term fixtures or trade assets, these deals ensure the Blues have options for the next two years. As the team continues to balance win-now ambitions with future planning, moves like these could make all the difference in sustaining success.
