St. Louis Blues forward Robert Thomas is expected to be sidelined for at least six weeks due to a fractured right ankle sustained during a recent 3-2 loss to the Winnipeg Jets. The injury occurred when Thomas blocked a shot from defenseman Neal Pionk early in the third period. Despite initially continuing to play and assisting on a goal, he ultimately had to leave the game after taking a face-off.
Thomas, who has had a solid start to the season with six points (one goal, five assists) in seven games, underwent X-rays that confirmed the severity of the injury. In response, the Blues placed him on injured reserve. This is a significant setback for the team, as Thomas was a key player last season, leading the Blues with 86 points.
Blues captain Brayden Schenn expressed the team’s disappointment but emphasized the importance of collective effort in Thomas’s absence. He acknowledged Thomas’s role as a pivotal player and stressed that this situation presents an opportunity for others to rise to the occasion.
Schenn, now centering the top line alongside Brandon Saad and Oskar Sundqvist, highlighted the need for everyone to contribute more significantly.
Defenseman Colton Parayko echoed Schenn’s sentiments, noting the challenge of replacing a player of Thomas’s caliber. However, he remained optimistic about the depth and resilience of the team, believing that other players can step up and contribute positively.
He pointed out that the team’s strength lies in its ability to work together and support each other during tough times.
Overall, while losing a star player like Thomas is undoubtedly a challenge, it is also an opportunity for the Blues to demonstrate their depth and unity. The team will need to rally around this setback and come together to maintain their competitive edge in the league.
