Blues Cut Ties With Milan Lucic, Ending His AHL Pro Tryout
Veteran NHL forward Milan Lucic’s attempt at returning to professional hockey has been halted once again, as the St. Louis Blues terminated his professional tryout (PTO) on Tuesday. The move places his comeback on pause and raises further questions about the future of the 37-year-old power forward, who has not played in the NHL for more than a year.
Blues End Lucic’s PTO Agreement
Training Camp Efforts Cut Short
Lucic joined the Blues on a PTO before the start of training camp, hoping to secure a roster spot. During the preseason, he managed one goal and one assist across four games, showcasing flashes of the physical style he is known for. However, a lower-body injury forced him to miss time, disrupting any early momentum.
Performance With Springfield Thunderbirds
Limited Impact in AHL Games
After rehabbing, Lucic was assigned to the Blues’ AHL affiliate, the Springfield Thunderbirds, where he struggled to regain form. Over five games, he recorded just one assist and failed to register a shot in four of those five outings, signaling difficulties generating offense.
His last appearance came on Nov. 21, contributing to a 2–1 win over the Utica Comets, but his on-ice performance did not appear strong enough to earn another NHL opportunity.
A Look Back at Lucic’s NHL Career
Successful Early Years With Boston Bruins
Lucic enjoyed a highly successful start to his career with the Boston Bruins, playing eight seasons with the franchise. A key member of the 2011 Stanley Cup championship team, he helped Boston claim its first title since 1972. He recorded three seasons with 20+ goals before parting ways with Boston after the 2014-15 season.
Journeyman Years Across the NHL
Following his departure from the Bruins, Lucic spent time with several teams:
- Los Angeles Kings for one season
- Edmonton Oilers for three seasons
- Calgary Flames for four seasons
His physicality and scoring ability made him a valuable asset throughout the early and mid-stages of his career.
Return to Boston Derails After Injury and Legal Issues
In 2023, Lucic returned to the Bruins on a one-year, $1 million contract, recording two points in four games. His comeback quickly hit trouble when he took a puck to the ankle, leading to long-term injured reserve placement.
While sidelined, Lucic was arrested on suspicion of assault and battery involving a family member, prompting the Bruins to place him on indefinite leave for the remainder of the season. This series of events significantly affected his NHL future.
Struggles Continue for the St. Louis Blues
The Blues themselves have endured a difficult opening stretch. Entering Tuesday’s announcement:
- Their record stood at 7–10–6
- They were seven points behind both the Utah Mammoth and the Vegas Golden Knights for the final Western Conference wild-card position
- They remained only four points ahead of the Nashville Predators for the fewest points in the NHL
The team’s struggles may have influenced their decision to prioritize other roster solutions rather than continuing Lucic’s tryout.