The St. Louis Blues and Chicago Blackhawks hit the ice for the first time in the 2024-25 season on Friday night in the 2024 Tom Kurvers Showcase in St. Louis. The Blues came out on top 4-3 in overtime in a back-and-forth game, with Simon Robertsson scoring the game-winner. While it is still very early in the preseason, there is a lot to look forward to for each fanbase.
Frank Nazar
Frank Nazar was the best player on either side tonight. The Blackhawks’ 2022 first-round pick was the focal point of the team’s offense, controlling possession in the offensive zone and executing countless cross-ice passes for high-danger scoring chances. His 5-foot-9 stature did not appear to be a problem either, as he took a few hits with ease before immediately returning to play.
Nazar played three NHL games last season so his spot in the NHL is not guaranteed. He is just 20 years old and needs to do a better job at driving play towards the center of the ice, but the talent is there and he is clearly going to continue developing into a special player within the next few seasons. It is anyone’s guess whether he makes the opening night roster for the Blackhawks, but if he does not, he is likely to find his way into the NHL by the end of the season.
Matthew Mayich
Matthew Mayich is a 6-foot-2 defenseman the Blues selected in the sixth round of the 2023 NHL Draft. He tallied just 24 points (six goals and 18 assists) in 66 games with the Ottawa 67’s last season, but his play stood out last night. Not only did he score a goal, he was physical, blocked shots, knocked opponents off the puck, and generated offense. The Blues have him listed at 6-foot-2, 197 pounds but he looked much larger as he towered over everyone on the ice. He may not be one to light up the scoresheet but do not be surprised if he pushes for an NHL spot in the next few seasons.
AJ Spellacy
Heading into the game most hockey fans were not familiar with the Blackhawks’ 2024 third-round pick, but that has now changed. AJ Spellacy was one of the best players on the ice tonight, as his skating and offensive talent shined. He was constantly generating chances in the offensive zone, and in transition and the defensive zone he got physical while chirping Blues’ skaters. He not only had a strong night that resulted in a goal, but he was having fun, something every team wants in their…
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