St. Louis Blues defenseman Torey Krug may face retirement due to a significant ankle injury, according to general manager Doug Armstrong’s statements to the media.
Krug, known for his expertise in quarterbacking power plays and his ability to move the puck, played a pivotal role in the Boston Bruins’ Stanley Cup Final runs in 2013 and 2019. He was sidelined for the entire 2024-25 season while recuperating from surgery on his left ankle.
As reported by NHL.com’s Lou Korac, Armstrong expressed skepticism about Krug’s chances of returning to the NHL, though he remains hopeful to be proven wrong. “I’m not expecting him to play again,” Armstrong commented. “Now, he’s hoping that I’m wrong, I’m hoping that I’m wrong, and he’s pushing, but the surgery that he had was very, very invasive.”
Last summer, Krug was diagnosed with pre-arthritic changes, which necessitated surgery. The Blues were aware that he might miss the entire season, but Armstrong is doubtful about the 34-year-old’s case for a comeback.
Korac also highlighted that Krug had acknowledged on September 4 the possibility of not playing again, admitting, “those are things you definitely think about.”
Torey Krug is not expected to return to the NHL following recurring ankle injuries. #STLBlues #NHLBruins pic.twitter.com/QfCnCVyra4
— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) May 6, 2025
Having signed a seven-year, $45.5 million contract with the Blues in 2020 after a successful nine-year stint with the Bruins, Krug still has two years remaining on his deal. However, the Blues can utilize long-term injured reserve to sidestep the salary cap implications associated with his contract.
The Blues recently faced a bitter disappointment, suffering a double-overtime defeat against the Winnipeg Jets in the opening round of the playoffs. With just 1:58 left in the game, they were close to a stunning upset before the league’s top regular-season team scored two rapid goals, including a buzzer-beater that forced extra play. Jets captain Adam Lowry ultimately tipped in a point shot past Jordan Binnington, securing the comeback victory.
Torey Krug’s Impressive Journey as an Undrafted Player
Krug began his NHL career as an undrafted free agent with the Boston Bruins in 2012. He solidified his place on the roster during the 2013 postseason, contributing to the team’s accolades, including two Presidents’ Trophies (2013-14 and 2019-20) and two Eastern Conference championships. Over his career, Krug amassed 89 goals and 374 points across 778 NHL games.
