Oskar Sundqvist

The 25-year-old was a healthy scratch 40 times during the 2017-18 campaign and was effectively written off as an AHL player. However, Sundqvist made major strides during the summer and recorded 31 points in 74 games during the regular season while becoming one of the team's most effective penalty killers. Sundqvist's stellar two-way play earned him a four-year, $11 million contract, and the Blues will likely keep him toiling in a middle-six role for the upcoming season. The past season is a major source of confidence for Sundqvist, but 35 points is likely his ceiling, so he's better suited for daily fantasy play rather than season-long formats.

Sundqvist's first season with the Blues was difficult, as he only played 42 games and averaged 10:29 of ice time. The 24-year-old center was able to generate one goal and four helpers in those outings, but his development would've favored a full-time role with AHL San Antonio. Instead, he logged only six games with the minor-league club, notching six points. With the Blues bringing in two more pivots this offseason and prospect Robert Thomas expected to make the team, Sundqvist will struggle for NHL minutes again.

Sundqvist may be stepping into a favorable role in The Lou. With Patrik Berglund (shoulder) out until December, he was likely to compete with Robby Fabbri (knee) for the third-line center role, but Fabbri is out for the rest of the season. Therefore, Sundqvist will rotate in on the third line along with younger prospects to see if he can stick. There's a lot up in the air for the Blues, so keep an eye on them to see if Sundqvist will be called on for the long term.