Krug out indefinitely, could miss season for Blues

The left ankle of the defenseman has been diagnosed with pre-arthritic changes.

Torey Krug could miss the upcoming season for the St. Louis Blues because of an ankle issue.

The defenseman’s left ankle has been diagnosed with pre-arthritic changes, which are a result of a bone fracture he suffered during his NHL career. As a result, he will be out indefinitely.

Krug is expected to undergo a rehabilitation process for the next 6-8 weeks, after which a reassessment will be conducted to determine if surgery is necessary. In the event that surgery is required, he will not participate in the 2024-25 season.

Last season, the player, who is 33 years old, achieved a total of 39 points, comprising of four goals and 35 assists, in 77 games for the Blues. This marked his fourth season with the team after he inked a contract worth $45.5 million for a duration of seven years, with an average annual value of $6.5 million, on October 9, 2020.

Despite suffering a foot injury the previous offseason and enduring multiple injuries in each of his initial three seasons with the Blues, he made the decision not to waive his no-trade clause in September.

He expressed, “My decision is to remain in this place. I am eager to be a member of this room, enjoy performing for this city, and proudly wear the Bluenote. It is a matter that fills me with great enthusiasm. … Although I have responsibilities towards my children and family, ultimately, as I mentioned before, my desire is to stay here and represent the Note. Our locker room is fantastic, and there is a positive atmosphere this year. I believe we can bring about a rapid turnaround.”

Krug joined the Boston Bruins on March 25, 2012, after being signed as an undrafted free agent. Throughout his career, he has accumulated 483 points (89 goals, 394 assists) in 778 regular-season games, as well as 57 points (11 goals, 46 assists) in 82 Stanley Cup Playoff games.

Last season, the Blues (43-33-6) secured the fifth position in the Central Division and, unfortunately, missed out on qualifying for the playoffs for the second consecutive year.