Berggren's Impact: Blues' Key Decision

0:00For the NHL, it's March 20th, and here's what's going on. One of the biggest surprises for the St. Louis Blues this season has been forward Jonathan Bergren. The team claimed him off waivers in mid-December to pat injury holes, but he's turned into a steady producer. In 25 games with the Blue Note, he's notched 5 goals in 12 points total, becoming a real bright spot on offense. Lately, since the season picked up after the Olympics, the Blues have played 11 games, and Bergren has suited up for just 5. Even so, he's made his mark with four assists and a current two-game point streak. The team has a solid three wins, one loss and one tie when he's in the lineup, showing his impact right away. The main hold-up on his playing time comes down to a crowded forward group. Coach Jim Montgomery has tough choices with veterans, prospects like Otto Stinberg, and new additions such as Jack Finley stepping up. States for players like Braden, Shen, and Nick Bukestad haven't eased the log jam either.

1:00That said, the clearest path to more ice time for Bergren is swapping out Jonathan Drowin. Drew and arrived in the Shen deal mainly as a cat move from the islanders, carrying a $4 million hit they wanted off the books. He's not part of the Blues long-term plans, so prioritizing Bergren's spark makes sense. With 14 games left for for the offseason, the Blues faced a key call on the 25-year-old. At just $1.8 million, with two restricted free-age in years ahead, his pace projects to 16 goals over a full 82 games. Giving him steady shifts now will show if he fits as middle six scoring depth moving forward.