St. Louis Blues Project Forward Lines for 2026-27 Season Ahead

St. Louis Blues enter the offseason perched 9th in the Western Conference with a 37‑33 record and riding a four‑game winning streak, prompting General Manager Doug Armstrong to sketch out the projected forward lines for the 2026‑27 campaign. The lineup blueprint aims to blend veteran production with emerging talent, positioning the Blues for a playoff push before they face the Dallas Stars on September 19.

Which players anchor the top line?

The top line is expected to feature captain Ryan O'Reilly centering a duo of Alexey Toropchenko and rookie forward Noah Hanifin. O'Reilly’s two‑way play and face‑off mastery should open up space for Toropchenko’s speed and Hanifin’s gritty net‑front presence. Together they’ll chase the puck deep, looking to sustain the momentum that sparked the recent win streak.

How will the second line evolve?

Jordan Kyrou is slated to continue his breakout role, likely sliding to the left wing beside veteran forward Brayden Schenn at center and a younger winger such as Colton Parayko’s brother, forward Nick Leddy, on the right. Kyrou’s playmaking and Schenn’s veteran poise could generate a balanced attack, while Leddy’s defensive instincts add depth when the Blues shift to a more conservative posture.

What role will the third line play?

The third line may revolve around forward Robert Bortuzzo, who brings a physical edge and penalty‑killing acumen. Pairing him with forward Nathan MacKinnon’s younger brother, forward Jared McCann, and a versatile depth player like Zach Sanford could give the Blues a gritty, energy‑driven unit capable of grinding out goals and protecting leads.

Which players could break out on the fourth line?

The fourth line is the most speculative, with prospects like forward Kian Ferjani and defense‑forward hybrid Dylan Holloway expected to earn minutes. Their speed and willingness to forecheck may force opponents into turnovers, providing the Blues with fresh offensive chances late in games. Coach Craig Berube will likely rotate these players to keep the lineup fresh and adapt to opponent matchups.

How does the upcoming game vs Dallas Stars factor in?

The Blues’ next test comes against the Dallas Stars on September 19, a matchup that will serve as a litmus test for the projected lines. Facing Dallas’ disciplined defensive structure will reveal how well the top line’s chemistry holds under pressure and whether the third‑line physicality can disrupt the Stars’ transition game. Coaches will watch for line durability and adjust before the regular season kicks off.

What does this mean for the Blues’ playoff aspirations?

If the projected lines click, the Blues could translate their recent win streak into sustained success, closing the gap on Western Conference rivals. A balanced attack across all four lines, anchored by O'Reilly’s leadership and bolstered by youthful energy, may be the formula that propels St. Louis into the postseason. The Dallas Stars preview will be the first real gauge of whether that formula holds up when the stakes rise.