Blues Finally Ink Wellwood
So, Bob McKenzie was right…
The St. Louis Blues finally got all of the KHL kinks worked out of the Kyle Wellwood situation. They announced he has signed on for a 1 year contract valued at $650,000 (prorated). He is not eligible to play for the Blues AHL affiliate, the Peoria Rivermen, due to signing after a December 15th deadline for a players in Europe signing in North America during the season.
The bottom line of this deal is clear. The Blues need to add depth with question marks still surrounding the return of David Perron and Andy McDonald. Adding the desired “legitimate goal scorer” is not a practical option under the current salary cap system. At least not at mid-season. Leaving Doug Armstrong with few options for reinforcing the lineup. As any good GM would do, he’s exploring all options.
Some call it dumpster diving, but I choose to call it antiquing. Army is hoping that $5 chair he bought at a yard sale turns out to be a rare colonial era piece.
Hopefully no one comes along and offers a few bucks more before Doug has it appraised. Just like Marek Svatos, Wellwood will have to clear waivers. With divisional rival Red Wings injury depleted as well, would they claim Wellwood? The Blues will know in 24 hours.
Even with a week’s time passing between McKenzie’s report and today’s announcement, most Blues fans likely haven’t Google’d to see just who the Blues brought in. For the nitty gritty details on Wellwood, please see my original report from the 11th. To make a long story short, the future #12 brings a slight goal scoring touch and face-off winning ability. His prowess in the circle is where his real value comes. He won 747 of 1346 draws in his last two NHL seasons (2008-2010). A 55.49% success rate. Compare that to the Blues 25th rated 48.2%.
Should Wellwood prove to be an adequate plumber line forward, will potential trade scenarios pop up? Could a team looking for a defensive forward be willing to deal a depth scorer? With Wellwood not full in tow yet, it’s difficult to say and proposing names coming in return is highly speculative. Yet, it’s a question worth asking and a potential storyline worth following. Wellwood gives Armstrong options and Armstrong has been on point utilizing his options. Swapping depth in one area for help in another.
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