Maddox Dagenais, making his debut in the NHL during a preseason game for the St. Louis Blues against the Dallas Stars, expressed only one disappointment—his father’s absence. Pierre Dagenais, a former NHL player, was scheduled to attend but had his flight canceled; however, he plans to watch the game online. The 18-year-old, selected 16th overall in the 2026 NHL Draft, intended to learn, enjoy, and gain insights from his first professional experience, particularly as he continues his third season with the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League’s Quebec Remparts.
Prior to the game, Dagenais emphasized the importance of engaging with veteran players and asking questions about playing in an NHL environment, advocating for a fun approach to the game to perform well. Blues head coach Jim Montgomery noted Dagenais’ skating style—as a 10-to-2 skater—highlighting how his unique movement will make him deceptive on the ice. Playing in the game provided him a firsthand taste of NHL speed, intensity, and atmosphere, helping him understand the capabilities and strength of opposing players, all of which he can build upon.
The young forward has adapted well during his first training camp, standing 6-foot-4 and weighing 194 pounds, showing great eagerness and ambition to capitalize on the Blues’ investment in him. Dagenais mentioned he is learning from professional players and coaches to improve various aspects of his game and aspires to lead by example, especially as he prepares for a third junior season. Montgomery praised his offensive potential but cautioned not to place too much pressure early on, though he has been impressed with Dagenais’ performance so far.
Dagenais last season posted a point-per-game record with the Quebec Remparts, and he intends to continue developing his strengths. Looking ahead past the 2026-27 season, his options range from playing college hockey to turning pro, but for now, he’s focusing on making the most of his current opportunities in St. Louis. During his limited ice time, he registered three shots on goal and one hit in a narrow 2-1 loss.
Other Blues news includes Oskar Sundqvist signing only with this organization despite offers elsewhere, emphasizing his dedication to the Blues even without a guaranteed NHL contract. Veteran defenseman Cam Fowler also discussed his desire to improve and contribute more, reflecting his desire to evolve after a challenging last season. First-round pick Jimmy Snuggerud voiced his strong desire to remain with the Blues long-term, expressing love for the city and optimism about contract negotiations, despite recent CBA changes. Meanwhile, Ryan Reaves, a fifth-round pick from the 2005 draft and a key enforcer during his career, announced his retirement from professional hockey.
Fan Take: This development with Dagenais highlights the Blues’ focus on nurturing young talent from an early stage, which is exciting for fans eager to see homegrown prospects thrive at the NHL level. It signals a promising future for the team and possibilities for the sport’s growth as fresh blood mixes with veteran experience.
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Source: sports.yahoo.com
