Blues Sign Tyler Bozak

The St. Louis Blues were desperate for a center, after prices on centers ended up being too high. Would it make sense to trade Robert Thomas for Ryan O'Reilly? No, it wouldn't. For now the Blues went a safer route signing free agent center Tyler Bozak from the Toronto Maple Leafs. Bozak, 32, signs a three-year contract worth $15 million. He was probably the third best center on the market. He isn't a big name, but he can help a little.

Bozak went undrafted out of University of Denver. After being undrafted, the Toronto Maple Leafs signed him to a two-year, entry level contract on April 3, 2009. He made himself into a fan favorite during his time with the Leafs. Bozak is able to put himself in good positions, and he seems aware of his own capabilities. He passes more than he shoots. Bozak was also a popular teammate, and a mentor for the younger players.

Among faceoff leaders last season, Bozak ranked 29th with 53.6%.

Bozak is entering his tenth NHL season, all of his seasons had been with the Maple Leafs. He's played in 594 games, 136 goals, 229 assists, 365 points, and is a -78. His career high in points came in 2016-2017, with 55. In 2014-2015, Bozak scored 23 goals. In the playoffs, he's played in 18 games, and has score 5 goals, with 5 assists, 10 points, and is a -1. Bozak looks to be an upgrade over Kyle Brodziak, who left to join to Edmonton Oilers.