Dvorský too Center Blues Lineup, Coach Hints at Key Role
ST. LOUIS, MO – After a strong start to the season with the Springfield Thunderbirds (AHL), 20-year-old Slovakian forward Dalibor Dvorský has been called up to the st. Louis Blues and is expected to make his season debut Thursday against the Vancouver Canucks. Blues Head Coach Jim Montgomery confirmed Dvorský will play center and see time on the power play.
“He’s going to play center and we’re going to use him on the power play as well,” Montgomery stated.
The call-up comes at a critical time for the Blues, who are currently on a five-game losing streak and have only won three of their first ten games this season. Dvorský’s arrival offers a potential spark for a team struggling to find its footing.
In six games with Springfield this season, Dvorský recorded five points (3 goals, 2 assists), with a recent surge in production - two goals and two assists in his last two games.
Montgomery highlighted Dvorský’s offensive capabilities, saying, “His offensive skills are very valuable for our team. He also has a very good shot from a distance, with which he can threaten the opponent’s goalies. And he can also score in power-ups, which is very valuable. He showed it in the previous two games.”
Blues forward Dylan holloway echoed the coach’s sentiments, adding, “I think he had a very good camp. He is a talented and intelligent hockey player. A player with his offensive skills can help us.”
While Dvorský has appeared in two NHL games previously – against Nashville and Edmonton last season – he played on the wing in those contests. This opportunity to play center is partially due to an injury to key Blues center Robert Thomas.
“Thomas’ condition is improving, but it is indeed not certain whether he will play against Vancouver. We need someone to replace his game,” Montgomery explained.
