Apr 27, 2025; St. Louis, Missouri, USA; Winnipeg Jets center Adam Lowry (17) battles with St. Louis Blues left wing Alexandre Texier (9) during the third period in game four of the first round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Enterprise Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Le-Imagn Images

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St. Louis Blues Recall Nikita Alexandrov, Colten Ellis, and Corey Schueneman Ahead of Game 5

St. Louis Blues bolster their roster by recalling Alexandrov, Ellis, and Schueneman from Springfield for the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs.

With the Springfield Thunderbirds officially out of the playoffs after falling to the Providence Bruins, the St. Louis Blues have wasted no time in bringing up some reinforcements. On Monday, the Blues announced they’ve recalled forward Nikita Alexandrov, goaltender Colten Ellis, and defenseman Corey Schueneman to add depth for the rest of their playoff run. To make room, netminder Will Cranley, who had been their third goalie so far this postseason, was sent back down to the ECHL’s Florida Everblades.

For Alexandrov, it’s a long-awaited return to the NHL roster. After spending most of the past two seasons bouncing between St. Louis and Springfield, the 24-year-old center was waived and assigned to the AHL at the start of this season. Despite not getting called up during the regular season, Alexandrov made a strong statement in Springfield, racking up 21 goals and 49 points in just 48 games. Although he went scoreless during Springfield’s short playoff run, he led the team in points per game and showed he’s ready for another NHL opportunity. With restricted free agency looming, Alexandrov’s future with the Blues will be one to watch, especially with possible openings if players like Radek Faksa depart.

Colten Ellis, Nikita Alexandrov and Corey Schueneman have been recalled from Springfield. #stlblues

DETAILS ➡️ https://t.co/eWRo7dJqXH https://t.co/eWRo7dJqXH
— St. Louis Blues (@StLouisBlues) April 28, 2025

Colten Ellis, meanwhile, will take over as the Blues’ emergency third goaltender behind Jordan Binnington and Joel Hofer. Ellis enjoyed a breakout year with the Thunderbirds, posting impressive numbers with a 2.63 goals-against average, a .922 save percentage, and three shutouts. Even though he hasn’t yet made his NHL debut, Ellis’ steady presence offers the Blues a reliable insurance policy in net should they need it during their playoff push.

Defenseman Corey Schueneman also rejoins the big club after spending most of the year in Springfield. Schueneman, 29, had a few appearances with the Blues earlier this season and put up solid AHL numbers with four goals, 20 points, and a +8 rating across 63 games. He’s familiar with the role of a depth defenseman and will be ready if called upon for spot duty.

As for Will Cranley, he heads back to a successful Florida Everblades squad that is making another run at the Kelly Cup. While Cranley may not see much playoff action behind star goalie Cam Johnson, the experience will still be valuable for the young netminder.

With a few new faces ready and waiting, the Blues are quietly shoring up their depth as they prepare for the critical games ahead.

Image Credit: Jeff Le-Imagn Images

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Anamika Shrivastava

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I’ve always loved writing and storytelling, and hockey gives me a perfect stage for endless stories to tell. Whether it’s breaking down a game, analyzing a big trade, or capturing the emotions on the ice, I bring the NHL to life through words. So what’s the best part you ask? Watching the action unfold and turning it into something fans can connect with. To my readers: Hockey is more than just a game—it’s the highs, the heartbreaks, and the moments that make us jump off our seats. So, keep cheering, keep debating, and never stop loving the madness of the sport!