Milan Lucic, a 37-year-old left winger from Vancouver, British Columbia, is back in the hockey spotlight after signing a professional tryout (PTO) with the St. Louis Blues’ AHL affiliate, the Springfield Thunderbirds.
The veteran forward, who last appeared in the NHL with the Boston Bruins in 2023, played 1,177 NHL games across 17 seasons. Known for his physical play and leadership, Lucic has 586 career points, including 233 goals and 353 assists.
His return adds another chapter to a career that includes a Stanley Cup win with Boston in 2011. While his experience could help younger players develop, this move has sparked strong reactions across the hockey community.
Should the Blues Have Given Lucic Another Chance?
Lucic’s career took a turn following his alleged involvement in a domestic incident in November 2023. According to reports, he was arrested after his wife allegedly told police he pulled her hair and tried to choke her.
Prosecutors dropped the case after she invoked marital privilege and chose not to testify. Though the charge was dismissed, Lucic entered the NHL’s Player Assistance Program and was promptly reinstated.
After the incident, the Bruins announced Lucic would remain on indefinite leave for the rest of the 2023–24 season. The Blues’ offer of a PTO in Aug. 2025 was his first opportunity to return to professional hockey.
Lucic suited up for four preseason games with the Blues, where he managed a goal and an assist before a lower-body injury forced him out of action. Now joining Springfield, he is expected to play a mentorship role alongside younger prospects like Dalibor Dvorsky.
However, not everyone welcomed the news. When the Blues posted on X that Lucic was joining the Springfield Thunderbirds on a professional tryout, fans quickly voiced their disapproval.
“Why is he still being given an opportunity?” a fan said.
“This man should never play hockey again,” another fan commented.
Here are some more reactions from fans on X.
“We don’t want him here,” a fan said:
“Sounds like some news from 2022,” another fan said.
“He’s not going to take Dvorsky’s spot, so sucks for him. He’s not making it here, and neighbours also won’t be taking dvos spot,” a fan wrote, voicing concern for young players in Springfield.
The response shows the anger in the hockey community over Lucic’s comeback. But Blues management’s decision signals that they look at it as a move with potential upside despite the considerable backlash.