Alexey Toropchenko injured in St. Louis Blues season opener

St. Louis Blues forward Alexey Toropchenko sustained an upper-body injury during the team’s season opener against the Dallas Stars. The injury occurred during the second period after Toropchenko was hit along the boards by Dallas players Lian Bichsel and Tyler Seguin.

Head coach Jim Montgomery indicated that Toropchenko’s recovery timeline will be longer than day-to-day. Reports noted the player appeared to be favoring his right shoulder or elbow while being assisted off the ice. Toropchenko is known for his physical presence, averaging 180 hits per 82 games over his NHL career.

In Toropchenko’s absence, the Blues may look to players such as Dillon Dube, Zach Dean, or Nathan Walker to fill the lineup. The injury adds to the team's early-season challenges, as Logan Mailloux and Tyler Tucker are also unavailable to start the season due to injuries.