Cam Fowler’s start to the 2025-26 season has looked very different from his run a year ago, but the St. Louis Blues are still asking him to carry a major load.
Through the first five games, Fowler has 0 points. Even so, Jim Montgomery has trusted him to quarterback the second power-play unit, and Fowler has led the team in minutes as the Blues work through the early part of the season.
A quieter beginning after a strong finish last season
That early usage stands out because Fowler arrived in St. Louis with real momentum. The Blues acquired him for a second-round pick in a midseason trade during the 2024-25 season, and he quickly became a key part of the blue line.
Paired with Colton Parayko on the top pair, Fowler produced 36 points and a +19 plus-minus in 51 games. He also added 10 points in a seven-game series during the 2024-25 playoffs, showing that his impact went well beyond simple minutes played.
That strong stretch helped set up a three-year, $18.3 million extension in the 2025-26 offseason. The deal reflected how important Fowler had become after joining the club, even if his role this season was expected to be a little different.
What the Blues are asking of him now
Fowler entered this season expected to be more of a second- or third-pair defenseman and a mentor to younger players. Instead, the Blues have leaned on him heavily from the start, especially with Logan Mailloux out at least eight weeks with a hand injury.
That context helps explain why Fowler’s point total has not been the main story. The Blues are relying on him for stability, minutes and power-play work, not just offense. It is a reminder that a defenseman’s value can show up in different ways from one season to the next.
For Fowler, the next step is simple: turn that usage into production. The Blues clearly trust him, and after the way he finished last season, they have every reason to believe the points will come eventually.
