Blues’ Alexandre Texier Explores Contract Termination
Blues winger Alexandre Texier is weighing the possibility of terminating his contract to become an unrestricted free agent. This information was reported by Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet. Currently, Texier is still on the Blues’ roster but has seen limited action, participating in just one game since October 28. He has been a healthy scratch in nine of the last ten games.
Contract Details and Performance History
Texier made history as the first player in NHL history drafted directly from France’s Ligue Magnus. He signed a two-year, $4.2 million contract with the Blues in June 2024 after having his rights acquired from the Columbus Blue Jackets. Prior to this move, Texier recorded a career-high of 12 goals and 30 points over 78 games with Columbus, averaging over 15 minutes of ice time per game. However, the Blue Jackets opted not to re-sign him to create roster space for younger prospects.
Challenges in St. Louis
At 26 years old, Texier’s adaptation to St. Louis has been challenging. In the previous season, he managed only 31 appearances while missing 15 games due to illness and injury, spending nearly half the year in the press box. When active, he produced six goals and five assists during reduced ice time, averaging approximately 12:30 per game. His traditional role as a penalty killer, which he excelled at in Columbus, has been removed.
This season has seen a further decline in his playing time, averaging only 10:15 per game. He has participated in eight out of 20 possible games so far. Skating primarily on the fourth line alongside teammates Nick Bjugstad and Nathan Walker, he has recorded one assist and nine hits.
Declining Statistics and Future Considerations
- Last season: 1.61 shots on goal per game
- This season: 0.88 shots on goal per game
These statistics indicate a significant drop in chance generation. A potential contract termination could free Texier from his $2.1 million cap hit, allowing him to pursue new opportunities. However, this decision would also mean forfeiting approximately 75% of his base salary for the season.
Furthermore, it is uncertain if Texier wishes to continue playing in the NHL. He previously moved back to Europe to be closer to family during the 2022-23 season, signing on loan with Switzerland’s ZSC Lions.
