St. Louis Blues Stars Shine at 2014 Winter Olympics
The 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Milan, Italy, have begun, featuring NHL players. Among them are five members of the St. Louis Blues who will compete for the first time as Olympians. As they embark on this journey, it is fitting to revisit the impressive performances of Blues players at the 2014 Winter Olympics held in Sochi, Russia.
St. Louis Blues Stars Shine at 2014 Winter Olympics
David Backes’ Impact
David Backes emerged as a standout player for Team USA. He scored three goals, tallying four points throughout the tournament. Backes had an exceptional 2013-14 NHL season leading up to the Olympics, registering 42 points over 52 games. He concluded that season third on the Blues in goals.
Backes had previously represented the USA at the 2010 Olympics in Vancouver, but his performance in 2014 was particularly noteworthy. Unfortunately, Team USA finished fourth after losing to Finland in the bronze medal match. A memorable moment from Backes’ Olympic experience was his return with a couple of stray dogs he rescued.
The Iconic T.J. Oshie
T.J. Oshie became a household name during the 2014 Winter Olympics. His outstanding performance was highlighted by a memorable shootout against Russia, where he secured a 3-2 victory for Team USA. Oshie scored four goals on six attempts during the shootout, becoming the go-to player in critical moments.
Before the Olympics, Oshie was also having a strong NHL season, notching 46 points in 57 games. He ranked second on the Blues in scoring that year, showcasing his skill and prowess on the ice.
A Look at Alexander Steen
Alexander Steen had a remarkable season in 2013-14, achieving a career-high 62 points in 68 games. As a member of the Swedish national team, he played a vital role in their near-gold medal finish. Steen recorded four points in the tournament, with three assists proving pivotal, including one that led to the semifinal win over Finland.
Sweden ultimately lost to Canada in the finals, but Steen earned a silver medal, marking a significant accomplishment in his Olympic career. Following the Olympics, he was appointed as a player personnel consultant for the Swedish national team, looking forward to the 2026 Winter Olympics.
Honorable Mentions
Several other Blues players contributed to the narrative of the 2014 Olympics, notably Jay Bouwmeester and Alex Pietrangelo, who played vital roles for Team Canada. Their disciplined defensive play contributed to Canada’s success in securing the gold medal.
As the new generation of Blues players steps onto the Olympic stage in 2026, they aim to add their names to the legacy of outstanding performances by Blues stars in Olympic history.
