Doug Armstrong, the President of Hockey Operations and General Manager of the St. Louis Blues, has orchestrated a meticulous plan to secure the franchise's future, most notably by setting up a succession strategy for the General Manager position. This plan, announced in June 2024, ensures a smooth transition of leadership while keeping Armstrong's expertise within the organization for years to come.
Armstrong, who has been with the Blues since 2008 and served as GM since 2010, has signed a three-year contract extension that will keep him with the team through the 2028-29 season. However, he will relinquish his General Manager duties after the 2025-26 season, remaining as President of Hockey Operations. This allows him to continue guiding the organization's overall strategy and direction while entrusting the day-to-day management to his successor.
That successor is none other than former Blues forward and Stanley Cup winner, Alexander Steen. Steen, who rejoined the Blues organization as a European development consultant in 2023-24, has been named Special Assistant to the General Manager through the 2025-26 season. This role will allow him to work closely with Armstrong, learning the intricacies of managing an NHL team. After that, Steen will be appointed the 12th general manager in franchise history.
Blues Chairman Tom Stillman affirmed that the succession plan had been in development for a while, with Armstrong initiating the conversation about transitioning to a new GM. Stillman emphasized the importance of retaining Armstrong's expertise while also preparing the next generation of leadership. He highlighted Steen's intelligence, work ethic, knowledge of the game, leadership abilities, and dedication to the Blues as key factors in his selection.
Armstrong's tenure as Blues GM has been highly successful. He led the team to its first Stanley Cup championship in 2019, a historic moment for the franchise. He was also named the NHL's General Manager of the Year in 2012. As of the end of the 2024-25 season, Armstrong ranked ninth all-time among NHL general managers with 855 wins.
The transition plan also includes promotions for other key members of the Blues' hockey operations staff. Tim Taylor has been promoted to Assistant General Manager, joining Ryan Miller. Taylor will continue to oversee player personnel, while Miller will manage salary cap compliance, contract negotiations, and other hockey operations responsibilities.
By implementing this succession plan, Armstrong and the Blues' management are ensuring a stable and successful future for the organization. Steen's development under Armstrong's guidance will prepare him to take over the GM role seamlessly, while Armstrong's continued presence as President of Hockey Operations will provide ongoing leadership and strategic vision. This carefully orchestrated transition reflects a commitment to sustained excellence and a deep understanding of the importance of both present success and future planning.
Armstrong's subtle yet decisive moves demonstrate his dedication to the St. Louis Blues, not just for the present, but for many years to come. The Blues are strategically positioned for continued success with a blend of experienced leadership and fresh perspectives.
