The St. Louis Blues announced today that forward Zachary Bolduc has been assigned to their AHL affiliate, the Springfield Thunderbirds, during the NHL’s break for the Four Nations Tournament.
Bolduc, 21, has played in 46 games for the Blues this season, registering 18 points (six goals, 12 assists) along with 18 penalty minutes. Since making his NHL debut, the Trois-Rivières, Quebec, native has appeared in 71 career games, totaling 27 points (11 goals, 16 assists) and 24 penalty minutes. The Blues selected Bolduc in the first round (17th overall) of the 2021 NHL Entry Draft.
The young forward last played for the Thunderbirds during the 2023-24 season where he played 50 games scoring eight goals and 25 points.
By sending Bolduc to Springfield, the Blues are ensuring the young forward continues to get valuable ice time while the NHL takes a brief pause. The Thunderbirds are in the thick of their AHL season, and Bolduc’s addition will provide a boost to their forward group. Additionally, he will receive additional time to build chemistry with up and coming forward prospects like Dalibor Dvorsky, Otto Stenberg, Aleksanteri Kaskimäki and Dylan Peterson
Credit: Joe Puetz-Imagn Images
Jan 16, 2025; St. Louis, Missouri, USA; St. Louis Blues center Zack Bolduc (76) takes a shot against the Calgary Flames in the second period at Enterprise Center.
This move also offers Bolduc an opportunity to grow his game in a top offensive role, as he looks to maintain his development in both ends of the ice. The 6-foot-1 winger has shown flashes of skill at the NHL level, and a stint in the AHL could help him build confidence and consistency heading into the stretch run of the season.
Springfield currently sits in sixth place in the Atlantic Division with 49 points, just six points behind the third-place Charlotte Checkers. With the Thunderbirds pushing for a playoff spot, Bolduc’s addition provides a short-term boost to an already deep lineup. His offensive skill set and ability to play in multiple roles make him a valuable asset as Springfield looks to gain ground in the standings.
While Bolduc’s stint with the Thunderbirds is expected to be brief and only during the Four Nations break, it comes at a crucial time in their season. His scoring ability and NHL experience will be an asset as Springfield competes for vital points in the playoff race. The Thunderbirds kick off a three-game road trip starting Wednesday, February 12th against Grand Rapids, where Bolduc could make his season debut for the club.