The St. Louis Blues have announced the signing of 21-year-old Swedish defenseman Leo Loof to a three-year entry-level contract. The team did not disclose the financial specifics of Loof’s deal, which will expire in the summer of 2026.
Loof was selected by the Blues in the third round, 88th overall of the 2020 NHL Draft. He most recently played for Ilves in the Finnish Liiga, where he tallied four goals and 12 assists in 55 games last season, along with a strong +22 rating. Loof is known for his physicality, not shying away from a heavy hit, but needs more development before he’s ready for the NHL. While standing at 6-foot-1, Loof weighs in at just 179 pounds.
Loof’s style of play should fit in well with the Blues, who are known for their physicality and defensive-minded approach. However, as with any prospect, there are challenges he will have to overcome in order to succeed in the NHL.
He did, however, have a strong season of all-around development in Finland, and Loof is likely ready for a bottom-pairing role in the AHL. Loof’s entry-level contract may contain a European Assignment Clause, however, and he could be loaned back to Europe for 2023-24.
Born in Karlstad, Sweden, Loof played in six games for Sweden at the 2022 IIHF World Junior Championship, though he was held off the scoresheet.
I wonder if him playing in Liiga had to do with last years SHL AHL transfer agreement about the 24 year olds. Seems odd that a 19-20 year old Swede would go to Finland especially after being taken in the 3rd round.
that’s a sick name
Rebuild complete.