Few stories in the world of hockey are as compelling—or as controversial—as the unexpected return of Milan Lucic. Once celebrated as a Stanley Cup champion and feared as one of the NHL’s toughest enforcers, Lucic had seemingly faded from the spotlight after a lengthy absence from the league.

Now, at age 37, he’s back in the headlines, sparking heated debates and wild speculation throughout the hockey community.

After spending 17 seasons battling for teams like the Boston Bruins, Calgary Flames, Los Angeles Kings, and Edmonton Oilers, Lucic’s career appeared to be winding down.

But with a professional tryout offer now in hand, he’s poised to make an audacious attempt at reclaiming his place among hockey’s elite.

The news of his signing with a Central Division team has sent shockwaves across the league, leaving fans and critics alike questioning whether the aging enforcer can still keep up with the speed and skill of today’s NHL.

What led to Lucic’s return after a year away? What challenges does he face as he steps onto the ice once again? And most importantly—can he defy the odds and earn a spot on the St. Louis Blues’ roster? The answers may surprise you.

Milan Lucic

Photo credit: NHL.com

Milan Lucic has officially secured a professional tryout offer in the NHL and is indeed set to make a comeback to the league at the age of 37.

Former Boston Bruins Stanley Cup Champion and veteran with the Calgary Flames, Los Angeles Kinge, and Edmonton Oilers, is set to add another team to his longtime NHL tenure that’s lasted 1177 games.

The aging enforcer has yet to lace up the skates in a full year since his time with the Calgary Flames in the 2022-23 season, where he tallied 19 points and 43 penalty minutes (PIMs) in 43 games played.

After a long enough time away from the game and uncertainty around his ability to keep up with today’s NHL pace, he has settled with a professional tryout offer from a Central Division team.

St. Louis Blues sign Milan Lucic to PTO

According NHL.com, the St. Louis Blues have officially signed Milan Lucic to a professional tryout.

«St. Louis Blues President of Hockey Operations and General Manager Doug Armstrong announced today the Blues have signed forward Milan Lucic to a professional tryout.»

According to a report from insider Frank Seravalli last summer, the veteran would require approval from league commissioner Gary Bettman to return, and it appears that has been granted.

Lucic took an indefinite leave of absence and entered the NHLPA Players Assistance Program, according to the league he has completed the entire program and has been reinstated.

A veteran of 17 NHL seasons now hopes he can prove his worth in the big leagues still through a professional tryout offer in training camp, where all eyes will be on him to secure a roster spot with the Blues.