Blues Recall Luff: AHL to NHL Move

Blues Recall Forward Matt Luff from Springfield Thunderbirds

The St. Louis Blues have bolstered their offensive roster with the recall of forward Matt Luff from their American Hockey League affiliate, the Springfield Thunderbirds, the team announced Thursday. this move signals an chance for Luff to contribute at the NHL level, bringing with him a proven scoring touch honed in the AHL. The recall was prompted by a recent injury to forward pavel Buchnevich, creating a need for offensive support.

Did you know?-Matt Luff was originally drafted by the Los Angeles Kings in the sixth round (180th overall) of the 2016 NHL Entry Draft. He has since played for three different NHL teams.

AHL Dominance Fuels NHL Opportunity

Luff, 28, has been a standout performer for the Thunderbirds this season, leading the team with seven goals and 14 points in just 17 games. His consistent offensive production is a key reason for the recall. Throughout his AHL career, spanning 296 regular-season games, the Oakville, Ontario native has amassed an impressive 226 points, comprised of 94 goals and 132 assists, alongside 192 penalty minutes. He was named the AHL Player of the Month for November 2023, further solidifying his impact.

Pro tip:-Players recalled from the AHL often benefit from increased ice time and opportunity, allowing them to showcase their skills and potentially earn a permanent spot on the NHL roster.

NHL Experience Adds Depth

This isn’t Luff’s first foray into the National Hockey League. He has appeared in 106 career NHL regular-season games with the los Angeles Kings, Nashville Predators, and Detroit Red Wings. During those stints, he recorded 27 points (15 goals, 12 assists) and accumulated 20 penalty minutes. This existing NHL experience should allow for a smoother transition as he rejoins the league. Luff’s versatility,capable of playing both wing positions,adds to his value.

blues Secure Luff as Free Agent

The Blues signed Luff as a free agent on July 1, 2025, demonstrating their belief in his potential.This recall represents the first step in evaluating his fit within the association’s long-term plans. The team views Luff as a potential middle-six forward who can contribute offensively and provide energy.

The addition of Luff provides the Blues with valuable forward depth and a player capable of contributing offensively. His performance with the Thunderbirds suggests he is ready to seize this opportunity and make a positive impact in St. Louis. As of Thursday evening, Luff was en route to St. Louis and is expected to join the team for practise Friday.

Reader question:-do you think Luff’s previous NHL experience will give him an edge in securing a consistent role with the Blues? Share your thoughts!