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Torey Krug will not play this season for the St. Louis Blues because of an ankle injury that will require surgery.

The defenseman had earlier been diagnosed with pre-arthritic changes in his left ankle, a condition that stemmed from a bone fracture he suffered earlier in his NHL career. In July, the Blues announced that Krug would undergo rehabilitation for the next 6-8 weeks, after which his condition would be reassessed to decide if surgery is necessary.

Last season, the 33-year-old scored 39 points (four goals, 35 assists) in 77 games for the Blues. This was his fourth season with the team, having signed a seven-year contract worth $45.5 million ($6.5 million average annual value) on Oct. 9, 2020.

Last offseason, Krug suffered a foot injury and had been sidelined for several games due to different injuries throughout his initial three seasons with the Blues. However, in September 2023, he stated that he refused to waive his no-trade clause.

“He expressed his decision to remain, stating, “I believe I want to be an integral part of this room, thoroughly enjoy playing for this city, and take pride in donning the Bluenote. It’s something that truly excites me… I have children, a family to consider. However, when all is said and done, as I’ve mentioned before, I want to be here and represent the Note. The locker room atmosphere here is amazing, and there’s a positive vibe in the room this year. I believe we have what it takes to make a quick turnaround.”

Krug, who was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Boston Bruins on March 25, 2012, has accumulated 483 points from 89 goals and 394 assists in 778 regular-season games. In addition, he has scored 57 points, including 11 goals and 46 assists, in 82 Stanley Cup Playoff games.

The Blues, who begin the regular season at the Seattle Kraken on Oct. 8, signed defensemen Ryan Suter and Pierre-Olivier Joseph to one-year contracts this offseason.