In a move that’s sure to spark conversations among hockey fans, the St. Louis Blues have made a bold play by claiming forward Jack Finley off waivers from the Tampa Bay Lightning. But here’s where it gets intriguing: Finley isn’t just any player—he’s the son of former Blues defenseman Jeff Finley, who proudly wore the Blue Note from 1998 to 2004. Could this be a case of history repeating itself, or is there more to this story than meets the eye? Let’s dive in.
Blues President of Hockey Operations and General Manager Doug Armstrong announced the acquisition today, adding a 6-foot-6, 227-pound forward to the roster. At just 23 years old, Finley brings a mix of size, skill, and grit to the team. This season, he’s suited up for 22 games with the Lightning, tallying three points (two goals, one assist) and racking up 21 penalty minutes—a stat that hints at his physical style of play. And this is the part most people miss: Finley has also been making waves in the AHL, where he’s notched three points (one goal, two assists) in just three games with the Syracuse Crunch. His AHL career totals are impressive, with 84 points (40 goals, 44 assists) and 102 penalty minutes across 164 regular-season games.
Drafted by the Lightning in the second round (No. 57 overall) of the 2020 NHL Draft, Finley’s potential has been on the radar for years. But what does this move mean for the Blues? Are they banking on his lineage to bring a sense of familiarity and determination, or is this purely a strategic addition to bolster their lineup? Here’s the controversial question: Could Finley’s connection to the Blues’ past actually work against him, as expectations soar higher than they would for any other player? Only time will tell.
One thing’s for sure: this acquisition adds an exciting layer to the Blues’ narrative. Whether Finley becomes a key player or a footnote in the team’s history remains to be seen. But for now, fans have plenty to discuss. What do you think? Is this a smart move by the Blues, or are they placing too much hope on a young player with a famous last name? Let us know in the comments—we’re eager to hear your take!
