THIS IS THE BEST NEWS WE COULD HOPE FOR: st Louis blues hockey fans and entire National hockey league (NHL) reacts in shock (Overjoyed) as Former Coach Craig Berube returns to Former team as Chief of…
In a move that has sent shockwaves of pure joy through the hockey world — and especially through the heart of St. Louis — the St. Louis Blues have announced the triumphant return of Craig Berube, this time in a new and powerful role: Chief of Hockey Operations.
This news has been described by fans, analysts, and NHL insiders as “nothing short of historic.” After a period of uncertainty and organizational transition, the Blues have made a bold, emotional, and deeply symbolic move by bringing back the man who led them to their first-ever Stanley Cup championship in 2019.
A Homecoming Like No Other
Craig Berube, known affectionately as “Chief” by fans and players alike, was the architect of one of the most inspiring underdog stories in sports history. Under his leadership, the Blues rose from last place in January 2019 to hoisting the Cup in June — a run that forever cemented his legacy in the Gateway City.
His departure from the bench in 2023 left many fans heartbroken, though understanding of the business realities of the game. Still, the void he left was palpable — on the ice, in the locker room, and in the fan base.
Now, Berube returns — not behind the bench, but in the front office — with a chance to influence the team’s direction at the highest level.
“This is the best news we could hope for,” said longtime Blues fan Mary Kessler. “The minute I saw the news alert, I cried. Not many coaches become legends, but Berube is ours. Having him back just feels right.”
A Strategic Move — and a Symbolic One
While this decision is packed with emotional resonance, it’s also a sharp strategic play by the Blues’ ownership. Berube brings not only leadership, toughness, and credibility, but also a deep understanding of the players, the culture, and what it takes to build a winning franchise in today’s NHL.
His new role as Chief of Hockey Operations gives him final say on roster decisions, coaching hires, player development, and the future direction of the team. It’s a role that perfectly suits his no-nonsense approach and deep hockey IQ.
Team owner Tom Stillman called it “a pivotal turning point for the franchise.”
“Craig Berube represents everything we want the Blues to be: relentless, unified, and committed to excellence,” said Stillman in a press conference. “Bringing him back in this capacity is not just about honoring the past. It’s about building a dominant future.”
The League Reacts
The reaction across the NHL has been swift and celebratory. Former players, fellow coaches, analysts, and fans of other franchises took to social media to voice their support and — in many cases — their envy.
“He’s a warrior, a teacher, a leader. The Blues just got a whole lot tougher to play against again,” tweeted former NHL defenseman Kevin Bieksa.
“Every player I know would run through a wall for Berube. Having him back in a position of power in St. Louis is great for hockey,” said NHL Network analyst Jackie Redmond.
What’s Next?
With Berube now overseeing hockey operations, speculation is already swirling about potential roster moves, front-office restructuring, and whether the Blues might undergo a philosophical shift in their on-ice identity. Will he bring in some of his old coaching allies? Will veteran players be brought back into the fold? What does this mean for the current coaching staff?
One thing is certain: the Blues are entering a new era — one infused with the grit, determination, and clarity of purpose that defined Berube’s greatest coaching triumphs.
As the season nears, Blues fans have every reason to believe that the heart and soul of their team is finally back where he belongs — and they couldn’t be happier.
