Robert Thomas Eyes Return from Lingering Injury
MARYLAND HEIGHTS, Mo. - St. Louis Blues center Robert Thomas has been grappling with a right leg injury that traces back to last season. This issue, which Thomas has been managing for quite some time, was addressed with a procedure announced by the team on January 31.
The injury, believed to be a right ankle fracture sustained on October 22, 2024, after blocking a shot from Winnipeg Jets forward Neal Pionk, sidelined Thomas for 12 games. Despite this setback, he returned to finish the season as one of the top point producers following the 4 Nations Face-Off.
Thomas hit the ice for practice at the Centene Community Ice Center on Friday, marking his first session with teammates. He’s targeting a return as early as next Thursday against the Seattle Kraken.
“I’m feeling better,” Thomas shared, noting that he’s been skating solo for four days. “Every day I’m making good progress.
It’s nice to skate with the guys again. Skating alone isn’t much fun.”
Thomas re-injured himself on December 31 against the Colorado Avalanche, which likely aggravated the existing condition. “It’s something that’s been bothering me for a long time,” he explained.
“We’ve known about it since the end of last year. It just got progressively worse, so we had to address it.
It’s best for the end of the season and long term.”
The decision to undergo the procedure came after a challenging road trip in early January. “We tried resting it, but it didn’t work out,” Thomas said. “That’s when we decided to take action.”
With 33 points (11 goals, 22 assists) in 42 games this season, Thomas is focused on getting back to full health. “I just want to be healthy,” he stated. “Having almost three weeks off was crucial for recovery.”
As for his potential return against Seattle, Thomas remains hopeful. “It’s a possibility.
I can’t guarantee it, but I’m making good progress every day. No setbacks so far.”
Blues coach Jim Montgomery is cautiously optimistic. “It’s a good first step,” Montgomery noted.
“There are still many steps to go, but it was great to see him out there. We’ll see how he feels after today’s skate.”
While Thursday’s game is still uncertain, Thomas’s determination is clear. His focus is on making a strong return and contributing to the team’s efforts as the season progresses.