Zach Sanford

Sanford took a step back in 2020-21, posting just 10 goals and six helpers in 52 games a year after he produced 16 tallies and 14 assists through 58 outings. At 26 years old, it's safe to assume what we've seen from Sanford is all there is to his game -- he's a solid middle-six forward who can add some hits and a little power-play time to boot. The Massachusetts native will likely begin the year on St. Louis' third line, which isn't a great assignment with the Blues looking thinner up front than they have in years. Expect 25-30 points from Sanford, and he could add 100-plus hits and decent blocked-shot totals for a forward.

Sanford hit career highs in nearly every notable category before the NHL paused in March, recording 16 goals, 14 assists, 90 shots and 109 hits. The 26-year-old found a connection with Ryan O'Reilly and David Perron, but unfortunately, that may not be a reality this year. Mike Hoffman is in the fold, and Vladimir Tarasenko should be back from a shoulder injury in February, likely closing the door on a top-six role for Sanford. The 6-foot-4 winger projects for the third line, but he could handle occasional power-play minutes as a net-front presence if injuries surface.

Sanford missed most of the 2017-18 season with a shoulder injury and never got a call from the big club, but he was a fixture with the Blues last year, compiling 20 points, 48 hits and 37 blocked shots in 60 games. Although he wasn't called on much in the playoffs, he made the most of his four appearances in the Stanley Cup final, notching a goal and four points over five games to take down the Bruins -- his hometown team. Sanford's skill is evident, as he has an excellent shot and his 6-foot-4 frame helps him win battles in the corners, so the Blues just need him to stay healthy in order to become a more consistent middle-six asset. With a two-year, $3 million contract under his belt, he has a solid chance of approaching 25 points in the upcoming campaign.

Sanford was projected as a top-nine talent in 2017-18 before he suffered a shoulder injury just 15 minutes into training camp. The 23-year-old may have missed his shot for that role after the Blues made a flurry of moves this offseason to bolster the forward depth. Nonetheless, the Blues are excited about Sanford, who has the size (6-4, 207 pounds) to be a pesky net-front presence, so he'll be in the running for a spot on the fourth line with an opportunity to move up if injuries occur.

Sanford will be out until at least February with a shoulder injury, and even when he's healthy, he'll likely need to play in the minors for a while to get back in the hang of things. He had two goals and three assists in 13 games last season, proving his potential, but wait until he's able to return before consider snagging him.

Sanford is one of the better Washington prospects. Very raw but the foundation is in place for a solid pro career. He is several years away from the NHL but should be monitored in keeper leagues.