Jimmy Snuggerud Goes Pro: Blues Sign Forward to 3-Year Contract
For the past few years, Jimmy Snuggerud has been turning heads in college hockey, building a reputation as one of the game’s most exciting young forwards. Now, the 20-year-old is making the leap to the big leagues.
On Friday, the St. Louis Blues announced they’ve signed the University of Minnesota star to a three-year entry-level contract. It’s a move that had been brewing since the Blues drafted him in the first round—23rd overall—back in 2022. And while the timing may sting a bit for Gophers fans, coming just a day after Minnesota’s painful exit from the NCAA tournament, the future looks incredibly bright for both Snuggerud and his new NHL team.
He’s expected to skate with the Blues in practice as soon as Monday.
A College Career to Remember
Snuggerud didn’t go out quietly. In what turned out to be his final collegiate game, he scored two goals in Minnesota’s dramatic overtime loss to UMass in the regional semifinals. The Gophers fell just short of moving on, but Snuggerud gave it everything he had—just as he has his entire college career.
In his junior season, he led Minnesota in goals with 24, tacked on 27 assists, and finished with 51 points in 40 games. He was the engine of their offense, plain and simple. Over three seasons, he racked up 66 goals and 69 assists in 119 games, establishing himself as not just a great scorer but a consistent one. He didn’t just show up on the scoresheet—he often was the scoresheet.
His strong play earned him a spot as one of the 10 finalists for the Hobey Baker Award, which goes to the top player in college hockey. While he didn’t win, just being on that shortlist put him among the sport’s elite.
A Taste of the International Stage
Snuggerud’s resume goes beyond the NCAA. In 2024, he played a huge role in helping the U.S. win gold at the World Junior Championships. He scored five goals in just six games, showcasing his knack for coming through in high-pressure situations.
It was a defining moment in his young career. Not only did it cement his place among the top American prospects, but it also gave him experience competing against the best players his age from around the world—something that’s bound to help as he makes the jump to the NHL.
Carrying the Family Name Forward
For anyone who grew up following Minnesota hockey, the name Snuggerud probably rings a bell. That’s because Jimmy’s dad, Dave Snuggerud, was also a standout for the Gophers and went on to play four seasons in the NHL himself.
Now, the next generation is stepping into the spotlight. But Jimmy isn’t just following in his dad’s footsteps—he’s blazing his own trail. Coaches and teammates have praised not just his skills, but also his work ethic and maturity. He’s known for staying late after practice, always looking to sharpen his game.
There’s a confidence about him—not cocky, just calm. He’s got the look of someone who knows where he’s going and isn’t afraid of what comes next.
What the Blues Are Getting
For the Blues, Snuggerud is more than a promising young player—he could be a big part of their long-term plans.
At 6-foot-1 and around 190 pounds, he brings solid size, but what stands out most is his offensive instinct. He’s a natural goal-scorer with a quick release and smart positioning. He knows where to be on the ice and how to find soft spots in coverage. That kind of hockey IQ can’t be taught.
It’s still unclear whether he’ll get thrown into NHL action right away or spend some time adjusting to the pro level, possibly with the Blues’ AHL affiliate. But either way, the team is excited to get him into their system.
“Jimmy’s a guy we’ve watched grow over the last few years, and we’ve been really impressed with his development,” said Blues GM Doug Armstrong in a statement. “He’s got the tools, the mentality, and the drive to be successful at the next level.”
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The Road Ahead
Snuggerud’s arrival comes during an interesting time for the Blues. The team is in something of a transition phase—not a full rebuild, but definitely retooling and reshaping the roster with youth and speed in mind. Bringing in a player like Snuggerud fits that vision perfectly.
He could slot into a middle-six role down the line, with potential to climb higher if his game translates quickly. His shot alone makes him a power-play weapon, and his two-way game is strong enough that he won’t be a liability in the defensive zone.
It’s not just about what he brings now—it’s what he could become in the next 2-3 years.
Leaving the Gophers, Chasing the Dream
Of course, leaving college isn’t easy. The University of Minnesota has been Snuggerud’s home for the past three years, and it’s where he really came into his own—not just as a player, but as a person. He’ll be leaving behind teammates, coaches, and fans who’ve watched him grow from a promising freshman to one of the most electrifying players in the country.
But this next chapter is what every young hockey player dreams about: the chance to play in the NHL.
“I’m so thankful for my time at Minnesota,” Snuggerud said in a statement. “It’s been an amazing ride, and I’ve learned so much. But I’m really excited for what’s next. I’m ready for the challenge.”
And make no mistake—he’s earned it.
Conclusion: A Star in the Making?
Snuggerud isn’t guaranteed to be a star. No one is. The NHL is a different beast, and countless players have made the jump only to struggle adjusting. But if his past is any indication, he’s more than ready to take on whatever comes his way.
With the tools he has—size, speed, scoring touch, and that high hockey IQ—the ceiling is sky-high. And for the St. Louis Blues, getting him signed and into the fold is a major win for the future of the franchise.
Jimmy Snuggerud has been one of the most exciting players in college hockey. Now, he’s about to test himself against the best in the world. And based on everything we’ve seen so far, you wouldn’t want to bet against him.
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