Will Berglund Rebound?

Patrik Berglund, an exciting member of the “Kid Line” back in the thrilling 2008-09 season, struggled in 2009-10 and took a mighty step backwards. What does the future hold for the Swedish forward?

Berglund made a big name for himself in St. Louis in his rookie campaign, scoring 21 goals and 26 assists for 47 points. He finished the year with a very solid +13 plus/minus and fired 143 shots at the net.

With his rookie season being so successful by most standards, many expected Berglund to take his game to a higher level in 2009-10, but that was not to be the case. Berglund often looked lost on the ice, failing not only to contribute to the offense, but also failing to even get into a threatening position on the ice.

He ended the year with a line of 13 goals and 13 assists for 26 points, with a (-5) and 129 shots. It should be noted that the entire St. Louis offense took the season off and this likely contributed to Berglund’s struggles, but we definitely saw a sophomore slump of sorts from the forward.

What lies ahead for Berglund? Opinions remain pretty split.

Personally, I’d hate to cut Berglund loose as he is still in the very early stages of his career. He did look completely lost on the ice last season, but the talent he displayed in his rookie season is worth keeping around a bit longer. I’d hate to see the Blues move in a new direction just to see Berglund turn into an offensive force for a new club. Cutting bait on guys too soon is a Cardinal sin.

However, not cutting bait soon enough is equally as bad, thus making this Berglund situation tricky.

I firmly believe the 2010-11 season will be a window into what the rest of Berglund’s career holds, and will offer a much clearer view on what to expect moving forward.

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