St. Louis Blues Projected Lineup: Jonatan Berggren Joins Top Line vs Florida Panthers | Dec 20, 2025 (2026)

Get ready for a lineup shake-up that’s bound to spark debate among St. Louis Blues fans! As the team kicks off a two-game road trip in Florida before the holiday break, Jonatan Berggren is set to join the first line alongside Robert Thomas and Pavel Buchnevich—a move that’s as bold as it is intriguing. But here’s where it gets controversial: is Berggren the right fit to elevate this line’s offensive firepower, or will his defensive responsibilities become a liability? Let’s dive in.

Berggren, who scored his first goal as a Blue against the New York Rangers on Thursday, has already shown flashes of playmaking brilliance in his short time with the team since being claimed off waivers last Tuesday. His chemistry with Thomas and Buchnevich in the offensive zone is undeniable, and Head Coach Jim Montgomery is banking on it. “They see the game similarly in the offensive zone and off the rush,” Montgomery noted. “Berggren has really good hockey sense.” But this is the part most people miss: while Berggren brings offensive creativity, Alexey Toropchenko’s speed and defensive reliability could still earn him a late-game appearance on the first line, depending on the score. It’s a strategic gamble that highlights the fine line between risk and reward.

Speaking of returns, Robby Fabbri is expected to rejoin the lineup for Saturday’s game against the Florida Panthers, adding another layer of depth to the forward group. On defense, no changes are anticipated, with Joel Hofer likely starting in goal. The game airs at 5 p.m. CT on FanDuel Sports Network and 101 ESPN—mark your calendars!