Cam Fowler's recent signing of a three-year contract extension with the St. Louis Blues has triggered a range of reactions from fans and analysts alike. The deal, announced on Saturday, will keep the 33-year-old defenseman in St. Louis through the 2028-29 season with an average annual value (AAV) of $6.1 million.
Fowler's fit with the Blues after being acquired from the Anaheim Ducks in December 2024 has been a major factor in the team's decision to extend his contract. In 51 regular-season games with St. Louis last season, Fowler posted 36 points (nine goals, 27 assists) and a +19 rating. His performance placed him among the top-scoring defensemen in the NHL. He also contributed a team-leading 10 points in seven playoff games against the Winnipeg Jets, setting a franchise record for a defenseman in a single series.
"Fowler is thriving with #stlblues," writes @benchrates. "He played at a career-high $8.6 million level and achieved a $7.1 million Paid Contribution. This deal will kick when he turns 34, but the Cap jumps. So, if he stays healthy, gets similar minutes, and avoids a significant decline, he will be able to contribute at a level close to this money".
AFP Analytics noted that the rising salary cap and recent deals likely contributed to the higher AAV than initially projected. They also noted that Fowler will need to maintain a top-four defenseman level of play into his mid-to-late 30s to justify the contract. The flat structure of the contract, with no variation year-to-year, provides stability for both the player and the team.
Some analysts express concern about the contract's potential value as Fowler ages. According to AFP Analytics, the contract comes in above the projected value of $5.4 million. @domluszczyszyn of The Athletic writes, "My model, uhhhh, does not like Cam Fowler! Maybe he bounces back with the Blues with more support from Colton Parayko (potentially a good fit!), but at 33, there's a chance the cliff he's fallen off is too steep to come back from". Some fans believe it is an overpay by St. Louis.
Conversely, many fans and analysts see the extension as a positive move for the Blues, citing Fowler's strong performance since joining the team and his positive impact on the team's younger defensemen. The veteran offensive defenseman will continue to lead the Blues' powerplay attack and mentor young players such as Philip Broberg, Logan Mailloux, Matthew Kessel, and top prospect Adam Jiricek.
Others expressed their appreciation for Fowler's time with the Ducks, with one fan writing, "Bittersweet, thanks Cam for your time as a Duck! But this was needed". Some fans were upset by the timing of the trade. One fan tweeted, "Unbelievable disrespect by GMPV. Could have waited till 1K games. Who will want to play here long term".
Fowler's journey to St. Louis followed a long and productive career with the Anaheim Ducks, who drafted him 12th overall in 2010. In 15 seasons with Anaheim, he established himself as a top-pairing defenseman, earning an eight-year extension worth $6.5 million per season in 2017. Prior to the trade, Fowler had 4 points in 17 games with the Ducks last season.
The Blues' acquisition of Fowler in December 2024 involved trading Jérémie Biakabutuka and a 2027 second-round pick to Anaheim. At the time, some questioned the move, considering the Blues' existing depth on the left side of the defense. However, Fowler quickly proved his value, helping the team secure a playoff berth.
With the departures of Nick Leddy and Ryan Suter, Fowler's role on the Blues' blue line has become even more critical. His experience, offensive capabilities, and leadership qualities are expected to play a key role in the team's success in the coming seasons.
