Matthew Kessel is celebrating a milestone off the ice, but the battle for ice time in St. Louis is just heating up. The 25-year-old defenseman recently revealed on Instagram that he’s engaged to longtime girlfriend Allie, a personal victory that has Blues fans cheering. Yet as he steps into this exciting new chapter of life, Kessel faces a different kind of challenge on the rink—solidifying his role in a crowded blue line rotation that now features emerging talent Tyler Tucker and newly acquired Logan Mailloux. Can Kessel break through and make his mark next season?
From UMass standout to St. Louis Blues blueliner: Matthew Kessel’s NHL journey so far
Drafted 150th overall in the 2020 NHL Entry Draft, Matthew Kessel took the long road to the pros. After three seasons at UMass, he signed a two-year entry-level deal with the Blues on March 28, 2022, and finished that year with their AHL affiliate, the Springfield Thunderbirds.His NHL debut came on April 2, 2023, against the Boston Bruins at TD Garden. “It was surreal to finally step onto NHL ice,” Kessel said after the game. He played two contests before returning to Springfield but left with a taste for more.Kessel started the 2023–24 season in the AHL but earned a call-up on December 30, 2023. He quickly made an impact, recording his first NHL point—an assist on a goal by Alexey Toropchenko—on February 13 at Enterprise Center. Just a month later, on March 13, Kessel signed a two-year, one-way contract extension, proving the Blues see potential in his game.Then came the big moment. On April 7, in his 37th NHL appearance, Kessel scored his first career goal against Anaheim Ducks goalie Lukáš Dostál. “That one felt amazing,” Kessel said postgame. “You dream about that as a kid.”Despite his progress—29 games last season and 10 points (one goal, nine assists) across 70 NHL appearances—Kessel’s role isn’t guaranteed. The rise of Tyler Tucker and the recent addition of Logan Mailloux from Montreal add layers of competition. When asked about his mindset this offseason, Kessel said, “I want to contribute in any way I can and keep earning my spot.”With a new contract and growing confidence, the 2025–26 season could define Kessel’s future in St. Louis Blues.
What’s next for Matthew Kessel as he balances engagement and his NHL future with the St. Louis Blues?
Matthew Kessel’s personal life is thriving, and now the spotlight shifts back to the ice. Will the Blues defenseman carve out a bigger role amid stiff competition—or will the team’s depth limit his minutes? One thing’s certain: the battle for the blue line in St. Louis will be one to watch.Also Read: Could Kirill Kaprizov join Connor Bedard? Chicago Blackhawks loom as 2026 free agency wildcard