The St. Louis Blues announced two forward signings on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, as the NHL free agency period opened.
Ross Johnston agreed to a three-year contract worth $6 million, carrying an average annual value of $2 million through the 2028-2029 season.
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The 32-year-old winger joins from the Anaheim Ducks, where he set career highs in the 2025-2026 regular season.
Johnston recorded three goals, 11 assists, and 14 points in 62 games, along with 107 penalty minutes. The 6-foot-5 forward also led Anaheim with 192 hits.
He went scoreless in five Stanley Cup Playoff appearances.
Originally signed by the New York Islanders as an undrafted free agent in March 2015, Johnston has 46 points and 307 penalty minutes in 307 career NHL games.
Lou Korac of NHL.
com noted that Johnston will compete for a fourth-line role but could also serve as a healthy scratch.
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In a separate move, the Blues retained forward Jonatan Berggren on a one-year, $2 million contract.
St. Louis claimed Berggren off waivers from the Detroit Red Wings on December 16, 2025.
The 25-year-old winger split last season between the two teams, totaling 22 points in 51 games.
After joining the Blues, he produced 16 points (six goals, 10 assists) in 36 appearances.
Berggren has 80 career points in 205 NHL games with Detroit and St. Louis.
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The signings reflect the Blues' effort to adjust their forward group chemistry on the first day of free agency.
