Colton Parayko and the Blues’ Olympic Legacy: A Look Back at 2014 and Beyond

Men’s hockey is back in the spotlight as NHL players prepare to compete on the international stage at the 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Milan, Italy. For the St. Louis Blues, this is an exciting time, with several players poised to make their Olympic debuts. But as we look forward, it’s worth reflecting on the Blues’ contributions to the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia, and the players who left their mark.

David Backes: Leading the Charge for Team USA

While the Blues haven’t always been overflowing with Olympic superstars, David Backes undeniably stood out in 2014. He was a key offensive contributor for Team USA, registering three goals and four points throughout the tournament. Backes was in peak form heading into Sochi, having amassed 42 points in 52 games during the 2013-14 NHL season, finishing third on the Blues in goals.

Despite Backes’ strong performance, Team USA fell short of a medal, losing to Finland in the bronze medal game and finishing fourth. However, Backes’ Olympic story extends beyond the ice; he famously returned from Sochi with a couple of rescued stray dogs, a heartwarming tale that resonated with fans.

T.J. Oshie: The Shootout Hero

No discussion of the 2014 Olympics is complete without mentioning T.J. Oshie’s unforgettable shootout performance against Russia. With the game tied 2-2, Oshie scored on four of his six shootout attempts, including the decisive goal that secured a stunning 3-2 victory for Team USA on Russian soil. This performance cemented Oshie’s status as an Olympic hero and captivated hockey fans across the United States.

Prior to the Olympics, Oshie was also having a stellar season for the Blues, recording 46 points in 57 games and ranking second on the team in scoring.

Alexander Steen: A Silver Lining for Sweden

Alexander Steen enjoyed a career year in the 2013-14 season, notching a personal-best 62 points in 68 games. He carried that momentum into the Olympics, becoming a top-four contributor for Sweden. Steen tallied four points in six tournament games, including a crucial assist on Erik Karlsson’s winning goal against Finland in the semifinal.

Although Sweden ultimately lost to Canada in the gold medal game, Steen left Sochi with a silver medal, a testament to his skill and dedication. His involvement with the Swedish national team continues today, as he now serves as a player personnel consultant, hoping to guide Sweden to further success at the 2026 Winter Olympics.

Solidifying the Defense: Bouwmeester and Pietrangelo

While not always the headline grabbers, Jay Bouwmeester and Alex Pietrangelo played vital roles for Team Canada, which ultimately won the gold medal. Their disciplined and reliable defensive play solidified Canada’s bottom pairing, contributing to their overall success.

Looking Ahead: Colton Parayko and the Next Generation

Now, a new wave of Blues players, including Colton Parayko, are preparing to represent their nations at the Olympics. They have the opportunity to build upon the legacy established by Backes, Oshie, Steen, Bouwmeester, and Pietrangelo, and create their own memorable Olympic moments. The 2026 Winter Olympics promise to be an exciting chapter in the St. Louis Blues’ Olympic history.

Source: The Hockey Writers