The 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi saw several St. Louis Blues players excel on the international ice, showcasing their talents on one of hockey’s biggest stages. As the 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Milan, Italy began with NHL players participating, five Blues roster members made their Olympic debut, continuing the tradition of representing their nations with distinction. Looking back, notable Blues from 2014 left a memorable mark during the event.
David Backes’ Impact for Team USA
Among the Blues players at the 2014 Games, David Backes stood out for his offensive contributions. As a key player for Team USA, he scored three goals and totaled four points during the tournament. Prior to the Olympics, Backes had a solid 2013-14 NHL season with 42 points in 52 games, including 20 goals, making him one of the Blues’ top scorers at that time.
Although Backes was not a newcomer to the Olympics—having competed in Vancouver in 2010—he elevated his production in Sochi. Despite this strong showing, Team USA narrowly missed out on a medal, finishing fourth after losing to Finland in the bronze medal game. Off the ice, Backes’ experience was unique, as he brought home two stray dogs, a story that gained attention during his final Olympic participation.
T.J. Oshie’s Memorable Performance in the Shootout
T.J. Oshie quickly became a household name for American hockey fans due to his spectacular shootout display against Russia during the preliminary round. Across six games, he contributed four points and scored four times in shootout attempts, taking full advantage of Olympic rules that allowed repeat shooters after the first three attempts. His final shootout goal sealed a 3-2 victory on Russian soil, a moment celebrated widely throughout the United States.
Oshie entered the Olympics in excellent form, posting 46 points in 57 NHL games that season, ranking second on the Blues in scoring prior to the Games. His clutch performance in Sochi remains one of the defining moments for both Team USA and Blues fans alike.
Alexander Steen’s Role in Sweden’s Silver Medal Run
The 2013-14 season was remarkable for Alexander Steen, who recorded a career-high 62 points in 68 games with the Blues. His only Olympic appearance came in Sochi, where he proved vital to Sweden’s success. In six games, Steen earned four points, including three assists that were instrumental in key moments, such as setting up Erik Karlsson’s decisive goal in the semifinal against Finland.
Sweden finished with a silver medal after a 3-0 loss to Canada in the gold medal game. Though this was Steen’s final tournament as a player on the Olympic stage, his involvement with the Swedish national team continues. He has since taken on a role as a player personnel consultant, appointed by director Anders Lundberg, aiming to contribute to Sweden’s performance at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
Valuable Contributions from Defensive Blues Players
Beyond these offensive leaders, other Blues skaters made significant impacts in Sochi, particularly on defense. Jay Bouwmeester and Alex Pietrangelo were key members of Team Canada’s defensive corps, playing disciplined and poised hockey throughout the tournament. Their steady play helped form a solid bottom pair that contributed to Canada’s gold medal victory.
Both Bouwmeester and Pietrangelo’s efforts underscored the importance of strong defensive teamwork in international competition, complementing the offensive efforts of their teammates and exemplifying the high level of play exhibited by Blues players on the world stage.
Looking Ahead to the Next Generation of Olympic Blues
With the start of the 2026 Olympics, current St. Louis Blues players making their Olympic debuts have the chance to add to this legacy of standout performances. The history of Blues alumni excelling in international competition sets a high bar and provides inspiration as these new Olympians step onto the ice to represent their nations with pride and intensity.
