Scott Perunovich Bio
Scott Douglas Perunovich is an American professional ice hockey defenseman born on August 18, 1998. He grew up in Hibbing, Minnesota and is recognized for his contributions to the sport, including being a pivotal player for the University of Minnesota Duluth. He was drafted by the St. Louis Blues in the 2018 NHL draft and has shown impressive skills and sportsmanship throughout his career, leading to numerous accolades including the prestigious Hobey Baker Award.
Early Life and Background
Scott Perunovich was born to Jim and Susan Perunovich in Hibbing, Minnesota. He began figure skating lessons at the age of four before eventually joining a hockey team. His family has a rich history in sports, with his uncle Doug Torrel playing for the University of Minnesota-Duluth Bulldogs from 1988 to 1992. Perunovich was attracted to the University of Minnesota Duluth due to the team’s success, which would later become a significant part of his career.
Path to Hockey
Perunovich attended Hibbing High School from 2014 to 2017, where he played three seasons of prep school hockey and tennis. During his time at Hibbing High School, he led the team to a 37–10–5 record and was named a finalist for Bantam Player of the Year. In 2015, he committed to play Division 1 hockey for the University of Minnesota Duluth Bulldogs starting in the 2017–18 season, where he would achieve significant success and recognition.
Scott Perunovich Career
Early Career (2021–2022)
Following his successful collegiate career, Scott Perunovich signed a two-year, entry-level contract with the St. Louis Blues on March 28, 2020. He was assigned to the Blues’ American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Utica Comets, to begin the 2020–21 season. However, he faced challenges due to a shoulder surgery that limited his playtime. In September 2021, he was named team captain of the St. Louis Blues Prospects Team during the NHL’s prospect tournament.
Breakthrough (2021–Present)
Perunovich made his NHL debut with the St. Louis Blues on November 18, 2021, in a game against the San Jose Sharks, where he recorded his first NHL point with an assist. His performance during the 2021–22 season showcased his potential as a valuable player. On June 24, 2023, he signed a one-year, $775,000 contract extension with the Blues. However, during the 2024–25 season, he struggled to secure a consistent role within the team, leading to his trade to the New York Islanders on January 27, 2025.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout his career, Scott Perunovich has received numerous accolades, including the Hobey Baker Award in 2020, recognizing him as the top NCAA men’s ice hockey player. He has also been named the NCHC Offensive Defenseman of the Year multiple times, highlighting his offensive contributions from the blue line.
Scott Perunovich Award Nominations
Scott Perunovich has received several nominations throughout his career, including the prestigious Hobey Baker Award and NCHC Offensive Defenseman of the Year, reflecting his outstanding performance on the ice.
Scott Perunovich Awards Won
Scott Perunovich has won notable awards during his career, including the Hobey Baker Award in 2020 and the NCHC Offensive Defenseman of the Year for three consecutive years from 2020 to 2022.
Scott Perunovich Family
Scott Perunovich was born to Jim and Susan Perunovich. His family has a background in sports, which has influenced his career in hockey.
Personal Life
Details about Scott Perunovich’s personal life are limited. He is known to have a strong connection to his hometown of Hibbing, Minnesota, and has expressed pride in his family’s heritage, which includes Montenegrin descent.
