The stage: Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final in Boston, Massachusetts. Zach Sanford receives a pass from David Perron and stuffs the puck past Tuukka Rask. The St. Louis Blues take a 4-0 lead with 4:38 remaining in the third period. Minutes away from the first Stanley Cup in St. Louis’ history, few, if any, would have predicted the success Sanford had in the final round of the playoffs.
A native of Salem, MA -about a 45-minute drive from Boston- Sanford not only scored in Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final but also did so in front of family and friends. With four points in five games against the Boston Bruins (one goal and three assists), he more than handled the pressure of the occasion. Now, it seems that Sanford has recaptured that playoff magic and is developing into a consistent contributor and important piece for the Blues.
In the past eight games, Sanford has seven goals. He’s seen his ice time increase during that span and registered six shots in two of those games. With 26 points so far this year, Sanford has surpassed his career highs in goals (13) and assists (13). Linemates Ryan O’Reilly and David Perron have certainly contributed to his success, but it is not as if they are the only reason. Sanford has scored a variety of goals, either cleaning up rebounds in front of the net or using his speed to tuck in wraparounds, demonstrating his versatility and ability to create offense.
Along with his offensive skill, Sanford’s size allows him to play a physical game and establish his presence on the ice. At 6’4” and 207 lbs, he has dished out 92 hits while only taking 62. In comparison, last season Sanford had 48 hits and took 75. He does not shy away from contact, and the increase in hits this year demonstrates a confidence and comfortability on the ice. His offensive production has not suffered but, in fact, has improved with this more physical style. Rare are players who effectively combine offensive talent, speed, and physicality. Sanford’s recent play proves he has that potential.
The question of consistency surrounds Zach Sanford. His playoff success last year and current hot streak are glimpses into his potential. But can he maintain this pace? Of course, he will not maintain his goal-per-game rate, but he has seen steady improvement in his four NHL seasons.
Drafted 61st overall by the Washington Capitals in the 2013 NHL Draft, Sanford only suited up for 26 games before he was traded to St. Louis. The Blues acquired Sanford in exchange for Kevin Shattenkirk, and, in his three seasons in St. Louis, Sanford has yet to play a full season. He has split time between the NHL and AHL, registering decent numbers while in the minors. Last year proved a huge step for Sanford not only because of his playoff success but also because he played in 60 NHL games. He notched eight goals and 12 assists.
Barring injury, Sanford will play in 69 games for the Blues. At about .56 points per game, he is on pace for 38 points. Over the course of an entire season, Sanford has the capacity to notch upward of 45 points, and that is without any uptick in scoring. Should he take another step forward, it is possible he could eclipse the 50-point mark in a full NHL season. This projection may seem ambitious, especially since an 82-game season can be fatiguing. But, at the very least, maintaining his current pace next year would mean a significant improvement in offensive output, which would be an extremely welcome addition to the Blues.
Zach Sanford’s performance in the 2019 Stanley Cup Final proved he could handle the spotlight. He has capitalized on the opportunities presented to him, meaning his responsibility on the St. Louis Blues has increased alongside his production. However, Sanford will have to remain consistent if he wishes to continue the success he has had so far this season. He has that ability, and should he realize his potential, the Blues will have gained not only a talented offensive player but also a complete forward who can contribute in all areas of the game.