Former Dallas Stars defenseman Ryan Suter speaking with the media

Photo credit: NHL

The St. Louis Blues made a surprise announcement today, revealing that they have signed veteran defenseman Ryan Suter to a new contract.

The 39-year-old was bought out by the Dallas Stars this summer after he put up just 17 points in 82 regular season games, the lowest total since his rookie season when he scored 16 points.

Unresticted free agent Ryan Suter is joining the Blues after agreeing to a one-year contract that includes performance bonuses. #stlblues

The Blues are taking on virtually no risk in the deal as it is one year at league minimum. However, the deal does come with up to 2.25 million dollars in performance bonuses, which would be applied to the 2025-26 salary cap if the conditions are met.

#StlBlues sign Ryan Suter: 1 x $775K with up to $2.225M in additional performance bonuses

Oddly, this will be the third central division team Suter has played for in his career. Even more unusual is the fact that all three teams will still be paying him next season as both the Wild and Stars bought him out.

The Blues have signed free agent defenseman Ryan Suter to a one-year contract.

Suter will be paid by 3 of the 8 Central Division teams next season: St. Louis, Dallas (buyout) and Minnesota (buyout)

This very well may be the last season of Suter’s career. The veteran blueliner has never won a Stanley Cup, so perhaps this will be his last chance.