The St. Louis Blues announced a series of coaching moves that will shape their staff for the upcoming 2026‑27 season, bringing in veteran assistants Greg Cronin, Vaclav Prospal and Jeremy Coupal while elevating Elliott Mondou to a new front‑office role.
Montgomery’s endorsement
Head Coach Jim Montgomery praised the newcomers, saying Cronin’s defensive acumen, Prospal’s offensive pedigree and Coupal’s video‑analysis background complement the club’s ambition to contend.
Cronin’s Defensive pedigree
Cronin arrives after a stint as head coach of the Anaheim Ducks from 2023 to 2025, a period in which he honed a reputation for tightening defensive structures across the NHL, AHL and NCAA ranks.
Prospal’s Offensive pedigree
Vaclav Prospal, known in the Czech Republic as Vinny, combines a decorated playing career that included appearances at the 2006 Winter Olympics and multiple World Championships with recent success guiding the AHL’s Rochester Americans, where his offensive systems have produced high‑scoring units.
Coupal’s Video expertise
Jeremy Coupal brings a global perspective to video coaching, having worked with Team Canada and several NHL franchises, a skill set Montgomery believes will accelerate player development through deeper analytical insight.
Mondou’s new responsibilities
Elliott Mondou, previously a player representative, now steps into the role of assistant to the general manager under Alexander Steen, a move that reflects the organization’s confidence in his blend of on‑ice experience and administrative acumen.
The Blues’ front office frames the additions as a strategic infusion of experience that could translate into more consistent performances on the ice. With a mix of NHL‑level coaching, international video work and front‑office leadership, the club aims to build on its recent playoff appearances and push for a deeper run in the coming season.