50 Most Outstanding Players in St. Louis Blues History: 40-31

33. Bob Plager

Defenseman, 1967-78; 615 games, 20 goals, 121 assists, plus-27 rating, 762 PIM

Bob Plager never littered the stat sheet (other than in the penalties in minutes category), but it’d be absolutely inexcusable to leave him off this list. He’s seventh in franchise history in games played and 10th in penalty minutes, and he has closer ties to the organization than anyone else who has ever worn the Blue Note, as he’s been involved for every day of the franchise’s existence.

Plager was an original Blue, coming over in a trade with the New York Rangers just months prior to the first Blues game. He joined his older brother Barclay, who was acquired a few months later and made his NHL debut with that team. Both Plagers were key members of the defensive corps as the Blues went to three straight Stanley Cup Finals from 1968-70, and they were later joined by their younger brother Bill, who saw sporadic action with the Blues from 1968-72.

Plager would go on to spend 11 seasons with the team until hanging up his skates in 1978, and he served as captain from 1970-72. Immediately following his retirement, he joined the organization in an off-ice role, and he has since served in a variety of front office roles, including as a scout, minor-league coach, player development coordinator, broadcaster, and ambassador. He also coached the NHL club for 11 games in 1992-93, leading them to a 4-6-1 record before he had a quick change of heart and returned to a behind-the-scenes role.

Plager, who will have his number retired next February, was a very good player who made an impact on quite a few successful Blues teams. Most importantly, though, he’s remained just as visible in retirement as he was when he played, and he’s woven his name very prominently into the franchise’s legacy.