Hunter Skinner lived out his childhood dream last night, making his NHL debut with the St. Louis Blues. Skinner, who was drafted originally by the New York Rangers in the fourth round of the 2019 NHL Draft, was acquired by the Blues via trade in February 2023.

The 2001-born defenseman suited up for one season with the London Knights in 2019-20, playing in 62 games with 32 points (6-26–32). In his one season, Skinner ranked 13th among OHL defensemen in plus/minus rating and was tied for third among OHL defensemen who were in their U19 season or younger in plus/minus. Internationally, the Wyandotte, Michigan native helped the United States win a gold medal at the 2021 IIHF World Junior Championship.

In 2024-25, Skinner registered a professional career-high in 71 games played and 23 points (8-15–23) for the Springfield Thunderbirds (AHL). Since finishing his OHL career, he has played in 48 ECHL games and 214 AHL games.

Reflecting on the moment after morning practice with the Blues, Skinner shared:

“I put my head down, been grinding since I was 3,4,5 years old, making it a total commitment”