Nail Yakupov entered the NHL just four years ago as the consensus best prospect available in the 2012 draft and a future franchise cornerstone. Now the question is whether the 23-year-old can salvage a major league career.
The St. Louis Blues are determined to give him the best possible chance.
The Blues have several advantages over the Edmonton Oilers that give them a better shot at success with Yakupov than his former team ever had. They have a veteran roster, one with the ability to both complement and shelter the young winger.