Steve Ott Named Springfield Thunderbirds Head Coach for Remainder of Season

The St. Louis Blues announced on January 19, 2026 that Steve Ott will assume head-coaching duties for their AHL affiliate, the Springfield Thunderbirds, for the remainder of the 2025-26 season. Ott replaces Steve Konowalchuk, who was relieved of his duties, and Chad Wiseman will serve as interim coach for Springfield’s scheduled game on January 19 until Ott joins the club later in the week.

Ott arrives in Springfield after nine seasons on the Blues coaching staff and a playing career in the NHL. The internal promotion signals St. Louis’ intent to align its development environment closely with the NHL club’s systems and priorities. Blues general manager Doug Armstrong acknowledged Konowalchuk’s contributions and expressed confidence in Ott’s ability to further player development in Springfield, framing the move as one focused on preparing prospects for the next level rather than a mere reaction to results.

From a hockey standpoint, the hire gives the Thunderbirds an experienced teacher who is already conversant with Blues philosophies and personnel. Midseason coaching changes in the AHL often aim to recalibrate player usage, accelerate the progress of high-end prospects, and smooth transitions for players moving between Springfield and St. Louis. Fans should expect attention on ice time allocations, deployment in pivotal situations, and an emphasis on systems that can translate directly to the NHL roster when call-ups occur.

The change also fits into broader industry trends where NHL clubs increasingly treat their AHL affiliates as extensions of their player-development programs. Promoting a long-serving NHL assistant to an AHL bench reflects a business model that values continuity, coaching cohesion, and close monitoring of prospects. For Springfield, the move could stabilize the pipeline and make the Thunderbirds a more predictable environment for young players and for the Blues’ front office when evaluating talent.

Culturally, the appointment lands in a community that prizes both competitive hockey and the developmental role the Thunderbirds play in New England. A recognizable name from the NHL coaching ranks can boost local engagement, reignite season-ticket interest, and provide a familiar point of connection for fans tracking prospects destined for the NHL. The change also has social ripple effects for the players, staff, and local businesses that support game nights and team activities.

Ott’s arrival later this week will be a turning point for the Thunderbirds’ season. Expect scrutiny on how quickly systems are implemented and which prospects gain traction under his direction. For Springfield supporters and Blues followers alike, the next few weeks will reveal whether this coaching move accelerates player development and tightens the club’s pathway to the NHL.