The Blues were generally quiet on the first day of the big free agent frenzy with no major unrestricted free agent signings or re-signings to speak of. The Blues did, however, shore up their defensive depth with three UFA signings that should be major to Peoria Rivermen fans, at least.
The Rivermen got two defensemen yesterday with the signings of Taylor Chorney and Scott Ford. Ford is an AHL journeyman and a seasoned vet, with 380 AHL games under his belt. He has four goals and 37 assists in those games. He captained the Milwaukee Admirals last season and suited up for 75 games.
Taylor Chorney might be a familiar name to Blues fans. He actually played in two games for the team last season when he was claimed off of waivers from the Edmonton Oilers. Edmonton re-claimed him when the Blues attempted to send him down to the Rivermen. Chorney has actually played 61 NHL games in which he's accumulated seven points.
Goaltender Mike McKenna last played for the Ottawa Senators AHL affiliate, Binghamton. Basically, he and former goaltender Ben Bishop switched places, hometown guy for hometown guy. McKenna's father is the official scorekeeper at Scottrade Center, so this is a homecoming for someone who has played in 17 NHL games with Tampa Bay and New Jersey. He adds goaltending depth and security just in case and injury happens to either Jaroslav Halak or Brian Elliott.
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