ST. LOUIS -- Now that the 2024-25 season is behind and the Florida Panthers repeated as Stanley Cup champions, it's a quick turnaround for everyone looking ahead to 2025-26.

St. Louis Blues general manager Doug Armstrong has options as things shift to the 2025 NHL Draft and free agency looming on July 1. (Jeff Curry-Imagn Images)

For the St. Louis Blues, the focus turns to the 2025 NHL Draft in Los Angeles on June 27-28, where they'll -- barring trade(s) -- have a first-, a fifth-, and a sixth-round pick and no rest for the weary because free agency then kicks off July 1st.

There's also a development camp, which takes place June 30-July 3 and features some of the top prospects in the organization, but for the immediate needs, what will be the focus of the Blues to improve on their 44-30-8 record and entry into the playoffs for the first time in three years?

The center position seems to be a logical place, but since we last wrote on some prospective targets in the UFA market, even taking a stab at the RFA market should general manager Doug Armstrong go down that route, the center position has dwindled with the recent signings of Brock Nelson back to the Colorado Avalanche and Matt Duchene re-signing with the Dallas Stars, among others.

What will happen with pending restricted free agent Joel Hofer, who could be in line for an offer sheet should the goalie and the Blues not come to an agreement by July 1?

Do the Blues look to alter the blue line, where it has already been confirmed that veteran Torey Krug's days in the NHL are likely over barring a miraculous recovery from an arthritic condition in his left ankle? Will veterans Justin Faulk and/or Nick Leddy be in play on the trade market?

The Blues have all sorts of options on the table and just north of $13 million in cap space at their disposal should they get the green light to use it or choose to use it.

Where Do Blues Turn With Draft, Free Agency Looming?