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Stastny more ‘at ease’ in second Blues season

St. Louis Blues v Minnesota Wild - Game Four

St. Louis Blues v Minnesota Wild - Game Four

NHLI via Getty Images

For years, critics believed that Paul Stastny wasn’t worth the money in Colorado.

Even he would probably admit that he didn’t produce on the level of a $7 million player in his first year with the Blues, either.

Stastny told the St. Louis Post-Dispatch that he second-guessed his decision to sign with St. Louis during some of the lower moments of last season, but he’s far more “at ease” heading into 2015-16.

“When I’m at my best, I’m loose, I’m smiling,” Stastny said. “That’s who I am and I don’t want to change that. Not everything is going to go smoothly, but I’ve got to learn to deal with it better and I’m more prepared for that.”

Let’s face it, keeping players “loose” and “smiling” isn’t one of head coach Ken Hitchcock’s many strengths. Still, when you sign a big deal like Stastny did, people are going to expect results.

Different linemate situations and opportunities could help him generate more points, and there’s at least one thing going for him next season: Vladimir Tarasenko replaces him as the Blues’ most expensive player.

Hey, sometimes you have to reach for reasons to loosen up.