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Hitchcock’s advice to Mueller on making Blues: just play

Mathias Seger, Peter Mueller

USA forward Peter Mueller, left, is challenged by Switzerland defender Mathias Seger during the Group B preliminary round match between Switzerland and USA at the Ice Hockey World Championship in Minsk, Belarus, Saturday May 10, 2014. (AP Photo/Darko Bandic)

AP

While Peter Mueller boasts the advantage of at least having a contract (rather than just a tryout invite) with the St. Louis Blues, he must still make a strong impression since he signed a two-way deal.

(The 26-year-old’s contract is worth $700K at the NHL level but drops to $250K in the AHL, according to Cap Geek.)

As nerve-wracking as the prospect of fighting for a spot might be - particularly after going overseas last season, especially on a team Mueller referred to as a “powerhouse” - Blues head coach Ken Hitchcock gave the journeyman forward very simple advice.

With a history of concussion problems and a false-start or two in his career, it would be understandable if Mueller (pictured playing for Team USA) might fear over-thinking things, especially with a defensive-minded coach like Hitchcock. There’s plenty of logic in setting him loose, however, as there’s always the chance he could be a late-blooming prospect (he was selected eighth overall in 2006) like Benoit Pouliot.

Granted, with 13 forwards listed and Jaden Schwartz still in need of a contract, Mueller still faces a significant challenge in sticking around. Taking a positive approach can’t hurt though, right?

Follow James O’Brien @cyclelikesedins