What happened: Steve Ott has signed a two-year extension to remain head coach of the Springfield Thunderbirds, the St. Louis Blues' American Hockey League affiliate. The 43-year-old's new deal keeps him behind the bench after he guided the club on a deep Calder Cup playoff run this past season.

Why it matters: The extension brings continuity to St. Louis' primary development pipeline, where the organization's prospects are seasoned before reaching the NHL. Ott led Springfield through two playoff series to the Atlantic Division Final, and committing to him signals the front office's confidence in the staff shaping its young talent.

What to watch: Watch whether the staff continuity helps Springfield make another Calder Cup push next season while moving prospects up to the Blues' NHL roster.