The St. Louis Blues and President John Davidson have been negotiating a "buyout" for several weeks and have agreed on a package that will end Davidson's time as a club Executive. Despite reports, an official agreement has not been finalized, but is expected over the next few days. The Blues will release an official statement at that time.

Davidson joined the Blues in June, 2006 and helped lead the team from last in the NHL to a division title in the 2011-12 season. He had three years remaining on a four-year contract extension he signed under former Chairman Dave Checketts. Davidson had $6.1 Million owed to him over the course of the three years left on his deal.

The organization has been handcuffed financially for several years and the salaries of both Davidson and current GM Doug Armstrong proved to be too heavy moving forward. Lack of annual money from concessions as well as other major revenue sources, has contributed to the team being unable to take on such a top heavy payroll in the hockey department.

The previous regime, lead by Checketts, accepted large upfront payments for concessions etc…which decrease the annual money the team receives each year.

Davidson, a former Blues goaltender, along with his family loved the organization as well as the city. Several sources have indicated leaving the Blues was something he was reluctant to do. Understanding the financial situation, which sources say saw the team lose $20 million alone last season, led to Davidson walking away while under contract.

More to come,
Andy Strickland
strickland.andy@gmail.com