Barret Jackman: The Underrated Member of Blues History
Jackman’s Role in Blues History
Jackman’s name might not appear at the top of the Blues’ all-time scoring lists. However, his influence on the franchise runs deep. In 13 seasons with the organization, Jackman embodied the qualities that define Blues hockey — toughness, loyalty, and consistency. His career with St. Louis stands as a testament to the value of steady defensemen who lead through grit and quiet professionalism rather than flashy offense.
Drafted 17th overall in the 1999 NHL Draft, Jackman arrived in St. Louis during a time of transition. The Blues were a perennial playoff team led by veterans like Chris Pronger and Al MacInnis. Still, within a few years, the franchise would enter a rebuilding phase. Through all those changes, Jackman remained a constant. From his rookie season in 2002–03 to his final season wearing the Blue Note in 2015, he provided a stabilizing presence on the blue line. His longevity was remarkable — 803 regular-season games, the most by any defenceman in team history. That consistency alone speaks to his durability, reliability, and importance to the organization over the course of more than a decade.
Playing Style
Jackman’s playing style reflected everything the Blues’ identity represented. He was a stay-at-home defenceman, prioritizing defensive structure, positioning, and physical play. His offensive totals were modest — a career-high 33 points — but his real impact came in areas that don’t show up in the box score. Night after night, Jackman went up against opposing top lines, blocked shots, and played through injuries. His willingness to sacrifice for the team made him one of the most respected players in the locker room and a model of professionalism. Furthermore, Jackman’s commitment to being a defensive defenceman earned him the Calder Trophy in his rookie season. Jackman won the award over offensive-minded players like Henrik Zetterberg and Rick Nash.
What made Jackman so valuable wasn’t just his defensive prowess, but the steadiness he brought to an evolving franchise. He was the bridge between generations — from the Pronger-MacInnis era to the rise of players like Alex Pietrangelo and Kevin Shattenkirk. Young defencemen entering the league in St. Louis often pointed to Jackman as a mentor who led by example. His preparation, work ethic, and calm demeanor provided a blueprint for what it meant to wear the Blue Note with pride.
Leadership
Jackman was never the captain of the Blues. However, that did not mean he was not a leader, nor did it mean the Blues did not recognize his leadership capabilities. He served as an alternate captain for several seasons, earning the respect of both teammates and coaches. Whether the team was contending or rebuilding, he remained the same player — dependable, tough, and accountable. His approach to the game helped establish a locker-room culture that emphasized effort and integrity.
Jackman was not always the most popular with the fans, especially late in his career with the Blues. However, no one doubted Jackman’s commitment to the team. Fans always appreciated Jackman’s determination. This was proven during the 2015-16 season, when Jackman returned as a member of the Nashville Predators, Blues fans gave him a standing ovation.
Post-Playing Career
When Jackman retired, he did so as a Blue, signing a one-day contract to ensure he retired with the organization. Jackman has remained an active presence in the Blues’ community. He participated in the Alumni Game at Busch Stadium as part of the 2017 Winter Classic festivities. He even scored a goal for the Blues’ alums. In the same season, Jackman had the honor of announcing the retirement of Bob Plager‘s number 5, a number Plager and Jackman had worn. Furthermore, Jackman spoke during the retirement ceremony in February of that year.
Before the start of the 2025-26 season, Jackman was named the new Director of Alumni for the Blues. Even though his playing days are over, Jackman has not stopped being a St. Louis Blue.
Jackman’s Legacy
Jackman’s legacy with the Blues extends far beyond numbers. He was a steadying force through years of change, a mentor to future stars, and a living example of the franchise’s core values. While he never won a Norris Trophy or helped the team win the Stanley Cup, his fingerprints remain all over the culture that helped shape the team’s eventual success. The Blues’ Stanley Cup win in 2019 was built on the same foundation of resilience and defensive commitment that Jackman embodied for over a decade.
In the end, Jackman’s value to the St. Louis Blues can’t be measured in goals or assists. It’s found in the respect of his teammates, the admiration of the fans, and the identity of a franchise that has always prided itself on toughness, loyalty, and heart — all qualities Jackman represented from his first game to his last.
For an organization that has seen Bob Plager, Chris Pronger, Al MacInnis, and Alex Pietrangelo all play defence for the team, it is easy to lose Jackman in the shuffle. However, his induction into the Blues’ Hall of Fame is a reminder of what he meant to the team. He can now be celebrated for the player he was, something he deserves in every way.
Main Photo- Billy Hurst- Imagn Images
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