The Blues and 2006 first-round draft pick T.J. Oshie are inching closer to striking a deal that will put the 21-year-old forward in an NHL uniform in 2008-09.

Oshie can return to the University of North Dakota for his senior season, but indications are pointing toward him turning pro.

"I've been thinking about my decision, but I've got to get this school done in the next two weeks," Oshie said recently. "Once I get that done, I'll sit down and make a decision."

Oshie, who scored 18 goals and had 45 points as a junior this season, could help an ailing Blues' offense. The team finished 27th in the league in goals (205) in 2007-08.

Oshie was the 24th overall player taken in the 2005 draft and 17 of the 23 players selected before him have played in the NHL.