Jordan Kyrou, the dynamic forward for the St. Louis Blues, is having a season that isn't quite hitting the high notes of his previous campaigns. Known for consistently netting over 30 goals in the past three seasons, Kyrou's current form has sparked trade chatter, especially with the Blues languishing at the bottom of the Central Division.
NHL insider David Pagnotta has weighed in, suggesting that Kyrou's time in St. Louis might be winding down. Despite being under an 8-year, $65 million contract extending through 2030-31, the whispers of a trade are growing louder.
Pagnotta, speaking on the Daily Faceoff's YouTube channel, expressed his doubts about Kyrou remaining with the Blues next season. "I’d be surprised if he's a Blue next season," Pagnotta stated. "Whether a move happens now or in the summer, it seems both sides agree that a change of scenery could be beneficial."
With a full no-trade clause, Kyrou holds some control over his destination. Pagnotta mentioned potential interest from teams like the Seattle Kraken, Montreal Canadiens, and Toronto Maple Leafs. Each of these teams could offer a fresh start for the 29-year-old.
The Canadiens, with a promising young core including Cole Caufield and Nick Suzuki, could see Kyrou as a key piece to bolster their lineup. They might gain cap space if they manage to offload Patrik Laine’s hefty contract, making room for Kyrou’s long-term deal.
Seattle, on the other hand, is eager to find star power. While Kyrou may not be the ultimate marquee player, his playoff experience with the Blues makes him an attractive option as the Kraken aim to climb the competitive ladder.
Toronto, still searching for the right mix to complement Auston Matthews and William Nylander, could benefit from Kyrou’s skills and his past connection with coach Craig Berube, who helped elevate Kyrou’s game in St. Louis.
Despite the buzz, Pagnotta believes the weight of Kyrou’s contract might delay any potential trade until the offseason. "Kyrou is a big fish, and while a trade by the deadline isn’t impossible, it might be more feasible in the summer," he noted.
This season, Kyrou has 32 points, including 13 goals and 19 assists, with an average ice time slightly below his career norm. Even with 104 goals over the last three seasons, he has yet to crack more than 18:20 minutes per game with the Blues.
As the Olympic break concludes, all eyes will be on Kyrou and the Blues to see if a move materializes, reshaping the landscape for the talented forward and potentially altering the fortunes of whichever team he joins next.