As the Olympics wind down and the NHL gears up for action, let's turn our attention to the St. Louis Blues. With just six games between the league's restart on February 26 and the trade deadline on March 6, the Blues are at a pivotal moment.
Last season, General Manager Doug Armstrong opted for stability at the deadline, choosing not to make any trades. That gamble paid off as the team surged into the playoffs with an impressive run.
However, don't expect the same approach this year. The Blues are struggling, and significant changes are on the horizon to revitalize the roster.
Navigating No-Trade Clauses
One of the biggest challenges facing Armstrong is the plethora of No-Trade and No-Movement Clauses tied to key players. Robert Thomas, Pavel Buchnevich, and Jordan Kyrou all have No-Trade Clauses, while Cam Fowler has a modified list that becomes a full No-Trade Clause next season. Colton Parayko is similarly protected until the end of the 2027-28 season.
These clauses complicate potential trades, especially since these players have underperformed this season. Armstrong will need to work some serious magic to move even a couple of these contracts. If the players aren’t willing to waive their clauses, his hands may be tied.
Managing Expectations for Returns
Another hurdle is the potential return for these players. Armstrong might find himself in a position where the offers are less than ideal, forcing him to accept less favorable deals.
The situation echoes the New York Rangers' trade of Artemi Panarin to the Los Angeles Kings, where the return didn't match the player's value. This precedent could impact the Blues' negotiations this year.
As the trade deadline approaches, all eyes are on Armstrong to determine the best course of action for the Blues. The outcome might not align with their hopes, but it's a crucial step in reshaping the team's future. With Alexander Steen set to take over in the offseason, he will have a significant to-do list to tackle.