The St. Louis Blues made waves at the trade deadline, parting ways with some key veterans.
The most surprising move? Trading team captain Brayden Schenn to the New York Islanders.
In return, the Blues received 2026 first- and third-round picks, forward Jonathan Drouin, and goalie prospect Marcus Gidlof. It's a bold move to trade a captain, and it leaves Blues fans wondering who will wear the "C" next.
One name that’s buzzing around is forward Jake Neighbours, a first-round pick from 2020. His leadership potential is catching attention, especially after insights shared on the 32 Thoughts Podcast. While there's no official word from the Blues, Sportsnet's Kyle Bukauskas highlighted Neighbours' leadership qualities, citing praise from former coach Craig Berube.
Berube, now with the Toronto Maple Leafs, has been vocal about Neighbours in the past. Back in 2024, Berube lauded Neighbours, who had just signed a two-year extension, as a player every team would want. “Heart-and-soul guy and he gives you everything he’s got every game,” Berube said, emphasizing the kind of leadership Neighbours brings to the ice.
As the Blues hunt for a new captain, the spotlight initially turned to star center Robert Thomas. However, Thomas was on the trading block, with the Buffalo Sabres showing interest. Talks fell through due to the Blues' high asking price, but the possibility of a future trade looms as the team retools.
Neighbours, just 24, has a year left on his contract before becoming a restricted free agent. His stats this season-14 goals and 16 assists over 60 games with an average of 15:17 ice time-highlight his growing impact. Over his five-year career, he's amassed 70 goals and 56 assists in 271 games.
The decision on the next captain will likely come in the offseason, either post-free agency or during training camp. Head coach Jim Montgomery and GM Alexander Steen will make the call. But if current chatter is any indication, Neighbours is a strong contender to lead the Blues into their next chapter.