They aren't trading him and the blues don't trade these pieces either

He doesn’t fit STL’s style really either. Is more of a thought experiment.

I think STL will either move up in the draft or snag a young talent with their assets. I don’t think they will take 3 prospects out of the first round. That would be a 3-5 year rebuild, and the gm has been clear he wants it to be fast.

I’m trying to be creative and see what things could cost.

I was just thinking of this scenario about 5 minutes ago. Not sure why you think he wouldn't fit the Blues style since he's a 200ft C.

I figured though that the Blues wouldn't win the sweepstakes just like with Tkachuk and that he would either end up in LA if they are willing to part with certain pieces or Vegas if LA won't.

If the Blues got him it won't be with Thomas, would be a wasted move without a strong 1 and 2C while giving up all those assets.

I would say either the Blues best C/D prospect+a good D/C prospect+the two 1st + a roster player (Buchnevich or Parayko) or maybe two roster players in Buchnevich+Parayko+two 2023 1sts

Well, maybe I worded that wrong. Auston the player would fit on any team.

STL allocates, and has always allocated quite a big % of the cap to defense - and they’ve historically done this while keeping the total goaltending cap low and having a deep mix upfront - using depth for goals instead of star power. Having a 13 million dollar center may force that to change, which would be interesting, but different for sure.

I didn’t pay much attention back then for best player available, but the two times in modern history STL had a high draft pick they picked defense (Johnson 1OA, Pietrangelo 4OA).

I feel their philosophy is build a defense that can limit goals, then just enough scoring to overcome the opponent. I feel Doug Armstrong just said something quite similar during his “we traded Orielly” conference - something like we have enough scoring we just need to play defense.

I’m still salty about Tkachuk btw. Very salty.

I don't think that would change per se, but in thw short term, they probably do try to offload some of those older guys and spend the money on a 1 or 2C. I could see Larkin being a target if he hits free agency.

Problem is on top of the relatively large cap hits they D-core has trade protection which might make it tricky. If they can move both Parayko and Krug and get cheaper/younger counterparts, that could allow them to make additions up front. I do wonder though if they would want a 13m C.

Let's see if they can land Chychrun, he does want to go to a contender but I think the expectation here is that the Blues make it back into the playoffs next year.

Downsize on those two picks and hand over the STL first

Nah I want bedard matthews up the middle 😉 joking.

But in reality if Doug Armstrong moves the pick pre-lottery imma rage. Carlsson and Fantilli look super legit. Especially Carlsson.

I love me some Bedard highlights but Carlsson has been playing in the SHL - he’s probably the most NHL ready right now. And Fantilli is Eichel-esque.

I feel bad for whoever takes the Russian dude who is under KHL contract til 2026.given geopolitical stuff there’s a chance that pick never skates in the nhl - maybe a small chance but damn that’s a HUGE risk.

If I had the 1OA I’d call the 2OA and try to make a deal. Especially if the 2OA is a large market team. Good for me, good for them, good for hockey.

matthews starts with st louis 2023 first. dont even bother trying if thats not in there

My precious.

If I give up that I’m keeping Robert Thomas and adding Zach Bolduc.

I do secretly want to see Thomas and Marner play on the same line. Would be hockey porn. But I’m not dumb enough to propose a Marner trade.

than is no deal, leafs could get an astronomical return for Matthews

Agree. I hope he stays though - he flourishes there - the city, the play style, etc.

Side note: don’t sleep on Bolduc - kinda looks like a new Matt Duchesne - which used to be a compliment! Lol.