St. Louis Blues did not play hockey for 39 days, forced to watch the playoffs from the sidelines. But that means offseason speculation about their future is rife. And this week, in an appearance on 101 ESPN Radio, Blues beat reporter Jeremy Rutherford teased about a possible trade connection between the Blues and the Ottawa Senators.
Specifically, Rutherford pointed out the connection between the Blues and St. Louis native Brady Tkachuk, captain of the Senators. Tkachuk is a common feature in trade rumors, with everyone from the Buffalo Sabers to the New Jersey Devils linked to the 24-year-old. Could the Blues be a contender for his services? They certainly tried to trade Brady's older brother, Matthew Tkachuk, before the Panthers beat them. And with the Tkachuk brothers' close friendship with young Blues star Robert Thomas, the deal would make sense on many levels. So the Blues should explore the possibility, and possibly make up for what they missed out on with Matthew.
Tkachuk a Perfect Fit
The Blues need a player like Tkachuk. While they already have young forward talent in Thomas, Jordan Kyrou, and top prospects like Jimmy Snuggerud and Dalibor Dvorský, they currently lack someone who provides the physical and on-ice leadership that Tkachuk does. The youngster is reminiscent of former Blues captain David Backes, who was a leader of the young team from a young age. And Tkachuk, who is already the captain of the Senators, could blossom into a future captain to replace Brayden Schenn when he retires or leaves the team.
In a blue-collar town that loves physical players, Tkachuk will be an instant sensation. Despite his near-point-per-game prowess, he averaged 293 hits in the 2023-24 season, third-best in the entire NHL. And at his age, he fits perfectly into the mindset the Blues are trying to build. He could form a dynamic first line alongside his friend and housemate, Thomas, and while it's still far away, Blues fans wouldn't be blamed for hoping that pairing could lure Matthew to the Gateway City when his current contract is up. expires. But Brady is independent and offers the Blues a ton of value, and with a deal that runs through the 2027-28 season, he's the type of controlled asset they desire during a rebuild.
Could Kyrou be the return?
Yes, as Rutherford said in his interview, the Senators could expect a ton of return for their captain, he did not specifically mention Kyrou's name. Like Tkachuk, Kyrou has been the subject of many trade rumors, especially after a controversial season in St. He drew the ire of fans with some unwise comments after the departure of new Toronto Maple Leafs coach Craig Berube. The two were at loggerheads for most of last year, leading to speculation that Kyrou was the main reason behind the coach's surprising firing.
Related: What Maple Leafs Fans Can Expect From Craig Berube
Kyrou struggled, but finished with a disappointing season, scoring his lowest points in three seasons despite playing 82 games in his first campaign. Some fans have insisted that Kyrou has released a scapegoal for several seasons, and his season of lack and conflict with Berube has resulted in bloodshed and trade demands. But cooler heads insist that trading him now would be a mistake – unless they do it in a trade that undeniably benefits the team. A Kyrou for Tkachuk swap would be a legendary “hockey” trade that both teams would be more than happy to part with. Both players show equal scoring production, and are young players with long contracts. Kyrou's contract extends beyond Tkachuk's, ending after the 2030-31 season. But that control could end the perceived improvement that St. Louis will get it in return. A one-man trade requires a lot of courage from both teams, so this might not be one that the Blues or Senators are comfortable pulling the trigger on – but it's certainly a compelling option for both teams to consider.
Are the Blues Ready?
According to Rutherford's interview, a recent conversation with Blues owner Tom Stillman made it appear that the Blues still have at least one important iron in the fire this season. Of course, there is no mention of that deal involving the Senators or a trade at all. But there should be Blues looking forward to an exciting season very happy. Time will tell what the Blues have in store this summer, but many fans will be very happy with the Tkachuk trade, and if he is on the market, St.
Source link
