As the NHL season approaches the Olympic break, the St. Louis Blues find themselves at a critical juncture. With a record of 19-24-9, the Blues are currently outside the playoff picture and grappling with a four-game losing streak. This week, leading up to February 2, will be crucial in determining the team's direction as trade rumors intensify and the team looks to improve their on-ice performance.

"Open for Business": Trade Winds Blowing

General Manager Doug Armstrong is reportedly willing to entertain offers for veteran players as the trade deadline looms. While Armstrong is said to be holding firm on high asking prices, he is open to discussing potential deals involving core players. Several names have surfaced in trade speculation:

• Brayden Schenn: The Blues captain has been linked to the Vegas Golden Knights, with other teams like the New Jersey Devils and Minnesota Wild potentially interested.
• Justin Faulk: Armstrong is reportedly seeking a significant return for Faulk, potentially a first-round pick and a promising young player or prospect, similar to recent trades involving Noah Hanifin and Rasmus Andersson.
• Robert Thomas: Despite being signed through 2031, Thomas's name has been mentioned in trade discussions. However, he is currently sidelined with an injury, which complicates any potential trade. The Blues have set a high bar for Thomas, demanding an overwhelming package or a young, elite winger in return.

Skidding on Thin Ice: Defensive Woes

The Blues' recent struggles are underscored by their four-game losing streak, including a 3-2 defeat to the Dallas Stars and a home loss to the Los Angeles Kings. The team's defensive shortcomings are a major concern, having allowed 176 goals while only managing to score 126. In their last 10 games, the Blues have a record of 3-6-1. A tighter defense will be essential if they hope to reverse their fortunes against high-scoring teams like the Stars and the Florida Panthers this week.

Dvorsky's Development: A Glimmer of Hope

Amidst the team's challenges, rookie Dalibor Dvorsky is emerging as a key player for the future. Dvorsky has showcased the offensive potential that led the Blues to draft him, offering a bright spot for the organization as they navigate this difficult period. Fans and management will be closely watching his development as the season progresses.

This Week's Schedule

The St. Louis Blues face a challenging schedule this week as they try to break their losing streak and address the swirling trade rumors. Their performance in these games could significantly impact the team's direction heading into the Olympic break and the trade deadline.