The St. Louis Blues' recent trade with the New Jersey Devils, which saw them acquire forward Thomas Bordeleau and a conditional fourth-round pick in the 2026 NHL Draft in exchange for forward Nick Bjugstad, offers a glimpse into the team's direction as the trade deadline approaches.
Rebuilding or Re-Tooling?
The Blues are currently sitting near the bottom of the NHL standings. This has led to speculation about whether the team will engage in a full-scale rebuild or attempt a re-tool. A rebuild would involve trading away valuable assets for draft picks and prospects, while a re-tool would focus on making smaller changes to the roster to improve the team's competitiveness.
Several reports suggest that the Blues are considering trading key players, including Robert Thomas and Jordan Kyrou. Veteran analyst Jeff Marek has also suggested that Kyrou could benefit from a change of scenery. However, the Blues' general manager, Doug Armstrong, is known for making blockbuster deals, so nothing can be ruled out.
The Bjugstad Trade: A Sign of Things to Come?
The Bjugstad trade could be interpreted as a move towards a rebuild. Bjugstad, 33, was a veteran player on a two-year contract. In exchange for Bjugstad, the Blues acquired Bordeleau, a 24-year-old forward who has spent most of his career in the AHL, and a conditional fourth-round pick. This suggests that the Blues are prioritizing youth and future assets over veteran experience.
Thomas Bordeleau, the player acquired by the Blues, has played 35 games for the AHL's Utica Comets this season, recording eight points. He will report to the Blues' AHL affiliate, the Springfield Thunderbirds.
Potential Trade Deadline Strategy
With the trade deadline approaching on March 6th, the Blues are expected to be active in the trade market. Several players could be on the move, including Brayden Schenn, Justin Faulk, and Jordan Binnington. Moving these veterans would allow the Blues to acquire more draft picks and prospects, further signaling a shift towards a rebuild.
However, the Blues may also choose to retain some of their key players and attempt to re-tool around them. This would involve making smaller trades to improve the team's depth and skill.
Ultimately, the direction the Blues take will depend on the offers they receive for their players and the team's assessment of their long-term prospects. Doug Armstrong has a track record of making significant trades, so it is possible that the Blues could make a major move that would significantly alter the team's future.