There are some holes in this team, even with how well they have been the season. The St. Louis Blues are giving it all they have, and are only a few moves away from being considered a contender.
Here are some needs that need to be addressed at this year’s Trade Deadline on March 7. Obviously, the defensive unit needs a look as well, but there are some outside of that.
Back-up goaltending
Long-term, is Joel Hofer the right choice for backing-up Jordan Binnington? With his contract expiring at the end of the season, should the Blues start to test the waters for a new back-up?
After missing out on a great potential back-up in Charlie Lindgren, there are still some solid choices out there. Ilya Samsonov from Vegas is one really good one to consider.
But, they could potentially hold on to Hofer for another year on a bridge deal. Give him another chance to prove himself in 2025-26, and assess from there.
Superstar Forward
The Blues require a superstar forward. They need a player that is established as an elite star in this league, to set themselves apart from the rest of the pack.
The Blues have some solid players and one “potential superstar” in Jordan Kyrou, but still lack a definitive elite talent. The last time there was such a player wearing a Blues jersey, was Vladimir Tarasenko.
There are some pending UFA’s that could be brought over that fit that bill. The top two, Mitch Marner and John Tavares from Toronto will not be an option, both financially and sensibly. Two potential superstars to grab are Mikko Rantanen from Carolina and Brock Boeser from Vancouver.
These are some needs that need to be addressed at the trade deadline.