The St. Louis Blues have a lot going on right now. The trade deadline is just 24 hours away, and there are multiple reports circulating about key players on this team.
For the second straight year, all eyes are on the Blues as having the key pieces to trade for.
Here is a breakdown about what will happen in the next day, leading up to the 3 PM EST cutoff.
Awaiting a decision on Parayko
As reported last night, it seems like a deal has been struck for Colton Parayko. Buffalo, which was in talks to acquire Robert Thomas, is now the landing spot for Parayko, but there is one thing holding this deal up.
Parayko has to waive his No-Trade Clause, and has declined to do so.
What happens next between No. 55 and St. Louis?
Where will Thomas land?
With Buffalo having their eyes set on Parayko, they are likely out on Thomas, though not definitively.
Utah, which was another valid team with hooks into No. 18, just picked up Mackenzie Weegar from Calgary. Now, they can complete their deadline with a solid center to build around as their championship window is opening. Look out for the Mammoth to make a “Mammoth deal” for Thomas.
Will Faulk find a new suitor?
Prior to Parayko’s possible departure to Buffalo, reports were flooding in that Justin Faulk was their main target. Now, it is obvious that he will be sent somewhere else.
But where? Who else is in on No. 72? Detroit is rumored to be buying in on a defenseman, and Faulk could fit the bill perfectly there.
That should be answered by tomorrow.
Does Binnington find a new home?
Montreal has been the strongest link to goaltender Jordan Binnington. Representing Team Canada in the Olympics and putting on an incredible performance, plus the Canadiens need to lock down goaltending now, not later, gives this trade some life.
Backup goaltender and the next torchbearer of the Blues' goaltending future, Joel Hofer, was great against Seattle in their 3-2 victory on Wednesday night.
This might be answered by the deadline, but also could be revisited in the offseason.
Did Schenn play well enough against Seattle to garner interest?
After playing the best game of his season against Seattle, the trade value for captain Brayden Schenn has never been higher. He has yet to land a steady buyer, but Blues General Manager Doug Armstrong is listening to any and all offers on anyone playing on this team over the age of 25.
Schenn's future is likely to remain in St. Louis, and the potential of him being traded should come in the offseason and not by the deadline.