3 forwards the St. Louis Blues must avoid trading for in the Metropolitan Division

Oliver Wahlstrom/New York Islanders

When a former first-round pick enters the rumor mill, it’s wise to take a long look at that player and ask if he was just a bad fit elsewhere. But Oliver Wahlstrom hasn’t resembled anything close to such a high selection since he first entered the NHL for a nine-game trial in 2019-20. 

Since 2020-21, he’s appeared in 184 games, including just 67 over the past two seasons, thanks to injuries and the fact he has yet to dramatically improve any facet of his game. Further, Wahlstrom has yet to play in over 73 games or put up more than 24 points and 13 goals in a single season. 

The pending RFA never averaged over 12:23 of average total ice time in a single season, and providing a physical presence is about all the value he’s brought thus far in his career. While this doesn’t mean Wahlstrom won’t break out, and there is a good chance he could be a steal if someone takes a chance on him, the Blues need someone who is far more established. 

No, not another over-30 player like Brock Nelson, which is why he’s also on this list. But if they can find someone in their mid or even late-20s, there is a good chance the Blues overall scoring will trend further north than we may all anticipate next season. But right now, Wahlstrom’s best bet is to land with a team that is building, find a role, and hopefully play it well.