Leading up to the 2026 NHL Trade Deadline, St. Louis Blues center Robert Thomas was among the league's top trade candidates. Yet, in the end, the Blues decided not to trade him.
There were some lingering questions about Thomas' future in St. Louis this offseason, but rumors surrounding the star forward have calmed down since. However, with Thomas being a star center who has generated interest before, it will not be surprising in the slightest if teams target him again during this season. This would especially be the case if St. Louis struggles again this season.
Due to this, let's discuss three teams who seem likely to target Thomas during this campaign.
1. Montreal Canadiens
The Canadiens have been on the hunt for another top-six center for a while now. They have been unable to address this need this summer, so they should be aggressively on the hunt for center help during this campaign. Due to this, it would not be shocking if Montreal kicked the tires on Thomas this season.
If the Canadiens successfully acquired Thomas, he would undoubtedly strengthen their top six. The Canadiens also have plenty of promising young players in their system, so they could offer the Blues an intriguing potential trade package.
2. Los Angeles Kings
With Anze Kopitar retiring, it is clear that the Kings need a new first-line center. While Los Angeles signed Erik Haula, expecting him to be a true answer for their top six is too big of an ask. Due to this, it would make a lot of sense if the Kings made a run for Thomas this season.
The Kings have made it clear with the recent moves that they want to remain competitive. Thomas would also be the perfect center for Artemi Panarin, so it would not surprise anyone if they targeted the Blues star this season.
3. Boston Bruins
The Boston Bruins have been in need of a true first-line center since Patrice Bergeron retired following the 2022-23 season. They tried to address this need by signing Elias Lindholm, but that has not panned out. Because of this, the Bruins stand out as a team that could call the Blues about Thomas this season.
The Bruins do not possess the same kind of prospect pool as the Canadiens, so they may not be the best potential trading partner for the Blues. Yet, that likely won't stop the Bruins from trying to land Thomas, as he would finally give them a legitimate 1C if acquired.
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