NHL Rumors: Lightning & Blues Emerging as Trade Partners

According to hockey insider Elliotte Friedman, the St Louis Blues are a team to watch this summer when it comes to Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Ryan McDonagh. Word is the Bolts are moving on from McDonagh this offseason in order to shift some resources and give Mikhail Sergachev an even bigger role.

Friedman on 32TP talking Ryan McDonagh suitors: "One of the teams I think is there is potentially St. Louis, it makes a lot of sense, they're looking for a top 4 D, it fits with them, that's the kind of player Doug Armstrong and Craig Berube love".

— NHL Watcher (@NHL_Watcher) July 2, 2022

The Blues have some nice depth on their right side of their blueline with Justin Faulk and Colton Parayko and are looking for another piece to add to Torey Krug to round out their top four. Young blueliner Scott Perunovich is a player who could be heading to the Lightning if the deal transpires as this could allow the team to keep Ondrej Palat.

Can confirm #TBLightning approached Ryan McDonagh about places he’d be open for a trade. Veteran d-man has full NT and four years left on deal. We’ll see where this goes but tough call for Tampa Bay. McDonagh a core player, leader, loved in room. @FriedgeHNIC first to report

— Joe Smith (@JoeSmithTB) June 30, 2022

Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

The Blues have over $9 million in cap space to work with as they enter free agency and from all accounts it appears one-time disgruntled forward Vladimir Tarasenko is content and willing to stick around until the end of his contract. St Louis isn't expected to re-sign Ville Husso, as the 27-year-old netminder will hit the open market come July 13.

Elliotte Friedman reports that the Lightning are trying to find a fit to trade Ryan McDonagh this offseason. #GoBolts pic.twitter.com/JdX2JkhtP2

— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) June 30, 2022

Photo credit:  Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports