NHL Rumors: Insider Reveals Which Blues Player Could Be Traded First

St. Louis Blues Head Coach Jim Montgomery during 2024 Winter Classic game.

Brayden Schenn trade chatter is beginning to pick up, and insider Frank Seravalli believes the St. Louis Blues captain would be the first player out the door if management starts selling. 

He’s not pointing to Jordan Kyrou as the initial move. It’s Schenn’s contract structure and the scarcity of proven centers that elevate his market. 

The 34-year-old carries two more seasons at a 6.5 million cap hit and now has a 15-team no-trade list, which widens the field compared to a full shield.

General manager Doug Armstrong has been “open for business” before and isn’t afraid to rattle cages when results start to sag. The Blues are hovering near the wild-card race, so timing still matters.

Why Schenn tops the Blues’ trade board

Teams hunting a reliable second-line center value Schenn’s faceoffs and leadership, plus a track record of 50-point pace production. 

Last year’s deadline interest never fully materialized, but that buzz never disappeared, and his reduced protection makes talks simpler. Compared with moving Kyrou, who has stronger trade barriers and a different cap profile, Schenn is the more movable piece if St. Louis needs an early reset.

Who’s calling and what it costs

Expect contenders that missed on center depth to re-engage. The Toronto Maple Leafs and New Jersey Devils have been linked before, while past feelers from Ottawa and others could show interest. 

The price won’t be light for a captain under team control, and Armstrong is unlikely to retain salary just to move him. If the Blues do flip Schenn, look for St. Louis to target immediate help on defense or picks that can be spun for blue-line upgrades.

Photo Credit: Daniel Bartel-Imagn Images