Blues Hub Weekly w/ Jamal Mayers: Post Trade Deadline and West Coast Swing
Update: 2025-03-10
Description
Trade Deadline & Team Outlook
- The Blues finished their West Coast trip with a 2-1 OT loss to the Kings but remain just one point out of a wildcard spot.
- Despite trade speculation, GM Doug Armstrong chose not to make any moves at the deadline, signaling confidence in the current roster.
- Braden Schenn was a trade target, notably for the Toronto Maple Leafs, but opted to stay in St. Louis, citing loyalty to the team and his captaincy.
- Injuries played a role in the decision-making, particularly Colton Pareko’s knee injury, which will sideline him for the regular season.
Trade Deadline Winners & Losers
- Mayers highlighted Dallas and Colorado as the biggest winners at the deadline.
- The Stars' addition of Rantanen strengthens their playoff push, while the Avalanche bolstered their depth down the middle with key acquisitions.
Blues’ Playoff Push & Key Players
- The Blues need to maintain a “win two out of every three” mindset to stay competitive.
- Jordan Binnington was named the player of the week for his strong performances in net.
- Key players like Pavel Buchnevich, Robert Thomas, Jordan Kyrou, and Schenn need to step up offensively.
- Pareko’s absence will require increased contributions from defensemen like Justin Faulk and Nick Leddy.
Prospect Updates
- AHL affiliate Springfield Thunderbirds are surging, with goaltenders Colton Ellis and Vadim Zarenko leading the way.
- Ellis recently signed a two-year extension with the Blues.
- Defenseman Will McIsaac, a 2024 draft pick, is excelling in the WHL with a standout plus-43 rating.
- Jimmy Snuggerud and the Minnesota Golden Gophers suffered a Big Ten Tournament loss but await their NCAA tournament assignment.
Looking Ahead
- The Blues face the Penguins, Wild, and Ducks this week in crucial games for their playoff hopes.
- Mayers emphasized the need to “take care of business” and not look too far ahead.
Fan Q&A & Final Thoughts
- Fans expressed concerns over the team’s scoring struggles and whether retaining players like David Perron or Vladimir Tarasenko would have helped.
- Mayers noted that younger players are stepping into key roles and that veterans on expiring deals often move on to make room for them.
- Projected points needed for a playoff spot: likely around 96.
- The hosts encouraged fans to join the upcoming Blues Hub Watch Party on Thursday, featuring Mayers, Andy Strickland, and Cam Jansen.
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