BREAKING NEWS: St. Louis Blues Doug Armstrong should attempt the impossible – trade Pavel Buchnevich …. view more

BREAKING NEWS: Should Doug Armstrong Attempt the Impossible—Trade Pavel Buchnevich?

As the NHL offseason approaches, the St. Louis Blues find themselves at a crossroads. General Manager Doug Armstrong faces a pivotal decision regarding forward Pavel Buchnevich, whose future with the team is uncertain.

Pavel Buchnevich: A Valuable Asset

Pavel Buchnevich, 30, has been a consistent performer for the Blues since joining the team in 2021. In the 2024–25 season, he led the team with 24 goals, showcasing his scoring ability and importance to the lineup . With one year remaining on his current contract at a $5.8 million cap hit, Buchnevich is poised to become an unrestricted free agent in July 2025 .

Despite his on-ice contributions, the Blues have not ruled out the possibility of trading Buchnevich. Armstrong has stated that while the team is not actively shopping him, they are open to listening to offers, especially if a compelling return is presented .

The Case for Trading Buchnevich

Trading Buchnevich could be a strategic move for the Blues, particularly if the team is looking to retool for the future. Given his performance and remaining contract term, Buchnevich could command a significant return, potentially including first-round draft picks or high-quality prospects

Additionally, with the Blues not currently in a playoff position, moving Buchnevich could provide the team with valuable assets to accelerate their rebuilding process. This approach aligns with Armstrong’s acknowledgment that the team needs to explore all options to remain competitive in the long term

The Risk of Trading a Key Contributor

On the other hand, trading Buchnevich poses risks. His departure would remove a top-line winger from the roster, potentially weakening the team’s offensive depth. Moreover, the Blues would need to ensure that any trade return adequately addresses the team’s immediate needs and long-term goals.

Furthermore, Buchnevich’s 12-team no-trade clause provides him with some control over potential destinations, which could complicate trade discussions .

Armstrong’s Dilemma

Doug Armstrong faces a challenging decision. While trading Buchnevich could yield valuable assets, it also risks disrupting the team’s competitive balance. Armstrong must weigh the potential benefits of a trade against the need to maintain a strong roster capable of competing in the upcoming season.

As the offseason approaches, the Blues’ management will need to carefully consider their options regarding Buchnevich’s future with the team. Whether they choose to trade him or extend his contract, the decision will have significant implications for the team’s trajectory in the coming year