The latest trade board was published by The Athletic, and it revealed that this week is going to be very busy for a lot of teams. Even though reports have been coming in that the market might not be filled with enough buyers, as opposed to the number of teams that are willing to sell off some players.
The St. Louis Blues have not revealed themselves as definitive sellers, but reports have suggested that any player over the age of 25 is up for grabs. That is a long and lengthy list, but according to Senior Writer Chris Johnston of The Athletic, two are near the top of the board to be traded.
Robert Thomas
Obviously, a lot of trade chatter has been surrounding Robert Thomas. Surprisingly, right after Sportsnet Insider Elliotte Friedman spoke on Thomas' "decent chance" of being moved by Friday's deadline, he suited up for the first time since January 10 against Minnesota. He scored an empty netter, sealing the game.
Having him slot back into the lineup as he is more likely to be traded than not is a bit puzzling and confusing. There could be a suitor for him out there, but he might not be willing to waive his No-Trade Clause and leave St. Louis.
Justin Faulk
Defenseman Justin Faulk is another name that is appearing in a lot of rumors. Most recently, it looks like the Buffalo Sabres might be ringing the phone of Blues General Manager Doug Armstrong on No. 72, as they look to end a 14-year playoff drought.
Faulk is a highly sought-after right-handed shot that has enough experience, at 15 seasons, and youth, at 33-years-old, to be a part of a contender until his contract runs out next season. Of all the possible trade chips that the Blues possess, he might be the one that brings in the biggest return.