Could the St. Louis Blues and San Jose Sharks Make a Deal for the No. 2 Pick?

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The St. Louis Blues, possessing multiple first-round picks and a strong prospect pool, might be considering a move up in the upcoming NHL draft. They currently hold picks at No. 11 and No. 15, along with a selection from the Colorado Avalanche, and have a total of 12 picks in the 2026 NHL draft. General Manager Doug Armstrong has previously indicated a willingness to trade assets for a higher draft position if the opportunity arises.

The San Jose Sharks, holding the No. 2 overall pick, are reportedly open to listening to offers. With top prospects like Gavin McKenna and Ivar Stenberg considered the premier talents, the Sharks may be persuaded to part with their high selection. The Blues have a connection to Stenberg through his older brother, Otto.

While the Blues’ current draft capital (No. 11, No. 15, and the Avs pick) doesn’t match the value of the No. 2 pick, a trade could involve established roster players. However, the Sharks may not be interested in players like Jordan Kyrou or Pavel Buchnevich. The Blues’ Robert Thomas might not be an ideal fit for the Sharks, especially with the potential emergence of Michael Misa as their long-term second-line center. A package including Jimmy Snuggerud, while considered by some, is unlikely to be enough on its own. A more plausible scenario might involve the No. 11 pick, Adam Jiricek, and a third-round selection, though the Sharks could likely secure better offers elsewhere.

The St. Louis Blues might begin by assessing what additional pieces would be required if they were to offer their No. 11 and No. 15 picks. Other teams with high draft picks, such as the Toronto Maple Leafs at No. 1, the Chicago Blackhawks at No. 4, and the Winnipeg Jets at No. 8, could also be factors in the trade landscape, with Chicago unlikely to move their pick if Stenberg is available, and Winnipeg potentially seeking a proven player.

English Translation:

Could There be a Fit for the St. Louis Blue and San Jose Sharks with the No. 2 Pick?

The St. Louis Blues could be looking to move up in the draft. The San Jose Sharks may be willing to move the No. 2 pick.

The St. Louis Blues possess three first-round picks this year and 12 picks in total in the 2026 NHL draft. Their prospect pool is ranked 10th out of 32, leading to speculation about whether they would consider trading up in the first round, especially given their need for an elite prospect. They hold the 11th and 15th picks, as well as the Avalanche’s pick. General Manager Doug Armstrong stated in March that they would consider moving up if possible, acknowledging that it depends on finding a willing trade partner.

The San Jose Sharks hold the No. 2 pick in the draft and have indicated they are listening to offers. According to Corey Pronman, Gavin McKenna and Ivar Stenberg are considered the top two prospects. The Blues have a connection to Stenberg through his older brother, Otto.

The value of the Blues’ 11th, 15th, and Avalanche picks does not equate to the value of the No. 2 pick. Scott Wheeler suggests the Sharks might be interested in a roster player like Jordan Kyrou rather than prospects such as Adam Jiricek or Dalibor Dvorsky. Eric Stephens notes that acquiring the No. 2 pick would require a significant package. A trade involving Colton Parayko and the 11th pick is unlikely to satisfy the Sharks. It’s also unlikely the Sharks would desire Kyrou or Pavel Buchnevich. With Michael Misa potentially becoming their long-term second-line center, Robert Thomas might not be a suitable fit. If in Mike Grier’s position, he would likely ask for Jimmy Snuggerud, although this request might not yield significant results. A package of the 11th pick, Adam Jiricek, and a third-round pick might be considered, but Grier would likely receive better offers from other teams.

Jeremy Rutherford believes that Snuggerud or Jiricek should not be part of trade discussions. The Blues could initiate talks by offering their 11th and 15th picks and then explore what other assets would be necessary.

It would take a substantial offer for the Toronto Maple Leafs to move their first-overall pick. The Chicago Blackhawks, picking at No. 4, would likely not trade their pick if Stenberg remains available. The Winnipeg Jets, at No. 8, might be interested in an established player like Kyrou or Parayko.

Caleb Ramsey
Caleb Ramsey

Caleb Ramsey, originally from small-town Exeter, has made a name for himself with his hockey coverage across Britain. Over 6 years, he's built his reputation through exclusive NHL player interviews and vivid writing style.

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