Nashville Predators head coach Andrew Brunette expressed strong confidence in returning for the next season, irrespective of any potential changes in the General Manager position.
Forward Jonathan Marchessault of the Predators acknowledged his own struggles during the past year, admitting to a negative mindset that impacted his performance and consequently, the team’s results. He stated, “But I’m aware that if I play the way I played this year, I’m not going to bring any team to the playoffs. You’ve got to look at yourself in the mirror. There’s guys that made a difference this year, and there’s guys that didn’t make a difference. I didn’t make a difference this year.”
Regarding the St. Louis Blues, there is anticipation that several players will be subjects of trade rumors throughout the offseason. However, these discussions may not necessarily lead to departures, as the team might explore opportunities to move up in the upcoming draft.
Blues forward Robert Thomas was a topic of speculation prior to the trade deadline, and these rumors may resurface. General Manager Doug Armstrong emphasized the high cost of acquiring a player of Thomas’ caliber and his own high valuation of the forward, stating, “Some of these trade talks … are a little bit of fabrication. They start out, and all of a sudden they get legs, and they go, and they go, and they go, and they never stop. The cost of acquiring someone of Robert Thomas’ talent is extremely high. I don’t think anyone values Robert Thomas more in the NHL than Doug Armstrong values Robert Thomas in the NHL. So, if he was available, the reason he’s here is because I value him higher than anyone else.”
Alexander Steen is set to succeed Jeremy Rutherford as GM, and he indicated that numerous discussions will be necessary.
Defenseman Colton Parayko and goaltender Jordan Binnington were also mentioned in trade rumors. Parayko reportedly rejected a trade to the Buffalo Sabres. Given Binnington’s 14-team no-trade clause and Armstrong’s comments about the importance of having two capable goaltenders, it is likely that Binnington will remain with the team.
Forward Jordan Kyrou possesses a full no-trade clause and has expressed his desire to stay in St. Louis.
Forward Dylan Holloway, a pending restricted free agent, is eager to continue his career with the Blues and is optimistic about reaching an agreement.
Before the draft lottery, the Blues hold three first-round picks: their own at No. 11, Detroit’s at No. 15, and Colorado’s at No. 31. Armstrong is open to the idea of trading up in the draft, stating, “Yes, we would — we can use the picks, we can use prospects, we can use players. We’ll give it our best chance. But you also have to have someone that wants to move out of that pick, and that’s where the fly in the ointment sometimes comes in.”
