The NHL rumor mill is churning with several teams potentially poised to make significant moves as the season progresses. The St. Louis Blues, Calgary Flames, and Montreal Canadiens are at the center of the speculation.
Blues' Core Drawing Interest
The St. Louis Blues are "open for business" and multiple insiders suggest that General Manager Doug Armstrong may be growing impatient with the team's performance. Frank Seravalli reported that Armstrong has been "pretty aggressive" in feeling out the market. The Blues' rough start to the season prompted coach Jim Montgomery to scratch Jordan Kyrou, one of the team's highest-paid players, sending a message to the group. Rival clubs are reportedly "circling" around Jordan Kyrou, Brayden Schenn, and Justin Faulk. Elliotte Friedman notes that Armstrong is "testing the value" of several roster pieces.
Brayden Schenn is generating interest in the trade market. Schenn was involved in rumors prior to last season's trade deadline, but a deal could be easier to facilitate now that his no-move clause has shrunk to a 15-team no-trade list. Contenders like the Toronto Maple Leafs and New Jersey Devils are believed to be circling. Schenn's $6.5 million cap hit complicates things but his leadership and playoff pedigree make him one of the most intriguing early-season trade chips.
Jordan Kyrou has also become the talk of trade discussions amid the Blues' rough start. Kyrou is in the third season of his eight-year, $65 million contract and has a no-trade clause. Montreal and the Islanders were among the teams to show interest in Kyrou around the draft, according to Pagnotta.
Kadri Remains a Hot Topic
Nazem Kadri remains a prominent name in trade discussions. Despite Calgary Flames ownership expressing reluctance to move the forward, half the league could have interest in the Calgary center. Kadri has a 13-team no-trade list. Kadri recently celebrated his 1,000th NHL game. Kadri's contract, which runs through 2029 with a $7 million cap hit, and his past conduct have raised questions about his trade value.
Several teams could be a fit for Kadri. The Montreal Canadiens are in search of a dependable second-line center. However, columnist Jack Todd considers Kadri to be an unsuitable option, citing his age, contract, and history of undisciplined play. The Carolina Hurricanes could also be a suitor for Kadri. However, the Hurricanes are reportedly on Kadri's no-trade list.
Canadiens Lurking
The Montreal Canadiens are expected to keep a close eye on the trade market. The Canadiens are targeting a former Toronto Maple Leafs trade option as they continue to build on their momentum. The Canadiens are being led by Nick Suzuki, Cole Caufield, and Lane Hutson. Montreal has over $6.4 million in cap space, giving them the flexibility to make moves if the right opportunity arises. According to David Pagnotta, one area the Canadiens might address is their second-line center position. Montreal has been linked to Nazem Kadri. GM Kent Hughes is keeping a close watch on the league's trade market. If they make another big splash it would not be shocking. The Canadiens are reportedly looking for help in the top-six forward group, ideally adding either a second-line center or a scoring winger to complement Nick Suzuki on the top unit.
