Blues Captain Brayden Schenn Acknowledges Trade Deadline Uncertainty
St. Louis Blues captain Brayden Schenn has admitted the lead-up to the March 6th trade deadline is a difficult time for the team, as the Blues currently trail the Oilers by 13 points in the Western Conference playoff race. Schenn, who has 25 points in 60 games this season, noted the uncertainty surrounding players with varying levels of trade protection, calling it “part of the business.” Other Blues players mentioned in trade rumors include Robert Thomas, Jordan Kyrou, and Justin Faulk. Coach Jim Montgomery acknowledged the emotional toll on players during this period, stating the team is navigating the situation while continuing to prepare for games.
Blues Captain Brayden Schenn Navigates Trade Deadline Uncertainty
St. Louis Blues captain Brayden Schenn acknowledges the difficult atmosphere surrounding the upcoming trade deadline, as his team struggles to remain competitive.
Blues Face Playoff Challenges
St. Louis currently holds a record of 22-29-9 and trails the Edmonton Oilers by 13 points in the race for a Western Conference wild card spot. Several players are subject to trade speculation.
Schenn Addresses the Situation
“It’s an uneasy time for everyone, especially the position we’ve put ourselves in,” Schenn stated. “We obviously notice names out there, but at the end of the day, you have a job to do and you come out, you practice hard, you play hard, you put your head down and you be a pro. That’s what it boils down to.”
He further explained that players have varying degrees of control over their situations, acknowledging the inherent business aspect of the NHL. “Some guys have full control, some guys have some control and some guys have none. But at the end of the day, it’s part of the business. No one likes going through it. But we know what we signed up for.”
Schenn’s Contract and Trade Clause
Schenn is in the fifth year of an eight-year, $52 million contract with a $6.5 million average annual value. His original full no-trade protection has been modified to a 15-team no-trade clause.
Other Blues Players in Trade Discussions
Robert Thomas and Jordan Kyrou have also been mentioned in trade rumors, but any deal involving them would require them to waive their full no-trade clauses. Justin Faulk is another player potentially available.
Coach Montgomery Acknowledges Player Distraction
Blues coach Jim Montgomery recognizes the mental toll the trade deadline takes on players. “You understand the human element,” he said. “Sometimes peoples’ minds might be somewhere else, so you talk to them in between whistles while the other group is going instead of blowing it down and slowing down practice because you understand that you need to get through practice and you also understand the human element of it. Everybody knows it’s coming.”
Potential Impact on Team Dynamics
The situation highlights the challenges teams face when navigating the trade deadline while attempting to maintain focus and professionalism. Similar scenarios have played out across the league, impacting team chemistry and performance.
Did you know?
Trade deadline day is often described as “Black Friday” for NHL general managers, with a flurry of activity as teams attempt to improve their rosters for a playoff push or commence rebuilding for the future.
FAQ
- What is a no-trade clause? A no-trade clause gives a player the right to veto any trade that would send them to another team.
- What is a limited no-trade clause? A limited no-trade clause allows a player to block trades to a specific number of teams.
- How does the trade deadline affect players? The trade deadline can create uncertainty and anxiety for players, as they may be traded to a new team.
Pro Tip
Teams often prioritize acquiring players who can fill specific roles, such as a physical third-line center or a puck-moving defenseman, rather than simply targeting high-profile names.
The Blues are scheduled to play the Seattle Kraken on Wednesday.
Stay tuned to 247sports.new for the latest updates on the NHL trade deadline.