Trade Discussions Breakdown

Negotiations between the Buffalo Sabres and the St. Louis Blues regarding forward Robert Thomas have reportedly stalled, according to TSN Hockey Insider Darren Dreger. The Sabres appear unwilling to meet the Blues’ demands for a trade package.

“It’s believed St Louis/Buffalo went the distance on Thomas trade talks. Sounds like the Sabres aren’t willing to part with the necessary pieces. (Prospects, Player, 1st). Still teams nibbling, but the Blues are firm in what the return needs to be for the young center.”

Darren Dreger, TSN Hockey Insider

The Blues are seeking a significant return, reportedly including prospects, a player and a first-round draft pick. TSN Hockey Insider Chris Johnston reported Tuesday the Sabres were prepared to offer the equivalent of four first-round picks.

“The Blues have been looking for three to four ‘premium assets’ in this deal, which is one of the reasons all these teams out there with that interest haven’t got to the point where Buffalo is,”

Chris Johnston, TSN Hockey Insider

Johnston also indicated the Sabres have put together a package of picks, players, and prospects valued at approximately four assets.

Blues’ Demands and Thomas’ Value

Thomas, 26, is signed through the 2030-31 season with a cap hit of $8.125 million and possesses a full no-trade clause. He has 12 goals and 35 points in 43 games this season. The Blues won their first Stanley Cup championship in 2019 with Thomas contributing a goal and six points in 21 playoff games. He was originally selected 20th overall in the 2017 draft.

Other Potential Moves

The Sabres have also expressed interest in adding a defenseman, and discussions with the Blues reportedly included blueliners Justin Faulk and Colton Parayko.

The Montreal Canadiens explored a trade for Thomas but balked at the Blues’ asking price, which included players like Michael Hage and David Reinbacher.

“Yes, (the Canadiens) had conversations with the Blues about Thomas, but when the request involves the likes of Michael Hage, David Reinbacher, plus, plus, it doesn’t make sense right now from the Habs’ perspective to get into that kind of transaction.

Pierre LeBrun, TSN Hockey Insider

Other Trade Rumors

The Modern Jersey Devils are reportedly fielding calls on 2022 second overall pick Simon Nemec, but are currently content to retain him unless a deal significantly improves their forward group.

“Going to be fascinating to see what happens on the Simon Nemec front. Devils are taking calls on the second overall pick from ’22. No shortage of teams checking in. New Jersey happy to keep him, but if there’s a deal that upgrades their forwards in a real way, they’re going to…

Pierre LeBrun, TSN Hockey Insider

The situation surrounding Tyler Myers and a potential trade to the Detroit Red Wings is also nearing a resolution, which could impact the market for other defensemen like Rasmus Ristolainen.