NHL trade rumors: $45,500,000 St. Louis Blues D-man on chopping block after last season's failed trade attempt
Torey Krug, who signed a 7-year, $45.5 million contract with the St. Louis Blues, might be on the move this offseason. With six left-shot defensemen on their roster, the Blues are facing a crowded blueline.
After signing Ryan Suter, general manager Doug Armstrong hinted at the possibility of a trade to address the D-man surplus.
Last summer, the Blues attempted to trade Torey Krug to the Philadelphia Flyers, but he invoked his full no-trade clause, blocking the move. This clause remains in effect until July 2025, and sources close to Krug suggest he won’t waive it.
Jeremy Rutherford of The Athletic notes that the Blues might consider placing Krug on waivers, though it is uncertain if any team would claim him.
"This creates the appearance that a trade could be coming this offseason, and Armstrong has said several times that it is a possibility. The player most often speculated to be moving is Krug following the Blues’ ill-fated attempt to deal him last summer when he invoked his no-trade clause in a potential move to the Philadelphia Flyers," Rutherford said (via The Athletic).
Krug’s contract guarantees him an average annual salary of $6.5 million, with a base salary of $8.5 million for the 2024-25 season. The Blues’ defensive situation and Krug’s refusal to waive his no-trade clause leave the team in a difficult position.
Florida Everblades announce multi-year affiliation with St. Louis Blues
On July 10, 2024, the Florida Everblades announced a multi-year affiliation with the NHL's St. Louis Blues, starting from the 2024-25 season. This partnership also involves the Blues' AHL affiliate, the Springfield Thunderbirds.
Everblades owner David Hoffmann expressed enthusiasm about partnering with his home state team.
“This affiliation with the St. Louis Blues is incredibly exciting for the Everblades organization and me personally,” Hoffmann said (via NHL.com). “Having the opportunity to partner with a team from my home state, a team with such a rich history and passionate fanbase, is truly special."
The Blues, established in 1967 and 2019 Stanley Cup winners, have made 45 playoff appearances and four Stanley Cup Final trips. The Everblades, founded in 1998, will celebrate their 27th season, having just won their fourth Kelly Cup and becoming the first ECHL team to win three consecutive championships.
They've qualified for the playoffs in 25 of their 26 seasons, with 40 players advancing to the NHL.
The Springfield Thunderbirds, the St. Louis Blues' AHL affiliate since 2016, have a history of developing NHL talent and increasing attendance. They set a Springfield AHL record in the 2023-24 season.