Welcome to the thrilling world of hockey trade analysis in the “Since 2000” series, where we delve into the most impactful trades that have shaped the St. Louis Blues roster over the years. We’ve already covered starting goalies, head coaches, first-round picks, and captains, but now it’s time to explore how these teams are built – through trades.
In our latest edition, we are counting down the top-ten most influential Blues trades since 2000. These trades have had a lasting impact on the team’s success and roster composition, shaping the franchise’s destiny for years to come.
Let’s kick things off with a major trade that sent shockwaves through the league. The Buffalo Sabres acquired Jaroslav Halak, Chris Stewart, William Carrier, a 2015 first-round pick, and a 2016 third-round pick from the Blues in exchange for Ryan Miller and Steve Ott. The Blues were riding high on a successful season, eyeing the Stanley Cup, and believed that Miller and Ott could be the missing pieces to their championship puzzle.
However, things didn’t go as planned. Miller struggled in the playoffs, posting a dismal save percentage and failing to lead the Blues to victory. Despite the trade not yielding the desired results, it showcased the Blues’ willingness to make big moves to bolster their chances of winning it all. Ott’s presence on the team also provided an added depth and grittiness, influencing the team’s dynamic on the ice.
As we move on to our next trade, let’s shine the spotlight on a deal that exceeded all expectations. In February 2014, the Blues sent Sammy Blais and a future draft pick to the New York Rangers in exchange for Pavel Buchnevich. While the trade initially seemed like a move to add scoring depth, Buchnevich proved to be a game-changer for the Blues.
In his tenure with the Blues, Buchnevich blossomed into an elite scorer, surpassing his previous goal-scoring records with the Rangers. His offensive prowess and playmaking abilities elevated the team’s performance and contributed to their success on the ice. This trade serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of player acquisitions and the impact they can have on a team’s performance.
Stay tuned for more exciting trade analyses and in-depth coverage of the St. Louis Blues’ history of building championship-caliber rosters. The journey to uncover the team’s most influential trades continues, highlighting the strategic decisions and calculated risks that have shaped the Blues’ legacy in the NHL.