The NHL off-season is a time of uncertainty and speculation, with teams looking to make moves to ensure they are salary cap compliant by the start of the season. One team facing some tough decisions is the St. Louis Blues, particularly when it comes to their defensive situation.
With a number of left-handed blueliners vying for spots on the roster, including recent acquisitions like Ryan Suter and Pierre-Olivier Joseph, the Blues are in a tricky position. The looming injury to Torey Krug only adds to the uncertainty, as his $6.5 million cap hit could potentially be shifted to long-term injured reserve if he is unable to play this season.
General Manager, Armstrong, has hinted that a trade could be on the horizon, but it’s unclear who may be moved. Krug’s name has come up in rumours, although he does have a no-trade clause – albeit only for one more season. The veteran blueliner will have his ankle reevaluated in two months, with surgery potentially ruling him out for the season.
With the possibility of Krug being sidelined, younger and cheaper options like Scott Perunovich and Tyler Tucker may have a chance to prove themselves on the ice. The situation in St. Louis is fluid, with the potential for business to pick up as teams look to finalize their rosters before the start of the season. Stay tuned for more updates on the Blues’ defensive situation as the off-season progresses.
