In recent weeks, Pavel Buchnevich’s camp was confident he would stay with the St. Louis Blues after the NHL trade deadline, and they were right. Despite interest from teams like the Edmonton Oilers and Vegas Golden Knights, he wasn’t traded. However, discussions about a potential trade could emerge this summer or next season, the final year of his contract. For now, he remains with the Blues, and GM Doug Armstrong hasn’t dismissed the idea of an extension when Buchnevich becomes eligible to be re-signed on July 1. Armstrong emphasized there’s no hurry, highlighting Buchnevich’s value and consistent performance.
Meanwhile, Detroit Red Wings GM Steve Yzerman expected a quiet trade deadline. Head coach Derek Lalonde suggested that opting not to make moves reflected confidence in the current roster. Ultimately, the Red Wings traded Klim Kostin to create cap space but decided against further changes, relying on their depth to break a seven-year playoff drought. Yzerman mentioned they looked into adding a forward but opted not to, considering Kostin’s limited role.
Buffalo Sabres GM Kevyn Adams initially didn’t want to sell at the deadline, but after realizing the team wouldn’t make the playoffs, he traded captain Kyle Okposo to the Florida Panthers for a conditional seventh-round pick and prospect Calle Sajalin. Adams expressed disappointment, particularly given the hope that Okposo could help in a playoff run.
In contrast, the Vancouver Canucks, currently leading the Pacific Division, were expected to be active buyers but took a more cautious approach. Despite a successful road trip, GM Patrik Allvin and president Jim Rutherford decided against any trades, focusing on their long-term strategy.
Lastly, Montreal Canadiens GM Kent Hughes began his trade strategy months in advance, culminating in the deal of goaltender Jake Allen to the New Jersey Devils for a conditional third-round pick. This trade, along with the earlier contract extension for Sam Montembeault, clarified the Canadiens’ goaltending situation and set the stage for future decisions.
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