Brayden Schenn's potential trade from the St. Louis Blues to the Toronto Maple Leafs is heating up as the trade deadline approaches. Leafs GM Brad Treliving acknowledges that while the Leafs have assets to make a deal, they haven't yet formulated a compelling offer. Schenn, the Blues captain, would be a valuable addition for the Leafs, though his hefty $6.5 million cap hit complicates matters for a team already lacking cap space.

The Blues are reportedly asking for a steep price, including three top prospects and a first-round pick, which the Leafs are hesitant to meet. Treliving hinted at the need for a targeted approach, emphasizing that not all improvements must come from blockbuster trades. With other Atlantic Division rivals bolstering their rosters, the urgency to act increases, although the Leafs might consider alternative targets if Schenn's price remains too high.

The Toronto Maple Leafs are in pursuit of a centerman, but a trade for Brayden Schenn from the St. Louis Blues appears unlikely as the Blues remain competitive in the playoff race. Despite the Leafs' willingness to offer above market value, a deal hinges on the Blues receiving an impressive package. Alternatives like Scott Laughton of the Philadelphia Flyers could be viable options, especially with Brock Nelson from the New York Islanders unlikely to be extended.

Meanwhile, the Minnesota Wild's salary cap situation complicates any potential trades as they navigate injuries and the return of Kirill Kaprizov. General manager Bill Guerin has stated that the Wild lack flexibility, which might limit their chances to make impactful trades. They acquired Gustav Nyquist but will need to balance their roster financially to make any further moves, considering players like Marcus Johansson and Ryan Hartman have trade clauses that may restrict their movements.

The Toronto Maple Leafs are actively scouting for a center, but options like Brayden Schenn from the St. Louis Blues may not be viable due to the Blues' playoff aspirations. While the Leafs are willing to exceed fair market value, a trade for Schenn appears unlikely. Alternative players like Scott Laughton from the Philadelphia Flyers could be more achievable. Meanwhile, the Minnesota Wild are facing cap constraints as they prepare to activate Kirill Kaprizov from LTIR, limiting their trade options. General Manager Bill Guerin emphasizes that any potential moves will require significant salary adjustments.

As the NHL trade deadline approaches, the New Jersey Devils are positioning themselves as buyers, especially in light of potential injuries to key players like Jack Hughes. General Manager Tom Fitzgerald is not expected to hesitate in seeking reinforcements, particularly at the center position. Meanwhile, the St. Louis Blues, after a recent uptick in form, find themselves just a point out of a wildcard playoff spot, leading to speculation about their strategy.

Despite the upward momentum, the Blues may not feel the immediate pressure to make significant moves before the deadline. As both teams evaluate their needs, the dynamics of the trade market will play a crucial role in shaping their rosters for the remaining season and beyond.

Seattle Kraken forward Yanni Gourde and fellow teammate Oliver Bjorkstrand are at the center of trade discussions with the Tampa Bay Lightning. The potential trade hinges on a $3.5 million salary cap gap, leaving Seattle or a third party responsible for covering part of the salary. Meanwhile, the Utah Hockey Club is actively seeking to upgrade their roster, possibly offloading Matias Maccelli. The St. Louis Blues are likely to keep their roster intact, as Brayden Schenn prefers to stay, though he has intrigued other teams. Lastly, the Columbus Blue Jackets are exploring options for a middle-six forward but are hesitant to offer long-term contracts as they negotiate with Ivan Provorov.