Colton Parayko, the St. Louis Blues' leading defenseman, faces a significant setback as he is expected to miss the remainder of the regular season due to a knee injury sustained during a recent game against the Los Angeles Kings. The injury occurred during a shootout victory, and Blues' GM Doug Armstrong confirmed that Parayko will undergo a surgical procedure with a six-week recovery timeline. This absence comes at a critical time for the Blues, who are currently vying for a playoff spot, sitting just one point behind the final wild-card position in the Western Conference.

Parayko, who averages nearly 24 minutes of ice time per game and has contributed 35 points this season, plays a pivotal role in the team's defense. His loss is likely to strain an already challenged roster as the Blues work to secure their playoff aspirations. With only two days remaining before the end of the regular season, the management will need to assess their options quickly to fill the void left by his absence.

The St. Louis Blues are facing a significant setback as top defenseman Colton Parayko is set to miss the remainder of the regular season due to a left knee injury sustained during a recent shootout victory against the Los Angeles Kings. Blues general manager Doug Armstrong announced that Parayko will undergo knee surgery and will be evaluated in six weeks. With Parayko averaging nearly 24 minutes of ice time per game and contributing 35 points this season, his absence is expected to have a substantial impact on the Blues' playoff hopes, especially as they trail just one point behind the final wild-card spot in the Western Conference.

Colton Parayko, the key defenseman for the St. Louis Blues, is set to undergo surgery on his left knee, with a recovery timeline of approximately six weeks. This injury, sustained during a recent victory over the Los Angeles Kings, poses a significant challenge for the Blues as they vie for a playoff spot. Parayko's performance this season has been stellar, marked by a personal best of 15 goals and 35 points in 62 games, leading the team in ice time.

His absence comes at a crucial moment, as the Blues are just a point away from the final wild-card position in the Western Conference. Parayko's career achievements include over 700 regular-season games and participation in international tournaments, further solidifying his importance to the team.

As the NHL trade deadline approaches, Toronto Maple Leafs GM Brad Treliving emphasizes a cautious approach towards enhancing the roster. He hinted at potential moves that may not make headlines but are crucial for the team's improvement. The Maple Leafs are on the lookout for a reliable third-line center and bolstering their defense, especially after recent injuries. With teams like the Florida Panthers and Tampa Bay Lightning making significant acquisitions, the pressure is on the Leafs to respond effectively.

Names like Scott Laughton from the Philadelphia Flyers and Ryan O'Reilly from the Nashville Predators are on the radar, offering physicality and playoff experience. Other targets include Brayden Schenn from the St. Louis Blues and Luke Schenn from the Pittsburgh Penguins, both of whom could strengthen the defensive lineup. As the trade deadline nears, the scouting and negotiations will intensify for the Leafs.

The Montreal Canadiens are strategically considering a 'hockey trade' to align with their long-term goals, with GM Kent Hughes indicating that Joel Armia and David Savard are not untouchable unless the right offer arises. Meanwhile, the Toronto Maple Leafs continue their pursuit of a center, highlighting interest in Brayden Schenn of the St. Louis Blues, with options such as Brock Nelson and Scott Laughton also on the table. The Leafs are contemplating trading young prospects including Easton Cowan, Fraser Minten, and Ben Danford for Schenn, but it remains uncertain if this would meet the Blues' expectations.

In the West, the Vancouver Canucks are weighing their options as potential buyers and sellers at the deadline, particularly regarding Brock Boeser, who is attracting market interest. The Canucks aim to assess their strategy with several players, including Mikko Rantanen and Rickard Rakell, while focusing on the long-term potential rather than immediate gains.