F.A.Q.

Answer:  Schenn's performance, especially his point production and physical play, reinforces the Blues' stance in negotiations. His current form keeps him valuable but also underlines the need for the Blues to reassess his future role and the potential return they could secure in a trade.

Answer:  If the Blues retain Schenn, they keep a veteran presence and a productive player who contributes to their playoff push. However, failure to capitalize on his current market value might lead to regret, especially if they can't afford his cap hit in the future. Strategic decisions must align with their long-term goals.

Answer:  While initially viewed as potential sellers, the Blues' recent success has led them to reconsider their strategy. They may not feel the need to engage in a full-scale rebuild and could instead look for ways to enhance their roster without making significant sacrifices. This shift suggests that they might explore trades that improve their chances of playoff contention rather than offloading key players.

Answer:  The Blues currently find themselves just one point shy of a wildcard playoff spot, making their postseason chances viable. However, with teams like Vancouver and Calgary holding games in hand, they must continue their current form to secure a playoff berth. A critical upcoming stretch of games will determine if they can capitalize on this opportunity or need to pivot to a different strategy.

Answer:  Teams like the Toronto Maple Leafs and Florida Panthers, who are in immediate win-now mode, could benefit from acquiring Braden Schenn. His experience and offensive skills could provide depth in the playoffs, especially in tight matchups. However, his age and contract demands might deter teams looking for long-term solutions.

Answer:  Sitting near the playoff cutoff line, the Blues hold a unique negotiating leverage. They can be more selective about trades, demanding quality returns for Schenn and others. This strategic position allows them to negotiate aggressively, ensuring they either improve their immediate prospects or strengthen future drafts.

Answer:  If the Blues retain Brayden Schenn, they may focus on strengthening their roster through strategic acquisitions rather than major trades. This could involve targeting players who complement their existing core, enhancing depth without disrupting team chemistry. Their strategy will likely hinge on performance metrics and playoff potential.

Answer:  The Blues' current roster, filled with players under long-term contracts, allows them to take their time with trades, as they can opt to retain key players for another season. This strategy could lead to better returns later, but it also places pressure on them to perform this season to justify not moving players like Schenn during the trade deadline.

Answer:  If the Blues opt not to make significant trades, they risk missing out on improving their roster for a playoff push, potentially losing valuable assets for nothing if they don't make the playoffs. Retaining players like Brayden Schenn without exploring trades could lead to dissatisfaction among fans and affect team dynamics in the long run if the outcomes are unfavorable.

Answer:  The Blues have a history of making strategic trades that have shaped their roster over the years. Their recent inclination to retain valuable assets suggests a shift towards building a long-term competitive team rather than immediate gains. Analyzing past trades can provide insights into current decision-making.

Answer:  The St. Louis Blues' high asking price for players like Braydon Schenn could limit their trading opportunities, as potential suitors may shy away from substantial offers. This could lead to missed opportunities to improve their roster, especially if they are unable to secure a trade that aligns with their valuation.

Answer:  The Blues' roster has a mix of veteran talent and young prospects, which influences their trade negotiations. They are in a position to leverage established players like Schenn for significant returns, but the current team's performance will determine how aggressively they pursue trades.

Answer:  The Blues have taken a conservative approach in recent trades, focusing on maximizing the return for their key players. This strategy highlights their commitment to building a competitive team while ensuring they do not undervalue their assets.

Answer:  The Blues are grappling with inconsistencies in their performance, particularly in Central Division matchups where they have a subpar record. Injuries to key players have further complicated their efforts, leading to difficulties in both scoring and defensive play. Addressing these challenges will be vital as they face a strong opponent in the Dallas Stars.

Answer:  The Blues' struggles this season have necessitated a more cautious and strategic trading approach. With some players underperforming, they might be inclined to pivot towards a rebuilding phase by moving key players for future assets. This shift in strategy reflects a need to reshape the team while still maintaining competitive potential.

Answer:  As the Blues navigate a challenging season, their primary goal will likely focus on reshaping their roster for future success. This could involve trading veterans like Schenn to acquire younger assets and draft picks, ensuring a more competitive future. Evaluating their current roster and making strategic choices will be essential as they plot their course.

Answer:  The Blues must weigh their future against current performance issues. Trading Schenn could signal a shift toward rebuilding, especially if they acquire youth or draft picks in return. This transitional phase could also involve re-evaluating other veterans on the roster to clear cap space and bring in fresh talent. The success of any trade will rely on securing players who align with their long-term vision.

Answer:  Robert Thomas' strong offensive performance indicates that he could be a breakout fantasy player this season. His ability to find scoring opportunities, combined with effective line chemistry, suggests that he will likely continue to generate points and be a constant contributor to the Blues' offense.

Answer:  Given Dubois' current form and continued scoring capability, he is shaping up to be a reliable fantasy option. His ability to not only score but also assist as part of a potent offensive line makes him a dual threat in fantasy formats, especially in leagues that reward points for assists and plus-minus stats.

Answer:  Hofer's strong performance in this game solidifies his status as the starting goalie for the Blues, which can have a significant positive impact on his fantasy value. Goaltenders are often judged by their win-loss records and save percentages, and a consistent role could see his numbers improve, making him a valuable asset in fantasy leagues.

Answer:  If Broberg continues his current scoring pace, he could surpass personal bests in goals and points. Additionally, if he maintains his performance through the playoffs, he may set records within the franchise for young players, significantly impacting his career trajectory.