Another NHL rumor edition is about to air. Even though the off-season is currently in progress, there are still a lot of hot stove-related topics to cover. Although everything may be quiet right now, business could still grow in the future. By the beginning of the season, teams must adhere to the salary cap, and transactions may begin as early as possible. The St. Louis Blues are one squad that must make some difficult choices. In this installment of NHL rumors, we examine the Blues’ defensive circumstances.
Interpretation: Torey Krug’s ankle diagnosis was made prior to Rutherford’s recap being published. A change in circumstances could present possibilities for several of these roster defenders, given the impending injury.
If Krug is given the all-clear, St. Louis has six left-handed blueliners vying for four roster slots. The six left-shot defensemen on the roster are Nick Leddy, Ryan Suter, Scott Perunovich, Tyler Tucker, Pierre-Olivier Joseph, and Krug. Joseph and Suter were recent additions, and Perunovich recently signed a new contract.
The Krug Predicament
There is a great deal of ambiguity surrounding Krug’s contract, which appears to be an anchor for the Blues. Now is the time to wait and see if Krug can play this season or will
Armstrong has stated that a trade could occur, although it’s unclear who would be dealt. Rumors have mentioned Krug’s name several times. He does, however, have a no-trade provision. That no-trade rule does apply, but it’s only good for the next season.
In roughly two months, the seasoned blueliner will get a new assessment of his ankle. His season would probably end with surgery. As noted by our own Andrew Willis, the injury might present an opportunity for the younger, less expensive candidates to excel.
If Krug is in good health
A favorable prognosis might force the Blues to start over. If Armstrong follows the New York Rangers’ lead, he might be lucky enough to have Barclay Goodrow claimed off waivers. But a lot of people were shocked that the San
St Louis could try and put Tucker or Joseph on waivers and see if they would be able to clear. However, that would expose those players to being claimed by any other team. Armstrong is hoping it doesn’t have to come to that point where he has to risk one of his young assets.
However, the Krug injury asks a lot more questions than it answers at this point. The cloud of uncertainty won’t be answered for a couple of months at least when we know if Krug will play in the 2024-25 season.
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