Blues rumored pursuing Nikishin

[UMR-alum-05]

Here I'll entertain this trade for a second.

Neighbours + what I'll call "a TBD draft pick" for Nikishin and Kotkaniemi.

Here's your lineup.

Holloway Thomas Snuggerud
McMichael McTavish Buch
Suter Dvorsky Berggren
Johnston Kotkaniemi Torpchenko

Finley Walker. (Stenberg to the AHL or trade)

Broberg Mailloux
Nikishin Parayko
Fowler Carlo
Tucker

Cap wise they are at 94MM today. Add 6.5MM for McMichael, the rumored 8MM for Nikishin, 4.8MM for Kotkaniemi subtract 3.75MM for Neighbours and 6.5MM for Krug. This trade just fits. Just barely fits the cap. Doesn't leave you any flexibility really for the season either. For me something else would also have to move out like perhaps Torpchenko and play Peterson or Walker in that spot. That would save a million plus and create some flexibility.

Then youve effectively blocked Lindstein from the roster for a couple years. I suppose you could consider a trade with Lindstein.

In you D pairings, I switch Mailloux and Carlo. It frees up Broberg and Mailloux to get more involved in the offense.

Also I should have added to alleviate the cap concern I was alluding to, you could keep Torp if they like that fourth line, move Suter out, and play Stenberg at that 3LW spot. That would put the payroll back down closer to 100MM with a 104MM cap

[noted]

at this point today, Nikishin would be more of a luxury than a necessity. Would he help us? absolutely, and he would grow with the team and getting a top 4 dman is never a bad thing.

But he isn't needed, he plays a position we have in abundance on both the NHL roster and in the minors. What we have may not be as good as him, but they aren't a bunch of pedestrians either.

Unless we can get him without giving much, and don't have to take Kotkaniemi sure, but if the cost is expensive and we have to take Kotkaniemi, no thanks there's just point.

If the Blues can fit both in their salary structure..you do it without hesitation. Parayko and Binnington can both go if necessary. Both are long gone by the time we are a cup contender anyway.

The organization has already announced Parayko is not being traded. The fact that you continue to run around from thread to thread talking about him being traded is bizarre. For all we know the player is refusing to be traded which is his contractual right.

You mean the same organization that gave him no trade clause to begin him and then tried to trade him without asking first if he would waive said no trade clause? That one?

[son_of_foolsgold]

at this point today, Nikishin would be more of a luxury than a necessity. Would he help us? absolutely, and he would grow with the team and getting a top 4 dman is never a bad thing.

But he isn't needed, he plays a position we have in abundance on both the NHL roster and in the minors. What we have may not be as good as him, but they aren't a bunch of pedestrians either.

Unless we can get him without giving much, and don't have to take Kotkaniemi sure, but if the cost is expensive and we have to take Kotkaniemi, no thanks there's just point.

If the Blues can fit both in their salary structure..you do it without hesitation. Parayko and Binnington can both go if necessary. Both are long gone by the time we are a cup contender anyway.

The organization has already announced Parayko is not being traded. The fact that you continue to run around from thread to thread talking about him being traded is bizarre. For all we know the player is refusing to be traded which is his contractual right.

Please post a link to that organizational announcement that Parayko won't be traded.

[somni]

at this point today, Nikishin would be more of a luxury than a necessity. Would he help us? absolutely, and he would grow with the team and getting a top 4 dman is never a bad thing.

But he isn't needed, he plays a position we have in abundance on both the NHL roster and in the minors. What we have may not be as good as him, but they aren't a bunch of pedestrians either.

Unless we can get him without giving much, and don't have to take Kotkaniemi sure, but if the cost is expensive and we have to take Kotkaniemi, no thanks there's just point.

If the Blues can fit both in their salary structure..you do it without hesitation. Parayko and Binnington can both go if necessary. Both are long gone by the time we are a cup contender anyway.

The organization has already announced Parayko is not being traded. The fact that you continue to run around from thread to thread talking about him being traded is bizarre. For all we know the player is refusing to be traded which is his contractual right.

Please post a link to that organizational announcement that Parayko won't be traded.

https://x.com/NHLRumourReport/status/20 ... 42601?s=20

Frank Seravalli: Re Blues: Teams have called...as recently as this week, and they have been told that they're not interested in moving Robert Thomas and that Colton Parayko is unavailable - Big Show (6/26)

It's been talked about on 101 too.

[son_of_foolsgold]

at this point today, Nikishin would be more of a luxury than a necessity. Would he help us? absolutely, and he would grow with the team and getting a top 4 dman is never a bad thing.

But he isn't needed, he plays a position we have in abundance on both the NHL roster and in the minors. What we have may not be as good as him, but they aren't a bunch of pedestrians either.

Unless we can get him without giving much, and don't have to take Kotkaniemi sure, but if the cost is expensive and we have to take Kotkaniemi, no thanks there's just point.

If the Blues can fit both in their salary structure..you do it without hesitation. Parayko and Binnington can both go if necessary. Both are long gone by the time we are a cup contender anyway.

The organization has already announced Parayko is not being traded. The fact that you continue to run around from thread to thread talking about him being traded is bizarre. For all we know the player is refusing to be traded which is his contractual right.

Please post a link to that organizational announcement that Parayko won't be traded.

https://x.com/NHLRumourReport/status/20 ... 42601?s=20

Frank Seravalli: Re Blues: Teams have called...as recently as this week, and they have been told that they're not interested in moving Robert Thomas and that Colton Parayko is unavailable - Big Show (6/26)

It's been talked about on 101 too.

Gotcha!

Major FAIL, dope....Look at that link again.

x.com/NHLRumourReport/status/2071802157070942601?s=20

Can't tell the difference between a rumor and fact?

[TBone]

2 Scenarios for the Blues to Acquire the Hurricanes’ Nikishin

Joshua M.
The Hockey Writers
Jul 6, 2026

The St. Louis Blues have emerged as one of several teams showing interest in Carolina Hurricanes defenseman Alexander Nikishin, with NHL insider Elliotte Friedman reporting that St. Louis has taken a “long look” at the 24-year-old restricted free agent as offseason trade and contract discussions begin to circulate.

It is not a situation driven by a trade request, and the Hurricanes have not yet moved to lock him up on an extension, but the interest is real enough that multiple teams have already checked in. Once that happens, the conversation quickly shifts to one question. What would it actually take to get a deal done?

Why Nikishin Is Drawing Attention

Nikishin just completed his first full NHL season with Carolina, appearing in 81 games and recording 11 goals and 22 assists for 33 points while logging just over 18 minutes per night. He finished with a plus-18 rating and played a steady role for the Stanley Cup champions.

At 6-foot-3 and 216 pounds, he brings size, mobility, and offensive ability from the blue line that is extremely difficult to find in a 24-year-old defenseman already handling top-four minutes.

Before coming to North America full time, Nikishin built a strong reputation in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) as one of the most dominant young defensemen outside the NHL, and that projection is now starting to translate.

The Contract Picture and Cap Pressure

This situation is being driven as much by contracts and cap structure as it is by on-ice performance. Nikishin is coming off his entry-level deal and is now a restricted free agent due for a significant raise. League projections have suggested a long-term extension could land in the range of $7.5 million to $8.5 million annually, depending on term and structure.

The Hurricanes are coming off a Stanley Cup win and remain built as a high-end contender, but even championship teams have to manage long-term cap structure carefully. Committing that type of money to another young defenseman forces them to weigh depth across the roster against long-term cost. They are not forced to move him, but with multiple teams calling, they are in a position where listening is reasonable.

The Blues are also managing future commitments, with younger core players approaching new deals. One of the key decisions is Connor McMichael, who is heading through salary arbitration and will need a new contract in place before the organization can fully assess its remaining cap flexibility.

Depending on the final number, McMichael’s deal could impact how aggressive St. Louis can be in pursuing additional long-term contracts, including a potential swing at Nikishin. That makes any move for the Hurricanes defenseman a balancing act between present roster construction and future cap structure.

Why the Blues Are Involved

From St. Louis’ perspective, this type of player fits a clear organizational need.

The Blues forward group is trending upward, with a young core beginning to take shape and look like a real strength moving forward. That part of the roster is starting to solidify and develop real identity.

The defense, however, still lacks a true young long-term anchor who can grow alongside that forward group. They have multiple defensive prospects, but they need someone NHL-ready now. He could easily fit into a defensive pairing with Colton Parayko or Logan Mailloux if needed.

That gap is exactly why Nikishin is appealing. He fits the age, timeline, and skill level of what the Blues are trying to build toward, while also offering immediate top-four capability. But fitting what the Hurricanes are asking is going to be very hard.

Mock Trade 1

Blues receive Nikishin
Hurricanes receive Pius Suter, Theo Lindstein, 2027 first-round pick

This is the type of package St. Louis would likely present early in discussions.

Suter, who is under a two-year, $8.25 million contract with a $4.125 million cap hit through the 2026-27 season, gives Carolina an immediate NHL veteran forward who can stabilize depth across the lineup and play in multiple roles. He brings short-term cost certainty and flexibility, with term remaining before reaching unrestricted free agency.

Lindstein is the key piece, a 21-year-old defenseman with strong skating ability and top-four projection if he develops as expected. He has appeared in 17 NHL games to date and is viewed as a player who could be ready to make the jump full-time within the next year or two, projecting as a reliable, two-way defenseman at the NHL level wherever he lands.

The 2027 first-round pick adds premium future value in what is expected to be a strong and competitive draft environment. From Carolina’s side, it is a balanced package that includes immediate help, a high-upside defensive prospect, and a first-round pick without overcommitting in any one area.

From St. Louis’ side, it keeps the core intact while still making a meaningful swing on a 24-year-old defenseman. With that said, Carolina accepting this trade is still a long shot.

Mock Trade 2

Blues receive Nikishin
Hurricanes receive Suter, Cam Fowler, 2027 third-round pick

Suter again provides forward depth and versatility. Fowler adds a veteran left-shot defenseman with a $6.5 million cap hit who can still play meaningful minutes in a top-four or second-pair role.

However, Fowler carries a full no-trade clause, meaning any deal would require his approval before Carolina could officially move forward. That adds a layer of complexity to the framework, even if the structure is otherwise workable. The 2027 third-round pick rounds out the return with additional value.

From Carolina’s perspective, Fowler provides an established NHL presence on the back end while Suter helps maintain forward depth. The financial element also matters, as Fowler’s cap hit would need to fit into their long-term planning even after a Cup-winning season.

For St. Louis, this is a more aggressive reshaping of the roster. They move out a veteran contract, adjust their cap structure, and target a 24-year-old defenseman who could immediately step into a top-four role and become part of their long-term core.

https://thehockeywriters.com/2-scenario ... -nikishin/

[tfriede2]

Despite what the Blues reportedly told other teams, if the right deal comes along that includes Parayko, he’ll be asked to waive. I don’t think this one qualifies, however.

[Army's Mom]

at this point today, Nikishin would be more of a luxury than a necessity. Would he help us? absolutely, and he would grow with the team and getting a top 4 dman is never a bad thing.

But he isn't needed, he plays a position we have in abundance on both the NHL roster and in the minors. What we have may not be as good as him, but they aren't a bunch of pedestrians either.

Unless we can get him without giving much, and don't have to take Kotkaniemi sure, but if the cost is expensive and we have to take Kotkaniemi, no thanks there's just point.

If the Blues can fit both in their salary structure..you do it without hesitation. Parayko and Binnington can both go if necessary. Both are long gone by the time we are a cup contender anyway.

The organization has already announced Parayko is not being traded. The fact that you continue to run around from thread to thread talking about him being traded is bizarre. For all we know the player is refusing to be traded which is his contractual right.

Please post a link to that organizational announcement that Parayko won't be traded.

https://x.com/NHLRumourReport/status/20 ... 42601?s=20

Frank Seravalli: Re Blues: Teams have called...as recently as this week, and they have been told that they're not interested in moving Robert Thomas and that Colton Parayko is unavailable - Big Show (6/26)

It's been talked about on 101 too.

Gotcha!

Major FAIL, dope....Look at that link again.

x.com/NHLRumourReport/status/2071802157070942601?s=20

Can't tell the difference between a rumor and fact?

So, because the web domain has the word "rumor" in it, you don't think a direct quote applies? I know reading comprehension is tough, but at least try. Troll.

[LGB73]

2 Scenarios for the Blues to Acquire the Hurricanes’ Nikishin

Joshua M.
The Hockey Writers
Jul 6, 2026

The St. Louis Blues have emerged as one of several teams showing interest in Carolina Hurricanes defenseman Alexander Nikishin, with NHL insider Elliotte Friedman reporting that St. Louis has taken a “long look” at the 24-year-old restricted free agent as offseason trade and contract discussions begin to circulate.

It is not a situation driven by a trade request, and the Hurricanes have not yet moved to lock him up on an extension, but the interest is real enough that multiple teams have already checked in. Once that happens, the conversation quickly shifts to one question. What would it actually take to get a deal done?

Why Nikishin Is Drawing Attention

Nikishin just completed his first full NHL season with Carolina, appearing in 81 games and recording 11 goals and 22 assists for 33 points while logging just over 18 minutes per night. He finished with a plus-18 rating and played a steady role for the Stanley Cup champions.

At 6-foot-3 and 216 pounds, he brings size, mobility, and offensive ability from the blue line that is extremely difficult to find in a 24-year-old defenseman already handling top-four minutes.

Before coming to North America full time, Nikishin built a strong reputation in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) as one of the most dominant young defensemen outside the NHL, and that projection is now starting to translate.

The Contract Picture and Cap Pressure

This situation is being driven as much by contracts and cap structure as it is by on-ice performance. Nikishin is coming off his entry-level deal and is now a restricted free agent due for a significant raise. League projections have suggested a long-term extension could land in the range of $7.5 million to $8.5 million annually, depending on term and structure.

The Hurricanes are coming off a Stanley Cup win and remain built as a high-end contender, but even championship teams have to manage long-term cap structure carefully. Committing that type of money to another young defenseman forces them to weigh depth across the roster against long-term cost. They are not forced to move him, but with multiple teams calling, they are in a position where listening is reasonable.

The Blues are also managing future commitments, with younger core players approaching new deals. One of the key decisions is Connor McMichael, who is heading through salary arbitration and will need a new contract in place before the organization can fully assess its remaining cap flexibility.

Depending on the final number, McMichael’s deal could impact how aggressive St. Louis can be in pursuing additional long-term contracts, including a potential swing at Nikishin. That makes any move for the Hurricanes defenseman a balancing act between present roster construction and future cap structure.

Why the Blues Are Involved

From St. Louis’ perspective, this type of player fits a clear organizational need.

The Blues forward group is trending upward, with a young core beginning to take shape and look like a real strength moving forward. That part of the roster is starting to solidify and develop real identity.

The defense, however, still lacks a true young long-term anchor who can grow alongside that forward group. They have multiple defensive prospects, but they need someone NHL-ready now. He could easily fit into a defensive pairing with Colton Parayko or Logan Mailloux if needed.

That gap is exactly why Nikishin is appealing. He fits the age, timeline, and skill level of what the Blues are trying to build toward, while also offering immediate top-four capability. But fitting what the Hurricanes are asking is going to be very hard.

Mock Trade 1

Blues receive Nikishin
Hurricanes receive Pius Suter, Theo Lindstein, 2027 first-round pick

This is the type of package St. Louis would likely present early in discussions.

Suter, who is under a two-year, $8.25 million contract with a $4.125 million cap hit through the 2026-27 season, gives Carolina an immediate NHL veteran forward who can stabilize depth across the lineup and play in multiple roles. He brings short-term cost certainty and flexibility, with term remaining before reaching unrestricted free agency.

Lindstein is the key piece, a 21-year-old defenseman with strong skating ability and top-four projection if he develops as expected. He has appeared in 17 NHL games to date and is viewed as a player who could be ready to make the jump full-time within the next year or two, projecting as a reliable, two-way defenseman at the NHL level wherever he lands.

The 2027 first-round pick adds premium future value in what is expected to be a strong and competitive draft environment. From Carolina’s side, it is a balanced package that includes immediate help, a high-upside defensive prospect, and a first-round pick without overcommitting in any one area.

From St. Louis’ side, it keeps the core intact while still making a meaningful swing on a 24-year-old defenseman. With that said, Carolina accepting this trade is still a long shot.

Mock Trade 2

Blues receive Nikishin
Hurricanes receive Suter, Cam Fowler, 2027 third-round pick

Suter again provides forward depth and versatility. Fowler adds a veteran left-shot defenseman with a $6.5 million cap hit who can still play meaningful minutes in a top-four or second-pair role.

However, Fowler carries a full no-trade clause, meaning any deal would require his approval before Carolina could officially move forward. That adds a layer of complexity to the framework, even if the structure is otherwise workable. The 2027 third-round pick rounds out the return with additional value.

From Carolina’s perspective, Fowler provides an established NHL presence on the back end while Suter helps maintain forward depth. The financial element also matters, as Fowler’s cap hit would need to fit into their long-term planning even after a Cup-winning season.

For St. Louis, this is a more aggressive reshaping of the roster. They move out a veteran contract, adjust their cap structure, and target a 24-year-old defenseman who could immediately step into a top-four role and become part of their long-term core.

https://thehockeywriters.com/2-scenario ... -nikishin/

I would do backflips if it was the second mock trade and I don't even see the point in trying to get the guy with our glut at LD.

[somni]

at this point today, Nikishin would be more of a luxury than a necessity. Would he help us? absolutely, and he would grow with the team and getting a top 4 dman is never a bad thing.

But he isn't needed, he plays a position we have in abundance on both the NHL roster and in the minors. What we have may not be as good as him, but they aren't a bunch of pedestrians either.

Unless we can get him without giving much, and don't have to take Kotkaniemi sure, but if the cost is expensive and we have to take Kotkaniemi, no thanks there's just point.

If the Blues can fit both in their salary structure..you do it without hesitation. Parayko and Binnington can both go if necessary. Both are long gone by the time we are a cup contender anyway.

The organization has already announced Parayko is not being traded. The fact that you continue to run around from thread to thread talking about him being traded is bizarre. For all we know the player is refusing to be traded which is his contractual right.

Please post a link to that organizational announcement that Parayko won't be traded.

https://x.com/NHLRumourReport/status/20 ... 42601?s=20

Frank Seravalli: Re Blues: Teams have called...as recently as this week, and they have been told that they're not interested in moving Robert Thomas and that Colton Parayko is unavailable - Big Show (6/26)

It's been talked about on 101 too.

Gotcha!

Major FAIL, dope....Look at that link again.

x.com/NHLRumourReport/status/2071802157070942601?s=20

Can't tell the difference between a rumor and fact?

Read it.
Or here...

https://x.com/frank_seravalli/status/20 ... 62962?s=20

FWIW, one player coming off the Trade Targets board today is Colton Parayko. #stlblues have told inquiring teams Parayko is unavailable, same answer for Robert Thomas.

Parayko has full no-trade protection through June 30, 2028.

It's been known and talked about for awhile.

[son_of_foolsgold]

Despite what the Blues reportedly told other teams, if the right deal comes along that includes Parayko, he’ll be asked to waive. I don’t think this one qualifies, however.

ANY deal that includes PArayko is the right deal, but especially this one. However, I give you more credit than the fool above who quoted a rumor about him not being available as fact.

[BleedingBleu]

I’d be way more interested in this if Fowler wasn’t signed through 2028/29.

ANY pro sport that levels the playing field with a Salary Cap gives greater importance to young players performing well above their salary allotment than anywhere else. The Blues are presently loaded with young and potentially underpaid LHD in Lindstein, Ralph, Fischer, & Koromyslov. You could make an argument with some of the deals thrown around that Broberg’s contract is highly valued.

Acquiring position player in an area of deep organizational strength for highly coveted prospects & draft picks, then paying him a salary equivalent to Broberg turns an advantage into a disadvantage.

Not only would the impact affect the salary allotment (three LHD making ~22.5M), roster flexibility (pivot to available talent), and organizational growth potential (logjam of LHD Prospects), but it takes resources away from other areas of need (RHS, RHD, C) and likely will impact team chemistry.

[stanw]

2 Scenarios for the Blues to Acquire the Hurricanes’ Nikishin

Joshua M.
The Hockey Writers
Jul 6, 2026

The St. Louis Blues have emerged as one of several teams showing interest in Carolina Hurricanes defenseman Alexander Nikishin, with NHL insider Elliotte Friedman reporting that St. Louis has taken a “long look” at the 24-year-old restricted free agent as offseason trade and contract discussions begin to circulate.

It is not a situation driven by a trade request, and the Hurricanes have not yet moved to lock him up on an extension, but the interest is real enough that multiple teams have already checked in. Once that happens, the conversation quickly shifts to one question. What would it actually take to get a deal done?

Why Nikishin Is Drawing Attention

Nikishin just completed his first full NHL season with Carolina, appearing in 81 games and recording 11 goals and 22 assists for 33 points while logging just over 18 minutes per night. He finished with a plus-18 rating and played a steady role for the Stanley Cup champions.

At 6-foot-3 and 216 pounds, he brings size, mobility, and offensive ability from the blue line that is extremely difficult to find in a 24-year-old defenseman already handling top-four minutes.

Before coming to North America full time, Nikishin built a strong reputation in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) as one of the most dominant young defensemen outside the NHL, and that projection is now starting to translate.

The Contract Picture and Cap Pressure

This situation is being driven as much by contracts and cap structure as it is by on-ice performance. Nikishin is coming off his entry-level deal and is now a restricted free agent due for a significant raise. League projections have suggested a long-term extension could land in the range of $7.5 million to $8.5 million annually, depending on term and structure.

The Hurricanes are coming off a Stanley Cup win and remain built as a high-end contender, but even championship teams have to manage long-term cap structure carefully. Committing that type of money to another young defenseman forces them to weigh depth across the roster against long-term cost. They are not forced to move him, but with multiple teams calling, they are in a position where listening is reasonable.

The Blues are also managing future commitments, with younger core players approaching new deals. One of the key decisions is Connor McMichael, who is heading through salary arbitration and will need a new contract in place before the organization can fully assess its remaining cap flexibility.

Depending on the final number, McMichael’s deal could impact how aggressive St. Louis can be in pursuing additional long-term contracts, including a potential swing at Nikishin. That makes any move for the Hurricanes defenseman a balancing act between present roster construction and future cap structure.

Why the Blues Are Involved

From St. Louis’ perspective, this type of player fits a clear organizational need.

The Blues forward group is trending upward, with a young core beginning to take shape and look like a real strength moving forward. That part of the roster is starting to solidify and develop real identity.

The defense, however, still lacks a true young long-term anchor who can grow alongside that forward group. They have multiple defensive prospects, but they need someone NHL-ready now. He could easily fit into a defensive pairing with Colton Parayko or Logan Mailloux if needed.

That gap is exactly why Nikishin is appealing. He fits the age, timeline, and skill level of what the Blues are trying to build toward, while also offering immediate top-four capability. But fitting what the Hurricanes are asking is going to be very hard.

Mock Trade 1

Blues receive Nikishin
Hurricanes receive Pius Suter, Theo Lindstein, 2027 first-round pick

This is the type of package St. Louis would likely present early in discussions.

Suter, who is under a two-year, $8.25 million contract with a $4.125 million cap hit through the 2026-27 season, gives Carolina an immediate NHL veteran forward who can stabilize depth across the lineup and play in multiple roles. He brings short-term cost certainty and flexibility, with term remaining before reaching unrestricted free agency.

Lindstein is the key piece, a 21-year-old defenseman with strong skating ability and top-four projection if he develops as expected. He has appeared in 17 NHL games to date and is viewed as a player who could be ready to make the jump full-time within the next year or two, projecting as a reliable, two-way defenseman at the NHL level wherever he lands.

The 2027 first-round pick adds premium future value in what is expected to be a strong and competitive draft environment. From Carolina’s side, it is a balanced package that includes immediate help, a high-upside defensive prospect, and a first-round pick without overcommitting in any one area.

From St. Louis’ side, it keeps the core intact while still making a meaningful swing on a 24-year-old defenseman. With that said, Carolina accepting this trade is still a long shot.

Mock Trade 2

Blues receive Nikishin
Hurricanes receive Suter, Cam Fowler, 2027 third-round pick

Suter again provides forward depth and versatility. Fowler adds a veteran left-shot defenseman with a $6.5 million cap hit who can still play meaningful minutes in a top-four or second-pair role.

However, Fowler carries a full no-trade clause, meaning any deal would require his approval before Carolina could officially move forward. That adds a layer of complexity to the framework, even if the structure is otherwise workable. The 2027 third-round pick rounds out the return with additional value.

From Carolina’s perspective, Fowler provides an established NHL presence on the back end while Suter helps maintain forward depth. The financial element also matters, as Fowler’s cap hit would need to fit into their long-term planning even after a Cup-winning season.

For St. Louis, this is a more aggressive reshaping of the roster. They move out a veteran contract, adjust their cap structure, and target a 24-year-old defenseman who could immediately step into a top-four role and become part of their long-term core.

https://thehockeywriters.com/2-scenario ... -nikishin/

an
Good post T-Bone, I would rather see trade # 2 ---then you are going young let the young d-man grow together. Nikishin, Mailloux,Broberg, Jiricek,Parayko, Carlo as your top six.
Moving Fowler"s contract and Suters deals helps make the money work also.

[noted]

Blues can trade for Nikishin, take Kotkienemi, not trade Fowler or Parayko, and be under the cap….

https://puckgm.puckpedia.com/rosters/1777945

[UMR-alum-05]

Blues can trade for Nikishin, take Kotkienemi, not trade Fowler or Parayko, and be under the cap….

https://puckgm.puckpedia.com/rosters/1777945

Sure they can. They have to trade someone like Neighbours to do so however

[Zizzle1297]

Bringing in JK with Nikisin doesnt make sense. They would need to take a berggren or Suter

Suter, Linstein, and a 2nd makes some sense.