Buch to Col

Wouldn't the Avs want a center?

Blues arent trading Buch to the Avs

Probably, depends on how they liked Rantanen at center. The center market is extremely depleted. Henrique is probably the only one on the market, and he hasn't really exclusively played center.

Alot of pros for them here.

Get Buch for 2 runs, get out of Johansons contract, only impact to their roster is their 3rd pair LD in which they get out of the risk of his concussions issues.

They could maybe chase Middlestadt, but not sure how available he is. This gives them two true high end lines and allows Colton and Wood to play the 3rd line role in which they're really good.

Blues bank on the potential of Byram and that injury concerns can be limited, and get a 1st out of it.

I'd imagine if the return is equally beneficial to them they would. They traded Stastny to Winnipeg while in a race with Winnipeg. This keeps the Blues somewhat competitive, although it locks up salary but I wouldn't bank on big UFA spending anytime soon. I don't love the youth in the top 6, but I think we need a direction.

I would agree that the team needs a little more direction. I know FO wants to stay competive, but if we trade Buch this years. Draft top 10 next year we should be set by the time Thomas and Kyrou are at their prime.