The St. Louis Blues are planning a major shakeup this offseason after they missed the playoffs for the second straight season. Star forward Pavel Buchnevich was a hot name at the trade deadline in March, and we heard he could be revisited this summer.
The 29-year-old Russian winger has scored nearly a point per game for the Blues over the past three seasons, with 206 points in 216 games, including another 27 goals and 63 points in 2023-24. and with a With a cap hit of $5.8 million for one more season, he’s a bargain for any team looking to add a big boost to their offense. His trade value would be immense, and the Blues could likely land several draft picks and/or prospects.
With this, we analyze three teams that are suitors for Buchnevich:
Vancouver Canucks
The Canucks are said to be interested, and Buchnevich’s heavy-handed, tenacious game would fit in quite well with coach Rich Tocchet. This would be a much better path for Vancouver than going broke trying to retain Elias Lindholm at over $7 million per season on a long-term deal. Sure, they’ll have to address Buchnevich’s expired contract situation, but he’s a much better offensive player right now.
carolina hurricanes
With Jake Guentzel now likely headed out the door, either via trade or free agency, the Canes will need to replace that offense, and Buchnevich would be a good facsimile. It is also known that Carolina has some interest in negotiating with Buchnevich.
Seattle Kraken
If there is any team that needs to add offense, it is the Kraken. They finished 29th in goal scoring in the NHL last season. The team lacks top-notch offensive players, and landing Buchnevich would be a great move.
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