Trading Brayden Schenn, the captain of the St. Louis Blues, would be a detrimental move for the franchise, especially considering the promising influx of young talent poised to join the team. Schenn’s leadership, consistent performance, and favorable contract make him an invaluable asset during this critical period of integration and development.
Leadership and Mentorship
As captain, Schenn embodies the experience and resilience necessary to guide emerging players transitioning to the NHL. His presence offers a stabilizing force, fostering a culture of professionalism and dedication. The Blues’ recent participation in the World Junior Championship underscores the importance of such leadership, with nine prospects representing the organization—the highest of any NHL team. Notably, Colin Ralph secured a gold medal with Team USA, while Adam Jecho, Adam Jiricek, Ondrej Kos, and Jakub Stancl earned bronze with Czechia.
Integrating these accomplished young players into the NHL will require seasoned mentors like Schenn to facilitate their development and acclimation.
Consistent Performance
Schenn’s on-ice contributions have been both reliable and impactful. In the 2023-24 season, he played all 82 games, recording 20 goals and 26 assists, totaling 46 points. His ability to perform consistently is further highlighted by his career-high 70-point season in 2017-18, immediately following his acquisition by the Blues.
Such performance not only contributes directly to the team’s success but also sets a benchmark for younger players aspiring to excel at the professional level.
Favorable Contract
Financially, Schenn’s contract is advantageous for the Blues. Signed to an eight-year, $52 million extension in 2019, his annual cap hit stands at $6.5 million through the 2027-28 season.
This commitment reflects the organization’s long-term vision and belief in Schenn’s value. Trading him would not only disrupt this plan but also necessitate finding a replacement who offers comparable leadership and performance, likely at a similar or higher cost.
Alternative Trade Considerations
While the temptation to acquire short-term assets like draft picks exists, the Blues should prioritize maintaining a cohesive and supportive environment for their emerging talents. Exploring trade options for players such as Alexey Toropchenko, Robert Thomas, Jordan Kyrou, Nick Leddy, Pavel Buchnevich, Oskar Sundqvist, Mathieu Joseph, and Jordan Binnington could be more strategic. Assessing their performance, contract terms, and fit within the team’s future framework may reveal opportunities to optimize the roster without sacrificing essential leadership.
In conclusion, Brayden Schenn’s role as captain, his consistent on-ice performance, and his favorable contract are integral to the St. Louis Blues’ present and future success. As the team stands on the cusp of integrating a talented cohort of young players, retaining Schenn is paramount to ensuring a seamless transition and sustained competitiveness.
