Trade Deadline & Team Outlook The Blues finished their West Coast trip with a 2-1 OT loss to the Kings but remain just one point out of a wildcard spot.Despite trade speculation, GM Doug Armstrong chose not to make any moves at the deadline, signaling confidence in the current roster.Braden Schenn was a trade target, notably for the Toronto Maple Leafs, but opted to stay in St. Louis, citing loyalty to the team and his captaincy.Injuries played a role in the decision-making, particularly Colton Pareko’s knee injury, which will sideline him for the regular season.Trade Deadline Winners & Losers Mayers highlighted Dallas and Colorado as the biggest winners at the deadline.The Stars' addition of Rantanen strengthens their playoff push, while the Avalanche bolstered their depth down the middle with key acquisitions.Blues’ Playoff Push & Key Players The Blues need to maintain a “win two out of every three” mindset to stay competitive.Jordan Binnington was named the player of the week for his strong performances in net.Key players like Pavel Buchnevich, Robert Thomas, Jordan Kyrou, and Schenn need to step up offensively.Pareko’s absence will require increased contributions from defensemen like Justin Faulk and Nick Leddy.AHL affiliate Springfield Thunderbirds are surging, with goaltenders Colton Ellis and Vadim Zarenko leading the way.Ellis recently signed a two-year extension with the Blues.Defenseman Will McIsaac, a 2024 draft pick, is excelling in the WHL with a standout plus-43 rating.Jimmy Snuggerud and the Minnesota Golden Gophers suffered a Big Ten Tournament loss but await their NCAA tournament assignment.The Blues face the Penguins, Wild, and Ducks this week in crucial games for their playoff hopes.Mayers emphasized the need to “take care of business” and not look too far ahead.Fans expressed concerns over the team’s scoring struggles and whether retaining players like David Perron or Vladimir Tarasenko would have helped.Mayers noted that younger players are stepping into key roles and that veterans on expiring deals often move on to make room for them.Projected points needed for a playoff spot: likely around 96.The hosts encouraged fans to join the upcoming Blues Hub Watch Party on Thursday, featuring Mayers, Andy Strickland, and Cam Jansen.
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