NHL Rumors: David Carle's Coaching Future & Robert Thomas Trade Speculation

David Carle Not Rushing to NHL Coaching Role

David Carle is not eager to depart from Denver for an NHL coaching position. Last offseason, Carle engaged in discussions with the Chicago Blackhawks and Anaheim Ducks regarding head coaching opportunities. However, these conversations ultimately reinforced his conviction that there's "zero reason to leave Denver in the near term — if ever."

As Carle's Denver team once again reaches the Frozen Four, his name is anticipated to resurface in coaching considerations this offseason. He confirmed that his stance remains unchanged and that circumstances are "status quo." Carle commented, "I’m not more close-minded, not more open-minded to it. There’s no rush to leave here."

St. Louis Blues' Robert Thomas Trade Talk: Motivation or Serious Consideration?

While trade discussions involving Robert Thomas were indeed authentic, speculation suggests the St. Louis Blues might have also intended to spark motivation in the player. Hockey analyst Elliotte Friedman reflected on St. Louis Blues forward Robert Thomas's recent hat trick and the trade deadline rumors that surrounded him.

Friedman admitted, "I was watching that, and I’m thinking to myself, how can you trade this guy?" Kyle Bukauskas echoed the sentiment, saying, "I was thinking the same. I’m like, Really? This is the guy they’re looking at trading."

Friedman elaborated, "The more I look at it, I do believe the trade interest was legitimate. While Thomas confirmed they never directly approached him, it seems the Blues seriously explored the possibility. Now, I lean more towards the idea that they simply wanted to light a fire under him." Bukauskas noted that such a tactic "would fit their history," a point Friedman readily agreed with. Bukauskas concluded, "Whether that motivated him or not, he’s playing great right now."

Friedman further suggested, "I watched Thomas, and I’ve considered that the Blues might have wanted the trade talks to become public. In my opinion, Utah was the most probable trade partner. Ultimately, I believe the Blues felt Utah wouldn't include (Caleb) Desnoyers or (Tij) Iginla, and they weren't willing to make a deal without at least one of them. However, I don't think the Blues were entirely displeased if Thomas felt some discomfort from the rumors."