The St. Louis Blues are emerging as a team to watch closely as the 2026 NHL draft approaches. Reports suggest the team is actively looking to improve its draft position and is willing to explore significant trade scenarios.

During a discussion on the Hockey Sense podcast, Darren Dreger indicated that the Blues are determined to move up in the draft. This ambition could involve packaging their existing first-round picks, No. 11 and No. 15. To potentially reach a higher selection, such as the No. 2 overall pick, it’s understood that the Blues would likely need to include a player in any proposed deal.

The Blues appear to be prioritizing a strategic “retool” rather than a full-scale rebuild. Conversations around potential trade partners are already surfacing. While it’s still early in the draft cycle, there’s been speculation about the Blues revisiting trade discussions with teams like the Buffalo Sabres, similar to talks held around the trade deadline. Additionally, past significant trade discussions with the Anaheim Ducks are also being mentioned as potential avenues to explore.

A specific scenario discussed involves the San Jose Sharks, who are reportedly open to considering offers for their draft pick. While using picks No. 11 and No. 15 alone might not be enough to secure the No. 2 pick, attaching a valuable player to these selections could make a deal feasible. This strategy signals the Blues’ intent to make a notable splash in the upcoming draft.

Keep an eye on the St. Louis Blues as they actively seek opportunities to ascend the draft order, aiming to secure a more advantageous position in the first round.

English Translation:

NHL Rumors: St. Louis Blues a Team to Watch Ahead of the Draft

The St. Louis Blues are a team to watch heading into the 2026 NHL draft. Reports indicate they are looking to move up and could package picks No. 11 and No. 15. To acquire a pick as high as No. 2, they would likely need to include a player in the deal.

While it’s a bit early, St. Louis is reportedly making a strong effort to improve its draft position. There seems to be some willingness from San Jose to consider moving their pick. The Blues might explore using their first-round picks to climb higher, which would likely involve attaching a player. Potential targets or past discussions with teams like Buffalo and Anaheim are also being revisited.

The Blues are looking at a retool, not a rebuild. The idea of moving picks No. 11 and No. 15 to get to No. 2 would require adding a significant player to the package. The team is expected to try and move up as high as possible in the first round.