Report: Blues may make an offer for Jonathan Drouin

Tampa Bay Lighting forward Jonathan Drouin’s trade request has rival teams salivating at the possibility of acquiring the 20-year-old left winger. The former third overall pick wasn’t given a big opportunity with the Lightning and was recently demoted. Drouin’s still has massive potential and has still managed to score 40 points in 89 NHL games.

One team knocking on general manager Steve Yzerman’s door is the St. Louis Blues. Elliotte Friedman reported during tonight’s Hockey Night in Canada that Robby Fabbri’s name has been floated around in regards to a possible deal. He also suggested Kevin Shattenkirk would have been a part of a deal with the Columbus Blue Jackets in the clubs effort to acquire Ryan Johansen, which obviously never came into fruition. Apparently the Blues may still shop the defenseman.

Fabbri would be a fair get for the Lightning. He’s had a very good rookie season, scoring 10 goals in 38 games despite only playing 12:55 per game. He does have a 15.9 shooting percentage, but for a 19-year-old in his first season with the club, he’s been sensational. Drouin is probably the better player, but Fabbri would represent a young, good, controllable return.

Shattenkirk’s name being floated around isn’t surprising as the Blues are filled with defensive depth and he’s owed a prorated $4.3 million this season, and $5.2 million next season. With that said, team’s should jump on the opportunity to acquire him. He’s been a legitimate offensive force this season with 8 goals, 17 assists and 25 points this season. He’s posted a great 55.7 CF% but he’s played sheltered minutes with over 40% offensive zone starts. Still, Shattenkirk is a top-pairing defenseman and has tons of value.

It’s always risky to trade good players, but the Blues are clearly trying to improve a squad which has been fairly inconsistent despite a 23-14-7 record.

About Liam McGuire

Social +Staff writer for The Comeback & Awful Announcing. Liammcguirejournalism@gmail.com

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