New York Islanders sign Blues captain Brayden Schenn for playoff push
The New York Islanders have bolstered their playoff push by acquiring St Louis Blues captain Brayden Schenn in a significant trade deal involving forward Jonathan Drouin.
As part of the exchange, New York have sent veteran forward Drouin to St Louis alongside a 2026 first-round pick and a third-round selection.
The return package for the Blues also includes 6ft 7in Swedish goaltending prospect Marcus Gidlof.
That first-round selection was originally acquired by the Islanders from the Colorado Avalanche during the deal for Brock Nelson last season.
Championship pedigree
Schenn, 34, brings significant leadership experience to Long Island having served as the Blues’ captain for the past three seasons.
The veteran forward contributed 12 goals and 16 assists in 61 appearances for St Louis during the current campaign.
A key component of the Blues’ 2019 Stanley Cup triumph, the Canadian is renowned for his durability after playing all 82 regular-season games in the previous two years.
However, his average ice time has dropped to 16 minutes and 41 seconds this season, his lowest figure since 2014.
Contract situation and roster fit
The Saskatoon native is under contract through the 2027-28 campaign with a salary cap hit of $6.5m (£5.1m).
Schenn reportedly waived a 15-team no-trade clause to approve the move, despite speculation linking him with the Avalanche.
His arrival strengthens a centre group that already features Bo Horvat, Calum Ritchie, Casey Cizikas and Jean-Gabriel Pageau.
Pageau also committed his future to the club on Friday, signing a three-year extension worth $4.85m annually just before the deadline.
Playoff implications
The move signals clear intent from New York, who currently sit third in the Metropolitan Division with 75 points from 63 games.
They remain just three points clear of the Columbus Blue Jackets in a tight race for postseason qualification.
Conversely, the trade marks a retooling phase for St Louis, who receive Drouin on a deal running through next season at a $4m cap hit.
