Brayden Schenn’s Unsettling Surprise
In the bustling world of professional sports, where the only constant is change, even the most experienced players can be caught off guard. Brayden Schenn, the St. Louis Blues captain and a veteran of the NHL, found himself in just such a situation when his name began to circulate in trade rumors..clientHeight. At 33, Schenn is no stranger to the annual trade deadline frenzy, but hearing his own name mentioned by TSN’s Darren Dreger still came as a surprise. For a player who has been a cornerstone of the Blues since 2017, this speculation was a stark reminder of the business side of the sport.
A Veteran’s Perspective
Schenn, who first broke into the NHL in 2009, has seen the league through its highs and lows. His experience has taught him to maintain a level head, even in the face of uncertainty. When asked about the rumors, Schenn remained measured and professional, emphasizing his commitment to the Blues. "I don’t think I need to get into rumors or whatever," he stated on Tuesday. "I’m not in those talks behind closed doors. What I do know, I love St. Louis, I love being here. I’ve always said it’s the best thing for me." His words reflect a deep connection to the team and the city, a sentiment that goes beyond the mere business of hockey.
A Pillar of the Blues
Since joining the Blues in the summer of 2017 in a trade with the Philadelphia Flyers, Schenn has become a vital part of the team. His contributions were especially significant in 2019 when the Blues won their first-ever Stanley Cup. Schenn’s leadership, both on and off the ice, has been instrumental in the team’s success. Despite a somewhat slow start to the current season, Schenn has been one of the more consistent players for the Blues, amassing 32 points (11 goals, 21 assists) in 56 games. His performance is a testament to his skill, resilience, and unwavering dedication to the team.
The Business of Hockey
While Schenn’s love for St. Louis is evident, he understands the realities of professional sports. "I obviously know there’s a business side of it," he acknowledged. "At the end of the day, there’s no sense in me talking about speculation or what could happen because at the end of the day, I’m a St. Louis Blue and I love it here." This pragmatic approach underscores the duality of being a professional athlete—balancing personal loyalties with the ever-changing landscape of team management and market dynamics.
Contract Details and No-Trade Clauses
Schenn’s contract, signed on October 4, 2019, is an eight-year, $52 million deal that reflects his value to the Blues. The contract includes a full no-trade clause through the end of this season, which then transitions to a 15-team, modified no-trade clause. To date, Schenn has not been approached about waiving his no-trade clause, and there are no indications that he would even consider it if the team were to bring it up. This stance further emphasizes his commitment to the Blues and his desire to see out his career in St. Louis.
A Future in St. Louis
Despite the trade rumors, Schenn remains focused on the present and the future with the Blues. His consistent play and leadership have solidified his status as a fan favorite and a key player for the team. For Schenn, the trade deadline is just another chapter in a storied career, one that he continues to write with dedication and passion. As the Blues prepare for the remainder of the season, Schenn’s presence on the ice and in the locker room will be as crucial as ever, reinforcing the bond between player, team, and city that has made St. Louis his home.
