Why Trading Jordan Kyrou Would Be a Mistake for the Blues

As the offseason begins, there are plenty of eyes on St. Louis’ lightning rod player: Jordan Kyrou. The 27-year-old forward rebounded from early-season criticism to post 36 goals, 70 points, and a team-best +23 rating. But questions surrounding his future with the Blues persist after a disappointing first-round playoff showing — and with his full no-trade clause set to kick in on July 1, trade speculation is heating up.

Here’s the reality: trading Kyrou now would be a short-sighted move, and one the Blues could end up regretting for years.

Kyrou’s Value Has Never Been Clearer

After a rocky start under a new, call it inexperienced NHL head coach, Kyrou played some of the best all-around hockey of his career in the back half of the season. His production was elite — 36 goals tied his career high — and he showed signs of maturity in his defensive play, especially at even strength. His +23 rating wasn’t a fluke as he continued to develop and mature into a true top-six NHL forward. 

Yes, he struggled in the playoffs. But so did most of the Blues’ top six against a physically overwhelming Jets team. At this point in his career, Kyrou’s postseason inconsistency is real, but it shouldn’t erase the strides he made or the value he brings.

Trading Him Now Is Selling Low on a Long-Term Asset

Despite his production, the narrative surrounding Kyrou has made him St. Louis’ lightning rod for any poor results that may have not even involved him — which makes this a dangerous time to trade him. His contract ($8.13M AAV through 2030–31) is fair value for a consistent 35+ goal scorer as the salary cap climbs. If Armstrong moves him this summer, it will have to be for an offer he cannot refuse. 

Even if a trade results in a “200-foot player” that Blues General Manger Doug Armstrong has referenced as the type of player he would like to acquire this offseason, this type of a well-rounded star is is certainly not cheap. Finding a forward who can match Kyrou’s offensive potential while also being defensively responsible and not adding to the cap is nearly impossible. With this, you’re probably going to give up a bit on offense and barely improve on defense, if at all.

Kyrou Is Part of the Solution — Not the Problem

As previously mentioned, Armstrong said at the end of the season that he’s looking for a versatile 200-foot forward who can help elevate his team. That doesn’t necessarily mean replacing Kyrou — it means complementing him. Kyrou isn’t supposed to be your shutdown guy. He’s your game-breaker. Surround him with the right linemates and system, and let him do what he does best: tilt the ice.

Moreover, the Blues’ roster is still transitioning. Snuggerud, Neighbours, Bolduc — none are finished products yet. Moving a proven scorer while your young core is still evolving risks unbalancing the very identity you’re trying to build.

Time to Build, Not Bail

Could the Blues trade Kyrou before July 1 and get a decent return? Sure. But it likely won’t be equal value and would likely be part of a grander package that could disrupt a lot of the chemistry already built up this past season and more. You’re not getting a two-way star without paying more. And once you move Kyrou, you’re not just losing a scorer — you’re sending a message that the team’s core is still in flux. After this past season postseason push and performance, the Blues core deserves credit for their efforts and strides taken to transform them into a Stanley Cup contender once more. 

A decision to trade Kyrou is the opposite of what this team needs. If Armstrong believes in this group, it’s time to double down — not start over. Keep Kyrou. Build around him. Find that 200-foot complement — who may even already be in the system developing. The Blues are closer than they look, and shipping out your top goal scorer isn’t the way to close the gap.

READ MORE: Grading the St. Louis Blues Forwards for the 2024-25 Season