Sabres Close to Finalizing Trade for Blues’ Parayko
The Buffalo Sabres are reportedly close to finalizing a trade to acquire defenseman Colton Parayko from the St. Louis Blues. This significant move was highlighted by TSN’s insider, Darren Dreger.
Trade Details
The Sabres are expected to send defenseman Radim Mrtka and a first-round pick to the Blues as part of the transaction. Mrtka was selected ninth overall in the 2025 NHL Draft. Parayko is under contract with St. Louis through the 2030 season, earning $6.5 million annually.
Parayko’s Career Highlights
- Age: 32
- Games Played this Season: 58
- Points this Season: 14
- A notable defensive player, recognized as one of the NHL’s top shutdown defenders
- Participated in the Olympics and the 4 Nations Face-Off
- Part of the St. Louis Blues team that won the Stanley Cup in 2019
Contractual Obligations
Colton Parayko possesses a full no-movement clause, which means he must approve the trade to Buffalo. This clause adds another layer of complexity to the negotiation process.
Sabres’ Competitive Standing
The Buffalo Sabres currently find themselves in a tight race for the Atlantic Division title. They are just two points behind the Tampa Bay Lightning, although they have played two additional games. This season marks a critical point for the Sabres as they aim to break their 14-year playoff drought, the longest in NHL history.
Context of Trade Discussions
There had been discussions between the Sabres and Blues regarding a potential trade involving Robert Thomas earlier this week, but those negotiations did not reach a conclusion.
