St. Louis Blues Forward Linked to Western Conference in Major Trade Proposal
Dylan Holloway, a key forward for the St. Louis Blues, has been at the center of trade speculation for much of the past year. Now, a major trade proposal has surfaced, suggesting that the 23-year-old forward could be headed to the Western Conference in exchange for Barrett Hayton, a 24-year-old forward. The potential deal would send Holloway to a new team in Utah, with Hayton coming to St. Louis as part of the package.
Holloway has been a reliable contributor for the Blues, finishing second on the team with 26 goals and third with 63 points last season. His performance has made him one of the most sought-after players on the trade market. As of now, Holloway is signed to a contract with an annual average value (AAV) of $2.29 million. However, his deal is set to expire in 2026, and as a restricted free agent, Holloway will be in line for a significant raise. The Blues may have to make a tough decision about his future, especially if they want to lock him into a long-term contract.
If the Blues decide to extend Holloway, it’s likely he will demand a substantial increase in pay. With the salary cap expected to rise in the coming seasons, Holloway could command an AAV of $8 million or more on an eight-year deal. Given that he would be giving up valuable unrestricted free agent years by agreeing to a maximum-term contract, a raise is almost certain.
The trade proposal involving Holloway and Hayton addresses the Blues’ potential need for roster flexibility while giving them an opportunity to add a younger forward. Hayton, who is a year older than Holloway, has been a solid player for his current team. Although his numbers aren’t quite as high as Holloway’s, he offers a different skill set and could complement the Blues’ core in a variety of ways.
For Holloway, the proposed trade represents a fresh start in the Western Conference, where he could continue to develop his game. Given his potential and the expectations surrounding him, this move could provide him with the opportunity to take on a more prominent role with a new team. The Blues, on the other hand, may benefit from bringing in a player like Hayton to fill any gaps in their forward lineup while also managing their future cap space.
While the trade proposal has yet to be finalized, it has generated plenty of buzz. Holloway’s future in St. Louis remains uncertain, but this deal could be a significant turning point for both him and the Blues as they navigate the complexities of roster management and long-term salary commitments.
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