Jarmo Kekäläinen tried to acquire an NHL superstar – now a big turn has happened!
The Buffalo Sabres’ GM Jarmo Kekäläinen plans to strengthen the center position have faced a setback as one of the biggest names on the trade market, Robert Thomas, is staying with the St. Louis Blues.
Reporter Andy Strickland reported on Saturday that the trade rumors surrounding Thomas can practically be ruled out.
– The trade rumors for Robert Thomas can be set aside. The Blues are not willing to trade their top center.
Thomas was one of the biggest potential trade targets during the 2025–26 NHL season, and his name came up in the plans of several teams.
The Sabres were one of the most active interested parties. Kekäläinen tried to acquire the 26-year-old center during the spring trade window, but negotiations fell through as the Blues tightened their demands. The Sabres were expected to revisit the matter in the summer.
Also, the Minnesota Wild and Utah Mammoth were involved in discussions at various stages, and several organizations considered Thomas a primary option.
Ultimately, the stance of St. Louis’s new GM Alex Steen sealed the decision: Thomas will continue as an important core player for the Blues even if a potential rebuild is ahead.
Read more
- Rasmus Ristolainen’s torment continues in the NHL – yet another terrible setback
- TPS star received a massive ban for biting – TS: Denies the accusations
- A terrible setback for SHL’s Finnish star in Sweden – a long sick leave is looming
- The league’s star defender received a suspension – the disciplinary committee dismissed the explanation
- IL: Jukka Jalonen’s new job was revealed
- IS: HIFK has signed the head coach of a competitor – negotiations are already advanced!
- Urheilucast: Jori Lehterä opened the door for the league’s championship favorite – this will decide everything!
- Lehtitieto: The Liiga club loses its point machine – a new club is already known!
- The Young Lions team announced – now the final performances are given before the World Championship selections
- Jussi Tapola steps aside from the Lions – an experienced name as a replacement