Blues Targeting Top-3 Draft Pick; Matthews and Marner Make Surprising Impacts

The St. Louis Blues are aggressively pursuing a top-three pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, with Jordan Kyrou rumored as a potential trade chip. With three first-round picks and a projected No. 11 and 15 selection, the Blues have the assets to move up. Darren Dreger reports that San Jose is open to trading down, and Kyrou could be the centerpiece of a blockbuster deal.

Auston Matthews of the Toronto Maple Leafs is proving he’s more than just a goal-scorer. The two-time Art Ross Trophy winner ranked third in the league in blocks per game last season, matching hard-hitting defenders like John Carlson and Ryan O’Reilly. Matthews played just 72 games compared to 82 games for others in the top five, but his per-game rate remains elite. Head coaches are taking notice, trusting him in high-pressure situations for his defensive grit and ability to play through contact.

Mitch Marner’s move to the Vegas Golden Knights has led to a noticeable shift in his game. In Toronto, Marner shouldered heavy expectations, but in Vegas, he’s one of several top players including Mark Stone and Jonathan Marchessault. The Knights’ balanced attack has allowed Marner to play more freely. His plus-minus improved by 15 points in the 2025-26 season, and his assist totals rose to a career-high 82. “He’s not suddenly a different player,” said an insider. “He always had the vision and hands. What’s changed is the setting.”

St. Louis GM Alex Steen, set to take over in July, could face a pivotal summer. Kyrou, 26, has averaged 55 points in the last two seasons and could be a sought-after commodity. If the Blues secure a top-three pick, they’ll likely add a high-end prospect and retain draft picks for future flexibility.

Matthews’ defensive contributions could reshape how teams value scorers. His 2.1 blocks per game ranked third in the league last season, behind only Ekblad and Chelios. That stat alone changes how coaches deploy him in critical moments.

Marner’s revitalization in Vegas underscores the importance of fit. With a more balanced team around him, he’s playing with more confidence and creativity. His 82 assists last season were a career high, and his plus-15 rating was his best in five years.

The Blues have until June 15 to finalize any major moves. The Maple Leafs and Golden Knights will monitor Marner’s impact as the season concludes. The NHL trade deadline is fast approaching, and these teams are preparing for a busy summer.