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Could Brayden Schenn Be Heading to The Golden Knights?

Originally posted on Inside The Rink | By Joshua Michel | Last updated Jan 27, 2026 10:39 AM ET

Brayden Schenn has spent years at the center of the St. Louis Blues’ identity, but as the NHL trade deadline approaches, his name has been circulating in league conversations. One of the longest-serving players on the roster, Schenn has been part of the organization’s highest highs, including its 2019 Stanley Cup victory. Now in his third season as captain, the veteran forward remains a respected voice in the locker room and a dependable presence on the ice.

Even so, the Blues find themselves in a position where difficult decisions may need to be made. With the team evaluating its direction, moving an experienced player with term could help reshape the roster. Schenn’s combination of leadership, physical play, and defensive responsibility has made him appealing to contenders seeking help for a playoff run, with the Vegas Golden Knights emerging as a potential suitor.

Vegas Searching for Stability at Center

The Golden Knights continue to navigate uncertainty down the middle of their lineup. William Karlsson has been unavailable since early November and remains on long-term injured reserve. There is no indication of when or if he will return before the postseason, leaving Vegas without one of its most trusted two-way forwards.

Without Karlsson, Vegas has struggled to replace the balance he provided. The team lacks a center capable of contributing offensively while also handling demanding defensive assignments. Schenn offers that type of reliability. While his scoring totals have dipped this season, his overall game remains effective, particularly in physical matchups and high-pressure situations.

St. Louis Balancing Leadership and Long-Term Planning

For the Blues, parting with their captain would not be a decision taken lightly. Schenn remains a key figure in the room and sets the tone through effort and accountability. However, his contract and age place him outside the timeline of a potential retool, making him one of the few veterans who could bring back meaningful assets.

Previous trade discussions around Schenn suggest that St. Louis has valued him highly. While his current production makes a blockbuster return unlikely, the organization is still positioned to seek a strong package if it decides to move him.

Assets That Could Be in Play

If negotiations with Vegas were to materialize, draft capital would likely form the foundation of any deal. A second round selection represents a realistic starting point and would give St. Louis flexibility in future drafts.

Beyond picks, the Blues would be expected to target younger talent. Forward Mateo Nobert is one player who could draw interest. Known for his vision and offensive instincts, Nobert has shown an ability to generate scoring chances and read the game at a high level. Adding a player of that profile would help the Blues add skill while maintaining long-term upside.

Making the Money Work

The financial side presents the biggest challenge for Vegas. Schenn’s $6.5 million annual cap hit requires careful planning, especially given Brayden McNabb’s projected return from long-term injured reserve. Once McNabb is activated, his contract immediately impacts the team’s available space.

To accommodate Schenn, Vegas would need to move out a salary. Keegan Kolesar is a logical answer, given his $2.5 million cap hit and remaining term. From St. Louis’s perspective, Kolesar could serve as a depth piece or be moved in a separate transaction if he does not fit into their plans.

A Decision Looming

Schenn holds a 15-team no-trade clause, meaning any deal would require his approval. Still, Vegas offers a clear opportunity to compete for another championship, something that could appeal to a veteran nearing the later stages of his career.

Whether or not a deal comes together, Schenn’s situation will be closely monitored across the league. If the Blues choose to explore their options, the Golden Knights appear well-positioned to make a serious inquiry, potentially turning one of St. Louis’s longest-serving players into a key piece of another postseason run.

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This article first appeared on Inside The Rink and was syndicated with permission.

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