Trade discussions between the Buffalo Sabres and St. Louis Blues for forward Robert Thomas have concluded without a deal, according to reports. The Sabres offered a package equivalent to four first-round picks but balked at the Blues' demand for three to four premium assets. Attention now shifts to potential defensemen trades involving Colton Parayko or Justin Faulk.
The NHL trade deadline on March 6, 2026, looms with heightened activity following the Olympic break. TSN Hockey Insider Darren Dreger reported that the Sabres pushed hard to acquire the 26-year-old center, who has 12 goals and 35 points in 43 games this season. Thomas is in the third year of an eight-year, $65 million contract with a $8.125 million cap hit and a full no-trade clause, signed through the 2030-31 season.
"It’s believed St Louis/Buffalo went the distance on Thomas trade talks," Dreger wrote on X. "Sounds like the Sabres aren’t willing to part with the necessary pieces. (Prospects, Player, 1st). Still teams nibbling, but the Blues are firm in what the return needs to be for the young centre."
TSN's Chris Johnston noted the Blues seek significant returns, including prospects and a roster player, which deterred the Sabres. Other interested teams include the Utah Mammoth, Montreal Canadiens, Seattle Kraken, Boston Bruins, and Detroit Red Wings, though the Canadiens declined due to the high ask involving prospects like Michael Hage and David Reinbacher.
With Thomas off the table for Buffalo, talks have pivoted to Blues defensemen. Dreger mentioned discussions on right-shot blueliners Colton Parayko, who has a full no-trade clause, and Justin Faulk, with a 15-team no-trade list. A related report indicated the Sabres are finalizing a deal for Parayko.
Thomas contributed to the Blues' 2019 Stanley Cup win, recording one goal and six points in 21 playoff games after being drafted 20th overall in 2017. The Sabres, second in the Atlantic Division, aim to end a 14-year playoff drought by bolstering their roster.
