Blockbuster Robert Thomas trade falls apart in middle of the night

For hours, it looked like a monster deal was brewing. On Tuesday, talks between the Buffalo Sabres and St. Louis Blues reportedly intensified around star forward Robert Thomas. By early Wednesday morning, just two days before the trade deadline, everything had fallen apart.

According to reports, Sabres GM Jarmo Kekalainen put together a massive offer in pursuit of the 26-year-old center. The package was believed to include former first overall pick Owen Power, former 14th overall pick Konsta Helenius, and former 8th overall pick Jack Quinn, the “equivalent” of multiple first-round picks.

Serious stuff...

But not serious enough. TSN insider Darren Dreger reported early on Wednesday morning that the Sabres and Blues “went the distance” in negotiations. However, Buffalo ultimately wasn’t willing to part with all of the necessary pieces.

“Sounds like the Sabres aren’t willing to part with the necessary pieces (prospects, player, 1st),” Dreger said. “Still teams nibbling, but the Blues are firm in what the return needs to be for the young center.”

St. Louis holds significant leverage. Thomas is in the third season of an eight-year, $65 million contract that carries a full no-trade clause. He’s not a rental: he’s a franchise centerpiece. The former 20th overall pick helped the Blues capture their first Stanley Cup in 2019 and remains one of the league’s most reliable two-way centers.

For now, the blockbuster is off. But with the Blues holding firm and multiple teams still circling, this story may not be finished just yet.

UPDATE LATER ON WEDNESDAY:

The Buffalo Sabres and St. Louis Blues have finally agreed on a trade. Darren Dreger reports that the Sabres have acquired Parayko from St. Louis.

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