NHL Trade Rumors: GM Doug Armstrong faces decisions on Brayden Schenn, Jordan Kyrou, and Tage Thompson

The trade rumors are loudest at the time, and the three players in question are Brayden Schenn, Jordan Kyrou, and Tage Thompson. The St. Louis Blues cannot escape the trade talks even if they have just won three straight games, which, however, still leave them at the bottom of the league — a situation that stirs up the discussion of new player acquisitions.

St. Louis GM Doug Armstrong, according to sources within The Athletic, has reached out to other franchises that he is "open for business," confirming an earlier report by Bleacher Report's Frank Seravalli, whose information has been supported by Jeremy Rutherford of The Athletic. While all the Blues' players are mentioned, Schenn is the most talked-about one. The 32-year-old center is of much interest and was discussed before last season's trade deadline.

In Izzy's situation, Schenn has a modified no-trade clause and could block trades to 15 teams. He wishes to remain in St. Louis, but circumstances may lead him to reconsider his stance once more. In the meantime, Kyrou, 27 years old, is another focus of interest.

He wasn't in the last game against Buffalo, so, according to league sources, one team might have contacted Rutherford for the inquiry, although it is not known to what extent the Blues are considering offers.

Could Buffalo Sabres move Tage Thompson before trade deadline?

In Buffalo, The Athletic's Matthew Fairburn implied that GM Kevyn Adams might look into the trading market since the injuries are accumulating, but a big transaction seems to be very unlikely at this point in the season. Meanwhile the teams are already showing interest — Marco D'Amico from RG.Org has disclosed that the Canucks and Canadiens have inquired about Tage Thompson's availability.

However, Adams is said to have completely ruled out any discussion surrounding the transfer of the top scorer.

TVA Sports' Renaud Lavoie corroborated that position and said that Thompson is still in the long-term core of Buffalo's team and therefore is not to be traded.As the season gets more intense, the front offices are making their moves sooner. Despite the rumors, it is evident that St. Louis is going to make some adjustments, but not a total revamp, and Buffalo's star player is not leaving for the time being.More coverage on NHLWho is NHL star Taylor Raddysh married to? Inside his love story with wife Taylor BarronNHL Injury Update: St. Louis Blues forward Mathieu Joseph sidelined before clash with Calgary FlamesNHL Injury Update: Carolina Hurricanes’ Charles-Alexis Légault out after surgery, Shayne Gostisbehere expected return