Despite repeatedly saying he wants to stay with St. Louis Blues, it looks like All-Star Alex Pietrangelo will play for a different franchise next season.
Multiple reports surfaced last week, indicating that the contract negotiations between Blues and Pietrangelo stalled. The organization then reportedly told the 30-year-old defenseman to pursue free agency and explore other options.
In a recent interview with The Athletic, Pietrangelo confirmed these reports. “We just think right now, with where things are at, that maybe it’s best for both sides to see what’s going on in free agency, what the team can explore, what I can explore and if there are better fits for each side,” he said.
Pietrangelo, however, was still reluctant to rule out the possibility of returning to Blues. “We’re two weeks away,” he added. “Not saying anything can’t change, but as of right now, that’s kind of our plan, and we’ll see where things go.”
Reports around the league say that there were multiple stumbling blocks that prevented Blues and Alex Pietrangelo from making a deal. This included the basic salary, signing bonus, as well as inclusion of a no-trade clause.
Pietrangelo shouldn’t have trouble finding a team that will give him what he wants, considering that he is considered to be one of the league’s top defensemen. He has two NHL All-Star appearances in the last three seasons, while also making NHL Second All-Star Team three times.
