St. Louis Blues Land Cam Fowler in Trade with Anaheim Ducks
The St. Louis Blues are making moves, and their latest acquisition is a big one. The team has traded for veteran defenseman Cam Fowler from the Anaheim Ducks, a move that signals their intent to make a serious playoff push this season. This trade could be a game-changer for the Blues, who are looking to solidify their defensive core and turn their season around.
In exchange for Fowler, the Blues sent a 2027 second-round pick and 22-year-old minor league defenseman Jeremie Biakabutuka to Anaheim. The Ducks also included a 2027 fourth-round pick in the deal, sweetening the pot for St. Louis. Perhaps most importantly, Anaheim agreed to retain 38.5% of Fowler’s $6.5 million cap hit, making the financials work for the Blues. Fowler, who is 33 years old, is signed through the 2025-26 season and has a limited no-trade clause that allows him to submit a four-team trade list each offseason.
A Franchise Legend Leaves Anaheim
For Anaheim, this trade marks the end of an era. Fowler has spent his entire 15-year NHL career with the Ducks, who selected him 12th overall in the 2010 NHL Draft. Over the years, he has become a cornerstone of the franchise, racking up 457 points in 991 games. He’s the highest-scoring defenseman in Ducks history and holds franchise records for goals (96), assists (361), and appearances among defensemen. Only Ryan Getzlaf, with 1,157 games, has played more for the Ducks among all skaters.
Despite his offensive contributions, Fowler’s defensive play has been a point of concern in recent seasons. His minus-66 rating since the 2022-23 season is the fourth worst among all NHL players, a stat that reflects the struggles of a rebuilding Anaheim team. This season, Fowler has 4 assists in 17 games and a minus-7 rating, while also missing time due to an upper-body injury.
“After meeting with Cam several times over the last few months, it became clear to both of us it may be time for a change. As usual, Cam handled the process with professionalism and remained committed to the Ducks,” said Ducks GM Pat Verbeek. “This was a difficult trade to make considering what Cam has meant to this organization. He has been a valuable and respected member of our team for 15 seasons, representing the Ducks with ultimate class. His character and contributions on and off the ice have and will continue to leave a positive impact on our fans and community.”
What Fowler Brings to St. Louis
For the Blues, Fowler’s arrival adds a veteran presence to their blue line. Known as a puck-moving defenseman with above-average passing skills, Fowler could help stabilize a defensive unit that has been dealing with injuries and inconsistency. His addition comes at a crucial time, as defenseman Nick Leddy has been out of the lineup since October 15 due to a lower-body injury. Leddy’s $4 million cap hit matches the amount the Blues will now carry for Fowler, thanks to Anaheim’s salary retention.
Blues GM Doug Armstrong has been aggressive in trying to turn the team’s fortunes around. Earlier this season, he fired first-year head coach Drew Bannister after just 22 games and brought in former Boston Bruins coach Jim Montgomery. The move has paid off so far, with the Blues going 5-2-1 since the coaching change. Adding Fowler to the mix could be another step in the right direction.
Anaheim’s Rebuild Continues
On the other side of the trade, Anaheim continues to reshape its roster. This is the second major move on the blue line for the Ducks in recent weeks, as they also acquired defenseman Jacob Trouba from the New York Rangers. The addition of Biakabutuka, while not a headline-grabber, gives the Ducks a young player with potential. The 22-year-old has spent most of his pro career in the ECHL but has also seen time in the AHL. He was signed as an undrafted free agent in 2023.
Key Takeaways from the Trade
- The Blues acquire Cam Fowler and a 2027 fourth-round pick from the Ducks.
- Anaheim receives a 2027 second-round pick and defenseman Jeremie Biakabutuka.
- The Ducks retain 38.5% of Fowler’s $6.5 million cap hit.
- Fowler brings veteran experience and offensive skills to St. Louis but has struggled defensively in recent seasons.
- This trade could signal a long-term absence for Blues defenseman Nick Leddy.
As the Blues look to climb the standings and secure a playoff spot, the addition of Fowler could prove to be a pivotal moment in their season. Meanwhile, the Ducks continue to focus on their rebuild, parting ways with a franchise legend in the process. Only time will tell which team comes out ahead in this deal, but one thing is certain: the NHL trade market is heating up, and fans should buckle up for what’s to come.
Originally Written by: Unknown
