Blues Trade Jordan Kyrou to Capitals

The St. Louis Blues make a major move ahead of the 2026 NHL Draft, acquiring Connor McMichael, Milton Gästrin, and the 16th overall pick from the Washington Capitals in exchange for forward Jordan Kyrou. There was no salary retention in the deal.

With the addition of the 16th selection, the Blues now hold four first-round picks in this year’s draft at No. 11, No. 15, No. 16, and No. 29, giving the organization significant flexibility as it continues to reshape its roster.

McMichael, 25, is coming off a productive season with Washington, recording 14 goals and 32 assists for 46 points in 78 games while adding 30 penalty minutes. The Ajax, Ontario native has developed into a reliable middle-six forward over six NHL seasons, totaling 154 points in 488 career games. He also has eight points in 18 career playoff games. McMichael set career highs in the 2024-25 season when he posted 26 goals and 57 points while playing all 82 games for the Capitals.

Gästrin, 19, adds to the Blues’ prospect pool after being selected by Washington in the second round, 37th overall, of the 2025 NHL Draft. The Ornskoldsvik, Sweden native spent last season with MoDo Hockey in the Swedish Hockey League, recording 10 goals and 14 assists for 24 points in 39 games. He also contributed four penalty minutes while playing in a steady top-nine role. Gästrin is viewed as a long-term development project with upside as a two-way forward.

Kyrou, 28, departs St. Louis after spending his entire NHL career with the organization since being selected in the second round, 35th overall, of the 2016 NHL Draft. Last season, he appeared in 72 games, scoring 18 goals and adding 28 assists for 46 points, ranking fifth on the team in scoring. While his production dipped from previous years, he remained one of the Blues’ most dangerous offensive players.

In 488 career NHL games over eight seasons, Kyrou recorded 168 goals and 210 assists for 378 points, establishing himself as a consistent top-six winger. His breakout came in 2022-23 when he scored 37 goals and cemented his role as a premier scoring threat.

For Washington, the move adds an immediate offensive boost, bringing in a high-end skater who can generate speed through the neutral zone and contribute on the power play.

For St. Louis, the trade signals a continued shift toward youth and asset accumulation. With McMichael, Gästrin, and the 16th overall pick now added to an already deep draft pool, the Blues have positioned themselves with four first-round selections and multiple options heading into the 2026 NHL Draft.