St. Louis Blues Trade Zach Bolduc for Canadiens’ Defenseman Logan Mailloux

The St. Louis Blues have made a strategic move by trading forward Zach Bolduc to the Montreal Canadiens in exchange for defenseman Logan Mailloux. The trade, announced on Tuesday, involves two promising 22-year-olds who were both first-round picks in the 2021 NHL Draft.

Mailloux, selected 31st overall, has appeared in just eight NHL games, recording two goals and five points. Meanwhile, Bolduc, the 17th overall pick, has shown significant promise with 24 goals and 45 points over 97 games, including a standout 2024-25 season where he notched 19 goals and 36 points.

Why the Trade Benefits the Canadiens

The Montreal Canadiens, having recently traded away Emil Heineman in a deal for Noah Dobson, were in need of a dynamic forward. Bolduc fits this need perfectly, providing the Canadiens with a potential top-six forward who can grow into a pivotal role. His youth and scoring ability make him an attractive asset for a team looking to strengthen its offensive lineup.

According to team insiders, the Canadiens were eager to convert their defensive depth into forward strength, especially after the Dobson acquisition. Bolduc’s arrival helps fill the void left by Heineman and aligns with the Canadiens’ strategy to enhance their forward corps.

Strategic Gains for the Blues

On the other side, the St. Louis Blues have been on the lookout for a young, right-shot defenseman, and Mailloux fits the bill. Despite limited NHL exposure, his performance in the AHL has been impressive. Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 213 pounds, Mailloux brings size and a powerful shot to the Blues’ defensive lineup.

Scouting reports praise Mailloux’s potential, noting his booming shot and power-play quarterback capabilities. However, his defensive reads have been a point of concern. Laval Rocket head coach Pascal Vincent has acknowledged Mailloux’s progress in this area, highlighting his development over the past season.

“Mailloux has a booming shot and projects as a power-play quarterback. He was named to the AHL’s Top Prospects team this year and its All-Rookie team last year, appearing in the AHL All-Star game both years.” — Basu

Implications and Future Prospects

This trade marks a significant shift in both teams’ strategies. For the Blues, acquiring Mailloux addresses their immediate need for defensive depth while banking on his potential to become a cornerstone player. The Blues’ decision to part with Bolduc was made easier by their robust pool of forward prospects, including Jimmy Snuggerud, Dalibor Dvorsky, and Otto Stenberg.

Meanwhile, the Canadiens are betting on Bolduc’s ability to evolve into a key offensive player. His breakout season suggests he has the potential to fill a critical role in Montreal’s lineup, providing the scoring touch and energy lost with Heineman’s departure.

As both players integrate into their new teams, their development will be closely watched. The trade not only reflects the immediate needs of both franchises but also their long-term visions for building competitive rosters. The coming seasons will reveal whether these calculated risks pay off, as both Bolduc and Mailloux strive to make their mark in the NHL.

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