Colton Parayko will remain with the St. Louis Blues for now after choosing not to waive his no-move clause Thursday, shutting down a potential trade that would have sent the veteran defenseman to the Buffalo Sabres.
According to reports, Buffalo had a significant offer on the table that included a first-round pick in the upcoming NHL Draft along with a top defensive prospect, who was selected ninth overall in the most recent draft. Despite the sizable return, Parayko ultimately declined to approve the deal and will stay in St. Louis.
The 31-year-old defenseman still has four years remaining on his contract after this season with a $6.5 million average annual cap hit, a number that many around the league view as manageable for a top-pair caliber blueliner.
However, the situation may not be fully closed. NHL insider Frank Seravalli reported that Parayko is not completely opposed to leaving St. Louis, but would evaluate potential destinations on a case-by-case basis.
That could keep the door open for teams still searching for help on the blue line, including the Detroit Red Wings. Detroit has been connected to several high-profile defensemen recently, including Quinn Hughes and Rasmus Andersson, as they look to strengthen their defensive core.
Parayko also brings major international experience. The 6-foot-6 defender recently represented Canada men's national ice hockey team at the Olympics and has recorded 14 points in 58 games this season with the Blues.
With Detroit continuing to explore upgrades on defense, the possibility of Parayko becoming available again could be worth monitoring.