When free agency began this afternoon, it was assumed that Alex Pietrangelo would continue his talks with Doug Armstrong while also testing the free agent waters. The Blues were willing to give Pietrangelo money and term, but a no-trade clause and bonuses were rumored to be the hold-up. Doug Armstrong doesn’t hand out contract perks, and signing Pietrangelo to a large contract, it would make cap management difficult for the next couple of seasons.
Boston Bruins defenseman Torey Krug was also in negotiations with his team, but the Bruins didn’t offer a length that he liked.