This wouldn't surprise me at all. I think we could get a pretty good haul for Binnington. I know a lot of naysayers believe you can't get much return on a goalie but a Stanley Cup has to count for something right? What would be everyone's expectation? A 1st + Grade A Prospect?
I'd trade Binner for that package in a heartbeat, but I just don't see it. The Cup does count for something (and is a massive driver of his value), but it is also from more than 5 years ago and he carries a sizeable financial commitment. A 1st and a Grade A prospect is a rare package for anyone and I can't recall a goalie ever returning that in the cap era.
Personally, my preference would be to seek a grade A prospect with an understanding that landing such an asset means we're not receiving much (if any) draft capital. I'd be totally fine getting "only" a guy that projects as a potential top-of-the-lineup player.
My absolute dream would be to pry Nikishin from Carolina. I'd retain on Binner to get that done. I'd take back either of their goalies to get that done. I'd happily add in another bottom/middle of the lineup rental if there is such a guy on our roster that they think fits their system to get that done. I don't think it is realistic, but I'd much rather try to get one potential legit difference maker than a later 1st and a good (but not great) prospect.
Edit: All that said, the article starting this conversation is pretty damn speculative. A random scout and a former Blues employee who now works elsewhere speculating about Binner potentially asking for a trade is quite different than a report that he is actually being shopped.
