Pavel Buchnevich
Position: LW
Age: 27
Height/Weight: 6’3 197 pounds
Statistics: 15 goals, 27 assists, 42 points (40 games played)
Player Overview
St. Louis Blues’ forward Pavel Buchnevich was originally drafted by the New York Rangers in 2013. Since coming into the league, he has been an effective winger. Buchnevich has hit the 20-goal mark twice and set a career-high in goals last season with 30. The skilled Russian winger is a point-per-game player with 42 points in 40 games this season.
Overall, he has become a dynamic offensive winger as the above player card describes. Over an 82-game season, his career point production points to an 60-plus point player. Though, given his recent play, it is not unrealistic to conclude he can be an 70-point guy.
Contract
Once the trade from the New York Rangers to the St Louis Blues was finalized, he signed a four-year contract in July 2021. He has three years remaining on his deal, but there is a modified no-trade clause. His annual cap hit is a very friendly $5.8 million.
The Potential Fit
Like Timo Meier, there is a fit for Pavel Buchnevich on the Devils. The strength is down the middle, and the team could use an impact winger. Not only does Buchnevich bring scoring to the lineup, but also some size at six-foot-three.
He would excel nicely alongside Jack Hughes and give the top six some extra juice. With general manager Tom Fitzgerald on the prowl for a top-six winger, he fits the bill and brings elements needed for the lineup.
Would A Deal Make Sense?
Buchnevich holds the cards due to his clause, but a deal makes sense for the Devils. As mentioned, he is a dynamic offensive player and is under contract for the future at a cap hit that is team friendly. Further, he is at a point in his career that matches up with the Devils’ current makeup. All attributes that Fitzgerald is looking for.
In addition, the price for Buchnevich would not be as high as say a Timo Meier. And, given the Devils’ stockpile of decent prospects, a package could surely be made. Though, at the end of the day, with the clause in his contract, Buchnevich has the final say.