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Ivan Barbashev return highlights what Blues are still trying to rebuild

The return of Ivan Barbashev to St. Louis highlights something that the Blues are trying to rebuild, something they traded away.

By Nestor Quixtan · Bleedin' Blue

Published: Thursday, 22 October 2026 at 10:46 PM

Key Things to Know

Nestor Quixtan argues Ivan Barbashev's return highlights the grit and talent the St. Louis Blues still need to rebuild.
The Blues traded Barbashev to the Vegas Golden Knights in 2023 in exchange for prospect Zach Dean.
Barbashev has topped 20 goals twice with Vegas, becoming an integral top-line contributor.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Ivan Barbashev's return to the Enterprise Center with the Vegas Golden Knights highlights the talent and culture the St. Louis Blues are still trying to rebuild, writer Nestor Quixtan argues. The Blues traded Barbashev to Vegas in 2023 on an expiring contract, acquiring former first-round pick Zach Dean in exchange.

Quixtan notes that Barbashev has flourished into an impactful top-line forward in Vegas. Meanwhile, Dean was placed on waivers for assignment to the AHL after playing just three games this season, leaving lingering questions about St. Louis trading away a player who embodied their desired identity.

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Ivan Barbashev return highlights what Blues are still trying to rebuild

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