In a significant move to strengthen their defensive core, the St. Louis Blues have acquired veteran defenseman Cam Fowler from the Anaheim Ducks. The deal, which took place on Saturday, sees the Blues sending a second-round pick in the 2027 NHL Draft and defenseman Jeremie Biakabutuka to Anaheim in exchange for Fowler and a fourth-round pick in the same draft class.
Fowler, a seasoned blue-liner with a wealth of experience, will bring stability and leadership to the Blues’ defense. At 33 years old, Fowler is the longest-tenured active member of the Ducks, having been selected by Anaheim with the 12th overall pick in the 2010 NHL Draft. Over his 15 seasons in Anaheim, he has not only developed into a key defensive force but also served as an assistant captain for the Ducks for much of the past five years. His tenure in Anaheim has been marked by consistent play, and despite his age, Fowler remains a respected presence in the locker room and on the ice.
Fowler’s Role and Impact
So far this season, Fowler has tallied four assists in 17 games, continuing to show his playmaking abilities from the blue line. Across his career, he has amassed 457 points (96 goals, 361 assists) in 991 games, a testament to his offensive contributions and his role as one of the league’s more reliable defensemen over the years. Despite his impressive career in Anaheim, it became apparent in recent months that a change of scenery might benefit both Fowler and the Ducks, with general manager Pat Verbeek acknowledging the tough nature of the trade.
“This was a difficult trade to make considering what Cam has meant to this organization,” Verbeek said. “He has been a valuable and respected member of our team for 15 seasons, representing the Ducks with ultimate class. His character and contributions on and off the ice have and will continue to leave a positive impact on our fans and community.”
Verbeek added that after multiple conversations with Fowler, it became clear that both sides might benefit from the change. The Ducks, in the midst of their own rebuild, have freed up cap space by moving Fowler’s contract, which carries an average annual value of $6.5 million and runs through the 2025-26 season. Anaheim will retain 38.5 percent of the contract, lightening the Blues’ financial load as they continue their push for playoff contention.
Blues’ Defensive Upgrade
For the Blues, Fowler’s arrival is a significant upgrade to a defense that has been in need of stability and experience. While the Blues have had strong performances from their young defensemen, adding a player like Fowler provides much-needed leadership on the back end. The Blues, currently navigating the competitive Western Conference, are hoping that Fowler can be the calming, veteran presence they need to take their defensive unit to the next level.
The addition of Fowler also provides depth to a group that has seen injuries and inconsistency throughout the early part of the season. His experience, both in the regular season and in international competition, will be invaluable as St. Louis looks to make a run toward the playoffs.
Parting Ways with Biakabutuka
As part of the trade, the Blues sent 22-year-old defenseman Jeremie Biakabutuka to Anaheim. Biakabutuka, who signed a three-year entry-level contract with St. Louis in July 2023, has yet to make a significant impact at the NHL level. He has played in just five games in the AHL with Springfield and Grand Rapids, but this move is more about future potential for both teams.
St. Louis also assigned defenseman Matthew Kessel to Springfield. Kessel, 24, has had a quiet season with the Blues, registering three assists in 26 games, and his assignment to the AHL will allow him to continue developing his game.
Looking Ahead
With Fowler now in the fold, the Blues have added an experienced defenseman who can help anchor their blue line for the remainder of this season and beyond. The trade signifies St. Louis’ commitment to competing for the postseason, bolstering their lineup with a player who has the tools to make an immediate impact.
For Anaheim, the trade represents the continued rebuilding process under Verbeek’s leadership, giving the Ducks added flexibility and assets for future growth. Regardless of the direction each team is headed, both sides seem to have made a calculated move, with Fowler’s leadership, skill, and experience poised to help the Blues in their pursuit of a deeper playoff run.
As the season progresses, the addition of Fowler could be one of the key moves that defines St. Louis’ trajectory in the tight Western Conference race.
