The St. Louis Blues have acquired forward Nail Yakupov from the Edmonton Oilers in exchange for Zach Pochiro and a conditional 2017 third-round pick, the Blues announced Friday.
The selection becomes a second-round #NHLDraft choice in 2018 if Yakupov scores 15 or more goals during the 2016-17 season.
— Edmonton Oilers (@EdmontonOilers) October 7, 2016
The trade comes after reports surfaced that the Oilers discussed a potential Yakupov deal with the Chicago Blackhawks.
Yakupov was drafted first overall by the Oilers in 2012, but hasn't lived up to his potential. The 23-year-old had a commendable 17 goals and 31 points in 48 games during his rookie campaign, but never managed more than 14 goals and 33 points in a season since.
Regarding Yakupov trade from Edmonton to St. Louis: NO salary retained
— Pierre LeBrun (@Real_ESPNLeBrun) October 8, 2016
Despite Yakupov's middling career so far, Blues general manager Doug Armstrong feels he can be a strong addition to the club.
"He's got the skill to complement our group, and the game is trending to younger and faster players," Armstrong said.
In Pochiro, the Oilers get the Blues' fourth-round pick in 2013. The 22-year-old spent the majority of last season with the ECHL's Quad City Mallards, with whom he posted nine goals and 26 points in 44 games.
As for Yakupov, he's expected to arrive in St. Louis on Saturday, according to Armstrong, where he'll sit out the club's game against the Blackhawks, but will practice with the team Monday.
