Blues Fans May Be Smiling Sooner Than Expected. The St. Louis Blues are making a bold statement in the NHL offseason, reportedly eyeing a move to acquire Carolina Hurricanes defenseman Alexander Nikishin. But the real story here may not be the potential trade, but rather the fact that the Blues are being largely overlooked by pundits and fans alike as a serious contender for the Stanley Cup playoffs next season. With a strong core of players and a savvy front office, the Blues may be the sleeper pick to make a deep run in the playoffs, and it's time to take them seriously.

The St. Louis Blues are reportedly interested in acquiring Carolina Hurricanes defenseman Alexander Nikishin. But regardless of whether they land Nikishin, the Blues are going to be a sneaky, dark horse pick to get into the Stanley Cup playoffs next season. Are people underestimating the Blues?