Blues Acquire Forward from Islanders in AHL Swap

St. Louis adds veteran Julien Gauthier to strengthen Springfield Thunderbirds' playoff push

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The St. Louis Blues have acquired forward Julien Gauthier from the New York Islanders in exchange for forward Matt Luff. The deal addresses organizational depth at the American Hockey League level, with Gauthier reporting to the Blues' AHL affiliate, the Springfield Thunderbirds.

Why it matters

The trade represents a typical AHL depth swap between organizations looking to shake up their farm systems. Both players bring similar age and experience levels while offering different skill sets to their new teams. The move strengthens the Thunderbirds' roster as they push toward the playoffs.

The details

Gauthier, a 28-year-old forward, has recorded seven points with five goals and two assists in 14 games for the AHL's Bridgeport Islanders this season. He brings veteran experience and a physical presence to the Thunderbirds, with his 6'4" frame and 130 points in 228 career AHL games. Luff, 28, has logged 39 points in 42 games with the Thunderbirds this season, establishing himself as an offensive contributor in the AHL.

  • The trade was announced on February 24, 2026, shortly after the conclusion of the 2026 Olympics.

The players

Julien Gauthier

A 28-year-old forward who has been acquired by the St. Louis Blues from the New York Islanders. Gauthier brings veteran experience and a physical presence to the Blues' AHL affiliate, the Springfield Thunderbirds.

Matt Luff

A 28-year-old forward who has been traded from the St. Louis Blues to the New York Islanders. Luff has been a productive scorer in the AHL, logging 39 points in 42 games with the Thunderbirds this season.

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What they’re saying

“First trade post-Olympic freeze... Blues trade RW Matt Luff to the Islanders for RW Julien Gauthier.”

— David Pagnotta (Twitter)

The takeaway

This trade represents a typical AHL depth swap between organizations, with both the Blues and Islanders looking to strengthen their farm systems. The addition of Julien Gauthier to the Thunderbirds' roster should provide a boost as they push toward the playoffs, while Matt Luff gets a fresh opportunity with the Bridgeport Islanders.