The Blues are trying to clarify their defensive situation for the rest of this season – and for years to come.

Naming Eric Brewer captain was a big step in that direction. Andy Murray’s proclamation reaffirmed Brewer’s status as a franchise cornerstone.

Many Blues fans frowned at this, owing to Brewer’s up-and-down play in St. Louis, but Murray is convinced he can build around No. 4. And so he will.

The Note is also taking a look at Jeff Woywitka, who killed him time in Peoria this season after finishing training camp as the odd man out. Is Woywitka an asset or just a depth guy?

With Christian Backman sidelined by a cracked foot, Woywitka is getting a critical opportunity to define himself. This came at the expense of Matt Walker, who may see some more action up front as a tough guy/utility player.

Walker may find this assignment frustrating, but it could actually enhance his value moving forward. Size and toughness are big commodities in today’s NHL. Matt has made great strides with his defensive zone play, but a lot would have to happen here to create a Top 6 opening for him.

John Davidson pursued contract extensions with potential unrestricted free agents Bryce Salvador and Barret Jackman. Salvador has been a better player in Murray’s system and his salary expectations seem reasonable, so Hockey Guy expects him to sign.

As for Jackman . . . well, that is much less certain. The market price for solid NHL defensemen is soaring and Barret is widely respected for his physical play.

If it appears the Blues cannot extend Jackman for a reasonable price, the team ought to move him before the deadline. Davidson could add future assets and free some more budget room for off-season shopping.

Of course, a LOT of teams will be shopping defensemen before the trade deadline. Rob Blake, Brian Campbell, Nick Schultz and Brad Stuart are two of the names coming up most often in trade rumors.

AROUND THE RINKS: Martin Rucinsky lives! With Keith Tkachuk scratched Sunday, the oft-injured Rucinksy got back into battle. It took him less than 3 1/2 minutes to draw his first lazy penalty . . . The free-falling Blackhawks have put coach Denis Savard in some peril. In particular, Savard’s rift with Martin Havlat has not been helpful . . . The Senators considered dealing star defenseman Wade Redden before the deadline, rather than risk losing him as an unrestricted free agent. But Redden blocked the deal, preferring to finish the season in Ottawa and take another run at the Stanley Cup . . . Peter Forsberg’s return to the NHL encountered another hitch. He is still struggling to overcome his chronic ankle/foot problems while skating back home in Sweden  . . . Once the Forsberg situation is resolved, the Leafs may move Mats Sundin as a rental. The Red Wings are most intrigued . . . Jaromir Jagr’s lethargic play has put the Rangers in an interesting position as the trade deadline nears . . . The Islanders, going nowhere as usual, are willing to move finesse forwards Mike Comrie and Miroslav Satan . . . If the Panthers ownership has assured Olli Jokinen he won’t be dealt, is that bad news for GM/coach Jacque Martin. The two still aren’t getting along.