Jeremy Rutherford: Sorry for the delay folks. I could't get an internet connection. But now I'm good, so let's get started.

Ryan: JR, in previous years, the Blues have brought a few prospects into town prior to the draft to put them though some extra workouts, interviews, etc. Did they invite any kids to town this year? If so, who?

Jeremy Rutherford: They don't bring in nearly as many as they did in the past. A few years ago when the Blues picked No. 1, Jordan Staal, Phil Kessel and about 10 others stayed at the Sheraton downtown and went to a Cardinal game at Busch Stadium.

Someone noted that Alex Pietrangelo made a visit last year, which is probably true. But I was told that the Blues no longer bring the large groups of players to St. Louis. Instead they interview and put them through workouts in the draft city.

Ryan: JR, what are your thoughts on the KT deal? Good move? Good price? Surprised any?

Jeremy Rutherford: The deal worked out for both sides. The Blues wanted to get one more year out of Tkachuk and he wanted to stay in St. Louis. If he truly will be OK with a reduced role (and he proved last year he could handle it), then the $2.15 million salary is a bargain.

Rodimus Prime: Let's say we get to the draft and nothing crazy happens with Tavereas, NYI, Leafs, Tampa, Montreal, LA, etc.

Which do you feel the Blues are more likely to do.
Package a "prospect" or later pick + #17 to move up in to the 10-15 range? To get a better player or someone high on their list they really want. Like Moore, MSP, Kassian even?

or

Trade down and add additional prospects/later picks while still getting a player on their list, just in a later pick (thinking NYI's #26 pick). Where Palmieri, Kreider, Ferraro could be there or Ashton if he goes down a little.

Jeremy Rutherford: My guess would be that they trade down before they trade up. Jarmo Kekalainen feels that they can get a good player at No. 17.

Now you're right, they could package a prospect already in their system and move up, but I don't see that happening. In taking to Jarmo yesterday, I could see the Blues taking their second-round pick and turning it into two third-round picks before I could see them moving up.

Mark: How's Lars Eller coming around with his shoulder rehab? I hear he's looking bigger and stronger.

Jeremy Rutherford: Eller has been in St. Louis and he's working out with other prospects. I have not seen Eller recently, but Rene Knott did a piece on Chan. 5 in St. Louis last week and to me he look more filled out. That's good news for the Blues.