It’s doubtful that St. Louis Blues general manager Doug Armstrong was basing important decisions about the future of the franchise on the bounce of a puck Wednesday night at Crypto.com Arena. A game against the Los Angeles Kings was the Blues’ last before the NHL trade deadline at 2 p.

A few weeks ago, it looked like the Blues would be sellers, their chances of qualifying for Stanley Cup Playoffs unlikely. But things have changed, and they are now among those jockeying for a postseason spot and hope to be kept together past the Deadline.

The St. Louis Blues have had a tumultuous season, including a poor start, a coaching change, a resurgence, and a possible selling opportunity at the NHL Trade Deadline. St. Louis was in a rough spot offensively,