“Unbelievable disrespect” “This was needed”: NHL fans react as Ducks trade Cam Fowler to Blues

The Anaheim Ducks have traded defenseman Cam Fowler to the St. Louis Blues in exchange for defenseman Jeremie Biakabutuka and a 2027 second-round pick. Anaheim also sent a fourth-round pick in the 2027 NHL draft to the Blues.

The Ducks tweeted on X:

"TRADE: We have traded defenseman Cam Fowler and a fourth-round pick in the 2027 NHL Draft to the St. Louis Blues in exchange for defenseman Jeremie Biakabutuka and a 2027 second-round pick."

Fans reacted strongly to the news. Many were thankful for Fowler’s time with the Ducks.

“Bittersweet, thanks Cam for your time as a Duck! But this was needed.” One fan wrote.

Others were upset by the timing of the trade.

“Unbelievable disrespect by GMPV. Could have waited till 1K games. Who will want to play here long term.” One fan tweeted.

"Blues fan here, how’s his play recently for you guys? Haven’t watched him in a while, it seems like the consensus is he’s no longer that good" one fan questioned.

Here are some more reactions from fans on X:

"Thank You Cam Fowler. You have been a great defenseman in Ducks and I’m thankful as a Duck-fan to follow you through this journey. It’s sucks how it ended but keep your head high and good luck in Blues! 🙌🙏❤️" a fan thanked Fowler.

"Is not a surprise I think everyone knew it was coming..best of luck Cam..but I think the news everyone wants to hear is y’all fired Cronin" another fan said.

"Fans slagging off every fowler appearance then turning round saying Verbeek should have got more for him… doubt many playoff teams have the cap hit exposure to take a bad player 🙄" one fan wrote.

Anaheim Ducks GM Pat Verbeek's statement on Cam Fowler

The Anaheim Ducks will retain 38.46% of Cam Fowler’s contract. Fowler, 33, played 15 seasons with the Ducks. He is the franchise’s leader in points, goals and assists by a defenseman. Fowler started the C4Kids charity program to help youth in Southern California.

Ducks GM Pat Verbeek shared the news with a heavy heart.

“This was a difficult trade to make considering what Cam has meant to this organization,” Verbeek said, “He has been a valuable and respected member of our team for 15 seasons, representing the Ducks with ultimate class."

Jeremie Biakabutuka, 22, has played in the AHL and ECHL. He has 22 points in 76 ECHL games. He was drafted by St. Louis in 2023 and played for teams in the QMJHL before joining the Blues.