Barrie emerges as top free agent target; NHL teams line up for his signature
Earlier this week, excitement buzzed around Tyson Barrie, the ex-Oiler defenseman, as he was spotlighted by Daily Faceoff as the top remaining free agent defenseman.
Just recently, more details have come to light about the NHL teams keen on adding Barrie to their rosters.
Reports from the Hockey Writers have identified the New York Rangers, St. Louis Blues, and Boston Bruins as potential suitors for Barrie. These teams are in the market for a seasoned defenseman who can not only fortify their defensive lines but also enhance their powerplay strategies. Despite this interest, it's likely that Barrie would be considered more of a rotational, possibly 7th defenseman on these squads.
According to prognostications by Daily Faceoff, Barrie is expected to land a one-year contract rather than merely a professional tryout offer, albeit at the league's minimum salary. This development is indicative of teams' cautious optimism regarding his ability to contribute effectively, despite the defensive struggles he faced last season with the Nashville Predators.
Barrie's stint with the Predators was marred by challenges, as he participated in only 41 games due to injuries and periods as a healthy scratch. Over those games, he managed a modest tally of one goal and 15 points but was hampered by a -10 rating and limited ice time, which eventually led to him being sidelined for nearly all the playoff games.
Reflecting on his tenure with the Edmonton Oilers, Barrie had been a critical asset, consistently delivering over 40 points across three seasons and significantly bolstering the team's powerplay. His trade to Nashville, in exchange for Mattias Ekholm, was aimed at enhancing the Oilers' defensive capabilities-an exchange that has seemingly paid dividends for Edmonton. Concurrently, Evan Bouchard has risen as a formidable offensive defenseman for the Oilers, reshaping their defensive hierarchy.
Despite the recent downturn in his career, Barrie remains a figure of admiration among fans and teammates alike, cherished for his contributions both on and off the ice. At 33, his NHL journey is far from over. The hockey community, especially those who've followed his career closely, holds onto hope that Barrie will redefine his role in the league and continue to inspire on the ice in the seasons to come.
Wherever he ends up, it is clear that Tyson Barrie's potential next chapter in the NHL is eagerly anticipated by fans and teams alike, all wishing him the best in reviving his once-lustrous career.
Source: The Hockey Writers
NHL Rumors: Oilers, Bruins, Rangers, Canadiens
| POLL | ||
Where do you anticipate Tyson Barrie will be signing? | ||
| New York Rangers | 6 | 27.3 % |
| Boston Bruins | 3 | 13.6 % |
| St. Louis Blues | 2 | 9.1 % |
| Other | 11 | 50 % |
| List of polls | ||
