Former Oiler has strong feelings on returning to Edmonton on tryout contract
Photo credit: USA Today
The Edmonton Oilers have been heavily linked to Tyson Barrie for a tryout contract in training camp, and according to a new report, Barrie would be thrilled to return to the Oilers.
Kurt Leavins in the Edmonton Journal claims a source has told him that Barrie loved his time as an Oiler, never wanted to be traded, and would absolutely welcome a return to the team in a depth role.
Oilers fans know Tyson Barrie extremely well, as he played three seasons with the team from 2020-2023. He isn't the most reliable defender in his own zone, but Barrie has his success moving the puck, which has proven to be a great fit with Edmonton's elite forwards. In each season Barrie played in Edmonton, he scored a minimum of 40 points.
After being traded to Nashville for Mattias Ekholm, his stock across the NHL dropped as he clearly wasn't a fit for the team. Barrie only played 41 games last year and requested a trade, but was never dealt.
A few days ago, NHL insider Frank Seravalli reported that the Oilers were considering Tyson Barrie, Justin Schultz, and Kevin Shattenkirk for the role of a depth defender in training camp.
As a cup-contending team it's never a bad idea to take on an extra veteran on a low-risk contract, and the Oilers will certainly evaluate all of their options. However, with Barrie's familiarity in Edmonton, recent success with the team, and career history - he seems like the most likely addition.
Source for Barrie Stats: PuckPedia - Tyson Barrie
| POLL | ||
AOUT 25 | 327 ANSWERS Former Oiler has strong feelings on returning to Edmonton on tryout contract Do you think the Edmonton Oilers should sign Tyson Barrie again? | ||
| Yes, bring back Barrie | 183 | 56 % |
| No, another option is better | 128 | 39.1 % |
| See Results | 16 | 4.9 % |
| List of polls | ||