3. Tyson Barrie
Tyson Barrie is the defenseman on one of the league’s best powerplays, why is he on this list? It is because there is already a replacement for his spot on this roster. While Barrie has been out with an injury over the last couple of games, Evan Bouchard has stepped up.
Evan Bouchard is currently 5th on the Edmonton Oilers in goals scored, with 9 goals. Tyson Barrie in 5 less games played only has 3 so far this season. This makes Bouchard more of a threat on the powerplay as they need to respect him shooting which will open up another offensive player for a better look.
I don’t like the look of a player losing his job because he got injured. I don’t think this will be the case. When Barrie comes back into the lineup I think he will be back on the first unit powerplay. That being said I think his leash will be a bit shorter than ever before. As Bouchard has done a good job while Barrie has been out.
Another reason trading Barrie is on the radar is his cap hit. His $4.5 million, 3 year deal he signed in the offseason is one that another NHL team could handle as Barrie is still a player that can put up numbers. The main reason the Oilers would look at moving him is because they have a Bouchard. If a team doesn’t have an offensive defenseman they will gladly take Barrie.
I think for the first time in a long time the Edmonton Oilers have a legitimate chance to make a run for the Stanley Cup. So hopefully when the trade deadline comes around the management team looks to make the team better.