Edmonton Oilers' Defensive Dilemma: Could Tyson Barrie Make a Comeback?
The Edmonton Oilers are gearing up for another shot at the Stanley Cup, hoping to go one step further than last season when they fell just short against the Florida Panthers. As they prepare for the 2024-25 campaign, the Oilers are facing significant challenges in building a competitive roster, particularly on the defensive end. With key players like Cody Ceci, Dylan Holloway, and Philip Broberg now gone, the Oilers have been exploring various options to fill the gaps, particularly on the right side of their defense.
One of the most intriguing developments is the Oilers' reported interest in bringing back Tyson Barrie, a familiar face who previously donned the blue and orange. Barrie, currently a free agent, is known for his offensive prowess from the blueline, but whether he can provide the defensive stability the Oilers need remains a question. Alongside Barrie, Justin Schultz, another former Oiler, has also been mentioned as a potential target. Schultz offers a more balanced, two-way game, which could complement the Oilers' existing defensive structure, particularly with Evan Bouchard emerging as the primary offensive defenseman.
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The Oilers have reportedly held exploratory discussions with both Barrie and Schultz, signaling that they are keeping their options open as they look to solidify their defensive corps before the season kicks off. Given the Oilers' tight salary cap situation, with just under $1 million in cap space, it's likely that any deal with Barrie or Schultz would be a short-term, low-cost arrangement, possibly through a professional tryout (PTO). This would allow the Oilers to evaluate both players during training camp, testing their fit within the current lineup before making a long-term commitment.
For Barrie, a return to Edmonton would be a welcome opportunity. He has expressed a desire to return to the Oilers, having enjoyed his previous stint with the team. Schultz, on the other hand, would be looking to prove himself once more after a rocky exit from the Oilers years ago. His willingness to consider a return speaks volumes about his character and determination to rewrite his story in Edmonton.
As training camp approaches, Oilers fans are eager to see how the team's defensive puzzle will come together. Will Barrie’s offensive capabilities earn him another shot with the Oilers, or will Schultz’s steady two-way play be the key to bolstering the team's back end? With the clock ticking towards the start of the season, the Oilers' management has some critical decisions to make. One thing is clear: the Oilers are leaving no stone unturned in their quest to build a championship-caliber team.
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