Morgan Barron is a familiar face to most hockey fans, but not for a reason any athlete dreams of. In the first period of the first playoff game against the Vegas Golden Knights, Barron’s face was slashed by a skate, opening a gash that would require 75+ stitches to fix.
Going into his fifth season, the winger is looking to leave a different impression.
Barron recently signed a 2 year 2.7 million dollar deal to stay in Winnipeg, one he was eager to sign. This is a refreshing change for Jets fans and management alike, especially after the recent wake of reported trade requests. Barron has stated his love for Winnipeg, and having a player who wants to be in town is sure to ingratiate the forward with fans.
He might not be currently listed as a top 9 forward, but after an offseason in flux it’s possible Barron gets his chance.
It’s a deserved opportunity, with Barron finally getting consistent playing time last season and performing well: landing 21 points in 70 games, playing with the Jets 3rd line. This was the first campaign where Barron could get consistent playing time, and he delivered in the minutes given. Barron generated 13.9 expected goals last year, more than players with comparable minutes like Jonathan Toews or Ryan O’Reilly.
Barron has talked about leaving the image of his brutal cut behind, and being known for more than the freak accident. Finally getting consistency in both his playing time and teammates, this could be the breakout season Morgan Barron desires, and to progress beyond being recognized for more than just an injury.
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