Winnipeg Jets prospect Colby Barlow was listed as one of nine players that The Hockey News’ Tony Ferrari believes could be used as a trade asset.
The Jets selected Barlow with the 18th overall pick in the 2023 NHL Draft after he showcased immense scoring abilities in the OHL and on the international stage. He scored 46 goals in 59 games, captaining a weak Owen Sound Attack roster.
In the most recent offseason, the 19-year-old was traded to the Oshawa Generals but struggled to find his game early in the season. The adjustment period took a bit longer than he would have liked, but he is now flourishing, and his four-goal, five-point performance last night highlighted this.
Now on pace to record 40 goals and 68 points in 65 games, the Orillia, ON. native is back to his best and could be a valuable trade piece for the Jets as we approach the trade deadline. With forward prospects like Nikita Chibrikov, Brad Lambert and Brayden Yager showing they are closer to NHL ready that Barlow, the Jets could dangle him in front of teams looking for skilled forward prospects.
“They have a few prospects they could look to deal,” said Ferrari. “Brad Lambert has been so good at times, but he has moments when he disappears. Nikita Chibrikov is incredibly skilled and fun to watch, and he looked solid in his stint with the big club earlier this year, but it was just announced that he would miss the rest of the year with a lower-body injury. Colby Barlow has plenty of hype around him thanks to his north-south attacking style of play, which brings a bit of grit and a wicked shot. Barlow seems like the prospect they would likely use to try and bolster the lineup for a run.”
Reports from many respected insiders around the NHL believe the Jets are considering this year to be an “all-in” season. No player or prospect is off the board and whatever move helps the team win a Stanley Cup is the correct one.
Barlow could be the difference in acquiring a game breaking player that sets the Jets apart from other contending teams.
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