Heading into the next season, it will become increasingly difficult for a certain Justin Barron to solidify his place within the team's defensive corps.
Much like Jordan Harris, who was sacrificed to acquire Patrik Laine, it's possible that the young right-handed defenseman could be assigned to the Laval Rocket before the end of training camp, and he would need to clear waivers due to his one-way contract.
That said, as reported by HabsolumentFan, it's highly likely that Kent Hughes will try to trade his defenseman rather than lose him for nothing, and he might get help from the Stanley Cup finalists from last spring.
According to Edmonton journalist Bob Stauffer, the Oilers will likely want to compensate for the departures of Cody Ceci and Philip Broberg, and he stated that Stan Bowman, the Oilers' new GM, is looking for a right-handed defenseman.
Although there haven't been any rumors circulating about a potential trade between the Oilers and the Canadiens yet, the addition of Justin Barron to the Oilers' lineup makes sense because, aside from Evan Bouchard, there isn't much talent on the right side of the defense in Edmonton.
Moreover, Edmonton journalist Allan Mitchell raised this possibility a few weeks ago. (An Edmonton journalist sends Justin Barron there)
POLL | ||
22 SEPTEMBRE | 723 ANSWERS Major Development in Edmonton Hints at Potential Trade with the Canadiens In your opinion, where will Justin Barron start the 2024-2025 season? | ||
In Montreal | 282 | 39 % |
In Laval | 126 | 17.4 % |
Elsewhere in the NHL | 315 | 43.6 % |
List of polls |