2 Potential Destinations for Free-Agent Tyson Barrie

The Edmonton Oilers are going to have a hard time re-signing defenseman Tyson Barrie after he led the league in points by defenseman, while sitting on a one-year deal. Barrie is now due for a nice raise from his $3.75 million contract from last season and from all accounts it looks like he's going to get a long-term deal on the open market.

2 Teams Who Could Sign Tyson Barrie

Chicago Blackhawks: The Blackhawks are going to be busy this offseason as they look to improve their defense. The team lost Brent Seabrook last season to retirement and Barrie could be the perfect replacement for his minutes. The Blackhawks are projected to have roughly $24 million to spend, even if Jonathan Toews ends up coming back. Look for them to make a lucrative offer to Barrie and there could be a fit in the windy city for the offensive defenseman.

Florida Panthers: The Panthers have some money to spend this offseason and could add to their d-core. Barrie fits their up-and-down style and could move Aaron Ekblad to either the left-side on the power-play or to the second-unit. Given he's recovering from a major injury, Barrie could be seen as a security blanket in case there's a delay in his rehab. 

At this point it looks like Barrie has priced himself out of staying in Edmonton and will try to fetch at least a five-year deal on the open market at roughly $50 million. This could be one of those cases where a wildcard team comes in and drops a boat load of money on the table and Barrie heads somewhere no one say coming, as we all know money talks.

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