#1 Tyson Barrie
There is no doubt that for some, reading Tyson Barrie’s name at the top of this list will incite some negative emotions. He has drawn the ire of Leafs fans but the critisism hasn’t always been justified.
Barrie started the year poorly under Mike Babcock. When the coaching change occurred after 23 games and Keefe took control of the ship, there was an immediate change in Barrie’s game. He was suddenly allowed to take more risks and join the rush. Barrie began to look more like the player he was in Colorado. The same one Dubas thought he was getting when he made one of the biggest trades of the decade to get the defenseman.
Despite making some glaring errors with the puck, Barrie actually has excellent puck possession stats. Playing at 5-on 5, he had a Corsi rating of 53.1, which was 2.0 better relative to his team. In his five meaningful bubble games against the Columbus Blue Jackets, Barrie was consistent. He once again posted a 53.1 Corsi rating. (Naturalstattrick.com).
Despite the fact that it was reported this week that the Leafs would let Barrie test free agency while they explored other options, the Maple Leafs should take a serious look at re-signing him. As one of the best passers in the game, if the D-man is willing to take a hometown discount, a deal must get done. Just like everyone else on this list, the money is an important part of this deal.
It was always believed that Barrie would walk away from the Leafs and earn a contract somewhere in the seven million dollar range. He may no longer be able to receive that lucrative an AAV or he may be willing to choose Toronto over other suitors. If it means, he’s willing to make the dollar figure manageable to return to the Leafs, it would be a great (even if unpopular) move for Dubas to make.
Whatever the Maple Leafs choose to do when free agency officially begins on October 9, editorinleaf.com is you place to learn everything you need to know about it.