As per Sportnet insider Elliotte Friedman’s latest update, the Nashville Predators have reportedly granted defenseman Tyson Barrie permission to explore potential talks with other teams. Friedman notes that Barrie was being made a healthy scratch against the Rangers, and with his unrestricted free agency looming after this season, both the player and the team are exploring the possibility of finding a more suitable fit elsewhere.

The question now arises: Are there teams interested in acquiring the services of an experienced power play quarterback like Barrie?

Barrie, acquired by the Predators in a trade involving Mattias Ekholm and the Edmonton Oilers last season, hasn’t replicated the impact he had in Edmonton. He’s production has been consistent, but he’s likely not part of their long-term plans.

With nine assists but no goals this season, Barrie’s stint in Nashville hasn’t matched his performance in Edmonton, where he contributed 12 points in 24 games for the Predators before they missed the playoffs. Barrie had hoped to be part of the Oilers’ competitive journey, but a trade attempt for Erik Karlsson led to uncertainty. When the Oilers had the chance to land Ekholm, Barrie was moved.

Makes Sense These Two Sides Might Move On

Barrie’s potential departure from the Predators appears logical, considering the team’s likely move in a different direction. Given Barrie’s preference for a contender, a trade seems like a sensible option. While his $4.5 million salary may be considered pricey, it remains manageable for teams with cap space. Moreover, the Predators, boasting the second-highest cap space, have flexibility to take a player in return as part of any deal.