The Winnipeg Jets have successfully navigated another key piece of their off-season business, announcing the re-signing of forward Morgan Barron to a two-year contract. The deal is reported to be worth a total of $3.7 million, carrying an average annual value (AAV) of $1.85 million against the salary cap.
Crucially, this agreement means the team and player have avoided a potential arbitration hearing. Arbitration is a process where a neutral third party determines a player`s salary if the team and player`s representatives cannot reach an agreement through negotiation. Successfully reaching a deal beforehand is generally seen as a positive outcome, providing certainty for both parties without the need for a potentially adversarial proceeding.
Player Profile and Role
Barron, a 26-year-old forward hailing from Halifax, Nova Scotia, was originally drafted by the New York Rangers in the sixth round (174th overall) of the 2017 NHL Entry Draft. He joined the Jets organization in March 2022, arriving as part of the trade package that saw forward Andrew Copp head to New York. Since then, Barron has established himself as a regular fixture in the Jets` forward group.
During the most recently completed 2024-25 NHL season, Barron appeared in 74 regular season games for Winnipeg, tallying 15 points from 8 goals and 7 assists. He also dressed for 13 playoff contests, contributing 2 assists. These statistics align with the role Barron has carved out – that of a reliable, depth forward typically skating in the team`s bottom-six lines. While not relied upon for primary offensive production, players like Barron are vital for providing energy, defensive structure, and occasional secondary scoring throughout the grind of an 82-game season and into the playoffs.
His career totals now stand at 60 points (30 goals, 30 assists) accumulated over 256 games across his time with both the Rangers and the Jets. His presence provides a known commodity and a certain level of physicality to the lineup.
Contract Context
The $1.85 million AAV represents an affordable cap hit for the Jets, fitting squarely within the typical range for a third or fourth-line player with Barron`s profile and production. This contract provides the team with cost control and stability for the next two seasons, securing a player who is comfortable within the organization`s system.
By getting this contract finalized, the Jets check off another item on their busy off-season agenda. Securing depth pieces like Barron is essential for building a complete roster capable of withstanding the rigors of an NHL campaign.
