NEW YORK, NEW YORK – DECEMBER 18, 2024 — In a significant move for the New York Rangers’ roster, the team is set to acquire forward Morgan Barron from the Winnipeg Jets. Barron, who was originally drafted by the Rangers in the sixth round of the 2017 NHL Draft, is being brought back to New York in a trade deal that is expected to help the Rangers shore up their bottom six and add much-needed depth to their forward group.
The deal is still pending league approval but is expected to be completed in the coming hours. In exchange for Barron, the Rangers are reportedly sending a draft pick and a player to be named later, further signaling that Rangers General Manager Chris Drury is committed to reshaping the roster and trying to spark a turnaround in the team’s disappointing season.
Barron’s Return to New York: A Welcome Addition?
Morgan Barron, 25, has spent the past several seasons with the Winnipeg Jets since being traded to them in 2021. He has shown flashes of potential as a reliable two-way forward and a gritty presence on the ice, contributing both offensively and defensively. Barron’s versatility to play across multiple forward positions will provide the Rangers with added flexibility as they attempt to balance their lines.
The Rangers are hoping that Barron’s size, skill, and work ethic will bring an injection of energy and stability to a forward group that has struggled with consistency this season. Barron, who has 6 goals and 8 assists in 29 games this season for Winnipeg, is expected to slot into the Rangers’ bottom six, where coach Peter Laviolette believes he can add value immediately.
Coach Laviolette Addresses Concerns Over Team’s Struggles
Following the news of Barron’s imminent arrival, head coach Peter Laviolette addressed the media today and spoke candidly about the Rangers’ ongoing struggles and how Barron’s acquisition fits into the team’s plans moving forward.
“We’re looking for fresh ideas, fresh energy, and a guy who can contribute in all areas of the game,” Laviolette said. “Morgan Barron is exactly the kind of player we need right now. He’s not just going to come in and be another body in the lineup — he’s going to help us win battles along the boards, he’s going to play with pace, and he’s going to make our bottom six harder to play against. That’s something we’ve been missing.”
Laviolette was also asked about the Rangers’ disappointing performance, particularly after a series of recent losses, and how Barron could impact the team’s morale.
“It’s no secret that we’ve been in a tough spot. Our play has not been good enough, and we’ve underperformed relative to our potential,” Laviolette said. “But we’re working to make changes where needed, and this acquisition is part of that. We know the fans are frustrated, but we’re not giving up. We believe in this group, and we believe that Morgan can help us find a way out of this rut.”
Despite the team’s struggles, Laviolette remains focused on the long-term goal: returning the Rangers to playoff contention. With the team still underperforming, the pressure is mounting, but Barron’s addition could be the first of several changes aimed at rejuvenating the roster.
The Road Ahead for the Rangers
As the Rangers look to improve, acquiring Barron from Winnipeg is seen as part of a broader strategy to solidify the team’s depth while still trying to make a run at a playoff spot. Barron’s return to New York could serve as a spark for a group that has been lackluster at times this season, and Laviolette is hopeful that the team will respond to the challenge.
“We know we have a lot of work to do, but this trade gives us another tool in the toolbox,” Laviolette added. “Morgan’s going to make a difference. We need everyone to step up, and this is just the beginning.”
The Rangers’ immediate focus will be on Barron’s integration into the lineup, and whether his addition can help provide the team with the stability and consistency it has lacked during its recent slump. With the holiday roster freeze approaching, this move may be one of several in the coming weeks, as Drury and Laviolette continue to assess and adjust the roster.
Stay tuned for more updates as the Rangers aim to right the ship and keep their playoff hopes alive.
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