WINNIPEG — Back when he was coaching the Manitoba Moose in the AHL, Winnipeg Jets assistant coach Marty Johnston hinted at Morgan Barron`s current performance.
In late March 2022, shortly after being acquired by Winnipeg in the Andrew Copp trade, Barron impressed in a two-game series against the Laval Rocket. He scored a goal, an assist, and fired nine shots, displaying dominance in all zones.
“This is a positive sign for Winnipeg Jets fans,” Johnston, then with the Moose, remarked. “He possesses significant potential.”
Three years later, Barron is showcasing his potential as a high-caliber bottom-six center.
This development isn`t entirely unexpected. The 26-year-old has solidified his role as a reliable bottom-six winger and penalty killer over the past two seasons. However, since transitioning to the fourth-line center position post-trade deadline, Barron`s game has elevated.
“I feel I’m currently playing my best hockey of the season,” Barron commented after Monday’s 3-1 victory over the St. Louis Blues, where he netted the opening goal.
In 15 games as a center, Barron has accumulated two goals and six points. During five-on-five play, the Jets have significantly outshot opponents in high-danger areas (35-21) when he is on the ice.
“He’s always maintained he’s a natural center. Most players say that from their junior or college days,” Jets coach Scott Arniel noted with a smile.
While Arniel’s remark about Barron’s center experience was lighthearted, his shift to the position has been smooth.
Barron embodies the modern bottom-six center ideal, adept at faceoffs (52.2% win rate), forechecking, and puck possession in the offensive zone. These diligent attributes are complemented by his exceptional speed.
“You value players like him driving through the middle,” said Jets forward Kyle Connor.
Monday’s goal exemplified this: Barron outpaced Blues forward Mathieu Joseph, cut inside, and lifted the puck past Joel Hofer, giving Winnipeg an early 1-0 lead in the second period.
“I appreciate that move, instead of retreating behind the net, Barron drives to the inside,” Arniel stated.
According to AllThreeZones.com data, Barron is in the 97th percentile for Zone Entries per 60 minutes (25.73) among forwards with at least 100 minutes played this season.
Earlier in the season, Rasmus Kupari’s speed provided a boost to the fourth line. However, Barron’s playing style is more direct. He readily attacks inside and, once in the zone, utilizes his size and stick-handling to prolong plays along the boards.
Despite limited playoff experience (five games) and minimal statistical impact thus far, aside from his notable scar from a skate incident in 2023, Barron appears ready to be a significant contributor when the high-stakes playoff games commence.
