While Tyson Barrie was fortunate to be invited to camp on a PTO, he knows there's pressure to make the Flames opening night roster.
Tyson Barrie, a 33-year-old defenseman with over 800 NHL games under his belt, is feeling the pressure to prove he still belongs in the league as he attends the Calgary Flames training camp on a professional tryout (PTO).
Despite his history of point production, including over 500 career points and a reputation as a power-play specialist, Barrie knows that securing a spot is far from guaranteed. He talked about how he feels rested and ready coming into camp, but the uncertainty that comes with a PTO is stressful.
“If you don’t show up and perform, they’re not tied to you,” Barrie said, “It’s definitely a different situation than I’ve been in the past, but...I know I’m a good player and I know I have some game left in me.”
Why Did Barrie Choose the Flames?
Barrie’s decision to attend Flames camp is intriguing but potentially two-fold. Calgary already boasts a deep blue line so he's competing for a roster spot where a job might be harder to come by. However, Flames head coach Ryan Huska -- who Barrie knows quite well from their days together with the WHL’s Kelowna Rockets -- has made it clear that the opportunity is there. Whether it's Barrie, or anyone else. Huska is only concerned about keeping people who prove they can help the team succeed.
“If you can help us win, we’re going to keep you,” said Huska. “That makes our team better.”
So too, Barrie might want to consider himself lucky to have received a camp invite at all. Yes, he's got power-play skills and potentially a lot left to give, but he’s not the only big name on the market. Many of them don't have a contract or an invite to camp.
With several other unsigned defensemen, including Justin Schultz, Kevin Shattenkirk, Tony DeAngelo, and former Flames captain Mark Giordano, Barrie’s presence at camp could be a positive sign that he’s still seen as a potential contributor.
For Barrie, he knows the pressure is on. He wants to have a job in Calgary, or at least show well enough that another team offers him a contract. This PTO represents what might be a last chance to prove that he still has what it takes to be an everyday NHL player.