Tyson Barrie is going to knock off the rust in the minors.
The Calgary Flames announced Friday morning that the seldom-used defenceman, a scratch for the past 29 consecutive games, will be joining the AHL’s Wranglers on a conditioning loan.
With the Flames carrying eight rearguards, Barrie hasn’t suited up since Nov. 12. His season statline shows one goal and one assist in just nine appearances.
On a conditioning stint, Barrie is eligible to remain with the Wranglers for up to two weeks. He continues to occupy a spot on the NHL roster, so there will be no call-up coming.
In addition to the personal benefit, an opportunity for the 33-year-old to show that he is ready to help, it’s not a bad thing for the organization to have Barrie briefly hanging around with up-and-coming blue line prospects like Hunter Brzustewicz and Jeremie Poirier. He has, after all, registered 500-plus points at the highest level and has a reputation as a terrific teammate.
While the Flames are hitting the road for a weekend back-to-back in Minnesota and Winnipeg, the Wranglers will play host on Saturday and Sunday to the San Diego Gulls.