Rising Star Barlow Capitalizes on Big Offseason to Seize Opportunity with Jets

With the Winnipeg Jets’ recent departures of top veterans like Sean Monahan and Tyler Toffoli, the door to the NHL roster has opened a crack wider for young prospects. Among them, 19-year-old forward Colby Barlow is taking full advantage.

Fueling the Fire: Cheveldayoff’s Message

General Manager Kevin Cheveldayoff’s focus on the prospect pool resonated deeply with Barlow. Cheveldayoff’s statement about exciting opportunities for young players served as a major motivator for Barlow, who was drafted 18th overall in 2023.

Overcoming Challenges, Embracing Opportunities

Barlow acknowledges the uphill battle he faces. A back injury limited him to 50 games in his third OHL season, despite scoring an impressive 40 goals. However, a strong finish and a taste of professional hockey with the Manitoba Moose fueled his determination.

Learning from the Best

Barlow isn’t just focused on scoring. He’s actively learning from experienced players like Jets captain Adam Lowry, who shared his own journey of adjusting to the pro game after a high-scoring junior career.

Sharpening the Tools

Barlow recognizes the need to improve his skating and adjust to the faster pace of the pro game. He credits his year with the Jets organization for accelerating his learning curve in terms of hockey IQ.

Ready to Answer the Call

Whether this season or the next, Barlow is putting in the work to be NHL-ready. He views this offseason as a crucial period for growth and development.