New York Rangers GM Chris Drury had to get creative in his efforts to move forward Barclay Goodrow, who possessed a no-trade clause covering 15 teams, significantly limiting trade options. San Jose Sharks were among the restricted teams, as confirmed by Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman on “The Jeff Marek Show.” Consequently, the Rangers placed the 31-year-old on waivers, allowing the Sharks, who held top priority due to finishing last in the NHL regular season, to claim him.
Despite Barclay Goodrow’s underwhelming 2023 season with only four goals and 12 points in 80 games, he remains a dependable bottom-six player. Just two years earlier, he achieved a career-high 33 points, showcasing his potential to contribute. His strengths lie in physical play, penalty killing, and providing veteran leadership in the locker room.
Goodrow, who was claimed by San Jose, is recognized as a depth forward with intangible qualities, such as hitting and penalty-killing ability. However, he struggled during 5v5 play, including in the 2024 playoffs, where he posted the lowest shot and expected goal share among forwards. Despite this, he maintained a high shooting percentage of 40%.
The decision to place Goodrow on waivers was a strategic move by Rangers GM Chris Drury, enabling close friend and Sharks GM Mike Grier to secure him while circumventing his no-trade clause. However, Elliotte Friedman highlighted Goodrow’s discontent with the situation, particularly his late notification about being placed on waivers and being claimed by a team on his no-trade list.
Ultimately, Goodrow’s no-trade clause did little to protect his situation, leading to a potentially sour departure from New York. His return to face his former team in the upcoming season promises to be an emotionally charged event.