Rick Bowness confirms Colby Barlow won’t get into a Winnipeg Jets pre-season game

Just one week ago Jets 2023 1st rounder Colby Barlow had himself his first ever NHL contract as he inked his three-year ELC with Winnipeg. Unfortunately for the Ontario product he had a flu that took him out of skate the next day so he didn’t get an opportunity to discuss his new deal.

On the 25th he was still not 100% according to head coach Rick Bowness

“Sick. Ya he’s having a tough time. He’s very congested. It’s unfortunate but he’s still not feeling very well.”

Fast forward to today when Barlow joined some other guys as part of the IR skate. Asked for an update he had this to say:

“He’s skating. Trying to get some strength and some conditioning back but he’s not going to be able to practice with us for a couple of days yet.”

There was some hope they could get him into an exhibition game but he won’t be ready for tomorrow’s game against the Senators in Ottawa which is expected to be comprised of a young Jets group. The last two games are expected to feature mostly veterans and Bowness was asked if Barlow could get into one of those two.

“Nope.”

Tough news for the 2023 1st rounder who will get his chance next season to make an impression with the Jets.