After a Tough Draft-Year, it’s no Longer a Matter of ‘When’ but ‘If’ for Justin Barron

Before Jamie Drysdale starred in the OHL and Jake Sanderson sported the NTDP’s jersey — Justin Barron established himself as a top prospect.

A November 2001 birthdate, Barron was eligible for Major Junior a full season earlier. So, when Erie picked Drysdale in the OHL Draft and Sanderson joined the NTDP, Barron already had an entire season of QMJHL experience. 

It didn’t take long for Drysdale to accelerate past Barron in 2018-19, but Barron became Halifax’s most-used 5-on-5 defenceman at 17 – an impressive feat on a deep blue line.

Despite the No. 1 role in Halifax, Barron plateaued. The belief turned from when to if he’ll put it together. Then, Sanderson pulled ahead. Kaiden Guhle and Braden Schneider took significant steps ahead of Barron. The dynamic – but equally frustrating – Jérémie