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The Cardinals have been a little busy today with the Jon Lester deal, but you could argue that Doug Armstrong’s had a better day than John Mozeliak.
The Blues have re-signed restricted free agent Ivan Barbashev to a two year contract extension that’s worth $4.5 million total ($2.25 AAV). Barbashev’s last contract with the Blues was a two year deal with an annual cap hit of of $1.475 million. Barbashev’s new contract will take him through age 28 and into unrestricted free agency.
This season, the versatile center/left winger scored five goals and seven assists in an injury shortened 38 game season. Barbashev was out for 18 games thanks to an ankle injury.
Barbashev isn’t a prolific goal scorer, but he can pot some when it counts - his 2018-2019 season was a solid one. Barbashev scored 14 goals and 12 assists en route to a sucessful three goal, three assist postseason.
Barbashev was a key component of the 2019 Stanley Cup champion team and has maintained that level of play in the two years after that season. He’s a fan favorite, a tough opponent, and certainly someone that the Blues can utilize in multiple situations. Chances are good that his contract will be a blueprint for fellow restricted free agent Zach Sanford during negotiations with the team.