Rumor: Friction between head coach and talented defensemen expected to lead to trade.

Earlier this summer we saw a shocking trade that involved a talented defenseman in his prime when P.K. Subban was traded from the Canadiens, and there were rumors that strained relationship with the head coach and management was one of the many motivating factors in that decision.

Now despite the fact that general manager Joe Sakic has stated he intends to hold on to defenseman Tyson Barrie, it appears that other National Hockey League organizations aren't so convinced, primarily because of the relationship between Barrie and head coach Patrick Roy.

According to a report from David Staples of the Edmonton Journal, the Edmonton Oilers are one of those teams and they intend to continue pursuing Barrie until there's some indication of that relationship being repaired.

From Staples' report:

Until Colorado Avs defenceman Tyson Barrie and Avs hockey boss Patrick Roy both declare all is well between them it’s evident that Edmonton will continue to seek a trade for Barrie.

There were rumors of Edmonton being willing to deal another of their skilled forwards for help on defense, and Barrie would certainly fit the bill, although if he is available Edmonton is unlikely to be the only suitor.

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