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WINNIPEG — Colby Barlow took notice when Winnipeg Jets general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff turned to his prospect pipeline after losing key players to free agency July 1.

“Today, if I were a young player in the Jets organization,” said Cheveldayoff, “I would be really excited about the opportunities ahead of me and I would be working extremely hard in the offseason to ensure I seize every advantage.”

The Jets lost several impact players from their veteran core, including top-six forwards Sean Monahan (Columbus Blue Jackets) and Tyler Toffoli (San Jose Sharks). So, Cheveldayoff’s comments were exactly what a forward prospect like Barlow wanted to hear after being the No. 18 pick in the 2023 NHL Draft.

“Having positive feedback is encouraging; I take it and do my best to prepare myself,” said Barlow at Winnipeg’s development camp last month. “I’m striving towards my ultimate objective of playing in the NHL. I’m doing everything I can to be the best. I acknowledge there are steps and a learning curve that I must go through.”

The 19-year-old faces a challenging task to secure a spot in this season’s NHL roster. His third season with the Ontario Hockey League’s Owen Sound was cut short due to a back injury, limiting him to only 50 games. Despite this, he managed to net 40 goals. Barlow made a comeback in time for the playoffs and experienced his first professional hockey stint with the American Hockey League’s Manitoba team, where he garnered three points (one goal, two assists) in three matches.

Barlow reflected, “The year was filled with highs and lows. An injury sidelined me for around a month and a half, which was unfortunate. However, I made a strong comeback and ended on a high note, I believe.”

Sadly, our playoff run was brief, but another opportunity presented itself with the Manitoba Moose. This was a fantastic experience for me, as I got to participate in a few games, interact with the team, and familiarize myself with coach Mark Morrison and his assistants. Learning about their operating methods was enlightening. I’ve carried this learning into the summer and am currently focusing on it.

Jets captain Adam Lowry scored 45 goals in his fourth and final junior season with Swift Current of the Western Hockey League in 2012-13. Now 31, the forward shared his experiences with the 35 prospects at development camp.

“Lowry discussed his junior career, where he was considered one of the best players on his team,” said Jimmy Roy, Winnipeg’s director of player development. “He scored around 40 goals and had over 40 assists. However, in his first year as a professional, he only managed one assist in nine games in the American league. Lowry spoke about the process of identifying his role and understanding his personal development during this transition.”

Barlow understands that scoring, which he is proficient at with 116 goals in 168 OHL games, is not enough. He must begin by keeping up with the game’s pace.

“From the time I was first drafted to now, I believe my skating has significantly improved,” said Barlow. “There’s still much room for growth, but I feel confident that I’ve been making the right strides. I also feel as though I’m beginning to grow into my body a bit more.”

“I believe thinking the game at a faster pace has become easier for me, especially after spending a year with the Jets organization. Being exposed to more experienced and intelligent colleagues has significantly accelerated my learning process, which has proven to be beneficial for me.”

It is still uncertain if Barlow will be able to play in the NHL this season, but he is certainly preparing for the opportunity.

“He said, ‘I believe it’s all about being prepared for that opportunity. I’m just doing my best to prepare myself as much as I can for my current age. I believe this offseason is extremely crucial for me.”