Matthew Barnaby is a former professional ice hockey player who played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for over a decade. He was known for his physical play and ability to agitate opponents, often leading to fights on the ice.
Barnaby began his hockey career in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) with the Peterborough Petes. He was drafted by the Buffalo Sabres in the fourth round of the 1992 NHL Entry Draft and made his NHL debut with the team later that year.
Over the course of his career, Barnaby played for several NHL teams, including the Pittsburgh Penguins, Tampa Bay Lightning, New York Rangers, Colorado Avalanche, Chicago Blackhawks, and Dallas Stars. He was known for his versatility, playing both forward and defense positions.
Barnaby's physical style of play often led to penalties and suspensions. He was suspended multiple times throughout his career for various infractions, including a 10-game suspension in 2001 for a high hit on Philadelphia Flyers forward Eric Lindros.
Despite his reputation as an agitator, Barnaby was also a skilled player. He scored a career-high 19 goals and 43 points with the Sabres during the 1996-97 season. He also represented Team USA in international competition, including the 1996 World Cup of Hockey and the 1998 Winter Olympics.
After retiring from professional hockey in 2007, Barnaby transitioned to a career in broadcasting. He has worked as a commentator and analyst for several networks, including ESPN, TSN, and NHL Network.
Overall, Matthew Barnaby's hockey career was defined by his physical play and ability to get under opponents' skin. While he was often a controversial figure on the ice, he was also a skilled player who made significant contributions to the teams he played for.
🏒