Traded to Jets by Edmonton Oilers for future considerations, October 26, 1976. Reclaimed by Detroit Red Wings prior to Expansion Draft, June 9, 1979. Traded to Jets by Detroit Red Wings for cash, October 31, 1980.
The Jets acquired defenseman Barry Long early in the 1976-1977 season and he instantly became a leading member of the Jets' defense corps. He spent three seasons with the Jets and was instrumental in helping them to two AVCO Cup championships over that time. Long was the Jets' captain for most of the 1978-1979 season and was a two-time All-Star as a Jet. Following the 1978-1979 season, Long's rights were reclaimed by the Detroit Red Wings, but the Jets re-acquired him in trade in 1980-1981 and he finished his playing career in a Jets uniform the following year. He went on to the coaching ranks and as Head Coach in 1984-1985, he led the Jets to their best NHL season. He later became a scout and worked alongside former Jets' General Manager John Ferguson with the San Jose Sharks. Long broke into the NHL with the Los Angeles Kings before moving on to Edmonton, where he was named their best defenseman and MVP in 1974-1975.
