Pair of former Canucks find new opportunities for the upcoming season
Two former members of the Vancouver Canucks will be fighting for a contract at training camp, as each of Sam Gagner and Travis Dermott were signed to professional tryout (PTO) deals on Tuesday.
Gagner, who looks to tally his 18th professional season in 2024/25, joins the Carolina Hurricanes on a tryout basis, while 27 year old defenceman Travis Dermott is making the third stop of his career in Canada, joining the Edmonton Oilers on a PTO.
Dermott was acquired by the Canucks for a 3rd round pick in 2021-22, but after just 28 games played with the team was allowed to walk in free agency ahead of last season.
He spent last season with the Coyotes (now Utah HC) and had 7 points in 50 games, but ultimately did not receive an offer from the NHL's newest squad that revamped their blueline.
After revitalizing his career with Columbus, Gagner joined the Canucks and played nearly an entire season in Vancouver in 2017-18, chipping in 31 points in 74 games.
He added 7 games with the club the following season, but was demoted to the AHL and has frequently seen time in the press box and minors since.
While many expected Gagner to announce his retirement at the end of last season where he played sparingly with the Oilers, the 35 year old has been staunch in his desire to continue his playing career.
Both players will have an uphill battle ahead of them in camp as they look to crack into the lineup of two of the league's best teams from last season.
Let us know how you think they'll do in the poll!
| POLL | ||
Do you see either of these players earning NHL deals? | ||
| Yes, both will stick in the NHL | 20 | 21.3 % |
| Gagner, but not Dermott | 5 | 5.3 % |
| Dermott, but not Gagner | 14 | 14.9 % |
| No, neither player will be signed | 55 | 58.5 % |
| List of polls | ||
