HockeyBuzz.com – Eklund – Race for Pro Tryouts Begins……

This week, the focus for most player agents may have shifted from locking down minimum one-year veteran contracts for their free agent clients to giving them a chance to lock down a job at a professional tryout in training camp next month.

The Washington Capitals brought back Jakub Vrana on a PTO this week. A little over three years ago, the 28-year-old Cup winner was dealt to Detroit for Anthony Mantha, spent two years with the Wings and most of last season with the Blues’ AHL affiliate in Springfield, so Caps get a prize. Feel free to look to see if there is anything left to save.

Here are some players who are likely to receive interest from clubs:

Calen Addison – Defense – Just 24 years old, Addison is a right-handed D who scored 29 points in Minnesota two seasons ago. Maybe he’s still holding out for a one-year deal.

Kailer Yamamoto – Wing – Scored 20 goals with Edmonton in 2022, had just eight goals with Seattle and struggled last season. He’s only 25 years old, but he can get a free look just because of his slight build (5’8″, 153 lb.)

Dominik Kubalik – Wing – Skilled scorer who was nominated for the Calder Trophy in 2020, but struggles to play on the defensive end of the ice.

John Klingberg – Defense – Coming off hip surgery, the 32-year-old has been rumored to be on a PTO from the Leafs, with whom he played just 14 games last season, but other teams may be willing to take a look . if i pass