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NHL Rumors: Ex-Oilers star Sam Gagner likely to sign PTO with Metropolitan Division contender
Veteran forward Sam Gagner is expected to sign a professional try-out (PTO) with the Carolina Hurricanes. Gagner, 35, has played 17 seasons in the NHL and is aiming for his 18.
He started his career with the Edmonton Oilers in 2007 after being drafted sixth overall. Gagner has since played for seven different NHL teams, and the Hurricanes could be his eighth.
Puck Pedia tweeted the PTO possibility on X:
"Expecting 35 y/o F Sam Gagner to sign a PTO with Carolina #causechaos 10P in 28 GP"
Last season, Gagner played 28 games for the Oilers, scoring 10 points. His season was cut short due to a double hip surgery in March 2023. Injuries have limited his games in the last few years, but he still brings valuable experience with over 1,000 NHL games played.
Sam Gagner is known for his consistency and adaptability, even though his output has reduced. He had a strong 2021-22 season with the Detroit Red Wings, with 31 points. Now, he'll try to make the Hurricanes' squad in training camp. If effective, Gagner might provide depth and experience to Carolina's lineup.
Sam Gagner will join a Hurricanes full of promise despite losing some players in free agency
The Carolina Hurricanes had a strong 2023-24 season, finishing second in the Metropolitan Division with a 52-23-7 record.
This off-season, the Hurricanes added several new players. Defensemen Sean Walker and Shayne Gostisbehere, forward Jack Roslovic, and former Stanley Cup winner William Carrier joined the team. Eric Tulsky was promoted to general manager, replacing Don Waddell.
Several key players left the team in free agency. Forward Jake Guentzel was traded to the Tampa Bay Lightning. Defensemen Brady Skjei and Brett Pesce signed with the Nashville Predators and New Jersey Devils, respectively. Forward Teuvo Teravainen joined the Chicago Blackhawks. Stefan Noesen, Antti Raanta, and Evgeny Kuznetsov also departed.
Young prospects like Bradley Nadeau, Felix Unger-Sorum, Jackson Blake, and Scott Morrow are close to making the NHL roster.
The Hurricanes need to add one or two forwards to their top six. They are looking for a left-shot winger and more center depth behind Sebastian Aho. Martin Necas signed a two-year, $13 million contract to keep the roster competitive.
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