Evaluating the most successful professional tryout signings in the NHL
Successful PTO signings have shaped NHL careers; here's an overview of notable examples that changed players' fortunes in recent seasons.
Understanding professional tryouts in the NHL
Each NHL season presents players with opportunities to prove their talents, even without a formal contract. Professional tryouts (PTOs) allow players to showcase their skills during training camps. The upcoming 2026-27 season is expected to see a rise in PTO signings as teams finalize their rosters.
Notable former PTO success stories
While many attend camp on PTOs without securing contracts, several players have turned these opportunities into productive seasons. One example is Matt Grzelcyk, who signed a PTO with the Chicago Blackhawks in 2025 after earning 40 points with the Pittsburgh Penguins the previous season. With a history of 175 points over 527 games in the NHL, Grzelcyk managed to contribute 12 assists in 69 games with Chicago.
Despite his efforts, Grzelcyk remains a free agent as of now, pointing to the hard reality of the league. Nonetheless, the fact that he secured a PTO and earned a place in the Blackhawks lineup highlights the potential benefits of this route.
Daniel Sprong’s breakout season through a PTO
Daniel Sprong exemplifies how a PTO can lead to a significant career shift. After being left unqualified by the Seattle Kraken in 2022, he attended training camp on a PTO and secured a one-year, two-way deal. That season, he achieved a career-high 21 goals and 46 points in 66 games.
Sprong’s success did not end there, as he subsequently signed a $2 million contract with the Detroit Red Wings, where he recorded 18 goals. Although his production declined later in his career, his early impact showcases how a PTO can strategically extend a player’s time in the NHL.
Jimmy Vesey’s redemption arc with the Rangers
Jimmy Vesey’s journey further illustrates the changing narratives of PTO participants. Entering the 2022-23 season with diminished expectations, stemming from struggles to find his footing in the NHL, Vesey rejoined the New York Rangers on a PTO. His performance in the preseason was sufficient to earn a league-minimum deal.
Throughout the season, Vesey became a steady presence, appearing in all 81 games. His success indicates that PTOs can serve as a second chance for players looking to regain lost momentum in their careers.
Outlook for the 2026-27 season
As training camps approach, more players are expected to explore PTOs as a means of securing roster spots. These signings can offer a fresh path for players who may not have found success in prior seasons. With examples like Grzelcyk, Sprong, and Vesey highlighting the potential benefits, the next season will likely see additional stories of redemption and opportunity.
For related context, see recent NHL line usage and NHL trade coverage.
Reporting for this story draws on The Hockey News.
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