Oilers: Four Players They Should Think About Getting on a PTO
The Edmonton Oilers are in need of a couple roster places coming season after moving Cody Ceci to the San Jose Sharks and losing Dylan Holloway and Philip Broberg to the St. Louis Blues. To help offset the losses, they were able to sign Ty Emberson and Vasily Podkolzin, but neither player has much experience playing in the NHL.
Rumor has it that the front office of the Oilers is trying to sign one or more players to a professional tryout contract (PTO) before training camp begins. In addition to having roster places open, they will also have cap room to sign one or more players if necessary since Evander Kane will be placed on long-term injured reserve at the start of the 2024–25 season. Here are four guys that potentially meet that description and are still available as free agents.
Barrie, Tyson
Unverified sources over the past day have indicated that Tyson Barrie may be brought in by the Oilers on a PTO. It makes sense because the franchise is quite familiar with the 33-year-old, having played parts of three seasons with them from 2020 to 2023, and their blue line could use some help on the right side.
Barrie’s stint on the first power-play unit was a major factor in his scoring production during his tenure in Edmonton. With the rise of Evan Bouchard, that position would become unattainable; nonetheless, he may still be useful as a leader. He might assist replace Ceci, a club favorite, and was a well-liked presence in the Oilers’ locker room.
The Justin Schultz
Another former Oiler who is worthy of consideration is Justin Schultz. The 34-year-old defenseman has played 745 games in the NHL, but he hasn’t grown into the superstar many expected him to be when he first joined the league.
There are many similarities between Schultz and Barrie. Having scored 324 points in his career, he is also a right-handed shooter with modest offensive ability. Despite his defensive shortcomings, he would be a valuable backup player on a blue line that isn’t good enough to be a Stanley Cup contender.
Yamamoto Kailer
Yes, one more ex-Oiler. For many former Oilers seeking for new homes, including Kailer Yamamoto, the offseason has been challenging. After playing 244 games with the Oilers, the team who selected him 22nd overall in the 2017 draft, the 25-year-old spent the previous season with the Seattle Kraken.
