Hockey Season Training Camps
As the hockey season revs back up, training camps are now in session, allowing teams to evaluate their roster configurations directly on the ice rather than relying solely on theoretical scenarios. This crucial time also allows coaches to assess the talent recently promoted from the AHL and their potential fit on the NHL roster. Players coming from the minors are presented with the chance to skate alongside established NHL stars and showcase their skills in preseason matches.
Wingers Transitioning to NHL
Several wingers who spent last season honing their skills in the AHL are now eyeing a transition to full-time NHL positions.
Matthew Savoie, RW, Edmonton Oilers
The Edmonton Oilers made a strategic shift this off-season, bringing in NCAA standout Isaac Howard, and are set to promote Matthew Savoie as a key player this season. Last year, Savoie stood out with 19 goals and 54 points in 66 games with the Bakersfield Condors. At just 21, he is expected to play alongside superstars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, making this season pivotal for his career.
Matej Blumel, RW, Boston Bruins
The Boston Bruins added Matej Blumel to their roster after a fruitful three-season stint with the Texas Stars, where Blumel emerged as a top scorer, netting 39 goals last season and finishing with 72 points in 67 games. Given the Bruins’ need for offensive power after a challenging scoring season, Blumel’s performance during training camp will be crucial in determining whether he secures a roster spot or heads back to Providence.
Trey Fix-Wolansky, RW, New York Rangers
After spending seven seasons with the Columbus Blue Jackets, Trey Fix-Wolansky signed a one-year contract with the New York Rangers. The 26-year-old demonstrated his scoring ability previously, achieving three consecutive seasons with 60 or more points for the Cleveland Monsters. Last season, he completed the year with 26 goals and 60 points in 65 games. As he aims to gain regular NHL minutes, Fix-Wolansky’s performance at training camp will be closely monitored.
Isak Rosen, LW, Buffalo Sabres
Selected 14th overall in the 2021 NHL Draft, Isak Rosen has spent the last two seasons demonstrating his offensive prowess with the Rochester Americans, totaling 28 goals and 55 points last year alone. Though he has seen limited action in the NHL—playing 15 games combined across two seasons—this might be the year he transitions to a full-time NHL role with the Sabres.
Arshdeep Bains, LW, Vancouver Canucks
Arshdeep Bains played a significant role in leading the Abbotsford Canucks to a Calder Cup championship. He posted 11 goals and 43 points in the regular season, and upped his performance in the playoffs with 24 points over the span of seven games. With the Vancouver Canucks potentially needing additional scoring depth, Bains may soon have the chance to prove himself after appearing in 21 NHL games over the last two seasons with just one goal to his record.
Additional Organizational News
In related news, Coordinating Coach Manny Malhotra of the Abbotsford Canucks has received a contract extension through the 2026-27 season. Vancouver’s general manager, Patrik Allvin, confirmed this decision, allowing Malhotra to continue his vital work in nurturing the club’s nascent talent.
For updates on player transfers between the AHL and KHL, check our signing tracker, alongside the AHL Free Agency updates.
