NHL Prepares for the 2025-26 Season
As the NHL prepares for the start of the 2025-26 season, all 32 teams have finalized their rosters. However, not all players seeking opportunities through professional tryouts (PTOs) secured contracts. While a few veterans like Matt Grzelcyk of the Chicago Blackhawks, Givani Smith from the Carolina Hurricanes, and Conor Sheary of the New York Rangers managed to ink deals, several others found themselves without a contract as training camps concluded. This situation leaves notable figures needing to seek an opportunity elsewhere or consider retirement.
Notable Releases
Among those released was Jack Johnson, a defenseman for the Minnesota Wild. With a storied 19-year career and over 1,200 games played, Johnson’s performance during the preseason – totaling just one assist and a plus/minus rating of plus-2 across three games – wasn’t enough for Minnesota to offer him a position within their already skilled defensive roster. At 38 years old, and after winning the Stanley Cup with the Avalanche in 2021, his future in professional hockey now hangs in the balance. Although he may serve as a dependable third-pair defenseman, the Wild’s perspective indicates they don’t believe he can compete at the level required alongside seasoned players like Brent Burns and Drew Doughty. If no team requires additional defenseman depth, he might be facing the end of his hockey career.
Goalie James Reimer, formerly of the Toronto Maple Leafs, also saw his tryout with the franchise come to an end. The 37-year-old has played over 525 games in the NHL, but his preseason performance left much to be desired, with a significant goals-against average of 7.36 in just one game. His return attempt to Toronto raised eyebrows when the team opted instead to pick up goalie Cayden Primeau from the Hurricanes, signaling confidence in other options. Reimer’s last season with the Buffalo Sabres featured a mediocre record, and absent an injury to a current NHL netminder, his time in the league may soon conclude.
Lastly, Robby Fabbri, a left winger formerly with the Pittsburgh Penguins, finds himself in a similar predicament. The 29-year-old had an impressive season two years ago but suffered a drop in activity last year, achieving only eight goals in 44 games. His current $4 million cap hit coupled with the team’s focus on younger talent left him without a role at this time. After performing decently in pre-season games, Fabbri may now explore opportunities in Europe, where he might secure a more lucrative deal than what the NHL might offer, especially as he contemplates how to continue his professional career.
The Uncertain Landscape for Veterans
As the NHL season unfolds, these veterans illustrate the uncertain landscape for players seeking to extend their careers, highlighting the fine line between legacy and the reality of professional sports contracts.
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