Richard Dean
Updated on: October 13, 2024 3:21 pm GMT
As NHL training camps prepare to open in just two days, a number of notable defensemen remain without contracts, highlighting the complexity and strategy involved in free agency. Teams are eyeing the market while these experienced players weigh their options, potentially shaping the upcoming season’s dynamics.
Veteran Defensemen Still Looking for Homes
The countdown to the 2024-25 NHL season is in full swing. With training camps set to begin on Thursday, October 5, remaining unrestricted free agents (UFAs) have a pivotal decision to make—whether to secure a professional tryout (PTO) for a chance to showcase their skills. Among those still seeking contracts are several seasoned veterans, each with a unique skill set that could benefit clubs in need of defensive depth.
Here’s a look at some prominent defensemen who have yet to find a home:
- Justin Schultz: A two-time Stanley Cup champion, Schultz had a productive season with the Seattle Kraken, tallying seven goals and 26 points in 70 games. His five-on-five metrics were impressive, ranking among his best. Schultz could offer a solid option for teams looking for a reliable point man on the power play.
- Kevin Shattenkirk: After a single season with the Boston Bruins, Shattenkirk notched six goals and 24 points over 61 games. Known for his offensive contributions, he has consistently performed well throughout his career, making him an attractive option for squads needing enhanced power play support.
- Tony DeAngelo: Last season, DeAngelo struggled to maintain consistent performance metrics while playing just 31 games for the Carolina Hurricanes. Despite a checkered past, his offensive prowess makes him an intriguing buy-low option for teams willing to take a chance.
- Mark Giordano: Approaching his 41st birthday, Giordano remains keen to play another season. He demonstrated resilience last year, contributing three goals and nine points with a strong defensive rating. While his age raises questions about durability, he still possesses the expertise valuable to any roster.
- Marco Scandella: Scandella had a challenging season with the St. Louis Blues, where injuries limited his output. Historically a low-scoring defender, his track record of steady play may not attract as much interest as the others.
- John Klingberg: Though Klingberg did not find success in Toronto, his earlier performances speak volumes. Known for his ability to direct the power play, he could find a role as a quarterback on a team needing a capable offensive defender.
The Market Trends for Defensemen
The availability of these veterans represents a remarkable aspect of NHL’s player market. Many teams are hesitant to commit long-term, fearing potential performance declines, while others may be waiting for price tags to drop. Here are a few market considerations:
- Signing Challenges: Players like Schultz and Shattenkirk, who have proven themselves, are still waiting for opportunities likely due to contract negotiations not aligning with team budgets.
- Past Performance: Scouts and managers continue to evaluate their past statistics and current fitness levels, which plays a significant role in their signing processes.
- Market Dynamics: With the cap space available to teams fluctuating, getting the required contracts in place can be challenging for interested players.
An underlying theme emerges: many of these players may be unwilling to accept an entry-level salary, indicating a tougher road to negotiation.
Implications of the Waiting Game
As training camps commence, the urgency for these defensemen to secure contracts heightens. Not only does a PTO offer a chance for evaluation, but it also puts them on display at crucial moments leading into the regular season.
Their ability to adapt and perform well in training camps can open doors. Yet, they face the risk of remaining unsigned. “If playing was important enough, you’d see more of them taking PTOs regardless of salary,” commented an anonymous source familiar with team strategies.
Team Dynamics and Fan Engagement
With training camps on the horizon, teams are excited to welcome back players and engage fans with various events. For example, the Tampa Bay Lightning recently acknowledged their season ticket holders by incorporating their names into the opening ice design, fostering a sense of community and belonging.
Additionally, organizations like the Washington Capitals are gearing up for their own season opener with high anticipation, eyeing both new and returning prospects as they seek to establish a competitive roster.
As fans prepare for the season, the focus will remain squarely on how teams adapt their strategies based on available talent. The choices made over the next few days could define team dynamics for the entire season.
Final Thoughts
The remaining days before training camps open will be crucial for these veteran defensemen, as they aim to secure their places on NHL rosters. With both a blend of young talent and experienced players, team managers face tough decisions.
For these defensemen, the waiting game continues as they assess their options—will they prioritize playing opportunities over financial gains? The clock is ticking, and a new season is just around the corner.
As the excitement grows, fans are eager to see how things will play out. They will look closely at each new player and think about how these changes might affect the whole league.
