Veteran Forwards Cut from Canadian NHL Teams Amid Training Camp Competition
Monday saw three Canadian NHL teams release veteran forwards from tryouts, highlighting the intense competition for roster spots.
Vancouver Canucks Release Sammy Blais
Blais, 28, was cut despite playing four pre-season games. He’ll report to the Canucks’ AHL affiliate in Abbotsford.
Edmonton Oilers End Mike Hoffman’s Tryout
Hoffman, 34, impressed with a goal and three assists in four games. However, the Oilers’ depth and limited cap space ($1 million) led to his release.
Ottawa Senators Release Nikolay Kulemin
Kulemin, 38, attempted an NHL comeback after six seasons in the KHL. He recorded an assist in two pre-season games but was released due to the Senators’ depth and limited cap space ($1.88 million).
Experience and Stats
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Hoffman: 228 goals, 487 points in 745 NHL games
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Blais: 27 goals, 71 points in 257 NHL games
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Kulemin: 121 goals, 264 points in 669 NHL games
Teams’ Roster Decisions
Each team must submit its 23-player opening-day roster by October 7:
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Canucks: Nils Hoglander, Kiefer Sherwood, and Phillip Di Giuseppe fill depth roles
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Oilers: Vasily Podkolzin, Corey Perry, and James Hamblin provide depth
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Senators: Noah Gregor, Zack MacEwen, and Jan Jenik bolster offense
Implications and Next Steps
The releases demonstrate the challenges veteran players face in securing NHL roster spots:
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Teams prioritize youth and depth
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Cap space constraints limit roster flexibility
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Players must explore alternative options, such as AHL or European leagues
Sources:
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The Hockey News
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(link unavailable)
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PuckPedia
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NHL Training Camp Battles Intensify
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NHL Roster Cut Deadline Looms