NHL training camps are set to open on December 31 for teams that missed out on Return-To-Play action and January 3 for the rest of the league. Plenty of the top UFA’s have signed with Mike Hoffman still holding out for a multitude-year deal.
Obviously not all available free agents are going to get NHL contracts. Some would make great candidates for a PTO (professional tryout). With the creation of a 4-6 man taxi squad, these guys will certainly get a look.
The Columbus Blue Jackets got things started when they signed defenseman Michael Del Zotto to a PTO on December 25.