Defenseman Travis Dermott has signed knowledgeable tryout (PTO) with the Edmonton Oilers, as confirmed by a number of sources. Frank Seravalli shared the information to his followers, stating, “Expectation is we’ll see Travis Dermott arrive in Edmonton for voluntary captain’s skates this week, with a proper PTO to observe.” This got here after Tom Gazzola of Edmonton Sports activities Discuss initially broke the story, indicating that Dermott is ready to hitch the Oilers.
Kurt Leavins of the Edmonton Journal had additionally speculated that Dermott was on the Oilers’ radar, writing that he was a possible candidate to hitch the workforce. Leavins famous that Dermott, although a left-shot defenseman, is snug taking part in on either side of the blue line, which may make him a possible choice for Edmonton.
Dermott, 27, has frolicked with the Vancouver Canucks, Toronto Maple Leafs, and most not too long ago, the Arizona Coyotes. In 50 video games final season, he recorded two objectives and 5 assists for seven factors. Over his 329-game NHL profession, Dermott has totaled 16 objectives and 46 assists for 62 factors.
For followers who aren’t aware of him, they may know him from a significant story that broke final season. In October, Dermott turned the primary NHL participant this season to make use of rainbow-colored Pleasure Tape on his stick, regardless of the league issuing a memo advising groups in opposition to its use throughout practices, warmups, and video games.
Throughout a recreation in opposition to the Anaheim Geese, the 25-year-old defenseman was seen with Pleasure Tape wrapped across the prime portion of his stick. The NHL shortly shifted gears after Dermott primarily ignored the league, regardless of no matter penalties they may attempt to dish out to him.
Demott Has a Connection With the Oilers
The connection between Dermott and the Oilers runs deep. He was coached by present Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch throughout his time with the OHL’s Erie Otters. It was there he additionally performed alongside Oilers captain Connor McDavid for 2 seasons. It could possibly be one of many causes the Oilers are extending an invite to him over names like Mark Giordano or Kevin Shattenkirk.
With the departures of defensemen Cody Ceci and Philip Broberg this offseason, Dermott can have a reliable probability to compete for a daily position on the workforce. The Oilers have additionally added Joshua Brown, Connor Carrick, and Ty Emberson to their defensive group, so a job received’t simply be handed to him.
Subsequent: Connor McDavid Shuts Down Contract Chatter Surrounding Oilers