This free agent forward would be an interesting player for the Blue Jackets to take a gamble on with a PTO.
When looking at the Columbus Blue Jackets' current roster, it is fair to wonder if they will consider signing a player to a professional tryout (PTO) agreement ahead of training camp. This is especially so when noting that they lost both Boone Jenner and Mason Marchment in free agency this offseason.
One player who could make sense for the Blue Jackets to take a chance on with a PTO is forward Michael Bunting.
Bunting remains a free agent at this stage in the offseason after a down 2025-26 season. In 74 games split between the Nashville Predators and Dallas Stars, he recorded 14 goals and 33 points. He also cooled off after being traded to the Stars, posting just one goal and one assist in 13 games.
Although Bunting struggled down the stretch last season, his previous seasons make him an interesting potential PTO target for the Blue Jackets to consider. Just back in 2024-25, he recorded 19 goals and 38 points in 76 games split between the Pittsburgh Penguins and Predators. He also posted 19 goals and 55 points in 81 games during the 2023-24 campaign. With this, he has had recent offensive success and could bounce back if given the chance to play for another NHL team.
There would be no real harm in the Blue Jackets taking a gamble on Bunting with a PTO. If signed for the season, he could give their bottom six a boost. However, if the Blue Jackets brought in Bunting on a PTO and ended up not seeing him as a fit, they could simply release him from it.
