This potential Tampa Bay Lightning target is signing a professional tryout (PTO) contract with this Metropolitan Division team.
The Tampa Bay Lightning could use more forward depth. Because of this, it would be understandable if they invited another forward along with Logan Brown to training camp on a professional tryout (PTO) agreement. However, one of their top potential PTO options is now off the board: Kevin Labanc.
According to The Hockey News San Jose's Max Miller, Labanc is set to sign a PTO with the New Jersey Devils.
Labanc, 28, could have been a solid player for the Lightning to take a look at on a PTO. While the Brooklyn, New York native struggled this past season with the San Jose Sharks (two goals and nine points in 46 games), he has shown in the past that he can provide solid secondary scoring. For example, just back in 2022-23, he had 15 goals and 33 points in 72 games for the San Jose Sharks. In addition, he has had three seasons with at least 14 goals and four with at least 30 points.
Labanc's best NHL season came in 2018-19 when he posted career highs with 17 goals, 39 assists, and 56 points in 82 games with the Sharks.
The Lightning could use more help on the wing, so Labanc could have been a decent PTO addition for them. However, the Lightning still have other interesting PTO options to consider, including Phil Kessel, Blake Wheeler, Kyle Okposo, Cal Clutterbuck, and Mike Hoffman.
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