The Carolina Hurricanes woke up on Wednesday and decided it would be a big news day. The latest round of information surrounds the addition of two players on professional tryouts (PTOs) ahead of next month's training camp.
The team announced forward Givani Smith and defenseman Oliver Kylington would join the Hurricanes for camp. While neither have contracts, they could provide great value to the team as players who've been through the rigors of training camp before, helping the rookies and young guys fighting for a roster spot. Here's what you need to know about each of the latest temporary additions.
Givani Smith
Selected in the 2nd round by the Detroit Red Wings in 2016, Smith hasn't spent an entire season in the NHL, but he's seen action during parts of the last six with four different teams. He's made stops in Detroit, Florida, San Jose, and Colorado, amassing nine goals and 22 points in 168 games. His best season came in 2021-22 with Detroit, scoring seven points in 48 games.
While not known as a scoring threat, Smith isn't afraid to get into the middle of the play and throw his body around. During the 2021-22 season, Smith laid 86 hits and accumulated 108 penalty minutes. He bounced around last season. He began the year in San Jose before being dealt to Colorado in the Mackenzie Blackwood swap. Smith was traded once again to Philadelphia at the trade deadline.
Oliver Kylington
Kylington was also selected in the 2nd round, being drafted by the Calgary Flames during the loaded 2015 Draft. He made his NHL debut late in the 2015-16 season before becoming a more permanent member of the lineup in 2018-19 with Calgary. He put together his best stretch of hockey in 2021-22, scoring 31 points in 73 games.
Stepping away from the game and returning to Sweden for a family matter and to address his mental health, Kylington missed the entire 2022-23 season before returning to Calgary midway through the following season. Playing 33 games, Kylington was nominated for the Masterton Trophy at the end of the season along with Hurricanes goalie Frederik Andersen and Coyotes goalie Connor Ingram.
Kylington began last season with Colorado before being traded twice. He was part of the New York Islanders' return in the Brock Nelson trade before he was moved for future considerations to the Anaheim Ducks the same day. Between Colorado and Anaheim, Kylington combined for one goal and four assists in 19 games.
Realistically, I don't see either player getting an NHL deal with the Hurricanes once training camp ends. The Canes are already rolling deep up front. Kylington would be an enticing addition if he were a right shot, but the likelihood of a deal feels slim since he's a lefty. Still, I think this should be a good showcase for both players as they try to earn deals elsewhere around the league.