Oilers release Mike Hoffman from PTO
Breaking news in Oil Country as the Oilers have released Mike Hoffman from his PTO.
As per the Hockey News, The Edmonton Oilers announced that they have released Mike Hoffman from his professional tryout (PTO) on Monday. The veteran forward played in four games for the Oilers, scoring a goal and three assists. His numbers might have suggested there was a shot he could earn a contract with the team, but the organization ultimately decided otherwise.
Although Mike Hoffman being released from his PTO comes as no real surprise, it doesn't negate the fact that he's proven himself still capable at producing at the NHL level. During his short stint with the Oilers, Hoffman notched a goal and three assists, making him one of the top preseason point producers on the team.
Jason Gregor, a highly respected Oilers insider reported during his podcast that Hoffman signing a PTO with the Oilers was also a strategy to gain considerations from other NHL teams in need of a depth forward. With that in mind, it seems like Hoffman has made a strong case for himself to get another opportunity elsewhere.
Hoffman will likely land on his feet. But, his PTO with the Oilers might have been more about doing him a favor and giving him a potent offense to work with for a few games, then seeing if anyone's ears perk up. This PTO might never have been about a potential contract, as on paper, Hoffman doesn't fit what the Oilers are looking for.
Although many Oilers fans were rooting for Hoffman, the NHL veteran has been sent packing his bags and will look for his next best employment option somewhere else.
source: The Hockey News
Why the Oilers Released Mike Hoffman from his PTO
