Now that we are a month into NHL free agency, we should start to see UFAs sign professional tryout (PTO) agreements.
The Canadiens should not be against the idea of taking a look at a player or two on a PTO at training. When looking at the remaining UFA, one player who could make sense for Montreal to bring in a PTO is forward Reilly Smith.
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Smith remains unsigned after recording 16 goals, 10 assists, and 26 points in 69 games with the Vegas Golden Knights last season. Overall, it was a bit a down year for the veteran forward, but it is fair to wonder if he bounce back if given another opportunity.
Just back during the 2023-24 and 2024-25 seasons, Smith recorded 40 points in each campaign. He also recorded 26 goals and 56 points in 78 games with Vegas in 2022-23. With past numbers like these, the 15-year veteran could be worth taking a shot on with a PTO for the Canadiens.
If Smith impressed during training camp and earned a contract for the season, he could be a solid addition to the Canadiens’ bottom six. While he may not be the same top-six forward he was during his prime, it would not hurt for the Habs to add a veteran forward who can still provide decent secondary scoring to their depth. This is especially so when noting that Smith has won the Stanley Cup in the past.
