The Carolina Hurricanes have announced the acquisition of two experienced players, Oliver Kylington and Givani Smith, on professional tryout (PTO) contracts. This strategic move aims to add depth and competition to their roster as they prepare for the upcoming season.
On Wednesday, the Hurricanes officially confirmed the signings of forward Givani Smith and former Calgary Flames defenseman Oliver Kylington, both on professional tryout agreements, signaling their intent to evaluate these veterans during training camp.
Oliver Kylington: A Decade of NHL Experience
Kylington, a left-shooting defenseman, brings a decade of NHL experience to the Hurricanes. Last season, he appeared in 19 games for the Anaheim Ducks, contributing one goal and four assists, finishing with a plus/minus rating of minus-two. The Stockholm-born blueliner boasts a career total of 220 NHL games over eight seasons, accumulating 60 points, which includes 14 goals and 46 assists.
Givani Smith: A Physical Presence Up Front
Givani Smith, a robust six-foot-two right winger from Toronto, was a second-round pick by Detroit in the 2016 draft. Since his NHL debut in 2019, he has played for multiple teams, including the Red Wings, Florida Panthers, San Jose Sharks, and Colorado Avalanche, across his six-season tenure. Throughout 168 career games, Smith has tallied 22 points (nine goals, 13 assists) along with 268 penalty minutes, highlighting his physical style of play and willingness to engage in tough areas of the ice.