Carson Soucy is seeking a rebound after a subpar previous season. Following stints with both New York teams in 2025-26, he accepted a professional tryout (PTO) with the Blue Jackets, aiming to regain his form.
Historically, PTO players had several preseason games to prove themselves. However, new collective bargaining agreement rules have drastically changed this landscape.
PTOs Navigate a More Challenging Path
NHL veterans on PTOs are now limited to a maximum of two preseason appearances. With teams playing only four preseason games total, clubs must adapt their player evaluation strategies.
Players on PTOs face a significantly steeper climb to secure a contract. They must demonstrate their value within a condensed timeframe, often needing to displace established players who already hold contracts.
Soucy considered several PTO offers but chose the Blue Jackets due to their strong early summer interest.
“They showed interest from July,” Soucy stated. “I’ve heard good things about the city and the team’s direction, how they’ve improved recently and are pushing for the playoffs. I want to contribute and help them reach the playoffs.”
Soucy acknowledges the difficulties presented by the condensed preseason and understands the critical importance of every opportunity he receives.
“I need to make a strong impression,” Soucy commented. “That’s the essence of a PTO. You come in, compete, make a good initial impact, and build from there. These skates are crucial. I had a substantial summer break, so I focused on conditioning early and participated in many skating sessions. These practices are vital for regaining physical readiness and hockey shape.”
Soucy reflected on his recent performance, identifying areas where his game declined. His immediate goal is to convince the Blue Jackets that these issues are behind him, focusing on re-establishing himself as a two-way player.
“The physical aspect, closing plays in the neutral zone, and defensive zone intensity are key,” Soucy explained about his strengths. “Over the past couple of years, I might have leaned too heavily on the defensive side. Earlier in my career, I was more involved offensively. I’m aiming to contribute offensively again and bring that element back.”
Bowness Recognizes Soucy's Difficult Situation
Head coach Rick Bowness, like his peers, must adapt to the reality of a shortened preseason and alter how he assesses players, even if it means some may not receive adequate evaluation time.
Bowness suggested that PTO players might warrant special consideration given the circumstances.
“It’s tough on them,” Bowness said of PTO players. “Perhaps a special provision could allow them more than two games. It would be fairer to them.”
“We want to give (Soucy) a thorough look. Will we get that in two games? Honestly, we’d prefer three or four. I’m sure he would too. I’d like to see that change. We brought them in for a reason, and we want to evaluate them properly. The more game time they get, the better our assessment will be.”
Other teams face similar challenges, unable to evaluate younger players or PTO candidates as comprehensively as in previous seasons.
“Those players deserve a better look,” Bowness stated. “But they won’t get it.”
Soucy practiced with Dante Fabbro in Group 1 of Blue Jackets Training Camp. He is competing with Jake Christiansen and Erik Gudbranson for a potential spot on the third defensive pairing. With Christiansen and Gudbranson under contract, Soucy has two games to prove his worth for a contract.
Players on PTOs now face unprecedented challenges in securing an NHL roster spot. The crucial takeaway is that no opportunity or shift is too small; it could be the deciding factor between signing a contract and being overlooked.
