With September now here, the NHL should see a rapid increase in professional tryouts (PTOs) signed. The Vancouver Canucks certainly stand out as a club that could go down the PTO route. They could use more forward depth, and there are some interesting unrestricted free agents (UFAs) still available.
After trading away Dakota Joshua to the Toronto Maple Leafs, the Canucks could use another forward with size. Thus, one UFA who could make sense for the Canucks to take a chance on with a PTO is Brett Leason.
Leason spent this past season with the Anaheim Ducks, posting five goals, 17 points, and 64 hits in 62 games.
Brett Leason Among Top UFA Forwards Left
Given how late it is in the offseason, there are not too many big-name players left for the taking in free agency. Although this is the case, Leason is easily one of the most intriguing still available for the taking. Thus, if the Canucks want to improve their forward depth, he would be one of the better options for them to consider.
Daily Faceoff’s Matt Larkin also included Leason on his “Top remaining NHL free agents” board. It is understandable when noting that Leason is a serviceable bottom-six forward with experience and size. Furthermore, with Leason being just 26 years old, he is right in his prime and still could even improve.
Leason Would Give Canucks Another Option for Bottom Six
If the Canucks were to sign Leason to a PTO or even a one-year deal, he would give them another option to consider for their bottom six. This is especially so when noting that he is a versatile player. Leason is capable of playing either wing, so the Canucks would be able to use him in multiple spots if needed. Thus, he could also work well as an extra forward for the Canucks if brought in.
Yet, when looking at the Canucks’ projected lineup, Leason could certainly make a case to play on their fourth line. He would create some healthy competition with Max Sasson if brought in, which would certainly not be a bad thing. Furthermore, Leason would offer the Canucks a player with more experience in their bottom six, which is a plus.
Leason Is Intriguing Bounce-Back Candidate
While Leason had a bit of a shaky season with the Ducks in 2024-25, he has shown in the past that he can provide more offense in a bottom-six role. During the 2023-24 season with the Ducks, Leason recorded career highs with 11 goals, 11 assists, and 22 points in 68 games. He also made more of an impact with his physicality that season, recording a career-high 80 hits.
Thus, if Leason earns a contract with the Canucks, the possibility of him having a bounce-back season should not be ruled out. This is especially so when noting that he is still on the right side of 30.
Overall, Leason would be a solid low-risk player for the Canucks to take a chance on with a PTO. His size, versatility, and grit make him an appealing target, so it will be intriguing to see if Vancouver signs him.
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