The New Jersey Devils have strengthened their roster by adding two experienced players ahead of the upcoming season. On Thursday, the team announced that defenseman Jakub Zboril and goaltender Michael Hutchinson have signed professional tryout (PTO) contracts and will join the squad for training camp on Sept. 18.
This announcement comes just days after rumors swirled about the Devils potentially signing Milan Lucic to a PTO, but instead, they opted to bolster their defense and goaltending depth with Zboril and Hutchinson.
Zboril, 27, was originally drafted 13th overall by the Boston Bruins in the 2015 NHL Draft but struggled to secure a regular role in Boston’s lineup. Despite his high draft pedigree, Zboril has only played more than 22 NHL games in a season once. Last year, he spent most of his time with the Providence Bruins in the AHL before being traded to the Columbus Blue Jackets at the March trade deadline.
The addition of Zboril brings competition to the left side of the Devils’ defense, especially after veteran Brendan Smith departed for the Dallas Stars in free agency. Zboril will be competing for a spot alongside several young prospects, including Santeri Hatakka, Topias Vilen, Daniil Misyul, and Colton White, as well as reserve players like Nick DeSimone and Johnathan Kovacevic.
Hutchinson, a 34-year-old goaltender, also comes with a wealth of experience, having been drafted by the Bruins in 2008. Best known for his time with the Winnipeg Jets, Hutchinson had a standout rookie season in 2014-15, posting a 21-10-5 record with a 2.38 goals-against average (GAA) and a .914 save percentage. However, his NHL appearances have dwindled in recent years, with just 52 games played over the past seven seasons since leaving Winnipeg.
Hutchinson’s veteran presence could be valuable for the Devils as he provides experienced depth in net. While he may not be the first-choice goaltender, Hutchinson could step up if needed, competing with younger goalies Nico Daws and Isaac Poulter for a spot behind Jacob Markstrom and Jake Allen.
The Devils’ decision to sign both Zboril and Hutchinson on PTOs is a low-risk move that adds depth and competition as they gear up for the 2024-25 season.
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