On a PTO…
The Columbus Blue Jackets have added their third former Calgary Flames’ player this summer on a tryout basis with the club. This appears to be a response to the loss of Alexandre Texier and a challenge to the rookies and depth on the roster that no spot is safe.
Neal previously appeared in the Calder Cup finals for the Springfield Thunderbirds, the affiliate of the St. Louis Blues, having 4 goals and 8 assists for 12 points in 17 games en route to defeat from the Chicago Wolves. With the Blues and Thunderbirds this season, “The Real Deal… put up a combined total of 30 points in 47 games (16 goals, 14 assists). If signed, this is a great and cheap option for the Jackets’ bottom six forward group, given his his experience and goal scoring ability.
Drafted by the Dallas Stars, he has also played with the Pittsburgh Penguins; Nashville Predators; Vegas Golden Knights; Calgary Flames; and Edmonton Oilers, totaling 296 goals and 263 assists for 559 points in 869 career games.