It is a PTO season in the NHL, but the Vancouver Canucks have yet to join in on the party. Things surely could change on that front before the start of training camp, however.

Yet, it is quite intriguing to see just how many former Canucks are currently trying to earn NHL contracts through tryouts.

In my opinion, Brandon Sutter is the most notable out of the bunch. This is because the veteran forward, unfortunately, missed each of the last two seasons due to long COVID symptoms. Yet, he will now be looking to have a strong camp and make the Edmonton Oilers' roster. If he does, his comeback will be an excellent story to follow throughout the season.

Fellow former Canuck Sam Gagner is competing with Sutter for a contract from the Oilers. The 2007 sixth-overall pick is well-known for his previous stints as an Oiler, so that should help his chances a bit.

Alex Chiasson, who has become famous for signing PTOs, is trying out for the Boston Bruins. The Bruins lost several forwards this summer, and they have bottom-six spots available for the taking because of it. The 6-foot-4 winger should have a decent shot of earning a contract, as he had a solid year for the Detroit Red Wings last year. In 20 games, he had six goals and nine points.

Jordie Benn is trying out for the team where he began his career – the Dallas Stars. At this juncture of his career, Benn is a decent depth defenseman to have around. He spent last season with the Toronto Maple Leafs, posting one goal and one assist in 12 games played.

After a rough 2022-23 season with the Arizona Coyotes, Zack Kassian was bought out. Now, he is looking to continue his career by successfully landing a deal from the Anaheim Ducks. The gritty winger's offense disappeared last season, as he had just two goals in 51 games. Let's see if he gets the chance to bounce back with the Ducks in 2023-24. Toughness is still valuable in the NHL.

There are also several former Canucks still looking for new homes who have not signed PTOs. Ethan Bear, Alex Edler, Jaroslav Halak, Tyler Motte, Corey Schneider, Olli Juolevi, Michael Del Zotto, Justin Bailey, and Jayce Hawryluk are among them.

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