The Edmonton Oilers have signed defenceman Travis Dermott to a professional tryout (PTO), offering the 27-year-old blueliner a chance to prove himself ahead of the upcoming NHL season.
Dermott joins the Oilers after spending the 2023-24 season with the Arizona Coyotes, where he appeared in 50 games, recording two goals, five assists, and 26 penalty minutes. While his offensive production in Arizona was limited, Dermott showcased his ability to play a solid defensive game. He blocked 64 shots in those 50 games, putting him on pace to block over 100 shots had he played a full 82-game season.
Despite the Coyotes’ struggles after a promising start, Dermott contributed defensively. Though he was on the ice for 37 goals against, his defensive metrics in previous seasons with stronger teams were more favourable, highlighting his capabilities when surrounded by better support.
Before joining Arizona, Dermott spent parts of two seasons with the Vancouver Canucks in 2021-22 and 2022-23, where he played 28 games, tallying two goals and one assist. However, Dermott’s career trajectory has not gone as smoothly as many had anticipated. Drafted 34th overall by the Toronto Maple Leafs in the 2015 NHL Draft, Dermott entered the professional ranks with high expectations. He turned pro in the following season, recording 24 points in 59 AHL games and building a reputation as a reliable defensive presence.
Dermott quickly became a key part of the Maple Leafs blue line but was hindered by injuries throughout his career. He has only managed to play four seasons with 50 or more games, spanning from 2018 to 2021 and his most recent campaign with the Coyotes.
With training camps set to get underway, the former Canuck is looking to secure a spot on the Oilers’ roster, aiming to regain his form and prove his value as a dependable NHL defenceman. For the Oilers, the addition of Dermott could provide valuable depth to their defensive unit if he can stay healthy.