Carson Soucy is aiming for a comeback with the Blue Jackets, having accepted a PTO after a less-than-stellar 2025-26 season split between New York's teams.
Previously, PTO players had several preseason games to make an impression. New CBA rules have changed this, shortening the evaluation period.
PTO Players Face Increased Difficulty
NHL veterans on PTOs can now play in a maximum of two preseason games, as teams have only four total exhibition matches. This necessitates a shift in how teams assess players.
Players on PTOs now have a significantly harder path to secure a contract. They must demonstrate their value in a smaller timeframe, competing against players likely already under contract.
Soucy had several PTO offers but chose the Blue Jackets due to their strong early summer interest.
“They showed interest from July,” Soucy stated. “I’ve heard good things about the city and the team’s direction, improving over recent seasons and aiming for the playoffs. I want to contribute and help the team reach the postseason.”
Soucy recognizes the hurdles presented by the condensed preseason and the importance of every opportunity.
“I need to make a strong impression,” Soucy commented. “That’s the nature of a PTO. Come in, compete, make a good first impression, and build from there. These skates are crucial. I had a solid summer, long enough to focus on conditioning immediately and get plenty of ice time. These sessions are vital for regaining physical conditioning and hockey shape.”
Soucy reflected on his recent performance, acknowledging areas where his game declined. His current focus is proving to the Blue Jackets that these are past issues and re-establishing himself as a two-way player.
“The physical aspect, closing plays in the neutral zone, and being strong defensively are key,” Soucy noted about his potential contributions. “In the last couple of years, I might have focused too much on defense. Earlier in my career, I was more involved offensively. I'm working to contribute offensively again and bring that back.”
Bowness Acknowledges Soucy's Challenge
Head Coach Rick Bowness, like his peers, must adapt to the shorter preseason. This impacts player evaluation, potentially limiting fair chances for some.
Bowness expressed a desire for PTO players to receive more consideration given the circumstances.
“It’s tough on them,” Bowness said regarding PTO players. “Perhaps there could be a special provision allowing players on PTOs more than two games. It would be fairer to them.”
“We want to get a thorough look at (Soucy). Will we get that in two games? Honestly, we’d prefer three or four. I’m sure he would too. I hope for a slight change in this rule. We signed them for specific reasons and want to evaluate them properly. More game time leads to better evaluation.”
Other teams face similar challenges, unable to evaluate younger players or PTO candidates as extensively as before.
“Those players deserve a better look,” Bowness stated. “But they won’t get it.”
Soucy skated with Dante Fabbro in Group 1 of the Blue Jackets training camp. He is competing with contracted defensemen Jake Christiansen and Erik Gudbranson for a potential spot on the third pairing. With limited opportunities, Soucy has two games to convince the Blue Jackets he merits his own contract.
The path for PTO players to make an NHL roster is now more challenging than ever. Every opportunity, however small, could be the difference between securing a contract and being left unsigned.
