Originally published by NHLRumors.com
Evan Bouchard‘s deal finalized
Puck Pedia: The Edmonton Oilers have officially signed defenseman Evan Bouchard to a two-year contract with a $3.9 million cap hit.
2023-24: $3.5 million
2024-25: $4.3 million
He’ll be owed a $4.3 million qualifying offer when the deal expires and will be arbitration-eligible. Bouchard will be two years away from being a UFA.
The Lightning sign Austin Watson to a PTO
Eduardo A. Encina: The Tampa Bay Lightning will be bringing in forward Austin Watson to training camp on a PTO.
“The 31-year-old played in Nashville & Ottawa. Had 9 G, 2 A, 165 hits, 61 blocks in 75 G w/ Sens last season. Will compete for a bottom-six spot. Could add physicality, be a PK option.”
Dean Brown: The Ottawa Senators had offered Watson a one-year contract but he had been looking to sign for three years somewhere.
“Good guy, good penalty killer, willing shot blocker and stands up for teammates. Hoping he gets a deal in TB.”
The Blue Jackets sign Nicolas Meloche and Aaron Dell to a PTOs
Aaron Portzline: The Columbus Blue Jackets have signed defenseman Nicolas Meloche to a PTO.
Meloche spent last season in the Calgary Flames organization (AHL) after spending three with San Jose.
Meloche was a 2015 second-round pick of the Colorado Avalanche. He’s played in 57 NHL games, most of which were during the 2021-22 season.
Aaron Portzline: The Blue Jackets have signed goaltender Aaron Dell to a PTO. The Blue Jackets had been looking for someone to be their No. 3/AHL goalie.
The Ducks sign Scott Harrington to a PTO
Anaheim Ducks: The Ducks have signed defenseman Scott Harrington to a PTO.
The Blues sign Isaac Ratcliffe to a PTO
St. Louis Blues: The Blues have signed forward Isaac Ratcliffe to a PTO.
Kyle Cushman: For next season, Ratcliffe has already signed with the Chicago Wolves (AHL – not affiliated with anyone).
Adam Kimelman: “Flyers moved up in 2nd round of 2017 draft to select 6-6, 200 pound forward, but injuries derailed him and he was traded to Nashville in February”