Vegas Signs Veteran Forward To Tryout Contract Gambling On Depth

The Vegas Golden Knights have taken a step to address their forward depth concerns by signing veteran winger Tanner Pearson to a professional tryout (PTO), the franchise announced on August 21 .

The signing marks the first PTO for the Golden Knights this offseason as they look to bolster their roster ahead of the 2024-25 NHL season. If there is an apt word to describe this move, however, that's gambling, consider the Knights' need for productive players and the diminishing returns from Pearson of late.

Pearson, although still 32 years old, brings a wealth of experience to the table as he's been playing NHL hockey for the past 11 seasons.

The veteran forward started his career with the Los Angeles Kings during the 2013-14 season, where he played a key role in the team’s Stanley Cup victory, contributing 4 goals and 12 points during the postseason.

Most recently, Pearson spent the 2023-24 season with the Montreal Canadiens after being traded from the Vancouver Canucks before the start of the campaign.

It's fair to say Pearson's performance has declined in recent years, with this past season seeing him score just 5 goals and 13 points in 58 games—his lowest point total in a season where he played at least 40 games since 2014-15.

If Pearson puts on a solid tryout period with Vegas, however, the franchise may extend him a contract offer entering next season. He should at least be able to contribute and play a role in the Golden Knights' bottom six if he secures a spot on the roster.

The Golden Knights, relatively fresh off their Stanley Cup win in 2023, are coming off a first-round loss at the hands of the Dallas Stars in the 2024 NHL playoffs.

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