Sad News: Just In Boston Bruins Hits With Another Major Setbacks As Top Another Top Veteran Decline Contract Extension And Sign With Rivals

The New Jersey Devils announced the signing of former Boston Bruins defenseman Jakub Zboril to a professional tryout agreement (PTO). This move comes just a day after the team denied reports about signing another former Bruin, Milan Lucic.

Zboril, a 27-year-old Czech defenseman, was originally drafted by the Bruins in the first round of the 2015 NHL Draft. However, his time in Boston didn’t go as planned. Despite the high expectations, Zboril spent the majority of his time in the AHL with the Providence Bruins. Over the course of his NHL career with Boston, he played in 76 games, recording one goal and 15 assists. His tenure with the team faced criticism as part of the Bruins’ infamous 2015 draft struggles. Boston had three first-round picks that year, but only one, Jake DeBrusk, managed to become an NHL regular. Meanwhile, several players the Bruins passed on went on to become standout performers in the league, which intensified the scrutiny on Zboril’s performance.

The announcement was made by Devils President and General Manager Tom Fitzgerald on Thursday, with Zboril set to join the team for training camp later in the month. The PTO provides Zboril with a chance to reset his career and make a fresh start with New Jersey. At 27, he will be looking to prove himself and potentially earn a spot on the Devils’ roster, especially after his limited NHL opportunities in Boston.

This move adds depth to the Devils’ blue line, and Zboril’s experience in both the NHL and AHL could make him a valuable asset. Although his career in Boston didn’t live up to expectations, the PTO with New Jersey offers him a new opportunity to carve out a role on a different team.

As for the rumors regarding Milan Lucic, the Devils clarified that they had not signed the veteran forward. The initial report was later corrected, as Lucic would require reinstatement by the NHL to be eligible to return.

For Zboril, this professional tryout is a critical chance to revive his NHL career, and the Devils hope that a change of scenery will help him reach his full potential.