Brendan Smith

Brendan Smith, a veteran defenseman, has accepted a professional tryout contract with the Columbus Blue Jackets. Following a season with the Dallas Stars, the 36-year-old aims to secure a depth role amidst a crowded defense. Smith's versatility and extensive NHL experience, spanning over 700 games, could prove valuable as he competes in training camp.

Veteran NHL defenseman Brendan Smith is officially back in the league. That too, after signing a one-year deal with the Columbus Blue Jackets. The 36-year-old blueliner had been playing with the Cleveland Monsters in the AHL before earning this contract. His experience, leadership, and versatility are expected to provide immediate depth and stability to the Blue Jackets’ blue line.

Brendan Smith's knee injury and subsequent meniscus surgery will sideline the veteran Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman for 3-4 months. This absence forces the team to rely more heavily on younger players as they navigate a challenging Eastern Conference schedule. Smith, a depth defenseman, was a stable presence on the blue line.

Milan Lucic and Brendan Smith have each accepted professional tryout offers (PTOs) as they look to extend their NHL careers. Lucic joins the St. Louis Blues camp after nearly two years away, while Smith will compete with the Columbus Blue Jackets. Both veterans bring toughness and experience, but their chances of landing contracts remain uncertain.

Connor Bedard, the rookie sensation for the Chicago Blackhawks, left the game against the New Jersey Devils early due to an undisclosed injury. He took a hard hit from Devils defenseman Brendan Smith and had to leave the ice. Blackhawks coach Luke Richardson addressed the situation and mentioned that Bedard's condition will be assessed further.

Vancouver Canucks defeat New Jersey Devils 6-4 in an entertaining contest. Elias Pettersson and J.T. Miller each scored two goals. Canucks goalie Thatcher Demko made 21 saves. Brendan Smith contributed two assists. Canucks improve to 1-1-0 on their road trip.

Nico Hischier's early goals set the tone for the Devils' dominant performance in the 'Stadium Series' against the Philadelphia Flyers. The Devils' resilience, along with contributions from Toffoli, Smith, and Bastian, secures their victory and boosts their confidence for playoff contention.

Swiss defenseman Lian Bichsel is poised for a significant role with the Dallas Stars in the 2025-26 season. His physicality, highlighted by leading the team in hits, became crucial after key defensive departures. While his aggressive play is valued, balancing it with discipline will be key for Bichsel as he aims to become a top physical defenseman in the league.

Dallas Stars players Jason Robertson and Wyatt Johnston are set to face the Detroit Red Wings in the final stretch of the regular season. The Stars, with 50 wins and a playoff position, are using the game as an audition for depth players seeking postseason roster spots. Wyatt Johnston's record-breaking season and the Stars' playoff situation are crucial for their success.

Jesper Fast, the former winger, is back with the Carolina Hurricanes. He will be a development coach. Fast's NHL career ended due to a neck injury. He retired in June 2025. He will start coaching in the 2025-26 season. Fast played for the Hurricanes since 2020. He is known for his skating and defensive skills.

NHL training camps in 2025 showcase veterans on PTOs, vying for roster spots before the season's start. Teams like the Penguins, Devils, and Blackhawks are assessing depth through signings like Robby Fabbri and Matt Grzelcyk. The Wild, Hurricanes, and other teams are evaluating experienced players such as Jack Johnson and Milan Lucic, hoping to secure valuable additions.

The countdown to the 2023-24 NHL season has begun, with a total of 1,312 games scheduled. The upcoming season will feature 82 games for each team, ensuring fierce competition. The NHL Trade Deadline on March 8 will be a pivotal moment, and the Stanley Cup Playoffs will start on April 22.