As the first full week in August comes to a close, there are still some NHL free agents who are looking for jobs for next season. Some interesting veteran names are still unemployed for next season that could get signed before training camp with either a contract or on a PTO.
Usually, as camp gets closer, PTOs become a popular way for teams to add a player for training camp to try and win a roster spot. The Boston Bruins have found success with PTOs in previous seasons. It wouldn't be surprising to see them sign someone to a PTO the closer that training camp gets. However, one former Bruins forward remains unsigned, and, surprisingly, he's still looking for work in 2026-27.
Former Bruins forward Reilly Smith remains a free agent in August
Reilly Smith spent two early seasons of his 15-year career to date with the Bruins in 2013-14 and 2014-15. During those two seasons, he played in 163 games, scored 33 goals, and dished out 58 assists. His first season was his most productive for the Black and Gold when he had 20 goals and 31 assists.
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Smith has bounced around throughout his career, but he found a home and stability with the Vegas Golden Knights. In two stints with Vegas, he has 143 goals and 180 assists. He played for the New York Rangers and Pittsburgh Penguins in between, but was traded back to Vegas at the 2025 trade deadline. Injuries hampered his 2025-26 season. However, he remains unsigned at 35 years old.
Lyle Richardson of Bleacher Report ranked the Top 10 remaining NHL free agents for the upcoming season, and Smith came in at No. 8. Given how much success he's had and the need for veteran, bottom-six forwards, Smith getting a one-year deal or a PTO tryout would not be surprising at all.
"Coming off a one-year, $2 million contract, Smith might have to accept a similar deal with another NHL club for 2026-27. Still, his experience and two-way skills could make him an affordable option for teams seeking a third-line winger,'' Richardson wrote.
It wouldn't be surprising if some names come off the board by the time camps open next month, with the NHL regular season beginning in late September this season. Smith is someone who brings a lot of experience to a locker room on a very team-friendly deal. He shouldn't remain unsigned for long.
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