James Neal Headed to Blue Jackets on PTO

The Columbus Blue Jackets have announced that forward James Neal will be attending their training camp this Fall on a professional tryout offer.

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Neal, 34, was once regarded as one of the more consistent goal scorers in the entire NHL, but has seen his stock fall dramatically ever since inking a five-year, $28.75 million deal with the Calgary Flames during the 2018 offseason. He played just one season with the Flames before being traded to the Edmonton Oilers in exchange for Milan Lucic.

Early on with the Oilers, Neal had a brief resurgence, as he potted 19 goals during the COVID shortened 2019-20 season. That success was short lived, however, as he struggled the following season and was bought out shortly afterward. He was then able to earn himself a one-year deal with the St. Louis Blues last season, but lasted just 19 games with the big club before being sent to the Springfield Thunderbirds in the American Hockey League (AHL).

While Neal’s NHL days are certainly numbered, the Blue Jackets are one team who could use some depth scoring in their lineup, and also have an extra spot up for grabs with Alexandre Texier choosing to play back in Switzerland for the 2022-23 season. With a strong training camp, perhaps Neal is once again able to earn himself a league minimum deal.

During his time in the AHL this past season, Neal proved he still possesses his offensive skill as he recorded 14 goals and 26 points in just 28 games. His issue has always been footspeed, and that has only gotten worse in recent years with aging. That said, he is still very gifted when he has the puck around the net, which makes him a valuable asset in the offensive zone, particularly on the power play. He will be a player to keep an eye on once training camps get underway later this month.

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