Report: Panthers invite veteran Shane O'Brien to training camp on PTO
The Florida Panthers have reportedly invited veteran defenseman/enforcer Shane O'Brien to training camp on a professional tryout (PTO), according to a report from Josh Rimer.
The 31-year-old O'Brien appeared in 45 games with the Flames in 2013-14, managing just three assists while logging roughly 11 minutes per game and posting absolutely brutal underlying numbers. In June, O'Brien's contract - which had $2.2 million in actual salary remaining - was the target of a compliance buyout by the Flames.
O'Brien is close friends with Panthers winger Scottie Upshall, who is excited to have his pal at training camp.
"Shane is very happy to have the opportunity to come to Panthers camp and push to make the team," Upshall told Rimer. "He's had a really good summer training and is in the best shape of his career."
Sound the "Best Shape of His Career" klaxon and take a shot!
While O'Brien could be in tough to resuscitate his moribund NHL career, there should be some opportunity in Florida this upcoming season. The Panthers currently have just six defenders signed to one-way NHL contracts, though two players on two-way deals - Alex Petrovic and 2014 first-overall draft pick Aaron Ekblad - could also push for roster spots.