Canadiens invite Despres to training camp on pro tryout offer

The Montreal Canadiens have invited veteran defenseman Simon Despres to training camp on a professional tryout, the team announced Thursday.

The 26-year-old spent last season with the KHL's Bratislava Slovan, netting four goals and seven assists in 44 games. He last appeared in the NHL in 2016-17 with the Anaheim Ducks but was limited to just one game due to concussion symptoms.

The Ducks bought out the final three years of Despres' contract in June 2017.

A native of Laval, Quebec, Despres was selected in the first round of the 2009 draft by the Pittsburgh Penguins.