Free-agent defenceman Travis Dermott signs PTO

Travis Dermott is heading back to professional hockey.  The free-agent left-handed defenceman has signed a professional tryout agreement with the Hartford Wolf {ack. The Wolf Pack are the American Hockey League affialite of the New York Rangers.

Dermott, 29, was originally a second-round pick of the Toronto Maple Leafs back in 2015. Dermott hasn't played pro hockey this season, and last dressed in three games for the Bakersfield Condors last season, along with nine games for the Minnesota Wild, and 10 games for the Edmonton Oilers.

Dermott was last an NHL regular back in 2023-24 when he appeared in 50 games for the Arizona Coyotes, averaging 17:16 of ice-time per game, and chipping in with two goals, and five assists for seven points.

With the Rangers expected to make several trades ahead of the NHL's trade deadline, Dermott could be an easy call up to audition for the last 20 games or so, of the season. When Dermott's at his best, he's using his speed to jump into the rush, and is playing a shut-down defensive style, despite being slightly undersized. Dermott uses his hockey sense and positioning to make the most impact on the ice.

Dermott's battled through multiple injuries throughout his career and had serious shoulder surgery back in July 2025. Wishing him all the best as he looks to get his pro hockey career back on track after having 348 career NHL games under his belt.

Photo credit:  Nick Wosika-Imagn Images