It’s rare for an NHLer to sign a “prove it” deal in free agency, have a career year offensively, and then remain unsigned just a few weeks before training camps start. Whether this is unprecedented or not, it perfectly describes defenseman Matt Grzelcyk , who is still without a contract for the upcoming season despite posting his best offensive season last year with the Pittsburgh Penguins.
The Charlestown, Massachusetts native recorded one goal and 39 assists over 82 games last year. While his numbers were somewhat boosted by his position in the Penguins’ lineup, he had a solid season when it mattered most, and it’s surprising to see him still in limbo so late into the summer.
Regardless of projections or past performance, the reality is that Grzelcyk doesn’t have a spot for next se