DONE DEAL : Maple Leafs sign Jon Gillies to professional tryout….. See more
In a move aimed at bolstering their goaltending depth, the Toronto Maple Leafs have officially signed veteran netminder *Jon Gillies* to a professional tryout (PTO) agreement ahead of the 2024-2025 NHL season. The announcement came late Tuesday, with the 29-year-old set to join the Leafs for training camp later this month.
Gillies, a 6’6″ goaltender known for his imposing frame and steady play, has played parts of six seasons in the NHL, most recently with the *Calgary Flames* and the *St. Louis Blues*. Over the years, he has accumulated 42 games at the NHL level, with a career .889 save percentage and a 3.18 goals-against average. Though his time in the NHL has been somewhat limited, Gillies has demonstrated flashes of potential, earning a reputation as a capable backup and a reliable presence in the AHL.
The move to sign Gillies to a PTO comes as the Maple Leafs seek additional competition behind their starting goaltender *Ilya Samsonov* and backup *Joseph Woll*. Toronto’s front office has made it clear that they are exploring all options to strengthen their depth chart, particularly after the team’s playoff struggles last season. Gillies’ experience and size could provide the Leafs with another reliable option in net, should the team need to call upon him during the season.
“We’re excited to bring Jon in for camp,” said Leafs general manager *Kyle Dubas*. “He’s a big goalie with a lot of experience, and we’re looking forward to seeing what he can bring to the table. Having that depth in net is crucial, and we’re hopeful that he’ll push for a spot on the roster.”
For Gillies, the tryout represents a chance to earn an NHL contract and continue his career at the highest level. Training camp will be a crucial time for the goaltender, as he competes for a spot with the Leafs or potentially a role with another team looking for veteran goaltending help. Fans will be watching closely as the Maple Leafs aim to solidify their goaltending lineup for the upcoming season.
