Former top prospects NHL Career Now Hanging By a Thread

PUBLICATION

TJ Tucker
October 10, 2023 (5:47 PM)

SHARE THIS STORY

There was a time when it appeared Max Comtois would be a perfect fit for the Anaheim Ducks rebuild. However, it wasn't meant to be, and things have now gotten worse for the 24-year-old.

Comtois was drafted in the second round, 50th overall, by Anaheim in 2017. He captained Team Canada to a gold medal at the World Junior Championships, while also winning gold at the World Championships. However, he was not tendered a qualifying offer by the Ducks as a restricted free agent at the end of last season, making him free to sign anywhere this summer. He had to rely on a professional tryout contract with the Vegas Golden Knights for this season's training camp, and now, with the regular season starting, comes word he's been released without an official deal. Golden Knights coach Bruce Cassidy said he was simply outplayed.

"Bruce Cassidy said Max Comtois was released from his PTO yesterday without a contract. He said they were very happy with how [Paul] Cotter and [Pavel] Dorofeyev performed in camp and preseason and 'there are only so many spots.'"

Where Comtois goes next is anyone's guess. He's free to sign elsewhere, but it's doubtful there's a flood of offers .