September 7, 2026 • 6:03 PM EDT
Updated 1 hours ago
NHL training camps are nearly here, and teams are filling out their preseason rosters with professional tryout deals. The Montreal Canadiens are one of the few squads that still haven’t invited any free agents to camp on a PTO, but there’s a name out there that could move the needle in a positive way.
I’m talking about Michael Bunting. He’s still on the market, and given how thin Montreal look on the wings, I think he’s a player worth serious consideration for a last-minute tryout. No risk there, and the upside could be useful.
Let’s be honest, the Canadiens are at the stage where any affordable scoring help is welcome. A PTO is a “prove-it” invitation — if you shine, you earn a deal, if not, no harm done. With Bunting, I like the balance of experience and recent productivity he offers. According to Yahoo Sports, Bunting split last season between Nashville and Dallas, tallying 14 goals and 33 points over 74 games. That’s a guy who can contribute without demanding a top-six role or a major financial commitment.
What really jumps out is Bunting’s track record. He put up 19 goals in each of the previous two seasons, notching as many as 55 points in 2023-24 and 38 in 2024-25. That’s solid mid-lineup output, and it fits exactly what Montreal have been missing. With this level of consistency, bringing him in for a look is just smart business, not a shot in the dark.
A PTO could let the Canadiens see Bunting up close and gauge if he fits in their system or brings the right attitude to the locker room. If he impresses, he could slot right in as a dependable bottom-six forward, maybe even chip in on special teams.
- The Canadiens are one of the few NHL teams not to hand out a PTO yet this camp.
- Michael Bunting remains unsigned despite scoring 14 goals and 33 points last season.
- His track record shows consistent production, especially as a depth winger.
- Montreal need wing depth and cheap scoring options for their bottom six.
- A PTO allows a risk-free audition before making any contract decisions.
- Bunting brings veteran experience, something a young Habs roster could use.
Why Michael Bunting Makes Sense For Montreal
Look, the Canadiens aren’t overflowing with proven wingers, and what sets Bunting apart from most late-summer PTO options is he’s not running on fumes. He’s still producing year after year, playing regular shifts, and showing he’s more than just a passenger on good teams.
He’s the type of player who doesn’t need top billing to have an impact. And with Montreal still finding its identity, a versatile veteran who can think the game and slide up or down the lineup is gold. This isn’t a shot in the dark, it’s giving yourself a genuine shot at value.
The PTO Gamble Is Worth It
At this point in the offseason, clubs with open roster spots can’t afford to be picky. Bringing in Bunting for a look comes with zero risk, but plenty of reward if he impresses and signs a value deal. If he can still put up double-digit goals from a supporting role, that’s an instant boost to Montreal’s depth.
A move like this signals smart management — finding ways to get better without overcommitting. If Bunting can stretch his impact even a fraction further, that’s more than worth the invitation.
Key Takeaways
- Montreal have not handed out a PTO yet, but they’re running out of time with camps starting.
- Michael Bunting brings a proven scoring touch at the NHL level, something Montreal could use.
- Recent seasons show Bunting is more than just veteran filler with solid goal and point totals.
- With wing depth thin, a risk-free PTO is a chance to add scoring for nothing.
- If signed, Bunting could give Montreal a reliable secondary scoring option for their bottom six.
- Training camp performances on a PTO let the Canadiens make an informed contract decision.
- There’s no downside to bringing in an experienced winger who still produces — it fits where Montreal are in their rebuild.
- This is a market-savvy move, not desperation, for a team still shaping its roster.
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