BHN Exclusive: Bruins Offer Defender Alex Petrovic PTO Contract

Per a source close to the player, Boston Hockey Now has learned that the Boston Bruins have offered a Professional Tryout Contract to free agent defenseman Alex Petrovic. The source also added that the Carolina Hurricanes have offered Petrovic a two-way contract the Calgary Flames are showing interest as well. Petrovic finished the 2018-19 season with the Edmonton Oilers after being traded there last season.

Giving Petrovic a PTO may very well be part of the contingency plan Bruins President Cam Neely hinted to last week, should restricted free agent defensemen Charlie McAvoy and Brandon Carlo not report to training camp next month. The Bruins now have seven defensemen under contract and on their roster in Zdeno Chara, Matt Grzelcyk, Torey Krug, Steven Kampfer, Connor Clifton, John Moore and Kevan Miller. However, Miller and Moore will begin the season on injured reserve. In addition to Petrovic, a stable of young defensemen in the AHL and even the junior level will also get some serious consideration if they earn it in camp.

Petrovic was drafted 36th overall by the Florida Panthers in 2010. He made his NHL debut with the Panthers during the lockout-shortened 2012-13 season. Petrovic has appeared in 263 career NHL games, 254 with Florida and nine with Edmonton while registering five goals and 45 assists for 50 career points.

In 2018-19, Petrovic appeared in 35 total games with Florida and Edmonton. He picked up two points, both assists, and averaged 16:32 time-on-ice per game. Petrovic finished the season with a 48.4% Corsi For% at five-on-five and a 48.3% Fenwick For% at five-on-five. (All numbers via hockey-reference)

According to scouts, Petrovic’s 6’4, 215-pound frame allows him to play a physical, stay-at-home style. Petrovic also possesses solid mobility and can contribute as a penalty killer. Most around the NHL however, feel that Petrovic is a limited defender and best used in a depth role.