The Columbus Blue Jackets signed veteran defenseman Carson Soucy to a professional tryout agreement (PTO) on Sept. 13.
Soucy, 31, has spent a decade in the NHL. The Minnesota Wild selected him in the fifth round of the 2013 NHL Draft, and he made his league debut during the 2017-18 season. After three seasons with Minnesota, he was chosen by the Seattle Kraken in the expansion draft.
Soucy played two seasons in Seattle before signing with the Vancouver Canucks as a free agent. He spent parts of two seasons with Vancouver and was traded to the New York Rangers midway through the 2024-25 campaign. He began the 2025-26 season with the Rangers before being dealt to the New York Islanders.
Across 10 NHL seasons with five teams, Soucy has recorded 32 goals and 67 assists for 99 points in 441 games.
Soucy Could Add Stability to Columbus’ Defense
Soucy’s primary value comes from his defensive play rather than his offensive production. He is capable of logging meaningful minutes, playing with pace and using his experience to help shut down opposing attacks.
His extensive NHL background could also benefit Columbus’ younger defensemen. Soucy would provide a veteran presence on the blue line while offering guidance to developing players as they adjust to the demands of regular NHL action.
Because the agreement is a professional tryout, Soucy still has work to do before earning a roster spot. He will need to impress the Blue Jackets during training camp if he wants to join the organization for the 2026-27 season.
