James van Riemsdyk, a seasoned NHL winger, has entered a critical phase in his career as a PTO (Professional Tryout) candidate, a status that contrasts sharply with the heights he once reached as a former Toronto Maple Leafs star. Van Riemsdyk, who enjoyed significant success with the Maple Leafs, including multiple 20+ goal seasons, finds himself at a crossroads as he looks to secure a spot on an NHL roster.
Van Riemsdyk’s journey with the Maple Leafs was marked by his consistent offensive contributions and ability to play a physical game. Drafted 2nd overall by the Philadelphia Flyers in 2007, he was traded to the Maple Leafs in 2012. During his six seasons in Toronto, he became a key player, known for his net-front presence and scoring touch. His best season came in 2017-2018, when he scored 36 goals and was a pivotal part of the Leafs’ offensive core. However, after the 2017-2018 season, van Riemsdyk returned to the Flyers as a free agent, signing a five-year, $35 million contract.
While his return to Philadelphia was initially promising, van Riemsdyk’s performance began to decline in the latter part of his contract. Injuries and the Flyers’ struggles contributed to a dip in his production, and by the end of his tenure, he was no longer the prolific scorer he once was. The Flyers, who have been in a rebuilding phase, opted not to re-sign him, leaving van Riemsdyk as an unrestricted free agent this offseason.
Now 35, van Riemsdyk’s future in the NHL is uncertain. The PTO represents both an opportunity and a challenge. It’s a chance for him to prove he still has the skills and conditioning necessary to compete at the highest level, but it’s also a reflection of how his stock has fallen. Teams interested in him might be looking for a veteran presence who can contribute depth scoring and leadership, but there are no guarantees he will secure a contract.
For van Riemsdyk, this is a critical moment. His experience, combined with a strong performance during the PTO, could earn him a spot on a team’s roster, potentially prolonging his career. However, the competitive nature of NHL rosters and the league’s focus on younger, faster talent mean that van Riemsdyk will need to prove he can still be an asset on the ice.
