Former Victoria Royals forward signs player tryout contract with Toronto Maple Leafs

The Toronto Maple Leafs have signed forward Noah Gregor to a Professional Tryout Contract (PTO) on Wednesday.

The 25-year-old forward is looking to make his mark in the NHL with one of the league’s most storied franchises.

Gregor’s journey to the Toronto Maple Leafs began with humble beginnings in Victoria, where he played for the WHL’s Victoria Royals.

After being selected by the San Jose Sharks in the fourth round of the 2016 NHL Draft, the talented forward went on to establish himself as a promising prospect. However, his path has now taken an unexpected turn as he embarks on this new chapter with the Maple Leafs.

Last season, while wearing a San Jose Sharks jersey, Gregor showcased his skills by notching 10 goals and 17 points in 57 games.

Throughout his short NHL career, spanning 178 games with the Sharks, he has amassed 26 goals and 51 points.

San Jose’s decision not to qualify Gregor as a restricted free agent this offseason opened the door for the forward to explore the open market.

For those who closely followed his junior hockey career, Gregor’s return to the spotlight is particularly exciting.

He spent part of a season with the Victoria Royals after being acquired in a trade from the Moose Jaw Warriors in December 2017.

Furthermore, Gregor’s history with the Royals goes back to his draft day when he was initially selected by the club.

Although he later joined the Moose Jaw Warriors, his return to the Royals in 2017 was marked by stellar performances.

In a critical first-round playoff series against the Vancouver Giants, Gregor stepped up in the absence of key players, scoring 4 goals and tallying 10 points while displaying brilliant chemistry with his linemates.