The Anaheim Ducks are bringing free agent Dmitri Osipov to camp this season, as CapFriendly reports he has signed a professional tryout with the club. Osipov has played with the Rockford IceHogs the last several seasons.
Now 25, the Russian-born Osipov has been on this side of the ocean for years now, including four seasons in the WHL with the Vancouver Giants (and half a year with the Brandon Wheat Kings). Having played defense for most of his career, he recently made the switch to forward to better utilize his huge frame and strong skating ability, which led him to rack up 84 penalty minutes last season for Rockford.
A big open-ice hitter, he still managed only three goals and five points for the IceHogs but will now try to catch on in the Anaheim organization as a physical depth presence.
Remember, professional tryout contracts do not lock a player in with a certain organization, meaning this is really a showcase for the entire league. Osipov could sign with any team, if they’re willing to give him an NHL contract.
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