Brandon Prust received a professional tryout from the Toronto Maple Leafs over the summer, but the forward was unable to secure a contract from the Leafs. Without an NHL contract and no opportunities knocking from other NHL teams, it appears Prust is headed abroad to take on an opportunity in Germany.
Details regarding Prust’s opportunity (such as the team and the term) haven’t been revealed.
As was speculated on Thursday, Brandon Prust ends stay with the Maple Leafs for an opportunity in Germany. Leaves tomorrow.
— Darren Dreger (@DarrenDreger) November 26, 2016
Prust leaves the NHL after 486 career games in which he racked up 1,036 total penalty minutes. Known for his physical presence, Prust was a mainstay tough guy as a bottom-six forward with the Flames, Canadiens, Rangers, Coyotes and Canucks. He most recently skated in 35 games with the Canucks in 2015-16, but he, like many other enforcer-types in the NHL, are finding it difficult to find work.
At 32, Prust’s time in the NHL is most likely done barring some sort of major surprise. His legacy will be a colorful one, including plenty of fights and questionable hits.
At the very least, Brad Marchand’s groin will be happy to see Prust go.