RFA Set To Leave North America After Failing To Land Roster Spot

As the season opener approaches, the chances of either Pinto or Berni being on their respective teams' rosters and ready for the first game seem slim, but the situation remains fluid.

Tim Berni's case with the Columbus Blue Jackets differs from Shane Pinto's. Berni had been granted an invitation to the Blue Jackets' training camp on a professional tryout contract.

Which allowed him to participate fully in practices and preseason games while negotiations for a new contract were ongoing.

However, he was released from his PTO recently, and reports suggest he is contemplating returning to Switzerland for the 2023-24 season.

Aaron Portzline reported,

Although Berni's situation is uncertain, the Blue Jackets issued him a qualifying offer in late June, meaning they would retain his rights even if he chose to play in Europe, holding those rights until he becomes eligible for unrestricted free agency in 2027.

Berni, 23, made his NHL debut with Columbus last season, appearing in 59 games and tallying three points (one goal, two assists), along with 34 penalty minutes and a minus-26 rating.

Source: Bladeofsteel