Bakersfield Condors forward Drake Caggiula has inked a one-year deal with Lausanne in Switzerland, the team announced on Monday.
Originally from Pickering, Ontario, Caggiula spent this past season splitting time between the Bakersfield Condors and the Edmonton Oilers. During seven NHL games, he recorded assists, while putting up 24 goals and 28 assists for a total of 52 points over 62 regular-season games with Bakersfield.
Caggiula entered the NHL as an undrafted free agent and has played 289 career regular-season games across several teams including the Edmonton Oilers, Chicago Blackhawks, Arizona Coyotes, Buffalo Sabres, and Pittsburgh Penguins. Over this span, he accumulated 46 goals, 46 assists, and 92 points.
As Caggiula embarks on his first stint abroad, he is expected to play a key role for Lausanne. Despite challenges in securing a consistent spot in the NHL in recent years, he has demonstrated his talent and may attract renewed interest from NHL teams if he contemplates a return next season.
Fan Take: This move is significant for hockey fans as it highlights the growing trend of talented players exploring opportunities overseas, which can elevate the competitive level of European leagues. Caggiula’s journey could inspire other players to broaden their horizons and add new dynamics to the international hockey scene.
