As the NHL trade deadline approaches, roster adjustments are in full swing. Notably, five players have been placed on waivers, with significant implications for their respective teams. Elliotte Friedman reported these developments, highlighting the strategic maneuvers of several franchises.
Ryan Reaves – Toronto Maple Leafs
In a surprising move, the Toronto Maple Leafs have placed forward Ryan Reaves on waivers. Reaves, 38, signed a three-year, $4.05 million contract with Toronto in 2023 to provide a physical presence. However, he has played in only 35 games this season, recording two assists and averaging less than eight minutes of ice time per game. This waiver placement suggests the Maple Leafs are considering roster flexibility ahead of the deadline, possibly intending to reassign Reaves to the AHL to free up cap space while retaining the option to recall him for the playoffs.
Jordan Oesterle – Boston Bruins
Defenseman Jordan Oesterle, 32, has been waived by the Boston Bruins. Oesterle has contributed six points in 22 games this season and has served as a depth option on the blue line. His placement on waivers is likely a strategic move to assign him to the AHL, making him eligible for the Calder Cup Playoffs, as teams must waive players before the trade deadline to send them to the minors.
Jesse Puljujärvi – Florida Panthers
Forward Jesse Puljujärvi, 26, finds himself on waivers after signing a two-way contract with the Florida Panthers. Puljujärvi has recorded nine points in 26 NHL games this season and has been playing with the Panthers’ AHL affiliate in Charlotte. This waiver placement indicates Florida’s intention to reassign him to the minors, preserving roster flexibility as the trade deadline nears.
Jakub Vrána – Washington Capitals
The Washington Capitals have placed forward Jakub Vrána, 29, on waivers. Vrána has tallied 11 points in 26 games this season. If he clears waivers, the Capitals have a 30-day window to assign him to the minors without exposing him to re-entry waivers, a move that could provide salary cap relief as they approach the deadline.
Christian Fischer – Detroit Red Wings
Forward Christian Fischer, 27, has been waived by the Detroit Red Wings. Fischer has one goal and six assists in 45 games this season. His waiver placement may be a strategic decision to open up roster space and cap flexibility for potential deadline acquisitions.
These waiver moves underscore the dynamic nature of roster management as teams position themselves for the upcoming trade deadline, balancing immediate performance with long-term strategic goals.
