The NHL trade deadline is fast approaching, prompting several teams to make last-minute roster adjustments. On March 5, a total of eight players entered the waiver wire, signaling a busy day for teams navigating the final hours before the deadline.
Players on the Waiver Wire
The following players are now available for claims by the other 30 NHL teams:
- Evgenii Dadonov, F, New Jersey Devils
- Luke Glendening, F, New Jersey Devils
- Maxim Tsyplakov, F, New Jersey Devils
- Garrett Wilson, F, Philadelphia Flyers
- Mathieu Joseph, F, St. Louis Blues
- Curtis Douglas, F, Tampa Bay Lightning
- Alexander Holtz, F, Vegas Golden Knights
- Cole Reinhardt, F, Vegas Golden Knights
These players can be claimed within the next 24 hours. The Vegas Golden Knights will not participate in this process due to reaching their limit of 50 standard player contracts.
Waiver Priority Order
The waiver priority is determined by the inverse standings, with the Vancouver Canucks having the top claim priority and the Colorado Avalanche at the bottom. This structure has become significant as teams assess their needs just before the deadline.
Mathieu Joseph’s Situation
Mathieu Joseph finds himself in a tough spot, listed on unconditional waivers for the second time within a week. Initially placed on conditional waivers to reassign him to the AHL affiliate, the Springfield Thunderbirds, he is now in talks to terminate his contract with the St. Louis Blues. Joseph has struggled this season, missing five games due to a lower-body injury and an elbow infection.
With only 39 games played, he has recorded two goals and nine assists, totaling 11 points. This contract termination reflects a trend from the Blues, who previously allowed players like Brandon Saad and Alexandre Texier to find new opportunities.
Garrett Wilson’s New Contract
Garrett Wilson’s appearance on waivers is linked to a new contract with the Philadelphia Flyers, although specific details of the agreement remain undisclosed. He had recently played with the Flyers’ AHL team, the Lehigh Valley Phantoms, before earning his first NHL contract since the 2018-19 season. In 51 games, Wilson has accumulated four goals and 12 assists, totaling 16 points.
As the deadline looms, the decisions made by teams are critical for shaping their rosters and enhancing their chances for success in the league.
