Recent reports from Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman indicate that the Vegas Golden Knights have waived forwards Alexander Holtz and Cole Reinhardt. Both players now enter the waiver process, giving all 31 NHL teams 24 hours to claim them before the deadline.
Alexander Holtz’s Career Journey
Alexander Holtz was drafted seventh overall by the New Jersey Devils in 2020. Initially anticipated to become a key player in the Devils’ lineup, his tenure did not meet expectations. Holtz showed promise during the 2023-24 season, recording 16 goals and 28 points in 82 games. However, the Devils decided to trade him, along with goaltender Akira Schmid, to the Golden Knights in exchange for Paul Cotter and a third-round pick.
Since joining Vegas, Holtz’s performance has remained lackluster. Over the past two years, he has managed just seven goals and 21 points across 81 games, averaging 11:33 minutes of ice time per game. He has frequently been a healthy scratch and even played for the AHL’s Henderson Silver Knights last season. Despite these challenges, Holtz still holds a $850,000 salary through next season and is merely six years removed from being a top-10 draft pick.
Potential Options for Holtz
As Holtz finds himself on waivers, several rebuilding teams, such as the Nashville Predators, St. Louis Blues, and Vancouver Canucks, may consider claiming him to rejuvenate his career.
Profile of Cole Reinhardt
Cole Reinhardt, 26, is also facing waiver placement in his inaugural season with the Golden Knights. After years in the Ottawa Senators organization, he signed a two-year contract with Vegas worth $1.63 million ($813,000 AAV). This season, Reinhardt has played a total of 44 games, scoring three goals and seven points, averaging 9:47 minutes of play.
Reinhardt’s Role and Potential Impact
If claimed, Reinhardt could contribute physicality to another team’s bottom-six lineup. Although his contributions are limited beyond his physical gameplay, he may provide an appealing option for teams seeking depth.
Implications for the Calder Cup Playoffs
Under NHL qualification rules, players must join an AHL roster by 3:00 p.m. EST to be eligible for the Calder Cup playoffs. With the Henderson Silver Knights vying for a playoff position in the AHL’s Pacific Division, Holtz and Reinhardt could potentially assist that team if the Golden Knights do not plan to utilize them for their playoff run.
- Alexander Holtz: 7 goals, 21 points in 81 games with Vegas.
- Cole Reinhardt: 3 goals, 7 points in 44 games with Vegas.
- Contract Status: Holtz – $850K, Reinhardt – $813K AAV.
