On February 1, the NHL saw two players placed on waivers, creating potential opportunities for other teams. The Edmonton Oilers and Calgary Flames both made significant roster changes, highlighting the competitive nature of the league.
NHL Waiver Moves: Players Overview
- Calvin Pickard (Goaltender, Edmonton Oilers)
- Justin Kirkland (Forward, Calgary Flames)
Calvin Pickard’s Situation
The Edmonton Oilers have placed goaltender Calvin Pickard on waivers. This move comes amid significant changes in the Oilers’ goaltending lineup. Recently, the team brought up Connor Ingram from the AHL’s Bakersfield Condors to support the net due to Tristan Jarry’s long-term injury.
Pickard has encountered difficulties this season, posting a record of 5-6-2 with a goals-against average (GAA) of 3.68 and a save percentage of .871 in 16 games. His performance contrasts sharply with his previous two seasons, where he played a pivotal role in helping Edmonton reach consecutive Stanley Cup Finals.
If Pickard clears waivers, he could be assigned back to Bakersfield, marking his first AHL appearance since the ongoing season began. The Moncton, N.B. native is currently in the second year of a two-year contract carrying an average annual value (AAV) of $1 million.
Justin Kirkland’s Situation
Meanwhile, the Calgary Flames have placed forward Justin Kirkland on waivers. The 29-year-old has had a fluctuating presence between the Flames and their AHL affiliate, the Wranglers. In 20 NHL games, Kirkland has managed one goal and one assist.
His performance has been more fruitful at the AHL level, where he has accumulated five goals and two assists in 14 games, bringing his total to seven points. Kirkland is under a one-year contract with the Flames, with a cap hit of $900,000.
Conclusion
The placement of Calvin Pickard and Justin Kirkland on waivers highlights the strategic decisions teams make to optimize their rosters. These moves not only affect the players involved but also the overall dynamics within the league as teams look to strengthen their lineups.
