Photo credit: Perry Nelson-Imagn Images
The Edmonton Oilers made a significant roster decision today by placing goaltender Calvin Pickard on NHL waivers.
The news quickly drew reactions from observers because of the goalie’s recent past.
Renaud Lavoie highlighted the striking contrast in Pickard’s career trajectory.
He reminded everyone that Pickard was in net for a start during last June’s Stanley Cup Final.
Less than a year later, he now finds himself available for free to the league’s 31 other teams.
“The player who started a game in the Stanley Cup Final last June has now been placed on waivers.”
– Renaud Lavoie
It’s a brutal reminder of how quickly things can change for goaltenders in the NHL.
The Oilers are likely looking to create roster flexibility or manage their salary cap.
Yet Pickard has proven he can deliver quality minutes when the pressure is at its highest.
An opportunity for the other NHL teams
General managers searching for experience in net will now have 24 hours to make a claim.
The goalie market is often unpredictable at this time of year.
A veteran who has experienced the atmosphere of a Final carries real value for a young or struggling team.
If no team submits a claim by tomorrow at noon, Pickard will have to report to the AHL affiliate.
This situation shows that past performances never guarantee long-term job security.
Edmonton appears ready to turn the page or take the risk of losing him for nothing.
This will be a storyline to watch, as several teams could benefit from this kind of insurance policy, especially with so many goalie injuries around the NHL right now.
It’s also worth noting that the Montreal Canadiens currently hold the 26th waiver priority, the 26th right of refusal to claim players.
Pickard has already earned more than 10 million in salary over his NHL career.
Previously on Montreal Hockey Fanatics
POLL
7 HOURS AGO|565 ANSWERS
Oilers place Calvin Pickard on waivers as Canadiens weigh their options
Should a team claim Calvin Pickard off NHL waivers?