Sharks place giant defenseman on waivers as Canadiens weigh their options
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Elliotte Friedman shook up the afternoon lull with an announcement that’s sure to make several general managers looking for size take notice.
Defenseman Vincent Iorio has been placed on waivers by the San Jose Sharks.
It’s a theoretical opportunity to acquire a big-bodied blueliner without giving up any assets.
The 23-year-old brings a rare physical profile.
He tips the scales at 220 pounds and stands 6-foot-4.
His pedigree is still intriguing for a player available “for free.”
He was a second-round pick (55th overall) by the Washington Capitals in 2021.
His status as a right-shot defenseman adds another layer of appeal for a team like the Montreal Canadiens.
We know right-handed defensemen of that size are a rare commodity in the NHL.
The likely verdict from Kent Hughes for the Montreal Canadiens
Kent Hughes has a clear plan and rarely strays from it.
The Canadiens’ organizational chart is already loaded with young right-shot defensemen knocking on the door.
You also have to factor in the league’s strict 50-contract limit.
Hughes will probably pass on this opportunity and continue trusting his own prospects, but it’s still worth noting that Iorio is currently available for free on NHL waivers.
In the event of an injury, it could have been interesting, but as of now all the defensemen are healthy and available, and the team already has Jayden Struble as the seventh defenseman.
Previously on Montreal Hockey Fanatics