What Happened
The Calgary Flames placed forward Connor Zary and defenceman Brayden Pachal on waivers Monday, according to Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman. Zary, 25, was a healthy scratch Saturday and had an assist in the season opener before returning to the lineup in Seattle on Monday. Pachal also went on waivers. New York Rangers defenceman Matthew Robertson was added to the waiver wire as well.
Key Details
- Zary is in the second year of a three-year contract with a $3.775 million annual cap hit.
- Zary was selected 24th overall in 2020 and posted 12 goals and 13 assists in 74 games last season.
- Pachal recorded one goal and six assists in 39 games for Calgary last season.
- Robertson had six goals and 12 assists in 72 games with the Rangers last season.
- Michael Eyssimont (Boston) and Patrick Giles (San Jose) cleared waivers Monday.
What It Means
Waivers give the other 31 clubs a chance to claim Zary and Pachal. Zary's contract and first-round pedigree could draw interest, while Pachal provides depth on defence. For Calgary, the moves open roster flexibility after a slow start for Zary, who remained in the lineup Monday in Seattle.
What's Next
Clubs have until Tuesday to submit claims. If unclaimed, Zary and Pachal could be assigned to the AHL's Calgary Wranglers. Robertson's status will also be resolved, while Eyssimont and Giles remain with their respective organizations.