What Happened
The Winnipeg Jets placed forward Brad Lambert on waivers on November 3, according to Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman. If no team claims him, the Jets are expected to reassign the 22-year-old to the Manitoba Moose of the AHL. Lambert was selected 30th overall by Winnipeg in the 2022 NHL Draft and has spent most of his professional career with Manitoba, with several shorter NHL call-ups.
Key Details
- Lambert was the 30th overall pick in the 2022 NHL Draft.
- He has 34 goals and 103 points in 159 AHL games since 2023-24, with a -46 rating.
- In 42 NHL games, he has three goals and nine points with a -9 rating.
- He averaged 10:33 of ice time per NHL game.
- If he clears waivers, he is expected to join the AHL's Manitoba Moose.
What It Means
Lambert remains a young forward with offensive ability, but his production and defensive play in the AHL have not translated into a stable NHL role. Placing him on waivers gives the Jets roster flexibility and gives other teams a chance to add a former first-round pick at no acquisition cost. Pro Hockey Rumors notes that a claim is possible given his age and skill.
What's Next
Teams have the waiver period to decide whether to claim Lambert. If he goes unclaimed, he is expected to report to Manitoba. Pro Hockey Rumors named Calgary, Chicago, Columbus and Philadelphia as clubs that could consider a claim.