NHL teams execute major roster cuts and waiver placements

As the NHL regular season approaches, several teams are finalizing their opening-night rosters through significant player cuts and waiver placements.

The Toronto Maple Leafs have placed eight players on waivers, most notably forward Steven Lorentz. The move is viewed as a strategic effort to manage the team’s 50-contract limit and potentially clear space to sign depth defenseman Nick Blankenburg. Other Maple Leafs placed on waivers include Brendan Brisson, Vinni Lettieri, Philippe Myers, Michael Pezzetta, Marshall Rifai, and Henrik Rybinski.

The Philadelphia Flyers have also made substantial roster moves, cutting seven players and placing six others on waivers, including Carl Grundström. Additionally, the St. Louis Blues assigned six players, including first-round pick Justin Carbonneau, to their AHL affiliate, the Springfield Thunderbirds.

Across the league, approximately 30 players were placed on waivers on Thursday. Notable moves include the Ottawa Senators assigning Leevi Merilainen to the AHL and the Nashville Predators placing Matthew Murray on waivers. The Minnesota Wild also placed eight players on the wire, including Tyler Pitlick and Carson Lambos.