NHL teams execute massive roster cuts ahead of regular season

As the National Hockey League approaches the start of the 2026-27 regular season, NHL clubs are conducting massive roster reductions. On Sunday, a significant wave of player cuts saw dozens of players placed on waivers. Reports indicate that 71 players were placed on waivers across the league, including notable goaltenders like David Rittich and Laurent Brossoit, as well as various forwards and defensemen.

Individual team movements were prominent. The Montreal Canadiens placed nine players on waivers, including Kaapo Kahkonen and Maksymillian Szuber, though none were claimed. The Boston Bruins made several cuts, including placing Henri Jokiharju on waivers, while the Ottawa Senators waived eight players amidst injury-related roster adjustments. The Washington Capitals also made final decisions, placing several players, including Clay Stevenson and Jonny Brodzinski, on waivers to be assigned to the AHL.

In preseason action, the Washington Capitals secured a notable 5-1 victory over the Philadelphia Flyers. The win was highlighted by the Capitals' use of a prospect-heavy lineup against the Flyers' established opening-night roster, a feat Washington coach Spencer Carbery described as a game he will “remember for the rest of my life.”