As NHL teams prepare for the 2024-25 regular season by trimming their rosters, several notable players have been placed on waivers. The waiver process allows teams 24 hours to claim these players before they can be reassigned to the minor leagues. Here’s a look at some of the most significant names on the waiver wire so far, along with expert analysis from Corey Pronman and Harman Dayal.
Sunday, September 29
Vinnie Hinostroza, RW, Nashville Predators
Vinnie Hinostroza has built a reputation as a reliable depth option on offense. The speedy winger, though undersized, has accumulated a solid number of five-on-five points, playing nearly 400 NHL games. Despite his offensive contributions, Hinostroza finds himself in a tweener role—he’s not dynamic enough for power-play duties, and his smaller stature makes him a challenging fit for the more physical bottom-six forward roles on many NHL teams.
Other notable waivers: Marc McLaughlin (Bruins), Justin Kirkland (Flames), Martin Frk (Flames), Zach Sanford (Blackhawks), Brett Seney (Blackhawks), Reilly Walsh (Kings), Tyler Madden (Kings), Joe Hicketts (Kings), Glenn Gawdin (Kings), Joseph Cecconi (Wild), Cameron Crotty (Wild), Adam Raska (Wild), Lucas Condotta (Canadiens), Brandon Gignac (Canadiens), Matt Murray (Predators), Kieffer Bellows (Predators), Hunter Skinner (Blues), Hugh McGing (Blues), MacKenzie MacEachern (Blues), Mathias Laferriere (Blues), Derrick Pouliot (Lightning), Tobie Paquette-Bisson (Lightning).
Saturday, September 28
Grigori Denisenko, LW, Vegas Golden Knights
Once considered a top prospect, Denisenko’s transition to North American hockey has been challenging. Drafted 15th overall by the Florida Panthers in 2018, the skilled winger struggled to find his groove in the NHL during brief stints with the Panthers. However, Denisenko showed improvement in the AHL last season, producing 56 points in 65 games. His offensive creativity remains his strongest asset, but the 24-year-old has yet to fully realize his potential at the NHL level. Vegas claimed him off waivers last year, but his future remains uncertain.
Other notable waivers: Jonathan Aspirot (Flames), Clark Bishop (Flames), Keaton Middleton (Avalanche), Wyatt Aamodt (Avalanche), Kevin Mandolese (Avalanche), Maxime Lajoie (Kraken), Anthony Angello (Predators), Kevin Gravel (Predators), Jake Lucchini (Predators), Tyce Thompson (Islanders), Egor Sokolov (Utah), Callahan Burke (Golden Knights), Mason Geertsen (Golden Knights), Dysin Mayo (Golden Knights), Gage Quinney (Golden Knights), Robert Hagg (Golden Knights), Mason Morelli (Golden Knights), Ethen Frank (Capitals), Riley Sutter (Capitals), Alex Limoges (Capitals), Chase Priskie (Capitals), Hardy Häman Aktell (Capitals).
Friday, September 27
Ronnie Attard, RHD, Philadelphia Flyers
Ronnie Attard has played sparingly in each of the past three NHL seasons but has yet to solidify a full-time role. Standing out as a big, right-shot defenseman, Attard offers offensive skills and can play a solid two-way game. Despite his physical presence and versatility, his skating ability has been a concern, and decision-making errors have hindered his progress.
Other notable waivers: Louie Belpedio (Flyers), Rhett Gardner (Flyers), Hayden Hodgson (Senators), Cole Reinhardt (Senators), Jamieson Rees (Senators), Garrett Pilon (Senators), Nikolas Matinpalo (Senators), Maxence Guenette (Senators), Jeremy Davies (Senators), Luke Henman (Kraken), Nikolas Brouillard (Kraken), Zach Sawchenko (Blue Jackets), Jake Leschyshyn (Rangers), Ben Harpur (Rangers), Alex Belzile (Rangers).
As teams continue to make tough roster decisions ahead of the new season, the waiver wire will remain active. Players like Hinostroza, Denisenko, and Attard may find new homes or be sent down to the minors, while others may get a second chance to prove their value in the NHL. Keep an eye on how these moves will shape the upcoming season.
You Might Be Interested In: