Oilers’ Sam Gagner Among Many Names on NHL Waivers

The Flames have claimed defenseman Joel Hanley off waivers from the Dallas Stars, reports the organization in a team statement. The Capitals have reclaimed forward Matthew Phillips off waivers from the Pittsburgh Penguins, according to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman. This marks Phillips’ return to the team after spending just 18 days with the Penguins organization.

Gagner Among Several Players to Hit the NHL Waiver Wire

According to Frank Seravalli of The Daily Faceoff, the Minnesota Wild have waived forwards Vinni Lettieri and Jake Lucchini to assign them to AHL Iowa. Throughout the season, both players have seen action in both Minnesota and Iowa.

General Manager Patrik Allvin announced today that D Guillaume Brisebois has been placed on waivers for the purpose of assignment to Abbotsford (AHL).

Why Sam Gagner on Waivers?

The Edmonton Oilers have placed forward Sam Gagner on waivers for assignment to AHL Bakersfield, according to a team announcement. Gagner has been in and out of the lineup, having been given a PTO and then being signed to the team in a depth role. He is on his third stint with the club.

For many of these teams, including the Oilers, this could be about clearing cap space as the trade deadline nears. For a team like the Oilers, where every penny matters and they’re struggling to compete for players against teams that have LTIR space, moving Gagner or a player like him becomes a necessity. This was likely done today for flexibility later. In the event they need to add a player before the trade deadline they can send Gagner down immediately without needing 24 hours to clear.

Are the Oilers gearing up to make a move? Or, do they simply not see Gagner as part of the playoff run and are sending him down to Bakersfield where he can be a leader on that team? This time of the season is exciting for fans, but it’s also emotional for players. Some good people and respected teammates will be departing these teams. Gagner knows his role with the Oilers. This move probably won’t come as a surprise. Still, that doesn’t make it any easier.