Penguins to Place Graves on Waivers: NHL Status Update
The NHL landscape is evolving as teams prepare for the upcoming season. Significant player movements and injury updates are shaping roster decisions across the league.
Pittsburgh Penguins Status Update
The Pittsburgh Penguins are making headlines as they place defenseman Ryan Graves on waivers. Graves, who is 30 years old, signed a six-year contract worth $4.5 million annually on July 1, 2023. Last season, he recorded four points, including one goal and three assists in 61 games.
Additionally, defenseman Owen Pickering, initially in contention for the opening night roster, has been assigned to Wilkes-Barre Scranton in the American Hockey League.
Injury Reports from Around the League
Winnipeg Jets
- Cole Perfetti exited the Jets’ recent 5-4 preseason win over the Calgary Flames due to a lower-body injury. His condition is under evaluation.
- Defenseman Dylan DeMelo also left the game for precautionary reasons after being hit in the throat.
- Forward Jonathan Toews is sidelined with an undisclosed injury.
Toronto Maple Leafs
Scott Laughton will miss time with a lower-body injury sustained during a preseason matchup against the Detroit Red Wings. He is expected to be unavailable for the Maple Leafs’ season opener against the Montreal Canadiens on Wednesday.
Buffalo Sabres
- Goalie Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen is listed as week-to-week with an undisclosed injury.
- Defenseman Michael Kesselring joins Luukkonen on the injury list and will also have a reevaluation next week.
New Jersey Devils
Stefan Noesen is week-to-week with a groin injury that required a recent procedure. The forward has shown some progress, practicing in a full contact jersey but still sidelined for the time being.
New York Islanders
Calum Ritchie, a 20-year-old forward, is projected to miss 1-2 weeks due to a lower-body injury. His status is crucial as the Islanders are set to face the Penguins on October 9.
New York Rangers
- J.T. Miller returned to practice following a lower-body injury, albeit in a noncontact jersey.
- Artemi Panarin is day-to-day with an upper-body injury but has also been seen skating with a coach.
The Rangers aim for both players to be ready for their season opener against the Penguins on Tuesday, October 3.
As teams finalize their rosters, the status of these key players will impact the upcoming NHL season significantly. With injuries and roster changes in play, fans can expect a dynamic start to the league.
