Former Avalanche defenseman hit with sad news to start the season
Photo credit: Michael Martin / Colorado Avalanche
Former Colorado Avalanche defenseman Ryan Graves has suffered a major setback to kick off the 2025-26 NHL season, as he has been placed on waivers, leaving his immediate future in the league uncertain.
The Penguins announced Saturday that defenseman Ryan Graves has been placed on waivers for assignment to the AHL.
Ryan Graves suffers massive setback ahead of regular season.
Kyle Cushman from The Score writes that Graves still has four years remaining on his contract, carrying a $4.5-million cap hit. He signed a six-year, $27-million deal with the Penguins as a free agent in July 2023.
"The 30-year-old struggled significantly last season. He managed just four points in 61 games and finished a minus-15, and he averaged less than 15 minutes for the first time since his rookie season in 2018-19." -Cushman
Graves had a breakout season with the Colorado Avalanche in 2019-20, posting 26 points in 69 games and leading the NHL with a +40 rating.
Over seven seasons, he has totaled 32 goals and 118 points in 433 games with the Avalanche, New Jersey Devils, and Pittsburgh Penguins.
If Graves clears waivers and is assigned to the minors, the Penguins would have $11 million in available cap space, according to PuckPedia.
If Graves clears waivers and is assigned to the minors, the Penguins would not only gain $11 million in cap space but also gain valuable roster flexibility, allowing them to make strategic moves and adjustments as they head into the opening weeks of the 2025-26 NHL season.
| POLL | ||
OCTOBRE 4 | 16 ANSWERS Former Avalanche defenseman hit with sad news to start the season Will Ryan Graves get claimed off waivers before the start of the NHL regular season? | ||
| yes | 7 | 43.8 % |
| no | 9 | 56.3 % |
| List of polls | ||
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