The Predators are shaking things up on their roster, placing two players – Marc Del Gaizo and Kieffer Bellows – on waivers today.
Del Gaizo, a 25-year-old defenseman, has been bouncing between Nashville and their minor league team all season. He’s played 35 games with the Predators this year, picking up 8 points – not bad for a rookie season.
But the numbers tell only part of the story. While he’s solid defensively, his scoring hasn’t quite been enough to lock down a full-time spot in Nashville.
In the minors, Del Gaizo’s production has actually dipped a bit. He’s got 8 goals and 12 points in 30 games this year, down from his stronger showing last season.
Then there’s Bellows, who’s had an interesting journey through the NHL. He’s suited up for three different teams in the last four years – the Islanders, Flyers, and now the Predators. Talk about living out of a suitcase.
This season hasn’t been his breakthrough year either. He’s managed just 3 points in 13 games with Nashville.
The minors have been a different story though. Bellows has been lighting it up with the Milwaukee Admirals, scoring 14 goals and racking up 29 points in 41 games. That’s good enough for sixth place in team scoring.
Here’s where it gets interesting: if another team claims either player off waivers, they can’t come back to the NHL this season. And since both guys are free agents this summer, we might’ve seen the last of them in Predators jerseys.
Some AHL teams gearing up for a playoff run might be tempted to put in a claim. But chances are, both players will clear waivers and head back to Milwaukee.
The timing isn’t great for either player, but that’s the tough reality of pro hockey – especially when you’re trying to stick in the NHL.
