One of the most talented players of the 2019 NHL draft has been put on the waivers by the Los Angeles Kings
Arthur Kaliyev's placement on waivers by the Los Angeles Kings has started rumors across the league, especially with past trade links to the Montreal Canadiens.
As reported by Habs Fanatics, at just 23 years old, the winger represents a good opportunity for the Canadiens or any team looking to add potential to their lineup.
He was selected 33rd overall in the 2019 NHL Draft and Arthur Kaliyev has showed his scoring ability throughout his career since he scored an impressive 200 points, including 124 goals, over his final two seasons in the OHL and followed that with 33 points in 45 games in the AHL.
In the NHL, he recorded 71 points in 188 games, but despite these numbers, Kaliyev hasn't managed to secure a consistent role in Los Angeles, which has now led to his availability via waivers.
For Montreal, the timing couldn't be more interesting since Kaliyev has been frequently mentioned as a potential trade target for Kent Hughes, and The Hockey News even identified him as a priority for the Canadiens.
Kent Hughes has now the chance to claim Kaliyev without giving up anything which is providing a low-risk, high-reward opportunity to help the team's offense.
Arthur Kaliyev could replace Michael Pezzetta in the lineup and add a much-needed scoring touch if the Habs decide to claim him and at his best, he could develop into a middle-six winger with power-play potential, making him an appealing project for Martin St-Louis.
The Canadiens' decision will depend on the waiver priority order and their confidence in Kaliyev's ability to realize his potential.
If Hughes brings him in, it could mark a pivotal moment in Kaliyev's career and help for sure the Montreal's offensive depth.
| POLL | ||
Do you think the Montreal Canadiens should claim Arthur Kaliyev on the waivers? | ||
| Yes | 123 | 51.9 % |
| No | 114 | 48.1 % |
| List of polls | ||
