Ottawa Senators Eye Arthur Kaliyev After Waiver Placement by Kings

The Ottawa Senators are considering a move to claim winger Arthur Kaliyev after he was placed on waivers by the Los Angeles Kings on Sunday. The 23-year-old, who has yet to play in the NHL this season due to a training camp injury, recently completed a two-week conditioning stint with the AHL‘s Ontario Reign.

Steve Staios, the Senators’ president of hockey operations and general manager, has a history with Kaliyev, having won an Ontario Hockey League championship together in 2018 with the Hamilton Bulldogs. Senators owner Michael Andlauer also owns the Bulldogs, adding another layer of connection between the player and the organization.

Kaliyev, a restricted free agent earning $825,000 U.S., was a prolific scorer during his time in the OHL, netting 51 goals and 102 points in 67 games during the 2018-19 season. In the NHL, he has recorded 35 goals and 71 points in 188 games, though his production dipped last season with only seven goals in 51 games.

If the Senators claim Kaliyev, they would reach the NHL’s limit of 50 contracts, complicating potential moves at the trade deadline in March. Additionally, Ottawa’s current playoff position means they won’t have first priority on the waiver wire, with teams like Chicago, San Jose, Nashville, Buffalo, and the New York Islanders ahead of them.

Kaliyev’s potential as an offensive contributor makes him an attractive option for teams looking to bolster their lineup. His most productive NHL seasons came in 2021-22 and 2022-23, where he tallied 27 and 28 points, respectively. However, his development has been hindered by injuries, including a fractured clavicle during training camp this season.

Critics argue that Kaliyev needs to improve his two-way play and consistency to secure a regular spot on an NHL roster. If he clears waivers, he will be assigned to the Ontario Reign to continue his development. However, his low salary and offensive potential make him a tempting target for teams willing to take a chance on his upside.

Only time will tell if this move will revitalize Kaliyev’s career, but for now, the Ottawa Senators are among the teams weighing the risks and rewards of adding him to their roster.