The Montreal Canadiens have a chance to add some inexpensive depth, and it comes by way of waivers. Winnipeg Jets right winger Walker Duehr has been placed on waivers, according to Elliotte Friedman, opening the door for Montreal to claim him without giving up an asset.
It is not expected that he will be claimed by tomorrow, but the situation is still worth monitoring.
Duehr is 28 years old, stands 6-foot-2, and weighs 210 pounds. Across 95 NHL games with Calgary, San Jose, and Winnipeg, he has produced 21 points, including 11 goals.
Last season, he spent most of his time with the AHL’s Manitoba Moose and put up 34 points in 62 games while finishing at plus-4. He has not recorded any stats this season.
For Montreal, Duehr would fit as a low-cost waiver option for fourth-line depth. The Canadiens’ fourth line currently includes Kirby Dach, Jake Evans, and either Oliver Kapanen or Owen Beck.
He would not bring much in the way of offense, but he does offer size and NHL experience on the right side. And unlike a trade pickup, Montreal would not have to part with a draft pick or prospect to get him.
Of course, whether that makes him a worthwhile claim is a separate question.
Winnipeg is 4-2-2 to start the season, which helps explain why the Jets can afford to place Duehr on waivers. If he clears, he would likely head back to the Moose.
The Canadiens are 4-3-1 and are set to play their final home game Tuesday before beginning a four-game road trip. Another right winger could add useful depth, though there does not appear to be any urgency for Montreal to force the issue.
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