On Tuesday, the Vancouver Canucks placed defenseman Mark Friedman on waivers. If Friedman clears waivers, he is expected to be reassigned to the Canucks’ American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Abbotsford Canucks.
Friedman has primarily been seen as a depth defenseman on the Canucks’ roster. Even if he were to remain with the NHL team, he would likely serve as the seventh or eighth defenseman. This means he would often be a healthy scratch, serving as backup in case of injuries to the main lineup. His current position makes him a candidate for frequent movement between the NHL and AHL, depending on the team’s needs.
Although Friedman has experience playing at the NHL level, he is not expected to bring much fantasy hockey value. His role would likely be limited to filling in when needed, rather than being a regular contributor on the ice. His presence in the lineup would most likely occur in the event of injuries to other defensemen, making him a potential call-up in such scenarios.
The Canucks’ decision to place Friedman on waivers underscores the competitive nature of the team’s defense corps. Vancouver has several defensemen ahead of him in the pecking order, which has led to his reassignment to the AHL. The move allows the team to maintain depth in the AHL, while also giving them flexibility in case injuries affect their defense during the season.
Friedman’s reassignment is a strategic move, ensuring that the Canucks have a capable defenseman available if needed, but it also reflects the difficulty of securing a regular role on a competitive NHL team. His experience and status as a veteran defender make him a valuable depth option, but for now, he will continue to provide support from Abbotsford unless a significant roster change occurs.
In summary, Mark Friedman’s waiver placement likely means he will start the season in the AHL, though he remains a candidate for call-ups due to injury or other roster needs. His fantasy impact, however, remains minimal.
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