Plenty of action on NHL waiver wire today

The NHL waiver wire has another notable name on it today, as the Florida Panthers have placed forward MacKenzie Entwistle on waivers. The move comes as Florida looks to finalize its roster, with Entwistle potentially headed back to the American Hockey League’s Charlotte Checkers if he goes unclaimed. The 27-year-old missed training camp and the preseason while dealing with an undisclosed injury.

It is also worth noting that two players placed on waivers yesterday have now cleared. Tampa Bay Lightning forward Jansen Harkins and Columbus Blue Jackets forward Mikael Pyyhtiä both went unclaimed and can now be assigned to their respective AHL affiliates.

For Entwistle, today's move represents another chapter in what has been a somewhat frustrating NHL career. Originally selected by the Chicago Blackhawks in the third round of the 2019 NHL Draft, the Georgetown, Ontario native established himself as a physical bottom-six forward. He ultimately appeared in 193 NHL games with Chicago, recording 15 goals and 35 points while bringing plenty of physicality to the lineup.

Entwistle's last NHL action came during the 2023-24 season, when he played 67 games for Chicago and recorded five goals and 11 points. He subsequently joined the Panthers organization, but injuries and limited opportunities have kept him primarily in the AHL.

Last season with Charlotte, Entwistle registered five goals and 11 points in 49 regular-season games. He also appeared in two playoff contests.

Now, Entwistle finds himself on waivers once again. If no team claims him, Florida will have the option of sending him to Charlotte, where he can continue working his way back toward an NHL opportunity. With 193 NHL games already under his belt, there is still some experience there for a team looking for organizational depth.