Two latest players on waivers catching teams’ attention

Several teams across the NHL have been shopping for depth down the middle or for some improvement between the pipes. They could now consider what’s available on the waiver wire seeing that center Justin Kirkland and goalie Spencer Martin have been placed on waivers on Wednesday.

The Calgary Flames placed Kirkland, a former third round pick of 2014 on waivers, while the New York Rangers did the same with Martin, who was also selected in the third round a year prior.

However, the Rangers placed the netminder on the wire in order to get him on the roster, seeing that Martin had his KHL contract terminated with CSKA early yesterday after 14 games and on his way to America. He signed a contract with New York, that much was confirmed by the Rangers moments after the waiver announcement.

In 14 appearances in the KHL, Martin had a goals-against average of 2.69, a save percentage of .905 and two shutouts.

Between 2016 and 2025, Martin played 66 NHL games for the Colorado Avalanche, Vancouver Canucks, Columbus Blue Jackets and Carolina Hurricanes, compiling a record of 24-30-8 with a goals-against average of 3.31, a save percentage of .833 and one shutout.

This could be a fresh start for Martin.

As for Kirkland, he has collected an assist in nine games with the struggling Flames this season. He’ll be assigned to AHL Calgary if he clears tomorrow.

With both players now exposed to waivers, several NHL teams could see an opportunity to bolster depth at center or in goal. Whether they clear or get picked up, Kirkland and Martin represent potential solutions for clubs seeking reinforcements, making the waiver wire a spot to watch closely in the next day.