THE Rangers announced on Monday that they had claimed the right winger Arthur Kaliyev off waivers from the Los Angeles Kings.
Kaliyev, 23, played parts of four seasons with the Kings, playing in 188 games while recording 71 points (35 goals, 36 assists) during his career. He has not appeared in the NHL at all this season due to a broken collarbone he suffered in training camp. However, he completed a five-game conditioning period for the AHL’s Ontario Reign, finishing with a goal and an assist.
A former second-round pick (33rd overall) in the 2019 NHL Draft, Kaliyev gives the Blueshirts a low-risk, potentially high-reward young forward who can fill in Kaapo Kakko which was dealt to the Seattle Kraken in December.
Although the 6-foot-2, 210-pound goal score declined last season in Los Angeles, he has experience on the power play and can be used as a triggerman likely on New York’s second, third or fourth line.
With a salary of $825,000 this season, Kaliyev will be a restricted free agent this offseason. However, if the Rangers choose to retain him, they will have his rights for next season and beyond due to his age.
To make room for Kaliyev on the roster sent by New York Matt Rempewho still has one game remaining following his eight-game suspension for elbowing Miro Heiskanenat the AHL.
