Coming off another big win, Columbus GM Scott Howson has finally made at least one move – though I think it’s fair to say that it was rather unexpected.
Columbus has claimed former Buffalo Sabres captain Craig Rivet off re-entry waivers.
An experienced defensive defenseman who started his pro career in 1994 with the Montreal Canadiens, Rivet has been a Hab, a Shark, and most recently a Sabre.
Regarded as a true team player with a strong commitment to the room, willing to drop the gloves and get physical, he’s a depth d-man with a lot of postseason experience. He’s had some offensive success, including a career high 35 points with San Jose in 2008, but his production steadily dropped in Buffalo before he was sent to Portland of the AHL, with just one goal and two assists in 23 NHL games this season.
To be honest, Rivet doesn’t seem to address an immediate need for the Jackets outside of his playoff experience, particularly since he will be a UFA at the end of the year. This feels more like a precursor to something else happening.
Meanwhile, Mike Commodore has cleared re-entry waivers, and is expected to be remain in Springfield.
Keep an eye on The Cannon, twitter, email, your phone, and billboards around Columbus. Something big may just be about to happen.