Nick DeSimone and Adam Ruzicka left the Flames organization via waiver claim on Thursday in what will be a depth shuffle for NHL head coach Ryan Huska and AHL Wranglers head coach Trent Cull.
Ruzicka, a fourth round pick in 2017, struggled this season to produce offensively and will now join the Arizona Coyotes. With only three goals and six assists in 39 appearances in 2023-2024, the organization opted to place the 24-year-old on waivers with the goal of getting his game back on track in the NHL.
Recording four points in his first seven games, Ruzicka appeared to be ready for a breakout season. A questionable hit thrown by New York Rangers winger Jimmy Vesey on Oct. 24 served as a turning point for the 6-foot-4, 215-pound center. Hit the link for the full story.
Now a New Jersey Devil, Nick DeSimone had fewer issues on the offensive side of the puck and more issues on the defensive aspects of the game.
His final outing as a Flame (for now) was a rough night where the 29-year-old and defence partner Jordan Oesterle went -2 in under ten minutes of ice time. Both goals against were scored by Auston Matthews.
Auston Matthews makes this a one goal game
: Sportsnet | NHL pic.twitter.com/gKszEtI75j
— Robert Munnich (@RingOfFireCGY) January 19, 2024
Hat trick. Auston Matthews.
: Sportsnet | NHL pic.twitter.com/PqazbDuS9r
— Robert Munnich (@RingOfFireCGY) January 19, 2024
Last season DeSimone scored eight goals and 46 points in 65 games for the Wranglers. The 6-foot-2 defender recorded a goal and four assists in 23 games with the Flames this season.
With fresh starts, each player will have an opportunity to find a fit with their new organization. DeSimone has a solid chance at rebounding if provided with a more defence-oriented partner, and Ruzicka may simply need more ice time and offensive opportunities to once again become a force on the perimeter.
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