Flames Place Dryden Hunt On Waivers

The Flames placed forward Dryden Hunt on waivers Thursday, according to Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet. The move will allow Calgary to assign him to the AHL before the holiday roster freeze goes into effect Saturday if he clears.

This is Hunt’s fifth time on waivers since the Flames acquired him from the Maple Leafs before the 2023 trade deadline, and his second time this season, so it seems likely he’ll pass through without incident. Calgary hasn’t leaned on the 30-year-old for much playing time over three separate recalls this season, as he’s only entered the lineup twice. However, since he’s now spent more than 30 days on the active roster since clearing waivers during training camp, he now needs them again to return to the minors.

While the nine-year NHL vet may not be of much use to the Flames outside of serving as a no-fuss 13th forward, he’s continued to light up the AHL. In 16 games for the Calgary Wranglers this season, the 6’0″ winger has five goals, 13 assists, and 18 points to lead the team in points per game (1.13).

Without Hunt rostered, Calgary won’t be carrying any extra forwards. They can still add him back to the active roster during the freeze if they sustain an injury because not being able to ice 12 forwards counts as an emergency condition. They might also simply keep him on the roster if he clears tomorrow, resetting the 30-day clock until he needs them again.