Lightning Place Jansen Harkins On Waivers

According to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman, the Tampa Bay Lightning have placed Jansen Harkins on waivers. Regardless of the waiver outcome, the transaction will allow the Lightning to activate Dominic James from injured reserve on Thursday.

Harkins, 29, is in his first year with Tampa Bay after signing a one-year, two-way contract worth $850K this past summer. Before signing with the Bolts, Harkins spent the past two years with the Anaheim Ducks.

Throughout his time in Orange County, Harkins offered more of the same of what he’s always done throughout his eight-year career. The former second-round pick has evolved into a physical, above-average draw taker with little to no offensive value. During his two years with Anaheim, Harkins recorded five goals and 14 points in 106 games, along with a -19 rating. He also delivered 249 hits and won 52.5% of his faceoffs.

Although the Lightning are always on the hunt for cheap forward depth, placing Harkins on waivers was a relatively easy decision. Simply put, James is better. He’s not as physical as Harkins, but he’s not afraid to use his body, either. Additionally, he offers far more offense in the bottom six, registering seven goals and 15 points in 43 games last season.

Unfortunately, Tampa Bay hasn’t been able to use James yet this season. The 24-year-old forward began the campaign on the Lightning’s injured reserve because of a broken hand suffered in offseason training.