News: Penguins Waive Puljujarvi; Is It Letang Related?

Nearly one year after signing Jesse Puljujarvi to a tryout agreement, the Pittsburgh Penguins waived winger Jesse Puljujarvi Monday.

Unless another team submits a claim for the 6-foot-4, 201-pound RW, he will clear waivers at 2 p.m. Tuesday before the Penguins face the Detroit Red Wings at Little Caesars Arena.

Puljujarvi had an outstanding training camp and made the team out of camp. However, he hasn’t played since Dec. 7 against the Toronto Maple Leafs. In 21 games this season, he has eight points, including three goals. He averaged 11:36 of ice time.

The move might appear to be interesting timing, considering the unknown status of defenseman Kris Letang. Coach Mike Sullivan said Letang underwent testing from team doctors on Sunday, but Sullivan didn’t yet have answers Sunday night.

Defenseman Nate Clurman made his NHL debut in place of Letang. According to Puckpedia.com, the Penguins have over $2.5 million in salary cap space but a full 23-man roster. Injuries have ravaged the defense corps, as Letang’s status is unknown, Marcus Pettersson is healing from a lower-body injury, and Owen Pickering has a concussion.

The Puljujarvi move could be to free up the roster spot for a depth defender.