Kraken claim first-round pick Eeli Tolvanen off waivers from Predators
The Seattle Kraken have claimed right winger Eeli Tolvanen off waivers from the Nashville Predators.
In a corresponding move on Monday, Seattle placed center Karson Kuhlman on waivers.
Placed on NHL waivers today: Dysin Mayo (ARI) and Karson Kuhlman (SEA).
— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) December 12, 2022
Tolvanen was placed on waivers Sunday after being a healthy scratch for seven consecutive games. The 23-year-old has struggled this season with only two goals and two assists in 13 games, albeit with decent underlying numbers, particularly on the defensive side of the puck.
Eeli Tolvanen has been placed on waivers. #Preds pic.twitter.com/yp2nj0XOjR
— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) December 11, 2022
Eeli Tolvanen on waivers is a mystery to me. I would claim him in a heartbeat. pic.twitter.com/QOARTWIDbW
— Micah Blake McCurdy (@IneffectiveMath) December 11, 2022
Drafted 30th overall by the Predators in 2017, Tolvanen made the full-time jump to the Predators in the COVID-shortened 2021 season and showed flashes of promise while registering 11 goals and 22 points in 40 games. He signed a three-year contract with the Predators that summer worth $1.45 million annually. Tolvanen wasn't able to take the next step the following season, however, registering 11 goals and 23 points in 75 games.
It's not yet clear where the Finnish winger will slot in with the Kraken, who have been one of the NHL's biggest surprises this season. They are currently second in the Pacific Division with a 16-8-3 record.
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