BREAKING: Kaliyev placed on waivers

Arthur Kaliyev's time with the Los Angeles Kings has taken an unexpected turn as the team looks to open a spot on the roster. Kaliyev, drafted 33rd overall by the Kings in the 2019 NHL Entry Draft, was placed on waivers earlier today. Per Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman, this move raises questions about the uncertainty of his future.

Kaliyev's potential as a top scorer and offensive contributor could be a valuable asset to any team in the NHL. Although he spent much of his time with the Ontario Reign of the AHL (American Hockey League) in the 2024-25 season, his opportunities within the professional league have been limited, preventing him from establishing himself on the top line and becoming the consistent scorer the Kings need.

Placing Kaliyev on waivers allows any team to claim him within 24 hours. If he clears waivers, he will be assigned to the Ontario Reign to continue developing his skills. However, his low salary, young age, and the potential to produce offensively well make him a desirable candidate for potential organizations.

Kaliyev's most productive NHL seasons were in 2022-23 (13 goals and 28 points) and the 2021-22 season, following closely behind with 27 points, but he still has room to grow and reach his full potential. On the plus side, the 6-foot-2 Tashkent native remains young and has yet to reach his prime and peak performance, as his playmaking tendency is a notable aspect of his game. He totaled 35 goals, 36 assists, and 71 points in 188 career games.

A few days before preseason, he signed a one-year contract with an average annual value (AAV) of $825,000 through the 2024-25 season. Unfortunately, Kaliyev was placed on LTIR (long-term injured reserve) as he fractured his clavicle during training camp in Sept. 2024, before the regular season began, jeopardizing his future with the Kings.

Some critics may put coach Jim Hiller under scrutiny and demand more ice time for Kaliyev; however, it's important to keep in mind that he still needs to improve his two-way play and consistency to earn a regular spot on the roster.

Only time will tell whether this move will revitalize his career.