The New York Rangers and GM Chris Drury made a bold move claiming Arthur Kaliyev off waivers. The move could be considered a high-risk, high-reward move depending on how he plays in the Rangers system.
Kaliyev has played in 188 NHL games during his career and hasn't been able to secure a full-time job in the league.
The 2019 second-round pick has shown flashes of what he could do with the Kings, but he never got an opportunity with the team's recent signings.
Now with the Rangers, he's gotten a shot at a full-time job.
Peter Laviolette, his new coach, was asked about the Rangers' direction when they made the claim for Kaliyev.
"Chris (Drury) and I communicate all the time," Laviolette said. "That goes a little bit more to his side and the people watching him. Obviously there is communication, we watch the player as well. He is a young player, there is potential there and like I said, we are bringing him in and giving him an opportunity."
Prior to his exit from the Kings organization, he was scratched multiple times and was on a conditioning loan in the AHL. The lack of utilization would lead him to request a trade, and GM Rob Blake put him on waivers instead.
"I think I started off there well," Kaliyev said about his time with the Kings. "I think unfortunately a few guys they signed in the offseason maybe. The last year just didn't work out, obviously not playing too much out there. My time was great there, but unfortunately, it didn't end the way I wanted to."
Kaliyev would make his debut against the New Jersey Devils, as the team would finally win one game in the Hudson River series.
The third-line forward would play 13 shifts that night, with 8:31 TOI alongisde linemates Brett Berard, and Jonny Bordzinski.
The Rangers will have to find the best way to deploy Kaliyev, who was used on the power-play in Los Angeles, and is known for his excellent shot.
Against the Devils, he was unable to score a goal, but his stat line revealed effort on his part, with one shot missed on goal, and two hits.
Laviolette and the Rangers will have to work to develop Kaliyev's game further, as his full potential arguably hasn't been tapped.
He's only scored 71 points (35 G, 36 A) during his career with the Kings, and should find a way to contribute on the Rangers' third line.
