Leafs defenseman Jordie Benn clears waivers; here's what it means for the Leafs

Yesterday, the Toronto Maple Leafs placed veteran defenseman Jordie Benn on waivers. The move was likely made in an effort to make more cap room prior to Friday's trade deadline. Today, the Leafs learned that Benn was not claimed on the waiver wire and is now eligible to pass freely up and down between the NHL and the AHL.

The 35-year-old signed a one year league minimum deal last offseason with the Leafs. In twelve games played this season, he has registered a goal, an assist, 31 hits and 29 blocked shots. He is a veteran of over 600 games in the National Hockey League, and plays a gritty style of play.

With Benn off the Leafs primary roster, another $750,000 will be available for Kyle Dubas to work with at the deadline, moving the Leafs up near $2M in space. After acquiring Ryan O'Reilly & Noel Acciari from St. Louis, it feels likely that if the Leafs make another move, it will be an upgrade on defense. That said, if injuries arise, it may not be the last we see of Jordie Benn with the big club.

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