Report: Libor Hajek assigned to the Wolf Pack for conditioning
The New York Rangers announced on Monday night that defenseman Libor Hajek has been assigned to the Wolf Pack in the AHL. He’s yet to appear in a game this season.
It should be noted that this is a conditioning stint which does not require Hajek to pass through waivers. The short time assignment (max two weeks) will allow him to play in games.
Rangers assign Hajek to Wolf Pack
Hajek, 23, was selected in the 2nd round of the 2016 NHL Draft by the Tampa Bay Lightning. He was part of the package Tampa sent to the Rangers in the Ryan McDonagh blockbuster at the 2018 Trade Deadline.
In his young career has recorded 10 points in 77 NHL games. The Rangers signed him to a one-year deal worth $874,125. It’s also a two-way contract with an AHL salary of $70,000, making him a very enticing waiver claim.
He’s another left shot defenseman that’s had his ups and downs since joining the Rangers. He made his long awaited debut in the 2018-19 season and scored a beautiful goal in his five game stint. Unfortunately, that season was ended abruptly after a shoulder injury.
He struggled the following season and scored five points in 28 games but had a -4 rating. Last year, he looked better defensively in spurts but seemed to lose the offensive side to his game. He managed just 2 goals and 2 assists in 44 contests, but had a +2 rating after being inserted permanently into the lineup in February.
While a future with the Rangers seems unlikely, he’s still viewed as an NHLer and will likely find a new home via trade or waivers this season.
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