Wednesday: Berube has cleared waivers and been assigned to the minor leagues. Collin Delia, a 23-year old goaltender in his first professional season, has been recalled. Delia signed last summer out of Merrimack College, and has now spent time in the ECHL, AHL and NHL this season.
Tuesday: Though we haven’t had much waiver action since the trade deadline, the Chicago Blackhawks have decided to use it today. The team placed goaltender Jean-Francois Berube on waivers today, likely to have him head to the AHL since he is eligible to play there. Berube was included on a paper transaction at the deadline so that he could maintain AHL eligibility, where Rockford is heading to the playoffs.
It seems very unlikely that anyone would claim Berube, after his poor performance this season and one-way deal in 2018-19. Berube hasn’t been able to help the Blackhawks in Corey Crawford’s absence, posting an .891 save percentage in 11 games. His numbers in the minor leagues, like they’ve been his entire career, are much better.
The 26-year old goaltender is earning just $700K next season, meaning his cap hit won’t affect the Blackhawks while he’s in the minor leagues. Still, he’s not that attractive an asset as they’ll owe him the entire salary regardless of which level he plays.
Since Crawford has not skated with the team recently, the Blackhawks will likely recall another goalie (perhaps Jeff Glass) tomorrow.