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Former first-round defenseman placed on waivers emerges as free option for the Canadiens


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Elias Edmonson
January 9, 2026  (2:38 PM)
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Dec 6, 2025; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; New Jersey Devils defenseman Dennis Cholowski (44) rides Boston Bruins center Marat Khusnutdinov (92) into the boards during the third period at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-Imagn Images
Photo credit: Winslow Townson-Imagn Images

We once again have activity on the NHL waiver wire this Friday, and a former first-round pick is available for Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens.

There is indeed movement on waivers, and the name Dennis Cholowski is surfacing today.
The New Jersey Devils announced that they have placed the defenseman on waivers. The intention is to assign him to Utica in the AHL, their farm team, if no one claims him.

A former first-round pick is available on the NHL waiver wire: a potential option if it interests Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens

In the NHL, this type of move is rarely insignificant. It can be a simple matter of roster management, or a need to free up a spot (as is the case here).
Regardless of the reason, it makes a player available for nothing, and it always draws attention.
In Montreal, every waiver situation raises the same question. Should the Montreal Canadiens take a look, especially when depth is being tested?
That is simply the reality of a season that moves quickly. The context is straightforward.
If a team claims him, he immediately changes addresses and remains in the NHL. If no one claims him, New Jersey can send him to Utica, and the situation cools off a bit.
What makes this interesting for Canadiens fans is the timing.
We have seen several intense games at the Bell Centre, and management appears attentive to anything that can help the organization.
When a defenseman becomes available for free, it automatically becomes a situation to monitor.

Panthers place forward Noah Gregor on waivers


The Florida Panthers also placed forward Noah Gregor on waivers following their game against the Canadiens last night.
Gregor has played 24 games this season, recording three points. Over his career, he has appeared in 317 NHL games and amassed 73 points.
A situation to follow over the next few hours!
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Former first-round defenseman placed on waivers emerges as free option for the Canadiens

Should the Montreal Canadiens claim Dennis Cholowski off waivers?

Yes15814.6 %
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