The Madness Continues as Raphael Lavoie Gets Snatched Off Waivers for the Third Time this Week
The madness continued as Raphael Lavoie got claimed off the NHL waivers for the third time this week.
Last Sunday, the Edmonton Oilers placed the 38th overall pick in 2019 Raphael Lavoie on waivers to send him with the Bakersfield Condors in the AHL. He was claimed by the Vegas Golden Knights, who placed him on waivers a day after. Then, on Wednesday, the Oilers claimed him back only to put him on waivers again yesterday.
Today, it continued as the Golden Knights claimed Lavoie from the Oilers.
Per Elliotte Friedman:
However, it has been confirmed by the Vegas Golden Knights that the player was assigned to the Henderson Silver Knights in the AHL, and won't go through waivers again.
While professional players must accept being put in this position, it's frustrating that Lavoie has to pay the consequences for two teams fighting for his services.
Since he became a pro, Lavoie only took part in seven NHL games. He had the best season of his career last year in the AHL, scoring 50 points in 66 games with the Condors. Despite limited NHL opportunities, Lavoie looks on the verge of breaking out, explaining why the Oilers and the Golden Knights fought to get him.
Even if he was sent down to the AHL, it wouldn't be surprising to see him getting called up when injuries inevitably strike the lineup. He's a natural scorer with great size and speed. While his defensive game and consistency need to be improved before he can get a real shot in the NHL, there's no doubt that the player has a bright future ahead.
