Jason Spezza has cleared waivers while Aaron Dell was claimed by New Jersey.
Jason Spezza (TOR) cleared waivers.
— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) January 18, 2021
Spezza, whose agent assured the NHL he’d retire if claimed, isn’t necessarily going anywhere but the Leafs fourth line tonight. The exact forward lineup is not yet confirmed. He remains waivers exempt for nine NHL games played or 29 calendar days, but this exercise has rendered him effectively waivers-exempt all year.
This doesn’t seem to actually be in violation of any specific CBA rule, but Gary Bettman may have something unkind to say on the phone to Brendan Shanahan at some point.