Former Maple Leafs Defenseman Claimed on Waivers, Per Elliotte Friedman
Former Maple Leafs defenseman Travis Dermott was placed on waivers on Thursday and it didn't take long for him to get claimed.
It was a bit of a shocker on Thursday when the Edmonton Oilers placed former Leafs defenseman Travis Dermott on waivers. Even though he struggled a bit, he was signed to bring depth to the Oilers.
Well it didn't take long for him to find a new home as Elliotte Friedman reports on X that Dermott was claimed off waivers by the Minnesota Wild on Friday afternoon.
Dermott will add some much needed insurance to the Wild defense, as they continue their climb in the Central Division.
Who Is Travis Dermott?
Dermott, originally drafted by the Maple Leafs 34th overall has not found the footing he had since leaving Toronto. During his five seasons in the blue and white, he scored 12 goals and had 40 assists in 251 games.
A solid two-way defenseman, he also had 214 blocks and 311 hits with the Leafs before being traded to Vancouver. Unable to regain his form, he bounced between Vancouver, Arizona, and finally Edmonton this season.
He did not register a point in 10 games with the Oilers and signed a one-year deal in the offseason for the league minimum.
Dermott will help the Wild as they look to overtake Winnipeg as top dog in the Central. Currently only one game back, Dermott will be able to add insurance to their blueline.
Jonas Brodin and Jacob Middleton are currently dealing with injuries and Dermott is a great stop gap option for the team while they wait for their main players to return.
Minnesota has had solid offensive production with their defensemen but Middleton being out could hurt as he was one of their main contributors. The Wild can't rely on Brock Faber and Jared Spurgeon alone, so bringing in a trusted veteran with offensive potential is a great move for GM Bill Guerin.
It's unknown Dermott's true role, but he may get his first chance at donning the Wild's jersey when they take on Philadelphia on Saturday afternoon.
