The Waiver Whirlwind: Raphael Lavoie Claimed for the Third Time This Week

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Chris Gerics
October 11, 2024 (2:45 PM)

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The beginning of the season has been a rollercoaster for forward Raphael Lavoie, as he was claimed for the third time this week, and twice by the same team.

Since being drafted 38th overall by the Edmonton Oilers in 2019, Raphael Lavoie has not been able to secure a spot in the NHL, having only played seven games so far in his career and not registering a point. He's been a mainstay for the Bakersfield Condors, Edmonton's AHL affiliate, but has yet to reclaim the form that led Edmonton to spend their 2nd-round pick on him.

Well this week hasn't given Lavoie any security, as he's been claimed off waivers for the third time in a week, and the second time the Vegas Golden Knights claimed the 6'4 center:

It's unfortunate for Lavoie that he hasn't been able to find his footing in the NHL yet, given his size and talent. Edmonton is known for utilizing their youth movement so it's a bit surprising they never gave an honest look at the center from Chambly, Que. He will look to Vegas for the second time to lock down a spot, will serve as insurance for the Golden Knights, and will play a role with their AHL affiliate, the Henderson Silver Knights alongside prospects Brendan Brisson, Ben Hemmerling, and Jakub Brabenec.

If Lavoie can showcase the kind of scoring ability he's shown in the AHL, his path back to the NHL may be a bit more straightforward:

Lavoie will need to work his way into the Silver Knights lineup and show them what he has to offer, but with his untapped potential and size, he deserves a chance to prove that he belongs. It's been a whirlwind week for the 24-year-old, and he now hopes it settles into a gentle breeze, with a new role and a new team; for good this time.