Mon Jan 06 19:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Kings Waive Forward Arthur Kaliyev, Opening Roster Spot and Questioning His Future
**Los Angeles, CA – January 5, 2025** – The Los Angeles Kings have placed forward Arthur Kaliyev on waivers, creating uncertainty surrounding the 2019 first-round draft pick’s future with the organization. The news, announced by Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman, comes as a surprise to many, given Kaliyev’s offensive potential.
Kaliyev, a 6-foot-2 forward from Tashkent, Uzbekistan, has shown flashes of brilliance throughout his NHL career, most notably in the 2022-23 season where he tallied 13 goals and 28 points. However, consistent performance has eluded him, leading to limited ice time and a mostly AHL stint with the Ontario Reign this season. His career totals stand at 35 goals, 36 assists, and 71 points across 188 games.
A fractured clavicle suffered during training camp in September 2024 further hampered Kaliyev’s progress, placing him on long-term injured reserve (LTIR). Despite signing a one-year contract with an AAV of $825,000 just days before preseason, the injury significantly impacted his chances of securing a consistent role with the Kings.
If unclaimed within the 24-hour waiver period, Kaliyev will be assigned back to the Ontario Reign. His youth, relatively low salary, and offensive upside, however, make him an attractive potential acquisition for other NHL teams. While some critics may question Kings coach Jim Hiller’s handling of Kaliyev’s ice time, the young forward’s need for improved two-way play and consistency remains a factor. The move leaves Kaliyev’s future in question, but it also presents an opportunity for a fresh start elsewhere in the league.
First Piper 