The Chicago Blackhawks have placed forward Viktor Tikhonov on waivers.
The 27-year-old is in his first season back in North America after spending four years over in the KHL.
The Russian forward signed a one-year deal worth $1.04 million on July 1st, but he’s had a hard time making his mark in the NHL in ’15-16.
Not only has he failed to produce a point in 11 games with the ‘Hawks, but he’s also struggling to get into the lineup.
Head coach Joel Quenneville has made Tikhonov a healthy scratch in 10 of Chicago’s last 11 games.
His short-term (and affordable) contract plus his offensive upside may lead another team to take a chance on him.
Tikonov might not carry a significant cap hit, but ever dollar counts for the ‘Hawks, who have just over $39,000 in cap space, per General Fanager.
If he is claimed, it could open the door for Bryan Bickell’s return from AHL Rockford.
Viktor Tikhonov being on waivers could mean Bryan Bickell's return is imminent. That's enough money to fit him under the cap. #Blackhawks
— Mark Lazerus (@MarkLazerus) December 5, 2015