NHL Waivers: Cayden Primeau and Michael Pezzetta Released

On October 5, 2025, NHL teams made significant roster decisions ahead of the regular season, with both Cayden Primeau and Michael Pezzetta being placed on waivers. Primeau, a goaltender formerly with the Montreal Canadiens, is now with the Carolina Hurricanes, while Pezzetta, a forward, has recently joined the Toronto Maple Leafs. Both players struggled to secure a spot on their new teams, leading to their waiver placements.

The waiver announcements come as teams finalize their lineups before the season begins. According to the Carolina Hurricanes, they have acquired goaltender Brandon Bussi off waivers, which likely influenced their decision to place Primeau on waivers for reassignment. This move suggests that the organization may have more confidence in Bussi’s capabilities as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Player Profiles and Team Dynamics

Michael Pezzetta, known for his role as a depth forward, has not been a consistent starter in the NHL. While he may not fit into a regular lineup, he excels in a 13th or 14th forward position, bringing energy and versatility to the ice. His willingness to accept limited playing time demonstrates his commitment to the team, though this has not secured him a spot with the Maple Leafs.

As teams make final adjustments, the placement of both players on waivers highlights the competitive nature of the NHL and the challenges players face in securing their positions. Primeau’s situation is particularly notable given that he was expected to compete for a spot in the Hurricanes’ goaltending lineup. The recent acquisition of Bussi indicates that the Hurricanes are looking for a different dynamic in goal, further complicating Primeau’s prospects.

Implications for Future Opportunities

As of now, both Primeau and Pezzetta await potential claims from other teams. If unclaimed, they will likely be reassigned to the American Hockey League (AHL) to continue their development and maintain their game readiness. The waiver process serves as a critical juncture for players seeking to prove their worth and secure a future in the league.

With the NHL regular season on the horizon, the decisions made by teams reflect strategic planning and roster management as they aim for success in the upcoming months. The situations of Primeau and Pezzetta will be closely monitored by fans and analysts alike as the season unfolds, revealing the fluid nature of player placements within the league.

More updates will follow as teams finalize their rosters and players adjust to their new circumstances. The NHL continues to be a highly competitive environment, where every decision can significantly impact a player’s career.