Photo credit: Sergei Belski-Imagn Images
For a brief moment, Jack Finley became one of those quiet waiver names that can spark internal discussion, even for teams not actively shopping for help.
When the Tampa Bay Lightning placed Finley on waivers, it created a short opening for clubs looking to add size without touching their prospect pool.
Finley is 23, still learning the pro game, but his 6-foot-6 frame and straightforward style are hard to ignore in today’s NHL.
He has already bounced between the NHL and AHL this season, showing flashes while continuing to work through the details of his game.
From the Florida Panthers’ point of view, this type of waiver scenario could have been a reasonable depth gamble, especially with long-term development in mind.
Jack Finley waiver claim closes the door
That window did not stay open long, as the St. Louis Blues stepped in and claimed Finley before other teams could act.
St. Louis clearly sees something worth exploring, whether it is Finley’s size, his draft background, or the idea that a new environment can make a difference.
For the Panthers, this is less about regret and more about timing, since waiver claims often come down to priorities and roster math.
Big forwards with NHL experience rarely become available for free, even if they still need polishing.
This time, Florida watched from the sidelines while St. Louis took the chance on a player still searching for his footing.
For players in Finley’s situation, moments like these can quietly define a career, turning a routine waiver move into a real chance to stick and build momentum at the NHL level.
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| POLL | ||
FEVRIER 7|50 ANSWERS A Waiver Move Sends an NHL Forward to a New Team Should the Florida Panthers have taken a chance on Jack Finley? | ||
| Yes worth trying | 27 | 54 % |
| No fit | 15 | 30 % |
| Not sure | 8 | 16 % |
| List of polls | ||