What's Happening?
Former Boston Bruins forward Danton Heinen has been placed on waivers by the Columbus Blue Jackets, according to Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman. This move comes as Heinen is experiencing a challenging start to the 2026-27 season, having failed to record
any points and holding a minus-2 rating in 10 games with the Blue Jackets. Heinen, originally a fourth-round pick by the Bruins in the 2014 NHL Entry Draft, had two stints with the Boston organization, playing from 2016-17 to 2019-20 and again in 2023-24. During his five seasons and 294 games as a Bruin, he accumulated 51 goals, 88 assists, and 139 points, with a career-high of 47 points in the 2017-18 season. Heinen re-signed with the Blue Jackets on a one-year, two-way contract this past offseason after splitting the previous season between the Pittsburgh Penguins and Columbus.
Why It's Important?
Danton Heinen being placed on waivers is significant for several reasons. For the Columbus Blue Jackets, it indicates a desire to adjust their roster and potentially free up a roster spot or salary cap space, reflecting dissatisfaction with his current performance. For Heinen, it represents a critical juncture in his career, as he now faces the possibility of being claimed by another NHL team or being assigned to the AHL. A waiver claim could offer him a fresh start and an opportunity to regain his form, while clearing waivers would likely lead to a minor league assignment, impacting his NHL future. For other NHL teams, Heinen presents a low-risk option for adding forward depth and experience, though his recent struggles might deter some from making a claim. This situation highlights the competitive nature of professional hockey and the constant pressure on players to perform.
What's Next?
Danton Heinen is now available for other NHL teams to claim off waivers. If claimed, he would immediately join the new team's roster. If he clears waivers, the Columbus Blue Jackets would have the option to assign him to their AHL affiliate. Given his slow start to the season, it is not certain that another team will claim him. Heinen's immediate future will be determined by whether any team decides to take a chance on him within the waiver period. Regardless of the outcome, he will need to significantly improve his performance to re-establish himself as a consistent NHL player. The Blue Jackets will likely be looking to fill his roster spot with a player who can provide more immediate impact.
Beyond the Headlines
The placement of a veteran player like Danton Heinen on waivers, especially after a previous successful stint with an Original Six club like the Bruins, underscores the unforgiving nature of professional sports. Even players with a proven track record can find themselves in precarious positions if their performance dips. This event also highlights the strategic use of waivers by NHL teams to manage rosters, address underperforming assets, and create flexibility. For players, it's a stark reminder of the 'what have you done for me lately' mentality that often prevails. It can also be a moment of reflection and an opportunity for a player to re-evaluate their game and approach. The outcome of his waiver period will be a testament to how much value other teams still place on his experience and potential, despite his recent struggles.
