Golden Knights claim former top prospect off waivers

The Vegas Golden Knights have claimed forward Grigori Denisenko off waivers from the Florida Panthers, via Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman.

Denisenko was previously one of the top prospects in the Florida Panthers’ system. But consistency issues plagued the 23-year-old, who had just three assists in 18 NHL games last year. He started his career off hot with four assists in seven games in 2020-21, but injuries limited him to just 18 points in 30 AHL games the following year.

Denisenko is coming off his best pro campaign to date, highlighted by 12 goals and 36 points in 56 games with the Charlotte Checkers. Drafted 15th overall in 2018, Denisenko’s $775,000 AAV lasts until the end of the 2024-25 season.

Denisenko gives the Golden Knights some extra depth with NHL experience. The two-time world junior medalist with Russia needed a new home, and Vegas could help. Vegas boasts one of the worst prospect pools in the game — just like Florida — but Denisenko could still be a waiver target again later in the season.

According to Cap Friendly, the Golden Knights are $4.148 million over the cap. But once Robin Lehner and his $5 million hit go on long-term injured reserve to start the season, they’ll have a bit of cap space to work with. But they also have to make a decision on forward Maxime Comtois, who is still on a professional tryout offer with the regular season kicking off next week.