Quick Hits: Waivers, Roster Notes, Injuries and Starting Goalies
The Toronto Maple Leafs put Milan Michalek on waivers
On waivers …

Bob McKenzie: The Toronto Maple Leafs put Milan Michalek on waivers. The NY Islanders put Steve Bernier on waivers. The Maple Leafs claim Ben Smith off waivers from the Avalanche.

Bob McKenzie: The Arizona Coyotes put Jamie McBain on waivers. Ottawa Senators Phil Varone cleared waivers.

On the Toronto Maple Leafs …

Chris Johnston: Michalek is in the final year of his deal that pays him $4 million. Not many teams could take on that contract without moving out salary.

David Alter: Coach Mike Babcock said that Michalek will be sent to the AHL if he’s not claimed.

Michael Augello: Ben Smith carries a $675,000 salary. If Michalek clears waivers and is sent to the AHL, the Maple Leafs will have a cap savings of $275,000.

Mark Masters: Smith is expected to play for the Leafs tomorrow.

On the New York Islanders …

Shannon Hogan: The Islanders signed Steve Bernier to a two-way contract.

On the Buffalo Sabres …

Bill Hoppe: The Sabres recall goaltender Linus Ullmark.

On the Pittsburgh Penguins …

Seth Rorabaugh: Sidney Crosby said that he’s symptom free and has no limits during practice. There is no timetable for his return.

Jason MackeyKris Letang didn’t practice today. He’s day-to-day with an upper-body injury. Conor Sheary also didn’t practice and he’s day-to-day with an eye injury.

On the Montreal Canadiens …

Renaud Lavoie: Alexander Radulov took Nathan Beaulieu‘s spot on the Canadiens power play. Going with four forwards and Shea Weber.

On the Detroit Red Wings …

Helene St. James: Justin Abdelkader didn’t practice today due to a mid/lower-body injury. Coach Jeff Blashill didn’t rule him out for tomorrow though.

On Starting Goalies …

Amanda Stein: Steve Mason is expected to start in net for the Flyers tonight.

Tracey Myers: Corey Crawford will start in net for the Blackhawks.

Craig DavisJames Reimer will start in net for the Panthers tomorrow in Pittsburgh.

Andy Strickland: A good chance that Brian Elliott goes back-to-back tonight and tomorrow for the Flames.