Chicago and Winnipeg Make Roster Moves!

In a somewhat surprising move by both teams, the Winnipeg Jets and Chicago Blackhawks have decided to waive both Zack Smith and Marko Dano.

Zack Smith (CHI) and Marko Dano (WIN) on waivers. Prow clears.
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) January 4, 2021

Smith, who was once a prized acquisition of Stan Bowman in Chicago has been waived after appearing in 50 games last season, collecting 11 points. Smith was acquired via trade from the Ottawa Senators and has only spent one season in Chicago. The rugged forward has a modified no-trade clause where he submits a list of 10 teams to Chicago who he can't be traded to. Smith has one year left on his contract, paying him $3.25 million.

Zack Smith, on waivers, is the kind of centre you put on waivers even when two of your centres are out longterm. #Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/0jsJQBvprv
— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) January 4, 2021

As for Dano, it's been a rough go for the former first-round pick from 2013. The 26-year-old has never been able to find consistent playing time and is on his second stint with the Jets after stops in Colorado and Columbus. In 141 career games, Dano has recorded only 45 points.

Given the quick turnaround to the season starting and no preseason games, it's not likely either player is claimed by another team.

Photo credit: Richard A. Whittaker/Icon Sportswire

2/2
Assigned to KHL
CBJ places Dano on waivers
WPG claims dano
UPDATE JAN’21: WPG PLACES DANO ON WAIVERS
Marko Dano is a ?
— spoiler (@xSpoilerRL) January 4, 2021