The Minnesota Wild have placed Petr Sykora on waivers, meaning any club can claim the veteran forward prior to Noon et on Wednesday.
The 33-year old has had an injury-riddled season since signing with the Wild as an unrestricted free agent last summer. In 14 games, he has compiled two goals and one assist but has missed a total of 29 games with groin and concussion issues.
If Sykora is not claimed, Minnesota can send him to the minors and then place him on re-entry waivers, where he could be claimed at half the price of his contract. However, the Minneapolis Star-Tribune says that the team and Sykora negotiated a European clause into his contract prior to the season that lets the veteran play overseas instead of being assigned to Houston.
The Star-Tribune also reports that Sykora has left the team until his status is settled, and the team will not make any comment until the waiver deadline passes on Wednesday.
Sykora began his NHL career with New Jersey in 1995-96 and has also played for Anaheim, the New York Rangers, Edmonton, and Pittsburgh. He won Stanley Cups with the Devils in 1999-2000 and last season with the Penguins, and has scored 20 or more goals for 10 consecutive seasons.
The Wild also placed forward Robbie Earl on waivers on Tuesday. The 24-year old has divided his time this season between Minnesota and Houston (AHL), and posted three goals in 13 games with the Wild.
