The Winnipeg Jets have placed 23-year-old forward prospect Henri Nikkanen on unconditional waivers for the purpose of contract termination. Nikkanen, who is in the final year of his entry-level contract, never made it to the NHL lineup.
In what was expected to be his third full season in North America, Nikkanen has spent his time with the Winnipeg Jets AHL affiliate, the Manitoba Moose. Over 140 AHL games, he has recorded 13 goals and 19 assists for 32 points.
Drafted by the Jets in 2019 as a fourth-round pick (113th overall), Nikkanen is likely heading back to Europe to continue his professional career. The Finnish forward had previously played four seasons in the Finnish SM-Liiga before coming to North America.
So far this season with the Moose, Nikkanen has played 13 games, scoring 1 goal and adding 3 assists for 4 points. Despite his age, making the Jets’ NHL roster seemed unlikely for Nikkanen.
This move comes a day after the San Jose Sharks placed Valtteri Pulli on waivers for contract termination, signaling another example of a prospect heading back to Europe after struggling to secure a spot in the NHL.