Tim Erixon on Waivers. Should the Flames Make a Claim?

An old friend of the organization went on waivers today. 

Tim Erixon, the Flames first round pick from 2009, was waived by the Chicago Blackhawks. Ironically, the 24 year old has been unable to nail down a full time NHL gig since forcing a trade to the New York Rangers in the summer of 2011 (ostensibly because he didn’t see an opportunity to make the Flames).

Claiming Erixon wouldn’t just be delicious irony. He would actually fill a need for the Calgary Flames. Although he has bounced around between the AHL and NHL for the last few years, there are indications Erixon still could be a useful player. He was nearly a point per game defender in the AHL last season (38 points in 40 games) and his underlying numbers this season are good, albeit in limited minutes and sheltered circumstances. 

As we’ve discussed around these parts, Calgary’s greatest organizational deficiency is on the back-end. After the first pairing of TJ Brodie and Mark Giordano, the drop off is steep and rapid. The club’s best pro blueline prospect is Tyler Wotherspoon, who is years away from being a regular (if that happens at all). Clearly, The Flames have a big gap in the youngish, depth defender category – one Erixon could help fill.

Of course, there’s a fair chance Erixon is claimed by someone else and never makes it to the Flames. However, if he is still available when their turn comes up, the team should strongly consider making the claim.